Why Enterprise Self-Service Must Be Built to Survive 5–7 Years of Reality
They are long-lived operational infrastructure—closer to POS systems or industrial equipment than to tablets on a stand.
Yet many kiosk programs still begin as cheap pilots, optimized for speed and aesthetics rather than lifecycle stability. Those pilots often succeed just long enough to justify expansion—then fail spectacularly when exposed to real-world conditions at scale.
Never forget the cheap pilot → expensive regret trap. If your kiosk architecture cannot survive seven years of OS updates, supply-chain disruption, and staff turnover, it is not enterprise-ready—regardless of how fast it shipped.
We will try and explain why lifecycle design matters, where kiosk programs most commonly break down after 24–36 months, and provides a 52-point enterprise checklist to help organizations avoid predictable, costly mistakes.
Kiosks as Infrastructure, Not Projects
Once kiosks move beyond pilots and into hundreds or thousands of locations, the conversation changes:
Downtime becomes visible and expensive
Field service replaces IT experimentation
Compliance, auditability, and security take precedence over novelty
At that point, kiosks are no longer “screens with software.” They are part of your operational backbone.
Most large-scale kiosk failures are not caused by insufficient CPU power or flashy UI design. They are caused by lifecycle blind spots—decisions made early that quietly undermine long-term stability.
Where Kiosk Deployments Commonly Fail After Year Two
1. OS Version Fragmentation After 24 Months
Operating systems evolve on timelines that do not align with kiosk deployment schedules.
Within two years, many kiosk fleets suffer from:
Mixed OS versions across locations
Inconsistent patch levels
Security updates that break drivers or peripherals
Windows, Android, and Linux each have distinct support and patch cycles, and consumer-grade planning often ignores how those cycles play out at scale.
If your kiosk software, drivers, and peripherals cannot survive multiple OS feature updates, your deployment will fracture operationally long before the hardware wears out.
Example — When Windows 10 support ended (Oct 14, 2025), the OS still works but stops getting security patches, bug fixes, and official support, which steadily increases your exposure to malware, data breaches, and system instability. Over time, new hardware and software will target Windows 11 and later, so you may lose access to compatible drivers and updated app versions. For businesses, staying on Windows 10 can create compliance and contractual issues because many security standards require supported, fully patched systems. Your main paths are to upgrade to Windows 11 on supported hardware, pay for Extended Security Updates for a limited extra window of critical patches, or isolate/repurpose older machines (for offline or low‑risk roles) so they are not exposed directly to the internet.
2. Peripheral End-of-Life in Mid-Deployment
Printers, payment devices, scanners, cameras, and ADA peripherals are among the highest failure and churn components in kiosk systems.
Common enterprise pain points:
Printers discontinued with no drop-in replacement
Payment devices forced into refresh cycles by certification changes
USB peripherals failing compatibility with newer OS builds
If your kiosk design relies on single-source or consumer peripherals, you are effectively building an expiration date into your deployment.
Example — Windows 7 kiosks and ATMs: Many self‑service kiosks and ATMs that stayed on Windows 7 after 2020 had to be replaced or reimaged because newer payment/security software and vendors refused to certify on an unsupported OS. For the next couple of years post‑Windows‑10, expect similar attrition: new card readers, printers, scanners, and kiosk/pay‑at‑the‑counter packages may only ship drivers and support statements for Windows 11+, even if the USB/serial hardware technically works.
3. Cloud Dependency Killing Uptime in Regulated Environments
Cloud services are powerful—but mandatory cloud dependency is a liability in many kiosk use cases.
In healthcare, government, travel, and other regulated or mission-critical environments:
Network interruptions are unavoidable
Cloud outages are not hypothetical
Latency directly impacts user experience and throughput
Kiosks that cannot operate locally and degrade gracefully during connectivity issues will fail operational audits and frontline acceptance.
Edge computing is not about performance—it is about resilience and autonomy.
