Lowe's to Add In-Store iPhones

Home-improvement retailer Lowe's (Mooresville, N.C.) is outfitting employees with 42,000 iPhone 4s this fall, with custom apps that will turn the device into a p-o-s system as part of the retailer’s technology retail overhaul.

In addition to the new POS devices, the company will replace 72,000 computer screens with flat panels, increase bandwidth for transmitting data and add in-store Wi-Fi for shoppers, reports Bloomberg.

The new MyLowes app tool allows customers to store paint details, receipts, appliance manuals and service warranties online.

Lowe's operates more than 1700 stores, with each one expected to receive an allotment of 25 iPhones. In addition to using the iPhones as a POS system, the handsets will also be used for calling, emailing, text messaging and to help answer shoppers' questions.