7-Eleven is helping to prevent the spread of CoViD-19 with its upcoming holographic consoles in Japan. These holographic consoles look similar to touch screen ordering consoles, though they work without the need to touch the screen. This means that employees do not need to constantly sanitize the touch screen after each consumer uses it, as there is no touch contact.
These screens work by displaying the products and selections on-screen and detecting finger movement above the screen. These sensors are activated simply by "mock touching" the screen and moving your finger toward it, without ever actually coming into contact with the console. This provides the many Japanese citizens who frequent 7-Elevens for their daily needs with a smooth, contactless experience.
Contactless Self-Checkout Devices
7-Eleven is Launching Holographic Ordering Consoles in Japan
Trend Themes
1. Contactless Ordering - The development of holographic consoles suggests disruptive innovation opportunities for the retail industry to enhance consumer safety and experience amid the pandemic.
2. Touch-free Technology - Touch-free technology is gaining traction in the retail industry due to the pandemic, paving the way for further developments in sensor-based systems and alternative interfaces.
3. Gesture Recognition - The use of gesture recognition technology in self-checkout devices highlights opportunities for companies to innovate with new ways of interacting with digital interfaces and optimizing customer experience.
Industry Implications
1. Retail - The retail industry is embracing contactless technology as a way to address consumer concerns about hygiene and safety while shopping, thereby creating opportunities for in-store and online retailers alike.
2. Technology - The development of touch-free technology and gesture recognition systems is creating new opportunities for technology companies to create innovative solutions for retail, healthcare, and other industries.
3. Healthcare - The implementation of contactless technology in healthcare settings could help minimize the spread of germs and improve the patient experience, prompting opportunities for healthcare providers to leverage technology for safer and simpler interactions with patients.