We just noticed the little “reset” button (or hole) (NOT the blue button) on the tap/chip reader… when one of ours was locked up. Hitting this button seemed to reset the reader that was completely locked up. Anybody else have experience with using the “reset” button?
Topic summary
Shopify’s tap & chip card reader experiences persistent Bluetooth disconnection issues, requiring frequent re-pairing that disrupts checkout operations. The problem affects multiple users despite hardware replacements (readers and iPads), software updates, and router changes.
Key Issues:
- Readers disconnect 1-2+ times daily, even after iOS 12.4 and Shopify app 5.33.1 updates that initially seemed promising
- Devices enter sleep mode and won’t wake, requiring full deletion from Bluetooth settings and iPad restart
- Physical design flaw: dock must be dismantled to access power button
- Some units completely fail with flashing red/blue lights and won’t revive
Workarounds Mentioned:
- Daily power cycling of all equipment during store opening
- Using reset button (pinhole, not blue button) for locked devices
- Switching to older chip/swipe reader (white model with base) for better reliability
- Some merchants purchasing Square Terminal as backup
Business Impact:
- Customer frustration and abandoned transactions during checkout delays
- One user logged 600+ troubleshooting hours
- Multiple replacement units show identical problems
Status: Unresolved. Users report Shopify support treats each case as isolated rather than acknowledging systemic issues. Requests for wired connection option or return of older reader models remain unaddressed.
