Wal-Mart acquires Simplexity’s platform to speed up smartphone activation

Wal-Mart Stores said it acquired Simplexity's Wireless Activation Retail Platform (WARP) on May 2, for an undisclosed amount.

This software will be integrated into Walmart Stores and Sam’s Clubs later this year, according to Randy Hargrove, corporate spokesman.

“We’ve seen more and more customers choosing where they purchase new smartphones based on where they'll get the best value for their trade-ins. Now, when they come to Walmart they’ll not only get low prices on the newest phones and exclusive offerings, but they’ll also receive a much quicker process for getting their new phone activated,” Karenann Terrell, chief information officer at Walmart, noted in a corporate blog on Monday (May 5).

She said Wal-Mart acquired Simplexiity's WARP out of bankruptcy. 

“A key part of our ability to innovate is leveraging technology, like Simplexity’s software, to create enhanced and differentiated experiences for our customers every day. The new platform and its easier-to-use interface will complement sales by enabling us to more efficiently support our customers when they purchase cell phones or other wireless electronic devices. We expect customers will experience a significant decrease in wait time in Walmart stores and Sam’s Clubs when activating their wireless device, Terrell notes.

She adds that Walmart.com will also eventually benefit from the technology, which will provide a seamless online option that will walk customers through the activation process.