A new technology aims to reshape the way arcade and amusement operators handle payments. Cantaloupe has introduced the Engage Pulse card reader, a device designed to enable cashless transactions while offering customers the convenience of paying once for multiple plays. This innovation addresses a long-standing challenge in the amusement sector, where cash-only payments often limit customer engagement and revenue generation.
In earlier product launches, Cantaloupe emphasized similar goals of enhancing customer experiences and streamlining payment processes. For instance, the company’s Smart Stores, launched in December, offered a 24/7 self-service solution for sectors like retail and hospitality. Additionally, its acquisition of SB Software last September expanded its market presence in Europe, focusing on vending and coffee management software. These moves align with the broader trend of blending technology with operational efficiency in unattended retail and payment systems.
What features does the Engage Pulse card reader offer?
The Engage Pulse card reader boasts features such as cashless payment acceptance and a ladder pricing interface. This interface allows customers to purchase extended playtime or multiple game sessions in a single transaction, simplifying the user experience. Moreover, its 3.5-inch color touchscreen makes navigation straightforward and intuitive, according to Cantaloupe. The device integrates seamlessly with existing arcade machines while transmitting transaction data to the company’s cloud-based platform, Seed Live, enabling real-time device management and monitoring.
How have operators responded to Engage Pulse?
Arcade and amusement operators who adopted Engage Pulse reported significant revenue increases. For example, one trampoline park saw an 85% year-over-year revenue boost, while a mall location experienced a 53% rise. Tim Zahn, Vice President of Operations at Lieberman Companies, shared insights on the impact of the device, stating:
“With the Pulse, we’re seeing customers spending $2-3 more than the default $1 price on these games. It makes payment quick and easy.”
Cantaloupe’s Chief Technology Officer, Gaurav Singal, also highlighted the broader vision for cashless payment experiences, emphasizing simplicity and security. He expressed aspirations for a payment landscape where transactions could become nearly invisible yet remain highly secure, reflecting ongoing efforts to remove friction from the process.
The introduction of Engage Pulse mirrors a shift in the amusement and gaming industry toward modernizing operations. Historically dominated by cash payments, the sector is now embracing digital solutions to attract a broader audience and increase spending. By simplifying the payment process, such innovations cater to customer preferences and help operators maximize earnings.
While Engage Pulse specifically targets the amusement and arcade market, the broader move toward cashless ecosystems reflects a growing trend across industries. Businesses investing in digital payment tools not only cater to customer demands for convenience but also gain valuable insights from transaction data. As such, solutions like Engage Pulse represent more than just an upgrade in technology—they are part of a larger strategy to enhance operational efficiency and customer satisfaction.
