The Ultimate FAQ Guide to AI Smart Fridges & Coolers

Our machine uses learned models and makes inferences on what was took. In short: it’s AI because the machine learns from data and infers what happened using computer vision + sensor fusion, rather than relying on static, brittle rules.

Lifespan of this technology is not known because we don't have a crystal ball, but here is the breakdown:

The door is on a hinge and it will automatically close. If the customer took items from the machine, they will be charged once the door closes. If the customer did not take anything then there will be no charge and the pending charge will be removed to show zero.

1. Cameras: Our IP-cameras should be top-of-the-line for 5–7 years and should last 5–7 years even with increased environmental exposure.
2. Machine learning: AI models typically have "performance drift" over 6–12 months, but we have a dedicated software team to monitor performance and make continuous improvement. With quarterly updates, we expect our software to work for over 10 years. Android Enterprise Recommended devices are generally expected to deliver ~5 years of security updates, but with OS upgrades and back-end maintenance, we expect a lifespan of over 10 years.
3. Payment terminal: Our payment terminals are new models and should last well over 5-years before needing to be replaced or upgraded.
4. Other hardware: There are few moving parts which makes this technology special and in a rare instance, we have parts available for purchase on our website. However, we warranty all parts for one year. Expect other components to last several years before anything needs to be replaced.

No, a bill acceptor is used to make a purchase and our machines facilitate full-access shopping in which case the customer is charged automatically upon exit. Hence, our machines do not support bill validators.

There is a mobile app (iPhone and Android) and web-based portal. The mobile application is fully built and self-sufficient with payment integration and most customers prefer to only use this.

Operators select products from our master library—or add new SKUs—and set the machine’s initial quantities. When a customer removes an item, computer vision identifies exactly which product was taken. No, you do not need to train the machine. Our kiosks and software were uniquely developed for existing vending operators that don't have AI expertise. The problem with other smart coolers is that they require pre-existing knowledge in AI application and machine learning. Our machines bridge the gap and we developed roll-out ready software to help you scale from day 1!

Yes, the card reader can integrate with vendsoft and third party apps. Because we own the software and host in on Amazon-Web-Servers, we have the ability to provide API integration with third-party apps in the event you need access.

This is the #1 question and we agree that AI and its applications are intimidating. Because of our operating knowledge and experience (Founder grew up in the coin-operated amusement and ATM space), we developed a program that is operator friendly, roll-out ready, and made the learning curve extremely simple and dummy proof! We are selling to vending companies and being able to do this was a crucial part of our development plan. So to best-answer the question: No, we developed the technology for traditional vending operators that aren't AI-experts. Hence, we developed the AI to be ready-to-go out the door and not need training or expertise.

Every transaction has credit card fees plus there are software fees and AI fees. A full breakdown on recurring fees are as follows:

• Credit card fees: 4% + 10 cents per transaction
• AI recognition fee: 4 cents per transaction
• Software fee: $39 per month per machine
• Communication: $20/month for wireless or free for Wi-Fi.

• Bulk equipment: 5% on orders of 6 or more and 8% on orders of 20 or more.
• Distributor pricing: 20% discount on all equipment with MOQs (Minimum Order Quantities)
• Enterprise software: 20% discount on software fees for operators with 50+ machines

No. We don't provide manual labor. We provide all the tools, software, tech-support (live and chat), parts, and guides to make your life easy, but all operators are required to be self-sufficient. In a rare case that a machine can't be fixed, we would replace it under warranty. While the shopping experience is automated and seamless, an operator is required to work. Hence, this is a semi-passive and scalable business, but don't be fooled by vending companies that say it is a passive investment!

You can try to steal from the machine and block the cameras or be super sneaky and quick, but the end result is this: the machine will catch you! Here is how it works: Our computer vision sees what you took and in the event it can't see, it can see before and after you leave the machine. It will run an auto-audit comparing inventory in the machine before and after it was closed and in the event of a camera blockage or quick trick, the software will flag the transaction and charge the customer what is missing. You also have the ability to be alerted and manually charge the cardholder.

A micro market uses self-checkout and a true AI smart cooler/fridge uses auto-checkout. To understand the key differences, refer to the chart below. Comparison Chart (Micro Market vs. AI Smart Cooler) – [included in code, I kept the formatting but omitted repeating since you may want me to lay it out as-is] Bottom line: AI Smart Coolers are a more affordable and scalable option, but choosing the right provider with instant checkout/settlement, easy-to-use software, and audit/theft prevention is important.