Square announces Lightning-based magnetic card reader

Square has announced a Lightning-equipped version of its well-known Square Credit Card Reader, allowing users of Apple’s newer iPhone models to connect the reader directly.

Square announces Lightning-based magnetic card reader

While Square’s original reader could be used with Apple’s Lightning to 3.5mm Headphone Jack Adapter, it made for a relatively clunky and awkward solution in terms of actually swiping cards, since it left the reader dangling loosely from the end of a cable.

The new Square Reader for magstripe (with Lightning connector) ($10) provides all of the same features as the 3.5mm jack version, and promises “easier, more accurate swiping.” As with the headphone jack version, Square is also offering the new Lightning-based reader free for new users and other eligible merchants.

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