An unmanned, AI-equipped store located on a train platform at JR Akabane Station in Kita Ward, Tokyo, was unveiled to reporters on Tuesday ahead of an about two-month trial period that started Wednesday. The store, the first of its kind at a station in Tokyo, is intended to help deal with labor shortages, according to East Japan Railway Co. (JR East).
The store's AI system automatically identifies products that customers pick up using cameras installed on the ceiling and shelves. When customers reach the payment area, the names of the products they selected and their prices are displayed. Customers can use Suica cards or other forms of electronic money for payment. When the process is complete, an exit door opens.
JR East says that the AI system can also detect when customers return products to shelves.
The store operates from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on weekdays. It sells about 140 different products, including beverages and bread. JR East is currently considering expanding the service.
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