Update? Gen 1 Contactless Square Reader and Magnetic Strip Reader.

[PopHarris3]

I have questions about my Contactless Square Reader and Magnetic Strip Reader, which, from my understanding, are both Generation 1 devices. Why did Square send a message stating that these were no longer supported for offline use, especially when I used these offline three weeks ago? Was this a recent change? Also, does each device need a software update, or do I need to purchase new devices (Generation 2?)? Also, does Square provide a live person to help answer questions and resolve issues? 

[TheRealChipA · Accepted solution]

Hey @PopHarris3.  I checked with a Square beta person that I communicate with regularly.  This is what I learned.

This article should still be up-to-date
https://squareup.com/help/us/en/article/7777-process-card-payments-with-offline-mode

where Square Reader for Contactless and Chip
(1st gen, v3) still works but not v1-2 (which was deprecated/discontinued years ago). 

Square Reader for Magstripe is still supported for swipe (which is the only capability) 

I’ll add that there are a few active beta tests going on now to greatly enhance and harden the offline processing experience and I know those require the latest hardware.  So, to answer your question, if you can do it I’d recommend upgrading to the latest readers when you can.

[PopHarris3]

Hi Chip, 

Thank you for the feedback and supportive articles. 

Doc Rob