How Do AI Vending Machines Work

The answer is: tap, grab and go.

The days of shaking a vending machine because a bag of chips got stuck in the coil are over. A new era of retail has arrived: The AI Vending Machine.

But how exactly does this technology work? It shifts the experience from "select and dispense" to "grab and go." Using the WEIMI AI Vending Machine as our prime example, here is a look behind the glass door at how artificial intelligence is revolutionising automated retail.

The User Experience: A 4-Step Frictionless Flow

For the customer, the WEIMI experience is designed to feel just like opening their own refrigerator at home. Here is the step-by-step process:

1. Tap to Unlock

The process begins when the customer approaches the machine. They simply unlock the fridge by tapping, inserting, or swiping a valid credit or debit card. The customer waits briefly for a message from the card reader confirming the fridge is unlocked.

2. Browse and Grab

Once unlocked, the customer pulls the door open. Unlike traditional machines where products are locked behind glass, WEIMI allows customers to physically touch the products. They can pick up an item, read the nutrition label, and put it back if they change their mind.

Note: Because customers can physically hold the items, they are statistically likely to buy more than they would through a glass pane.

3. AI Tracking

This is where the magic happens. As the customer shops, dual cameras located at the top right and top left utilize advanced AI technology. They record and track exactly what the customer grabs in real-time.

4. Auto-Checkout

Once the customer has what they need, they simply close the door. The machine calculates the total and automatically charges the card or smartphone wallet. The entire checkout process is completed within 30 seconds.

Under the Hood: WEIMI’s World-Class Vision Solution

How does the machine know the difference between a soda and a sandwich? It relies on WEIMI's proprietary vision solution.

• >99% Recognition Accuracy: The system is incredibly precise, ensuring customers are charged correctly every time.
• Multi-Item Detection: Unlike old machines that dispense one item at a time, the WEIMI AI fridge supports multi-item detection. A customer can grab a drink, a snack, and a fresh meal all at once.
• Instant Adaptation: The AI is designed to learn. It adapts to new Stock Keeping Units (SKUs) instantly, drastically reducing the setup time for operators when introducing new products.

Beyond the Transaction: Smart Hardware & Sales Growth

The WEIMI machine isn’t just a card reader attached to a fridge; it is a comprehensive retail solution designed to boost operations.

Boost Sales with Smart AI

• Intelligent Upselling: The machine features built-in promotion campaigns to encourage larger basket sizes.
• Inventory Management: It tracks real-time inventory and monitors shelf life to ensure products remain fresh—crucial for selling fresh food.
• Loyalty Integration: The system encourages repeat purchases by integrating with loyalty programs.

Superior Hardware Design

• Dynamic Temperature Control: An energy-efficient cooling system keeps beverages cold and food fresh.
• Modular Shelving: The interior is versatile, capable of holding beverages, snacks, fresh food, and even daily necessities.
• Flexible Payments: We ensure you never miss a sale by supporting cards, QR codes, mobile wallets, and contactless methods.

The Difference: AI Vending vs. Traditional Vending

Why are operators switching to AI vending? The difference is in the data and the user experience.

Conclusion

The WEIMI AI Vending Machine offers a safe, smooth, and smart cooling experience that modernizes retail. By allowing customers to open the fridge, pick multiple products, and simply walk away, operators gain higher sales volume while customers enjoy the ultimate convenience.

Ready to upgrade your vending strategy? Experience the power of WEIMI AI today.