During this past week, some of my colleagues sitting in my immediate area were talking about an iPhone app called “RedLaser”. Basically, the app takes a picture of the barcode on an item and does an online search for prices, gives you a list of the prices and where you can buy it as well as the lowest price.
Of course, I had to check this out.
The app is fairly straightforward to use. You simply hold the phone up to a barcode on the item you want to scan, line it up and the app will do the rest for you. Couldn’t be simpler.
However, there is a drawback.
The main issue with the app is that it works far better with items that can be purchased in the USA. Books tend to work well as do popular DVD and Blu-ray movies. Also, given that the bulk of hits will be based in the USA you would need to factor in postage, exchange rates and currency conversion fees which may may take the shine off a potential bargain. That aside, if you do buy items from overseas regularly then you still might find this useful if you can package up multiple items.
At any rate, the app is free so there is no harm in giving it a go next time your are out shopping.
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