Discontinued card readers for the Shopify POS app and their replacements

To provide the best retail and payment acceptance experience possible, the Shopify POS app is built to work with specific card readers. As new and improved card readers are launched, these existing card readers are removed to ensure that Shopify merchants are using the latest hardware that will deliver the most optimal retail experience.

Replacement options for discontinued card readers in the United States

For merchants operating in the United States, the following table details the available replacement options for card readers that have been discontinued. This ensures continuity in service and access to the latest technology.

Recommended replacement products for discontinued card readers in the United States.
Device modelEnd of support dateRecommendations for replacement
Swipe (audio-jack) Card Reader (iOS, Android)Jan 31, 2022 Tap & Chip, POS Terminal
Swipe (Lightning) Card Reader (iOS)Jan 31, 2022 Tap & Chip, POS Terminal
Tap, Chip, and Swipe Card Reader (iOS)Jan 31, 2022 Tap & Chip, POS Terminal

Replacement options for discontinued card readers in Canada

In response to the discontinuation of specific card readers in Canada, the following table lists recommended alternatives. These replacements are chosen to align with the technological needs and compliance requirements of Canadian merchants.

Recommended replacement products for discontinued card readers in Canada.
Device modelEnd of support dateRecommendations for replacement
Tap & Chip Card Reader (iOS)Oct 31, 2023 WisePad 3, POS Terminal
Swipe (audio-jack) Card Reader (iOS, Android)Jan 31, 2022 WisePad 3, POS Terminal
Swipe (Lightning) Card Reader (iOS)Jan 31, 2022 WisePad 3, POS Terminal

Replacement options for discontinued card readers in the United Kingdom and Ireland

Merchants in the United Kingdom and Ireland can refer to the following table for recommended replacements for discontinued card readers. These suggestions are designed to provide seamless integration with Shopify’s enhanced POS features.

Recommended replacement products for discontinued card readers in the United Kingdom and Ireland.
Device modelEnd of support dateRecommendations for replacement
Tap, Chip, and Swipe Card Reader (iOS)Jan 31, 2022 WisePad 3, POS Terminal

FAQs about discontinued card readers

Some commonly asked questions about discontinued hardware.

Why did you discontinue these card readers?

We aim to provide merchants with optimal checkout experiences. As the Shopify POS app and hardware offerings improve, out of date card readers are discontinued and replaced with newer and more reliable hardware. You can migrate to the supported integrated card readers and take advantage of using Shopify Payments.

If I don't update my POS app after the end of support, then can I still use my hardware?

If you don't update the POS app, then your hardware might continue to work with limited functionality or be blocked completely from accepting payments. To avoid unexpected errors or losing ability to accept payments, please ensure you have migrated to the recommended card reader options by the end of support date.

What do I do with my discontinued reader?

To recycle your outdated card reader, drop it off at your local e-waste recycling center.

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