Example — In the last two years, several major cloud and SaaS outages have taken down retail and restaurant POS systems for hours at a time, leaving merchants unable to process card payments and in some cases forcing stores to close or go cash‑only. High‑profile events include a major Square outage in 2023 that crippled small‑business POS, a faulty CrowdStrike update in 2024 that crashed Windows‑based terminals worldwide, and multiple 2025 outages involving AWS and platforms like Shopify that disrupted both online and in‑store transactions during peak periods.
4. Field Technicians Unable to Service Consumer Hardware
Many early-stage kiosk designs favor:
Sealed consumer tablets
Proprietary enclosures
Minimal internal access
These choices look clean on the showroom floor—but collapse under real-world service conditions.
Field technicians need to:
Swap components quickly
Diagnose failures remotely
Service devices without full disassembly
If your kiosk cannot be serviced with standard tools and documented procedures, maintenance costs will overwhelm any upfront savings.
Example — Kiosk repair case studies describe clients with decentralized, ad‑hoc repair processes where multiple vendors, missing parts, and lack of inventory tracking led to long downtimes and multiple service visits before issues were resolved. Field‑service blogs also emphasize that emergency kiosk calls for payment failures, network problems, or vandalism often require skilled technicians and sometimes multiple trips, because diagnosing the root cause can be much harder than swapping a simple component.
ATM maintenance providers point out that software‑stack issues (out‑of‑date OS/firmware, complex added software, and non‑regression‑tested updates) can create intermittent failures and memory leaks that are hard for field techs to reproduce and fix, sometimes requiring repeated resets or deeper engineering intervention. Guides for ATM troubleshooting explicitly distinguish simple first‑line fixes (paper jams, basic error codes) from second‑line work that demands highly trained technicians and specialized tools, highlighting that more advanced software issues are not “quick fixes.”
The Enterprise Kiosk Lifecycle Design Philosophy
Successful long-lifecycle kiosk programs share a common mindset:
Predictability over novelty
Serviceability over aesthetics
Standardization over customization
They treat kiosks as systems designed to endure:
OS evolution
Vendor churn
Staff turnover
Supply-chain disruptions
This requires intentional design choices from day one.
Patch management aligned to regulatory requirements
Audit logs retained locally when offline
Physical tamper detection
Field Service & Operations
Tool-less or low-tool service access
Remote diagnostics and alerting
Clear MTTR (mean time to repair) targets
Technician documentation and training materials
Supply Chain & Longevity
Component availability guarantees
SKU discipline across the fleet
Avoidance of consumer-only hardware dependencies
Second-source strategies documented
Examples — The most common Dell computer for kiosks historically has beens Intel Core CPUs (13th/14th gen i3). No NPU so no TOPS
AI Computer Giada N620
rating (or less than 1). Intel’s Core Ultra 5 125H NPU is rated at about 11 TOPS, with Intel quoting up to roughly 34 TOPS total when you add CPU and GPU contributions. Good choice is Giada N602 miniPC. 13 TOPS AI Boost NPU Intel Arrow Lake Thunderbolt 4 Support Wi-Fi 7
AI going away? Very unlikely.
Who This Framework Is For
This lifecycle approach is designed for:
Multi-location retail and QSR brands
Healthcare systems and government agencies
Transportation hubs and regulated venues
Enterprise IT and operations teams
It is not optimized for:
One-off marketing kiosks
Short-term experiential installs
Consumer tablet repurposing
Clarity here prevents misaligned expectations.
Final Thought: Longevity Is a Design Decision
Kiosk failures rarely come from a single catastrophic event. They emerge gradually—from OS drift, peripheral churn, service friction, and architectural shortcuts.
The irony is that many of these failures were avoidable at the pilot stage.
Designing for long lifecycle does not mean slower innovation. It means fewer resets, fewer surprises, and lower total cost of ownership over time.
In enterprise self-service, durability is not a constraint. It is a competitive advantage.
For Execs: Why Kiosk Lifecycle Design Determines ROI
Self-service kiosks are no longer experiments or marketing devices. In enterprise environments, they are long-lived operational infrastructure with expected service lives of 5–7 years or more.
Yet many deployments begin with cheap pilots—designed to prove concept speed, not operational durability. These pilots often succeed just long enough to justify scale, then fail under real-world conditions.
