Is there a supported API, SDK, intent, or other developer method for accessing the built-in barcode scanner on Square Handheld from a custom integration?
We have confirmed that the Handheld’s scanner can read and decode PDF417 barcodes, but we need to determine whether the decoded scanner output can be passed to a custom application or integration.
The solution needs to use the Square Handheld’s built-in scanner, rather than an external scanner or separate Android/iOS device.
If scanner access is not currently publicly available, is there a beta or early-access program for developers?
Thank you.
Hi,
Welcome to the Square Developer Forums!
At this time, we don’t have any supported developer method for accessing the barcode scanner for Square Handheld’s for custom integrations.
I recommend checking this article for the currently supported ways to use it with Square Handheld:
Thanks for confirming. Since Square Handheld already supports and decodes PDF417, is there any existing or planned native Square POS age/ID verification feature that can use a driver’s-license PDF417 barcode?
Our requirement is specifically to perform age verification directly on Square Handheld using its built-in scanner. If developer scanner access isn’t available, a native Square feature would accomplish what we’re looking for.
Yes! Square Handheld’s built-in scanner can be used for age verification in Square’s checkout flow. When an item has an age restriction, sellers can scan a U.S. or Canadian driver’s license or state ID instead of entering the DOB manually. This feature requires a setup of age restricted items to achieve the flow ( Set age restrictions on items | Square Support Center - United States ).
But this native Square feature does not provide a way for a custom integration to access the scanned ID data.