How does a customer place an order ?
Salt ™ works from the mobile phone. The customer selects the cafe or restaurant, orders from the menu displayed on the phone and presses “buy”. The system confirms that the customer has sufficient credit to pay for the order and if not prompts them to top-up their acount. Just like finding you need more cash, and instantly having access to a teller machine!The Salt™application on the phone then sends your order to the store, where it prints out on their Salt OrderPad or can be displayed on the Point of Sale system or a PC.
The whole process of both ordering and paying completes in seconds. It’s quicker and more secure than waiting to pay and handing over a credit card. Get the order faster, accurately and prepaid ... more resources to fulfil the order and less time handling it.
Which phones are supported ?
Salt is designed to work on any MIDP 2.0 phone with a minimum screen size of 128 x 128 pixels. We can also support a MIDP 1.0 phone with a minimum screen size of 128 x 128 pixels. However, limitations on installed application size, the amount of memory available to Java applications, and other factors can affect your phone's ability to install the software. Some carriers also impose restrictions on application installation. We don't yet know the complete list of phones that definitely do or do not support Salt. Right now most Nokia, Sony-Ericsson and Motorola phone models should work.Is there a version for Blackberry ?
Yes. We have application versions for the 8100, 8700, 7290, 7520, and 7100t, along with a generic build that should work across all BlackBerry models. These versions don't require access to restricted API's on a BlackBerry, so they shouldn't require signatures.Is there a version for the iPhone ?
Did we hear you say, "there had better be !". The iPhone works in a completely different way to other phones. You already knew that. Anyhow, we're working on it and be assured that as soon as we are happy with the result we'll be making it available.How does the data service operate ?
An active internet connection is required to use the Salt system. This connection is different to the WAP connection which may already be setup on the phone. Usually the mobile carrier will set up the internet connection automatically and free of charge. This is normally implemented via a text message from the carrier or manufacturer.How secure is Salt ?
Our background is in secure financial transactions. Our patented technology delivers a highly secure transacting system. We encrypt your personal financial details and do not store your complete details in any one location. This approach is more secure than traditional ordering using a credit card at a restaurant or online. Unlike some SMS based systems there is no need to worry about inadvertently leaving traces of passwords on the phone.What is a Salt Shaker ?
The Salt system uses a 'Salt Shaker' as a reservoir in order to enable small payments. Many stores don't wish to accept credit cards for payments as small as a single cup of coffee. The Salt system keeps a 'Salt Shaker' with funds on hands to allow smaller purchases to proceed without a transaction on a credit/debit card for every small purchase. Purchases are deducted from the 'Salt Shaker' with the balance held ready for future transactions. This system reduces fees and keeps the credit/debit card statement from being filled with small transactions.Salt Shaker size can be selected from selected preset sizes. Each shaker has a refill charge which is the amount of the shaker plus any bank transaction fees.