Tim,
I want to clarify that I am speaking of using a Tablet with Android OS in order to create a COMPLETE (Hardware + Software) low cost Point Of Sale.
Regarding your 30 years of experience, I can understand it, as I am "programming computer" since 1974. The language was Fortran IV and the "machine" was IBM 1130.
My first experience "developing software for micro-computer" was in 1978 when I bought the TRS-80 Model I with 4K RAM memory (upgraded to the 16K later) , BASIC language (yes from Microsoft) and no hard drive.
Now we have different and powerful hardware, more programming languages, more operating systems but the same concept: entry-processing-output.
By other hand, returning to our post, I am thinking of business model for a complete Point of Sale (POS) for small businesses (like grocery store, convenience store, family owner restaurant, etc.) would be:
1. All In One Computer (Tablet with OS Android) $300-$400
2. Scanner $25-$75
3. Cash Drawer $50-100
4. POS Printer$50-200
5. POS software (developed with FiveDroid) $The price of your software
The cost, for this POS systems (Hardware only), could be less than $500.
http://www.amazon.com/POS-X-XP8200U-XP8200-DISPLAY-UNIVERSAL/dp/B0041BF9GY/ref=acc_glance_e_ai_ps_t_2
The developer(s) can make a profit by charging $200-$300 for the POS software as well a small monthly maintenance fee depending on how many terminal has the business. Lets say $40 per month per terminal.
This model could be successful because of introductory low price for a complete POS.
And this can be possible by using Android OS Tablets instead of iPad or Windows tablets.
Regards,
George