Wal-Mart's New Apps Will Integrate Coupons and Voice Recognition

Wal-Mart is launching its first iPad app and is refreshing its iPhone app just in time for the holidays. Both applications will enable consumers to shop online or see what's available locally. Orders can be shipped or picked up. The apps are being released ahead of the end-of-the-year shopping frenzy, which many retailers are hoping will be one of the busiest mobile commerce events ever. "As customers use more smartphones and tablets, the Wal-Mart customer is doing the same thing," said Gibu Thomas, the company's SVP of mobile and digital.