Navigating the Semiconductor Shortage: Element POS Solutions

How Element POS is helping partners as hardware prices go through the roof

Android POS solutions

• AI data centres are eating up global supply of key IT components

• What is Element doing to ensure continuity of supply?

• The advantages of Android-based POS solutions

How AI Infrastructure Impacts Component Supply

AI is taking the world by storm, but as we utilise this technological marvel in many aspects of our lives, AI data centres are churning through resources at a dramatic rate. The construction of new data centres, especially some of the giants located in the US, is draining the IT market of essential components.

As AI infrastructure expands, demand for memory and other key components is outstripping supply. In response to AI-related requirements, manufacturers are migrating their focus away from the types of memory used in consumer electronics and POS systems. Instead, they are supplying more of the hardware used in AI accelerators.

Rising Hardware Costs and Retail Predictions

The shortage of RAM, SSDs and CPUs is driving price hikes throughout the industry. Experts such as IDC (International Data Corporation) predict PCs will increase dramatically in retail cost by the end of 2026. And some vendors of POS hardware are accepting orders with the caveat that prices may change by the time the order is ready to be delivered.

What Element is doing about it

Inevitably, Element is also affected by these issues. However, we are taking steps to ensure continuity of supply of core volatile components so that we can reduce the disruption for our partners caused by these massive global upheavals.

Through strategic inventory planning, Element is forecasting the demand for key components, and buying up stock in advance where possible. We are taking into account the increasing lead times for semiconductors when allocating inventory so that we can continue to meet partner expectations.

Element is diversifying its supply chain, sourcing components from a variety of suppliers instead of focusing on one main manufacturer, as we are committed to ensuring supply.

Mitigating Supply Chain Risks through Android Expansion

By expanding its Android portfolio, Element is reducing its reliance on Intel-based systems. A significant proportion of the shortage is affecting Intel chips, which are associated with Windows-based devices. As Intel-related supply chain becomes more constrained and prices increase due to demand, Element is accelerating its Android strategy.

The rise of Android

Android brings the capacity for innovation to the hardware ecosystem. Today, having Android as the operating system allows third-party developers to deliver device management software, databases and third-party apps, offering countless use cases for everything from POS systems to mobile devices. Additionally, Android CPUs are catching up with the processing requirements that were traditionally the domain of Windows-based devices -- .so we are now seeing Android hardware with the computing power needed to meet the requirements of our industry.

Affordable Android Solutions for Retail and Hospitality

Element will soon be rolling out a whole new range of Android hardware. As prices increase for new Windows-based systems, we can offer affordable options to alleviate some of the cost pressures without having to make compromises. Our partners will still be able to receive a robust, reliable POS solution built on design, quality and purpose -- the difference is that the platform is Android.

Element MP11NX All-In-One POS Tablet

Several Android products are already available, including the PaySuite® FLEX-enabled Element MP11NX. This device can either be stand-mounted as a fixed POS or used as a mobile tablet. It can accept NFC payments on the go and supports a personalised customer experience as staff can use it for taking orders at the table, for example.

A kiosk that means business

Another recently released device is the Element PK156 self-service kiosk. As well as boasting a compact form factor and sleek, sophisticated aesthetics, it epitomises the advantages of an Android-based POS system. Built to Android GMS (Google Mobile Services) specifications, the PK156 allows partners to load bespoke apps relevant to their business. The Android OS also allows you to customise your GUI (graphic user interface) to ensure a consistent and immersive experience with your brand at every technology touchpoint.

Empowering SMEs with Self-Service Technology

Bringing a self-service kiosk to a smaller business such as a corner store or cafe ensures a smoother customer experience and staff journey. By giving customers the option of serving themselves, you can free up staff to interact with visitors more meaningfully than simply taking orders and serving a queue at a fixed POS. With integrated NFC payments, barcode scanning and receipt printing, the PK156 is an all-in-one solution at an affordable price point that makes big-business transacting power available to SMEs.

Contact Element now to learn more about how you can dodge the eye-watering costs associated with the global semiconductor shortage. We can offer technology solutions at very affordable prices, tailored to your requirements and embodying our ethos of design, quality and purpose.