The cheap pilot → expensive regret trap If your kiosk architecture cannot survive seven years of OS updates, supply-chain disruption, and staff turnover, it is not enterprise-ready—regardless of how fast it shipped.
The Four Predictable Failure Modes
OS fragmentation after 24 months Mixed operating systems, broken drivers, inconsistent security posture.
Peripheral end-of-life mid-deployment Printers, payment devices, scanners discontinued with no drop-in replacements.
Kiosk Service and Kiosk Installation are red-headed stepchild Update for kiosk service and kiosk warranty, November …
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Nice writeup on planning longterm by Olea Kiosks — Successful large-scale kiosk deployments must be designed from the start for long lifecycles, operational stability, and real-world constraints—prioritizing enterprise-grade edge computing, serviceability, and risk reduction over short-term cost or speed.
Summary
Self-service kiosks are not disposable devices but long-term operational infrastructure, especially in retail, healthcare, travel, and regulated environments. As deployments scale from pilots to hundreds or thousands of locations, early design choices optimized for speed or cost often fail under real-world pressures such as uptime demands, security, compliance, supply-chain volatility, and limited IT support.
The article explains that most kiosk challenges are not about raw performance—they’re about lifecycle predictability, remote manageability, hardware consistency, and field serviceability over 5–7 years. Teams must navigate tradeoffs between cost and durability, flexibility and standardization, cloud reliance and local edge processing.
The recommended design philosophy emphasizes:
Enterprise-grade, off-the-shelf components
Long hardware lifecycles with stable roadmaps
Minimal SKU variation to reduce operational risk
Platforms that can absorb future software, security, and edge-AI demands
Olea Kiosks is an example of this approach, integrating standardized kiosk platforms with enterprise OEM compute—often leveraging Dell Technologies—to ensure global availability, supportability, and compliance over time.
It also notes that this architecture is not ideal for ultra-low-cost or short-term deployments, reinforcing that the model fits best where uptime, customer experience, and regulatory accountability matter.
Bottom line: Edge-based kiosk systems should be designed for durability and operational reality, not just initial deployment success.
Enterprise-Scale Kiosk Deployment Checklist
Designed for lifecycle stability, operational reliability, and real-world constraints
1. Deployment Context & Risk
☐ Is the kiosk mission-critical to revenue, throughput, or patient/customer experience?
☐ Will downtime be highly visible to customers or staff?
☐ Is the environment regulated (healthcare, payments, government, travel)?
☐ Are deployments planned for dozens, hundreds, or thousands of locations?
☐ Is on-site IT support limited or nonexistent?
2. Lifecycle & Longevity (5–7 Year Reality Check)
☐ Is the hardware roadmap stable for 5–7 years?
☐ Can the platform survive OS upgrades and security hardening over time?
☐ Are replacement parts guaranteed to be form-fit-function compatible?
☐ Is there a defined refresh and requalification strategy?
☐ Can assumptions made today change without forcing full hardware replacement?
3. Compute & Edge Architecture
☐ Is the kiosk designed as edge infrastructure, not a consumer device?
☐ Is there sufficient performance headroom for future workloads (AI, vision, sensors)?
☐ Can core workloads run locally if cloud connectivity is degraded?
☐ Are power and thermal constraints appropriate for 24/7 operation?
☐ Is compute standardized across the fleet?
4. Security, Compliance & Auditability
☐ Does the platform support consistent patching and firmware management?
☐ Are security updates available for the entire lifecycle?
☐ Is there a clear audit trail for changes and updates?
☐ Are vendor responsibilities clearly defined and enforceable?
☐ Are consumer-grade components explicitly avoided?
5. Operations & Remote Management
☐ Can the kiosk be monitored, updated, and diagnosed remotely?
☐ Are failures detectable before customers notice?
☐ Can IT teams manage the fleet with lean staffing?
☐ Are logs, alerts, and telemetry standardized?
☐ Is device behavior predictable across locations?
6. Field Serviceability & Maintenance
☐ Can peripherals be replaced in the field without major downtime?
☐ Are components modular and tool-accessible?
☐ Can parts be swapped without requalifying the entire system?
☐ Is enclosure downtime minimized during repairs?
