LootScout

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Frequently asked questions

Answers for beta testers and collectors using LootScout. For step-by-step product flows, see Features & guides.

Do I need a special app build to scan cards?

Yes. The in-app card scanner uses your device camera and on-device text recognition (OCR). It ships in native iOS/Android builds that include the OCR module (for example a development client or production store build). Expo Go and generic web builds do not include the full scanner pipeline.

Does scanning work on the website?

No — not today. lootscout.io is the marketing site. Scanning, batch review, and add-to-collection from scans happen in the mobile app. Web builds typically show a “scanner not available” style message if you open scanner routes there.

Does manual search hit external APIs while I type?

No. Manual search (including from the scanner) stays catalog-first while you type, similar to Home search: results come from the local LootScout database for responsive suggestions. Broader hybrid / external API search runs only after you tap Search or press Enter — and only if the catalog returned no rows for that query. That saves API cost and matches how the product behaves.

Does the card scanner cost extra?

No. Single-card and batch scanning are included for every account during beta — there is no separate scanner subscription on top of your tier.

What is batch scanning?

In batch mode you scan many cards in sequence. Each scan appears as a thumbnail; you can change the catalog match, remove a scan, or add a row via manual search. When you are ready, open Review to set condition (including graded grades), variant, and folder per row, see approximate prices where data exists, then add all to your collection.

How do I get paid for in-person sales and trades?

With Tap to Pay, you can accept contactless card payments using just your phone — no card reader or extra hardware. Payments are powered by Stripe, and money goes directly to your own bank account through Stripe Connect. LootScout never holds your funds. Card payments settle sales and trades instantly, so there's no separate confirmation step, and refunds are handled in-app if a deal is disputed. Tap to Pay is available on Android now; iOS is coming soon.

What does Tap to Pay cost?

There's only a small per-transaction processing fee, and the app shows you the exact breakdown before each sale — no platform holding your money and taking a large cut. If you prefer, you can optionally pass the processing fee to the buyer where local law allows.

Why is pricing labeled beta?

Plans and limits can evolve while we refine the product. Lock-in messaging on the homepage describes how beta subscribers may keep promotional rates; see the pricing section for details.