The Beginning of a Mobile Brookline

This summer, smartphone mobile apps won’t just be for web surfing, game crazes and handy tools – at least not in Brookline. A local independent company that already sponsors the , will launch a program that could allow users to pay restaurants bills and shop at the town’s local businesses from a single smartphone mobile app.

PXT, based out of Andover, Mass, is reaching out to about 25 Brookline merchants to launch a mobile app that acts as a credit card for all of the businesses ranging from to . The possibilities seem infinite and details are simple, yet complicated. The PXT program is the early beginning of a mobile Brookline.

Rivka Tadjer, a PXT representative, is introducing the mobile app to Brookline this summer. And to her, it’s quite simple:

“If you have a smartphone, why do you need a card?”

Tadjer said the PXT mobile app operates through Paypal, and it is even more secure than a credit card that can get lost or stolen. Accounts are verified and associated with pin numbers. 

The dynamic app has options, as it allows either credit or debit. Tadjer said there are no fees and all users simply give a merchant their phone number. With the system PXT supplies to participating businesses, they can bill customers directly.

The technology already exists, but the local connection to Brookline businesses is still in development.

Tadjer said the participating businesses are eager to learn more about the possibilities, but some aren’t clear on the details.

Dana Brigham, manager of Brookline Booksmith, said a mobile app could help promote the store’s e-book sales, but she is not exactly sure how it will work yet.

“If all [customers] have to do is press a button while they’re in the store or anywhere, that’s great for us,” Brigham said.

Tadjer said the mobile app could help small businesses compete against national chains or online sellers like Amazon.

PXT already helped Brookline update its parking meters with the Brookline Card earlier this year. The debit card can be used for parking and at about 25 stores throughout town. Tadjer said all of the stores already participating are interested in upgrading to the mobile app.

PXT Money will launch in Brookline by the end of summer.

If that’s not soon enough, the town will announce next week Town Government 2.0: BrookOnline to introduce even more interactive mobile apps for residents. Stay with Brookline Patch for updates.