☐ Are service procedures consistent across all models?
7. Supply Chain & SKU Discipline
☐ Are hardware SKUs limited and standardized?
☐ Are components available globally and consistently?
☐ Can replacements be sourced years after initial deployment?
☐ Is supply-chain risk treated as an architectural concern, not just procurement?
☐ Will minor component changes trigger re-certification or software changes?
8. Vendor & OEM Ecosystem
☐ Does the vendor support enterprise-scale deployments?
☐ Is there a clear roadmap across multiple hardware generations?
☐ Are support models designed for distributed environments?
☐ Is there a single accountable party for hardware lifecycle ownership?
☐ Are enterprise OEM platforms (e.g., Dell Technologies) available if required?
9. Fit Assessment — When This Model Makes Sense
☐ High-traffic, customer-facing environments
☐ Long deployment horizons (5+ years)
☐ Uptime, compliance, and experience are critical
☐ Operational risk matters more than initial cost
☐ Edge intelligence is expected to grow over time
10. Fit Assessment — When This Model Does Not Apply
☐ Ultra-low-cost or disposable kiosks
☐ Short-term pilots or pop-up deployments
☐ Environments tolerant of frequent manual intervention
☐ Rapid hardware turnover is expected
☐ Compliance and auditability are minimal concerns
Final Reality Check
☐ Are you optimizing for long-term risk reduction rather than short-term savings?
☐ Will this kiosk still be supportable, secure, and useful five years from now?
☐ Can your organization live with the operational consequences of this design choice?
If most answers are “yes,” this lifecycle-first, edge-based kiosk architecture is likely the right fit.
Executive Takeaways
Never forget — the cheap pilot → expensive regret” trap
If your kiosk architecture cannot survive seven years of OS updates, supply-chain disruption, and staff turnover, it is not enterprise-ready — regardless of how fast it shipped.”
OS version fragmentation after 24 months — See Windows versions and patch cycles
Peripherals going EOL mid-deployment
Cloud dependency killing uptime in regulated environments
Field techs unable to service sealed consumer hardware
The purchase price of a kiosk is usually the smallest cost over its life. What determines success—or failure—is how that device performs, survives, and gets serviced over 5–7 years of real-world operation.
Executives often approve kiosks based on:
Unit cost
Speed to deploy
Feature checklists
But large deployments fail (or quietly bleed money) because of lifecycle costs that were never modeled upfront.
Think of kiosks like infrastructure, not devices
A useful mental model for CEOs:
A kiosk is closer to an ATM, EV charger, or POS terminal than to a tablet or digital sign.
Once deployed at scale, kiosks become:
Revenue-critical
Customer-visible
Operationally expensive to touch
Every design shortcut compounds over time.
Where lifecycle costs really come from
Below is a non-technical breakdown of where money is actually spent over a kiosk’s lifetime.
1. Downtime (the silent killer)
When a kiosk goes down:
Transactions stop
Lines form
Staff intervene
Customer trust erodes
Even small failure rates become material at scale.
CEO lens:
“What is the revenue or throughput impact if 3–5% of kiosks are unavailable on any given day?”
2. Field service & truck rolls
Each on-site service visit can cost $300–$800+, depending on geography and urgency.
Poor design decisions drive service calls:
Sealed consumer hardware
Inconsistent SKUs
Non-standard peripherals
No remote diagnostics
CEO lens:
“How many times per year will someone physically touch this device—and why?”
3. Security & compliance remediation
Over a 5–7 year lifecycle:
Operating systems age
Security requirements tighten
Regulations change (especially in healthcare, payments, government)
Short-lifecycle hardware often cannot:
Accept OS upgrades
Support new security baselines
Pass audits without replacement
CEO lens:
“Will this platform still be compliant three years from now—or will we be forced into early replacement?”
4. Supply chain & EOL shocks
Consumer-grade or fast-turn hardware often hits:
End-of-Life (EOL)
Peripheral discontinuation
Form-factor changes
This creates:
Mixed fleets
Incompatible replacements
Higher support costs
CEO lens:
“Can we still buy the same parts in four years?”
