QThru, a mobile point-of-sale platform that enables consumers to shop, scan and check out using their smartphones, announced today the launch of its mobile app for iOS and Android. The QThru app allows shoppers to skip checkout lines and make purchases by using their smartphone to scan items as they shop, then complete the checkout transaction by scanning a kiosk QR code, the announcement said.

The company said the system integrates with a retailer's POS system and allows for real-time updates to products and pricing as well as secure PCI-compliant credit card payment. QThru attracts a demographic of smartphone users, the announcement said, and leverages shopping history to better target product selection and placement.

A beta test of the system was completed at the Ridge IGA Supermarket in Snoqualmie, Wash., and QThru is now planning to bring the service to 14 grocery and retail stores in the Seattle area by the end of March 2013. 

Key features of the app include:

• Barcode Scanning: Scan barcodes on items to add them to your cartShopping
• Lists: Shop from your personally created shopping listDeals: View in-store specials and savings
• Favorites: Quickly gain access to your favorite items saved on your favorites list
• Product Details: Get product details such as nutritional information
• Total Spend: See a running total so you can see just how much you're about to spend
• Payment: Q-Code checkout for instant payment and receipt
• Digital Scale: Allows you to purchase produce and bulk items using a custom digital scale solution

"Many brick-and-mortar retailers are recognizing their customers want a fast and easy shopping experience that makes them feel valued," said Aaron Roberts, founder and CEO of QThru. "With QThru, shoppers are empowered to select and purchase items in-store, right from their smartphones — further strengthening their allegiance to retailers."

Read more about self-checkout.