Please Don't Android the Merchandise

"Androiding" may join "Googling" as the latest noun-to-verb linguistic conversion.

The other day we reported on the use of Google's Android search system to view book bar codes in bookstores. If there's a Search-Inside-The-Book feature connected with the book you scan, it will pop up and you'll be able to sample the book and decide if you want to buy it.

Now comes news of a website called Shop Savvy. It not only features books but clothing, footwear, appliances, gifts, and even travel and entertainment as well. According to Publishers Lunch, the online trade newsletter of the publishing industry, by looking at the barcode through the camera, "up pops the cheapest price on the product as well as reviews from people who have purchased the product."

It's easy to imagine consumers trying on clothing, Androiding it, and walking out to purchase it cheaper at a competitor down the street. Or online. This already happens in bookstores, Android or no Android. Shoppers browse books, then go home and buy them cheaper on Amazon.

Got ideas for Android applications of your own? Jump right in - it's a free, open source. And check out this video of Android founders (and their dog).

Oh - the photo? That's Heidi Montag and Spencer Pratt doing some shopping of their own. No Android is evident. Can't imagine why it was selected.

RC
Photo via People Magazine