5. Internal operational drag
Every unstable kiosk creates work:
IT escalation
Operations exceptions
Store-level improvisation
Vendor finger-pointing
This doesn’t show up as a line item—but it consumes leadership attention.
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Why Multimodal Interaction Is Replacing Single-Interface Design
For more than three decades, interactive systems—from kiosks to digital signage to self-checkout—were defined by a simple formula: screen plus touch. That model powered the first wave of self-service and automated interaction across retail, healthcare, transportation, and government. But it is no longer sufficient.
Today’s interactive environments demand more flexibility, greater accessibility, and deeper personalization than a single interface can deliver. As a result, the industry is shifting toward a multimodal interaction stack, where display, touch, voice, gesture, and mobile work together to create adaptive, context-aware experiences. The screen is no longer the interface—it is just one surface in a broader interaction model.
Display: From Output Device to Context Engine
Displays remain central, but their role has evolved. Rather than serving as static output devices, modern displays provide visual context that adapts in real time. Content can change based on who is present, what stage a transaction is in, or which modality is being used at the moment.
In retail and QSR, displays increasingly reflect personalization, dynamic pricing, and real-time inventory awareness. In healthcare and transportation, they anchor wayfinding, status updates, and accessibility-friendly layouts. The display has become the orchestrator of context, not merely the place where buttons appear.
Touch: Still Essential, No Longer Dominant
Touch interaction is not disappearing—but it is being repositioned. Instead of driving every step of a transaction, touch is increasingly used for confirmation, precision input, and exception handling.
PIN entry, consent acknowledgment, and final confirmation are areas where touch still excels. At the same time, hygiene concerns, accessibility requirements, and speed expectations have reduced reliance on touch as the primary interaction method. In modern systems, touch often validates intent rather than initiating it.
Voice: The Invisible Interface
Voice has re-emerged as a serious interface layer thanks to improvements in microphones, edge AI, and natural language processing. Voice excels where hands-free interaction, accessibility, or natural language input are important.
In healthcare check-in, voice can reduce friction for patients with mobility or vision challenges. In QSR and wayfinding, it enables faster discovery and guidance. Voice works best when it complements visual context rather than replacing it—users want to see options even when they speak them.
Noise, privacy, and multilingual accuracy remain challenges, but voice is now a practical and valuable layer in the interaction stack.
Gesture: Subtle, Sensor-Driven Interaction
Gesture interaction today looks very different from early, overhyped implementations. Rather than dramatic hand movements, practical gesture systems rely on proximity detection, directional cues, and simple motion triggers.
Gesture works well for waking systems, navigating large displays, or enabling touch-free interaction in public environments. When implemented subtly, it reduces friction without demanding user training. When overused, it quickly becomes awkward. The key to gesture’s success is invisibility—it should feel natural, not performative.
Mobile: The Personal Interface
Mobile devices represent the most powerful interface users already carry. Mobile interaction extends kiosks and displays beyond the physical endpoint by providing identity, payment, loyalty, and continuity across sessions.
QR-initiated experiences, mobile-assisted checkout, and phone-as-controller models are increasingly common. Mobile does not replace kiosks; it personalizes and completes them, allowing interactions to begin in one place and finish in another.
Biometrics deserve inclusion—but not as a peer interaction modality. Biometrics do not define how users interact; they confirm who is interacting.
Facial recognition, fingerprints, palm scans, and voiceprints are best understood as identity and trust layers that support multimodal systems. When used appropriately and with consent, biometrics can streamline authentication, enable personalization, and enhance security—particularly in healthcare, payments, and government environments.
Poorly implemented biometrics, however, introduce regulatory risk and erode trust. Successful deployments are optional, transparent, and designed to degrade gracefully when biometric features are disabled.
The Real Shift: From Interfaces to Orchestration
The most important change is not the addition of new inputs—it is the orchestration of multiple modalities. Modern interactive systems manage transitions between display, voice, touch, gesture, and mobile based on context and user intent.
A transaction might begin with mobile identification, continue with voice navigation, and conclude with a touch confirmation. This layered approach creates faster, more inclusive, and more resilient experiences.
