The Square Register is growing up. Square released new hardware today called Square Stand that provides a more stable base for the iPad-based register and includes an ecrypted card reader. The intent is to provide retail locations a complete point-of-sale solution that is both functional and attractive.

"Local business owners take as a given that they need an ugly, slow, expensive, and complicated point of sale system cluttering their counter," said Square CEO Jack Dorsey in announcing the device. "Square Stand is elegant, fast, affordable and easy to use. Whether you're selling cupcakes, cardigans, or cappuccinos, running your business with Square has never been easier."

The company said Square Stand is easy to set up and connects to hardware accessories such as a receipt printer, kitchen printer, cash drawer, and barcode scanner.

The cost of the Square Stand is $299; it can be ordered online or purchased in Best Buy stores beginning July 8.

The introduction of Square Stand follows Square's recent release of software aimed at the QSR space, and its "business in a box" that bundles a complete cash register — including a printer and cash drawer — into one package.

The company's emphasis on the brick-and-mortar version of Register (i.e., the tablet-based version), reflects recent adoption patterns, the company said. Nearly 50 percent of payments processed by Square are originate from iPads, Square said. Additionally, average payment volume processed by tablet customers is more than double the average volume processed by customers using smartphones, the company said.

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