Block Inc Unveils Square Handheld: A Game-Changer for Business Operations

The Square Handheld is engineered for fast-paced, operationally complex environments. Weighing just 11 ounces and measuring less than an inch thick, this device is IP54-rated, ensuring it stands up to water splashes and dust. The device features a 6.2-inch Corning® Gorilla® Glass touchscreen, designed for durability and optimal user experience. Additionally, its robust battery is capable of powering through an entire day of service, making it an ideal solution for busy sellers.

Key features of the Square Handheld include:

This combination of portability, reliability, and power positions the Square Handheld as a vital asset for sellers, whether they are taking tableside orders in a restaurant or managing inventory in a retail environment.

At the heart of the Square Handheld is the new unified Square Point of Sale app, which brings together years of commerce innovation into a single platform. This redesigned software offers seven different operational modes tailored to specific industries, such as Quick Service, Bar, and Retail. The ability to customize settings and easily add modes as business needs evolve ensures that the device can adapt to a variety of environments.

Restaurants and retailers accounted for 50% of Square’s gross payment volume (GPV) in 2024, underscoring the importance of versatile solutions like the Square Handheld. As Trevor Ledergerber, owner of La Mediterranee in Berkeley, CA, noted, the device significantly reduces wait times and improves order accuracy, creating a better dining experience for customers.

Square Handheld builds on Block Inc’s legacy of innovative hardware design, which began over a decade ago with the original Square reader. With its sleek and lightweight design, the Square Handheld is among the thinnest and lightest point-of-sale devices available today. Thomas Templeton, Block’s Head of Hardware, emphasized that this device is tailored for the demands of modern business, enabling sellers to maintain high productivity levels while meeting the growing expectations of customers.

Starting today, the Square Handheld is available for purchase through the Square Shop, with a starting price of $399. To enhance user experience and protect the device, Square has partnered with the accessories manufacturer Belkin. The Belkin SheerForce cases, available in seven colors, offer additional protection against accidental drops and scratches while maintaining a stylish appearance. These cases are priced starting at $39.

The launch of Square Handheld coincides with the introduction of Square Releases, a new biannual product launch initiative designed to deliver the latest Square features and tools in a comprehensive manner. This initiative aims to simplify how businesses discover new functionalities and adapt their operations to drive growth.

For more information about the Square Handheld and the broader Square ecosystem, visit squareup.com/hardware/handheld.

With the release of the Square Handheld, Block Inc is poised to further solidify its position as a leader in commerce solutions, providing businesses with the tools they need to thrive in an increasingly competitive environment.