thread How do I disable develop options in order for the Square chip reader to work? in Hardware Setup & Troubleshooting

How do I disable develop options in order for the Square chip reader to work?

SteveRand — Sun, 21 Sep 2025 10:58:45 GMT

I've just picked up a reader and having the same issue. I can confirm that the error message is 100% from the app, with no explanation of why it won't work with dev options enabled. (I like having no animation delay, etc).

I hope that it gets fixed (or explained). I don't really want to buy/carry another phone just to use the Square Reader.

Re: How do I disable develop options in order for the Square chip reader to work?

jyloup — Thu, 15 May 2025 15:07:19 GMT

Square won't allow you to activate dev options to avoid using a GPS emulator (GPS emulator needs dev options activated), that would enable you to use your reader in another country outside your registered country for selling, by making "believe" your phone you're in the registered country while you're abroad.

Re: How do I disable develop options in order for the Square chip reader to work?

SteveRand — Thu, 15 May 2025 21:19:53 GMT

That's a decent answer and reason, thanks.

That option would be the "mock location" developer option. I have found that connecting the reader and then turning on developer options without USB debugging keeps the app and reader working. As soon as USB debugging is turned back on, the reader disconnects.

Re: How do I disable develop options in order for the Square chip reader to work?

Katie_SQ — Fri, 16 May 2025 04:11:31 GMT

Thanks for your question, @SteveRand!

The Square Reader requires a secure operating environment in order to process sensitive card data, so Developer Options like USB debugging need to be turned off in order to process payments.

The mock location option that @jyloup mentioned is also incompatible, as cross-border payments aren't supported with Square. Square’s hardware is subject to testing and certification to comply with country-specific regulations, so it's only approved for use in the country where it was intended.

To ensure a reliable connection and smooth transactions, we recommend disabling all Developer Options before processing payments.

If you have any other questions, please let me know. 🙂