Apple's iPad has already made its way into the hearts of many consumers, now the technology company is hoping to do the same with retailers. According to a recent report from Aruba Networks, approximately 56.2 percent of retail merchants plan to be using iPads to bolster their in-store efficiency.

Associates using the tablet devices will be able to browse retail websites, sign customers up for loyalty programs and reward initiatives, perform point-of-sale software tasks and accomplish other key goals. The iPad isn't the only piece of Apple technology infiltrating retail outlets – 38.5 percent also plan to issue iPhones to associates in an effort to accomplish the same goals.

"Today every other shopper walks into a store carrying a smartphone and increasingly using them for price comparison," Manish Rai, Aruba Networks' head of industry solutions, told Internet Retailer. "With an e-retailer with cheaper prices just a click away, bricks-and-mortar retailers are looking to differentiate in-store service to retain customers."

Several retailers have already integrated iPads in some capacity. For example, Moosejaw Mountaineering began leveraging the devices to help shoppers locate items.

This entry was posted by Retail Pro on Wednesday, February 8th, 2012 at 2:33 am .