Are Hardware Scanners a Thing of the Past?
As smartphones take over in our daily operations, dedicated hardware scanners are losing ground. The signals are clear: the global market for smart and mobile supply chain solutions, valued at over $47 billion in 2024, is expected to reach $102.13 billion by 2031, growing at an impressive CAGR of 11.7%.
Yet the trend isn’t as straightforward as it might seem — both technologies serve distinct purposes in modern enterprises. Software-based scanners are, however, driving an exciting transformation in data capture.
An Evolutionary Leap in Scanning Technology
Traditional hardware scanners, as made by industry giants like Zebra and Honeywell, have dominated the market with their laser scanning technology. However, the landscape is changing, as smartphone cameras reach new levels of sophistication. Combined with advanced scanning software, mobile devices now match or exceed the capabilities of traditional scanners, fundamentally changing the way businesses approach data capture.
These modern solutions deliver enterprise-class performance across a spectrum of needs, from barcode scanning to high-quality document capture. As a result, smartphone scanners are displacing dedicated hardware.
The Cost Equation
The financial case for smartphone-based scanning is particularly compelling. Industrial scanners are highly specialized devices, which makes them costly to acquire and maintain. Smartphone solutions offer a lower total cost of ownership: The upfront investment is low, as is the need for employee training. They are also easier to maintain, thanks in part to automatic updates.
Even more compelling is the ability to leverage existing devices. By adopting a Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) policy, companies can virtually eliminate hardware costs while reducing IT overhead. This approach not only reduces costs but also accelerates deployment and adoption across the enterprise.
Balancing Performance, Durability, and Versatility in Today’s Businesses
While high-end laser scanners are faster at single barcode scanning, smartphones offer a key advantage: the ability
