The Japanese government no longer has to worry about minors purchasing tobacco illegally via cigarette vending machines, thanks to a new innovation that allows the machine to scan the user's face to determine his/her age.
"A new machine is in development that will have facial-recognition software built in to gauge the age of wannabe purchasers," SciFi blog said. "If they have a young-looking face, it'll require photo ID, which it will then compare with your actual face to determine if it's legit. It's a pretty clever and sophisticated system, one that's clearly way more expensive than just forcing people to go deal with a human being at a convenience store but much more convenient for the many smokers of Japan."
Very smart; I grew up in Germany, and it's incredible how many kids, some as young as 9 or 10, can go to the street corner to get cigarettes. Just like a pop machine, all you have to do is insert your money, pick a brand, and the machine will spit out the carton of choice.
There seems to be a lot of room for error though, and I'm filled with a lot of questions. This will be an interesting innovation to track as it evolves.
Cig Machine IDs Face Recognition
Japanese Innovation
Trend Themes
1. Facial Recognition in Age Verification - There is a demand for innovations that utilize facial recognition technology in age verification to prevent minors from purchasing age-restricted products.
2. Automated Age Verification Machines - The emergence of automated age verification machines offers opportunities for businesses to streamline their age-restricted product sales processes.
3. Smart Vending Machine Technology - The development of smart vending machine technology has the potential to enhance customer experiences and provide more secure and efficient transactions.
Industry Implications
1. Retail - Retailers can benefit from investing in automated age verification machines to prevent underage purchasing and streamline sales processes.
2. Hospitality - The hospitality industry can explore the use of smart vending machines with facial recognition technology to enhance customer experiences with secure and convenient transactions.
3. Security and Surveillance - The development of facial recognition technology for age verification purposes can open opportunities for innovation and growth in the security and surveillance industry.