Meeting the smart phone display challenge

Between folding phones, improved smart phone cameras, 5G and the release of the iPhone 12 this year, 2020 is tipped to be another watershed year in the evolution of smart phones.

Due to coronavirus shutdowns, it’s also already proving a far different landscape to years gone by when it comes to supply.

Together these factors create a whole new set of challenges for retailers when it comes to securing and showcasing smart phones.

So here’s a quick update on what’s going on in the world of smartphones along with recommended technology to showcase and secure them to best effect.

It’s no secret there’s a lot going on in the world of smartphones. Last year folding phones began hitting the market shepherding in a whole new era when it comes to the way smartphones look and operate.

In the interim, 5G began rolling out, with more and more big-name brands releasing 5G compatible models that harness the speed and increased bandwidth of game-changing mobile internet.

And then of course cameras across the board received a major upgrade, with Apple among the manufacturers leading the charge with their rear-facing cameras that featured a three-lens array.

That’s a lot of different features to showcase when it comes to displaying the latest smart hone technology to prospective buyers.

Just to complicate matters further, there’s also the prospect of a shortage of supply this year. With many manufacturers relying on components that come out of China, coronavirus has slowed the manufacturing process.

Apple is among the manufacturers already experiencing supply shortages, with recent reports indicating in some Australian stores, iPhone stock has dried up.

It comes amidst rumours the iPhone 12 may also be delayed. Initially slated for release in September, the iPhone 12 was tipped to deliver a major upgrade, including a supercharged screen, changes to the look, and the addition of a laser-powered 3D camera.

But now it’s a case of wait and sees when it comes to the prospect of an iPhone 12 release. That could potentially make the iPhone even more of a target for theft in a telco industry which last year saw a major increase in swarming shoplifting.

So amidst this altered smartphone landscape, what are the best ways to secure and showcase smartphones?

Smart phones are products that consumers need to touch, feel and try, particularly when it comes to new features which may be unfamiliar.

For example, last year everyone was clamouring to get their hands on the new Samsung Fold to see just how this new technology worked. This isn’t the type of technology you can put behind glass or anchor to a static display either. People want to interact with it, open it, close it, and feel it with their hands.

Meanwhile, the ever-evolving camera technology of smart phones has become a major drawcard, with some telcos now opting to display their models camera-side up to showcase the latest, greatest lenses and features.

The upshot is smartphone retailers need flexible, interactive displays that protect the product while still allowing the customer to truly test and try it.

When it comes to securing and showcasing smartphones, there are a wealth of interactive display options available with varying security features to suit all retail environments.

Some of the key features to consider and look for include:

Ideally your display will allow the customer to lift the phone from the cradle to truly interact with and explore it, which is where tethering is often the preferred option. Tethering sees the phone connected to its display stand with a cable, and these cables are available in a variety of strengths and styles.

Some are retractable, some are flexible, while some like the OnePOD One60 or One90QR can withstand up to 180kg of pull force, making the latter suited to more high-risk environments.

In many cases they also have the added option of locking down the phone if required.

Smart phones now come in a wide range of sizes, meaning displays should feature an adjustable mounting plate or arms to accommodate changed sizing and new models.

This ensures your display investment stands the test of time.

In addition to tethers, a number of quality stands feature alarms that alert staff to an incident where a phone is being tampered with or theft is in progress. This is an important feature in busy retail environments.

Smart phones will need to be powered and charged, so retailers should consider cable management and charging features when selecting displays.

Staff will need to be able to easily access the merchandise, whether that’s for overnight storage or to restock the display. That’s where features like smart keys come in. These allow staff to use one programmed key to access multiple displays. They can also track which staff have accessed what.

Finally, the strength of a stand and its internal components is a critical feature. Look for high-quality materials like steel bracket arms, high-strength steel cables, steel internal locking mechanisms and durable ABS plastic housing, along with the ability to anchor the display stand to shop fixtures like tables and counters.

For a full rundown of all the smart phone display stand options and features available, see here.