Tap-to-tip busking is here

Photo: Contributed

No longer will the “I have no money” excuse work.

A Kelowna busker is the first, in this city at least, to add an electronic payment option to his sidewalk performing.

Max Lowther has been entertaining Okanagan residents and tourists for last five years.

He uses a Square card reader to take his busking into the 21st century. The wireless device accepts Interac Flash, contactless credit cards, Apple Pay, Google Pay and chip credit cards.

He simply puts it in front of his “busk stop,” and those who want to show their appreciation can tap to tip.

“What happens is you’ll be playing and you’ll see someone sort of hesitate, reach into their pocket and they have no change,” Lowther says. “This just gives people more options."

Lowther has been using the technology for about a week – and adds he still takes cash.

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