Recently, I did a post listing the top 10 things that caught my eye at NRF.  Here is more detail on number 10– Ikan.

Ikan is provides a scanner and thin web device designed for the kitchen.  The idea is to scan items as you discard them to create your list which can be sent to a grocer, or accessed for your own use on the web.

On the web site, you can see the current model, but at NRF they were showing the next version which runs Android, allowing more interactive web access.  Here is a short video of the demo I received at NRF.

The benefits for customers would be an easier way to create and maintain your list based on usage.  This in addition to the web and application access demonstrated in the video.  For retailers and manufacturers, there would be benefit in knowing about usage patterns (privacy policy permitting of course) prior to purchase.  The retailer could also provide relevant offers for alternative products based on timing, a map through the store to pick up your items, etc.

Ikan has a number of challenges.  First, the device itself sells for $399.  That’s expensive for a consumer device.  While it can access various applications and websites, I’d rather have a laptop or netbook to do those things.  If I really want the scanner, there are options from around $I79.

Unfortunately for ikan, there is a even better option which is to use applications that allow barcode reading from my smartphone.   For $0.99, I can buy something like GroceryIQ for my iPhone.  The integrated scanning capability (using RedLaser from Occipital) works great and it’s integrated right into the application allowing me to create my list.

What does this mean for Ikan?  Unfortunately, as much as I liked the Ikan guys, I personally wouldn’t shell out $399 for the integrated device when I can have a laptop for the same amount.  Grocery IQ did a great job of scanning and creating my list.

What does this mean for grocery retailers?  Apps like GroceryIQ are going to some degree control the customer and the customer experience if you let them.   It’s time for grocery retailers to create their own mobile apps that add value to the customer in a way that differentiates the brand.