Shopping assistance with handheld computing device

A method for providing shopping assistance to a user with a handheld computing device in a store in an establishment having a plurality of stores, comprising:

• using the handheld computing device in the store to establish a wireless link with a computer associated with the store;
• displaying an on-screen option on the handheld computing device that provides the user with an opportunity to place a request for a product to be picked up and paid for in the store;
• allowing the handheld computing device to be used to establish a local wireless link with wireless communications equipment associated with the establishment;
• displaying an on-screen option on the handheld computing device that allows the user to use the handheld computing device to obtain directory information identifying each of the plurality of stores over the local wireless link;
• monitoring the user's location within the establishment;
• and
• displaying promotional material on the handheld computing device based on the user's location.

A method for using a mobile electronic device to provide shopping assistance to a customer who is shopping in a retail store in an establishment having a plurality of stores, comprising:

• using the mobile electronic device to establish a wireless link with a computer;
• using the mobile electronic device in the retail store to display an on-screen option that allows the customer to obtain information from the computer on where products are located in the store;
• allowing the handheld computing device to be used to establish a local wireless link with wireless communications equipment associated with the establishment;
• displaying an on-screen option on the handheld computing device that allows the user to use the handheld computing device to obtain directory information identifying each of the plurality of stores over the local wireless link;
• monitoring the user's location within the establishment;
• and
• displaying promotional material on the handheld computing device based on the user's location.

A method for providing shopping assistance to a user in a store with a mobile electronic device in an establishment having a plurality of stores, comprising:

• using the mobile electronic device to establish a local wireless link with a computer;
• displaying a screen on the mobile electronic device that contains promotional information from the computer on products offered for sale in the store;
• allowing the handheld computing device to be used to establish a local wireless link with wireless communications equipment associated with the establishment;
• displaying an on-screen option on the handheld computing device that allows the user to use the handheld computing device to obtain directory information identifying each of the plurality of stores over the local wireless link;
• monitoring the user's location within the establishment;
• and
• displaying promotional material on the handheld computing device based on the user's location.