In today’s fast-moving world, businesses need flexible, cost-effective, and secure payment solutions. Enter SoftPOS (Software Point of Sale) a game-changing technology that turns any NFC-enabled smartphone or tablet into a contactless payment terminal.
No extra hardware. No bulky card machines. Just your existing device, ready to accept tap-to-pay transactions in seconds.
But how does SoftPOS work? Why should UK businesses care? And is it secure enough for everyday transactions?
Let’s break it down.
How Does a SoftPOS Payment System Work?
SoftPOS leverages Near Field Communication (NFC) technology the same tech behind Apple Pay and Google Pay to process contactless payments directly from a mobile device.
Here’s how it works:
- Customer Taps Their Card/Phone
- Payment Data is Securely Read
- The transaction is Processed
- Receipt is Delivered
No card reader. No wires. Just seamless, instant payments.
Why UK Businesses Should Consider SoftPOS
1. No Extra Hardware = Lower Costs
Traditional card machines come with upfront costs, rental fees, and maintenance. SoftPOS eliminates the need for additional hardware—saving businesses money.
2. Ultra-Portable & Flexible
Ideal for:
✔ Market traders & pop-up shops
✔ Delivery drivers & taxi services
✔ Service-based businesses (plumbers, electricians, beauticians)
✔ Events & festivals
Since it works on smartphones, payments can be accepted anywhere—no fixed terminal required.
3. Faster Checkouts, Happier Customers
With contactless payments dominating the UK (over 90% of card transactions are now contactless), SoftPOS ensures quick, frictionless transactions.
4. Enhanced Security
SoftPOS complies with PCI CPoC (Contactless Payments on Commercial Off-the-Shelf Devices) standards, ensuring:
✔ End-to-end encryption
✔ Tokenization (no card data stored)
✔ Fraud prevention measures
SoftPOS vs. Traditional Card Machines: Which Is Better?
| Feature | SoftPOS | Traditional Card Machine |
| Cost | Low (app-based) | Higher (hardware + fees) |
| Portability | Works on any NFC smartphone/tablet | Requires a physical terminal |
| Setup Time | Instant (download & go) | May require delivery & activation |
| Transaction Speed | Near-instant (NFC-based) | Slightly slower (chip & PIN) |
| Best For | Mobile businesses, SMEs, pop-ups | Retail stores, restaurants with fixed checkouts |
Is SoftPOS Secure for UK Businesses?
Absolutely. SoftPOS solutions adhere to strict EMV (Europay, Mastercard, Visa) and PCI security standards, ensuring:
✔ No card data is stored on the device.
✔ Each transaction is tokenized and encrypted.
✔ Biometric authentication (Face ID, fingerprint) adds an extra layer of security.
Major banks and payment providers (like Barclays, Revolut, and SumUp) already support SoftPOS, proving its reliability.
Who Can Benefit from SoftPOS in the UK?
- Small Businesses & Sole Traders
- Delivery & On-the-Go Services
- Events & Festivals
- Retailers with Seasonal Pop-Ups
The Future of SoftPOS in the UK
With the UK contactless limit now at £100 and digital wallets growing rapidly, SoftPOS is set to become the go-to payment method for small and mobile businesses.
Experts predict that by 2025, over 50% of SMEs will adopt SoftPOS solutions, thanks to their affordability and convenience.
Conclusion
If you want a low-cost, portable, and future-proof payment solution, SoftPOS is a smart choice. It’s secure, easy to use, and perfect for businesses that need flexibility.
At Paymentsave, we help UK businesses find the best payment solutions whether it’s SoftPOS, portable card machines, or virtual terminals.
Ready to simplify your payments? Get in touch today to explore the right solution for your business.
