System updates

We’re experiencing issues that may affect your Square services. We’ll continue to update our status page with more information.

Home>Square Reader

Devices Compatible with Square Reader for Contactless and Chip

There are two generations of Square Reader: Square Reader (1st generation) and Square Reader (2nd generation).

Learn more about the different generations of Square Reader.

Apple iOS Compatibility & Square Reader

Square Reader is compatible with iOS devices that are:

Check if your device is supported from Square’s Device Compatibility page.

Most Apple iOS devices running the latest iOS version are compatible.

If you’re using Square Stand, you can connect the Square Reader to your stand’s USB hardware hub to accept any payment type. Mobile devices not connected to Square Stand will connect wirelessly via BLE with Square Reader.

  • If all three USB ports on the hub are occupied by other hardware, you’ll need to free up a port to plug in the Square Reader, as Square hardware doesn’t support third-party USB splitters.

  • Some iPads don’t support iOS 15 and the latest version of Apple’s mobile operating system. We recommend upgrading your hardware to get the most out of the Square app. If you’re using iOS 14 or earlier, you won’t be able to wirelessly connect with the Square Reader.

Note: iPad 2 won’t connect wirelessly with the reader. If you use an iPad 2 + Square Stand, you’ll need to connect the reader to the stand’s USB hardware hub. If all three USB ports on the hub are occupied by other hardware, you’ll need to free up a port to plug in the reader, as Square doesn’t support third-party USB splitters.

Google Android Compatibility & Contactless Reader

Square Reader is supported on most Android devices that:

  • Run Android 7 or higher.

  • Run an updated version of the Square app: Version 5 or higher for Android. Learn how to update your Square app.

  • Have built-in Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE).

Note: Samsung Galaxy S9 isn’t compatible with Square Reader (2nd generation) due to its discontinued status with Samsung.

Check if your device is supported from Square’s Device Compatibility page.

We can’t guarantee support with all Android devices at the moment, but we’re working to support as many as possible. If your device isn’t currently on this list, there’s a chance it’ll be supported in the future.

You can also view the list of supported devices.

Can’t find what you need?