Abstract: An interactive system and method for shopping is disclosed that separates the shopping process from the buying process. In one embodiment, the system includes an in-store/in-mall computer system and a plurality of handheld scanners configured to scan product information and upload that information to a central database. The system further includes an interactive Web site that is in communication with the database. The system allows a user to scan items for a wish list at participating stores before or after creating an account with the system. The system also allows buyers to easily shop for others by searching for a user's wish list and personal preferences at the system Web site. Furthermore, the system allows the user to select one or more buyers from an address book and notify the selected buyers of a specific wish list via e-mail.

Abstract: Apparatus for employing a computer program through a console having a touch screen operated CRT and related memory to produce a route map with customer address, delivery route instructions and directions on an area map which relates the location of the store from which a customer's order is made up for delivery to that customer. The make up of the apparatus includes an audio system for voice input and output to the motherhood of the CPU, and a modem which allows the computer to communicate to the outside world for purposes of updating the software and map data from a remote data base source.