VENDING MACHINES THAT KNOW YOU

Better Than Humans For Customer Recognition

If you read CMG with any regularity you know that I am a big proponent of self-serve concession at cinemas. So, the next stage in the development of vending machines (which, I might add, have recently made huge in-roads in regards to customer interface) is of great interest to me.

Face Recognition Improves Sales

A new concept vending machine developed by Sanden Corp., in cooperation with Okaya Electronics and Intel incorporates a 65" full HD display with a "transparent" touch screen.  The display can show custom graphics, product & merchandizing information, and functions as a large clock when not being used.

Human Inter"face" Literally

The major development however, is that this vending machine offers facial recognition so it can display customized menus based on an individual's prior use.  And, if it doesn't recognize the face, it will display products based upon what it THINKS the customer would want - performing a quick profile based upon age and gender.

Although not currently being sold, this is the cinema "concession sales clerk" of the future. 

Cheers & Happy Movie Going!
Jim Lavorato