Whole Foods has commissioned a very cool and high-tech shopping cart that could soon prowl the aisles of the store. The cart uses a Microsoft Kinect for Windows sensor mounted near where you would place your hands to push the cart. That sensor would be able to recognize a shopper’s loyalty card and follow them around the store with no input from the shopper.
The sensor would watch the person and follow them rather than having to push a heavy cart around. The sensor appears to be attached to a Windows-based tablet and together the sensor and the tablet are able to check things off your shopping list as you drop them into the cart. The cart can also keep track of the total cost of the items in your cart.
Revolutionizing the Shopping Experience
The coolest thing though is that the cart can also check you out once you’re done shopping. That means you won’t have to stand in line behind hoards of people waiting to pay. The prototype cart was shown off by Microsoft this week and was developed by a company called Chaotic Moon. The prototype cart apparently had a few issues, but is said to be a very early design.
This innovative shopping cart aims to revolutionize the shopping experience by integrating advanced technology to streamline the process. Imagine walking into a store, scanning your loyalty card, and having a cart follow you around, freeing you from the burden of pushing it. This could be particularly beneficial for elderly shoppers or those with disabilities, making grocery shopping more accessible and less physically demanding.
Additional Features and Future Potential
Moreover, the cart’s ability to check off items from your shopping list as you place them inside is a game-changer. This feature ensures that you don’t forget any items, and it can even suggest alternatives if a particular product is out of stock. The integration with a Windows-based tablet means that the cart can provide real-time updates and notifications, such as special offers or discounts on items you frequently purchase.
Another significant advantage is the cart’s ability to keep track of the total cost of your items. This feature can help shoppers stay within their budget and avoid any surprises at the checkout. By providing a running total, the cart allows you to make informed decisions about your purchases.
The self-checkout feature is perhaps the most groundbreaking aspect of this high-tech cart. By eliminating the need to stand in long lines, the cart can save shoppers a considerable amount of time. This feature is particularly appealing in today’s fast-paced world, where convenience is highly valued. Additionally, it could reduce the need for cashiers, allowing stores to allocate their staff to other important tasks, such as restocking shelves or assisting customers.
While the prototype cart had a few issues, it is important to remember that this is just the beginning. As technology continues to advance, we can expect to see even more sophisticated versions of this cart in the future. Potential improvements could include voice recognition, allowing shoppers to add items to their list verbally, or integration with smart home devices, enabling seamless synchronization with your pantry inventory.
The high-tech shopping cart commissioned by Whole Foods and developed by Chaotic Moon has the potential to transform the way we shop. By leveraging advanced technology, this cart can make grocery shopping more convenient, efficient, and enjoyable. As the design continues to evolve, we can look forward to a future where shopping is a hassle-free experience, tailored to meet the needs of every individual.
via Geekwire
Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals
Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
