The presence of handheld computers helps the industrial operation for data entry, tracking, and operations of field workers, logistics, retail, and other industries that require reliable devices. One type of handheld computer is a retail handheld which has some functions and advantages.
The functions of a retail handheld include barcode scanning to report recording. Moreover, the advantage includes productivity, increasing efficiency, to improving customer experience.
This article will give you information on retail handhelds from the definition, functions, advantages they have, and their distinctive features.
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Table of Contents
What is a Retail Handheld?

As the name suggests, retail handhelds are used in retail stores such as shopping centers or industrial warehouses. The main function of this computer is to facilitate employees in inputting data in the transaction process or inventory of goods.
With this type of computer, it can help store employees in the speed and accuracy of data input in serving customers. Not only that, staff can also manage stock items more efficiently.
The Functions of Retail Handheld
The retail handheld has several functions from barcode scanning to report recording. Here are some of its functions:
- Barcode scanning: Read product barcodes for sales data input, stock checking, and inventory tracking.
- Stock data input: Track product stock in stores and warehouses in real-time.
- Report recording: Record various field reports, from sales data, goods receipt, and other activities.
The Advantages of Retail Handheld

The retail handheld has several advantages from increasing productivity, increasing efficiency, to improving customer experience. Here are some of its main advantages in details:
Increasing productivity
One of the advantages of handheld retail is increased productivity. Handheld computers that are often used in the retail industry have an impact on more efficient sales and better decision-making.
In-store sales can be more efficient due to the faster transaction process. In addition, good decision-making can also be generated from sales and inventory data that can be checked in real time with this device.
Increasing efficiency
With handheld retail, of course, work efficiency can increase because the transaction process is faster, can be integrated with other systems, and better inventory management.
With this device, the efficiency of the cashier staff’s work can increase because the transaction process is carried out quickly.
Handheld computers used in retail stores also allow connecting with other systems, so that they can provide real-time and fast information when checking the available store stock inventory.
Portability and flexibility
Store staff can use handheld retail freely and be able to serve anywhere because of its portability and flexibility. The handheld computer allows cashier staff to move around to serve customers in various locations such as the display area. This is very helpful in avoiding long queues at the store cashier.
Improving customer experience
Another advantage of handheld retail is improving customer experience by avoiding long queues, more personalized service, and transaction accuracy.
The increased efficiency provided by these devices allows for shorter customer waiting times during transactions. With its portability and flexibility, customers can also feel more personally served as payments are not focused on one place.
The Distinctive Features of Retail Handheld

Here are some distinctive features of retail handheld:
- Barcode scanning: Scan barcodes quickly and accurately.
- Performs payment transactions: Some models are capable of making payment transactions, either cash or non-cash.
- Ergonomic design: The design provides comfort when held for a long time.
- Internet connection: Capable of being connected to WiFi for real-time data synchronization.
Those are the definitions, functions, and advantages of a retail handheld that you need to know. Another thing to note is that handheld computers on the market must pass the certification test from the Directorate General of Digital Infrastructure (DJID).
Rugged handheld regulation is based on the Ministerial Decree (KEPMEN) No. 260 Tahun 2024 and No. 12 Tahun 2025, which requires all radio frequency-based devices, including barcode scanners, to meet specific technical standards before being sold in the country.
With DJID certification, users can feel calm about using a handheld computer device whose quality and security are guaranteed. For manufacturers or importers of handheld computer devices, obtaining certification from DJID is a mandatory step before the device can be officially marketed in Indonesia.
To simplify the certification process, Type Approval Certification Services for ICT Products are available to assist with this process as a reliable solution.










