PayPal Bolsters Merchant Services with Mobile Development Tools

PayPal has launched the PayPal Here software development kit (SDK), which enables merchants to sell in-store or remotely through iOS or Android devices.

"At PayPal, we’re always working to build product experiences that simplify payments, and looking to collaborate with businesses that share our vision for making the checkout process more seamless whether it’s online, in-store or on mobile," said Brad Brodigan, vice president and general manager of North America Retail for PayPal, in an Sept. 4 announcement on PayPal's website.

SDKs are external tools that developers access to integrate transaction capabilities and other functions into their own systems.

Early users of the PayPal Here SDK include Ecwid, which helps businesses create online storefronts; and GoDaddy, a small business technology provider, Brodigan said. Through GoDaddy Get Paid and Ecwid's mobile app, merchants can accept card and PayPal payments and can track cash and invoices. The GoDaddy and Ecwid apps are also compatible with the PayPal Here mobile card reader.

The Ecwid partnership also enables merchants to link their in-store and mobile sales with existing online sales data and inventory, Brodigan said.

PayPal could not be reached for comment by deadline. The eBay subsidiary has made a number of moves to increase its appeal to merchants and developers, such as expanded cash management and a Braintree toolset for adding PayPal acceptance to merchant apps.