What This Means for the Industry
Multimodal interaction is no longer experimental. It is becoming table stakes. Hardware designs must account for sensors, audio, and edge compute. Software platforms must manage states and transitions across modalities. Operators must measure experience quality, not just uptime.
Single-mode systems increasingly look dated—and brittle—in a world that expects adaptability.
The future of interactive technology will not be defined by any one interface. It will be defined by how seamlessly multiple modalities work together to meet users where they are.
Executive Recommended Actions
Advice for Executives and Technology Leaders
With interactive toolsnowbuiltaroundmultiplewaysofengaging, leadershipgroupsfindoldertechstrategiesfallingshort. Not simplytackingonfunctions – thischangedemandsseeinguserexchangesasconnectedpieces. Howdecisionsunfold, howsuccessgetsmeasured, howrolloutshappen – allshiftingatonce. It’sless about extrabuttons, more about timing, context, flow.
1. Stop Evaluating Interfaces in Isolation
Noteverytoolworksalone. Pictureteamsshiftingfocus – checking off singlefunctionslikechat or callsystemsonebyone. Watchsuppliersshow how voicelinkswithscreenactionsthroughanentiretask. Seestepsflowwithouthiccupswhenmobilemeetsdesktop. Thinkaboutbuyingwhatconnectspiecessmoothly. Valuetherhythmbetweenpartsmorethananypartitself.
Font sizesshouldadjusteasilybecausesomepeopleneedthemlarger. Otherwaystointeract – likeswitchesoreyetracking – matterjustasmuch.
Mobile experiencesmustsupporttoolslikescreenreaderswithoutextrasteps. Skip the ideaoftackingonfeatureslater; buildtheminrightaway.
3. Treating Biometrics as OneofSeveral Trust Options
Startingoffcarefullyhelpswhenrolling out biometricsystems. Wherefitting, theycanspeedthingsup – yetpaper-basedorpasswordoptionsmuststillexist. Peopleneed to seehowtosaynobeforeanythingbegins. Withoutobviousexitroutes, trustslipsawayfast. Makingspaceforchoicekeepspenalties and backlashatbay. Smoothfallbacksmatterjustasmuchastheloginitself.
4. Software that handles state insteadof just screens
Switching between voice, touch, orgesturemeanssoftwaremusttrackpurpose and situationcarefully. Whenoneactiontriggersanotherresponse, thesystemstaysreadythrougheventsratherthanfixedsteps. DesignsbuiltaroundAPIsallowpiecestoconnectwithoutrigiddependencies. As toolschangeovertime, flexibilitykeepsperformancesteady. Futureupdatesfiteasierwhenstructureexpectschangeinsteadofresistingit.
Now it’snormaltomixdifferentwaysofinteracting. Teamsbuildingaroundcoordination, accessforeveryone, flexibilitytendtopullahead – whileothersstaystuckonone–waytools. Whatmattersmostshowsuplater: howfasttheyadjust.
InfoGraphic
Modern interactive systems rely on coordinated interaction across multiple modalities, supported by orchestration, identity, and intelligent software layers
Recent developments in self‑service technology for major restaurant chains
Here’s our SST summary (January 25, 2026) focused on meaningful recent developments in self‑service technology for major restaurant chains (kiosks, conversational/voice AI, drive‑thru AI, robotics/automation, computer‑vision, and app/mobile ordering):
Key Recent Developments
AI & Drive‑Thru Ordering
McDonald’s continues expanding AI applications in 2026, integrating AI across operations—improving drive‑thru accuracy and exploring voice AI ordering systems. (TheStreet)
Industry analysis indicates 2026 will be a pivot year where AI transitions from experimental to operational necessity for efficient restaurant workflows. (QSR Web)
Robotics & Automation
White Castle’s new prototype restaurant includes robotic fry cooking, drive‑thru voice AI, and self‑order kiosks, signaling tangible robotics use in QSR concepts. (Restaurant Dive)
Dave’s Hot Chicken is advancing its AI and automation strategy as it scales, reflecting broader fast‑casual tech adoption. (Restaurant Technology News)
Strategic Investments & Partnerships
Chipotle and Cava invested $25M in automation platform Hyphen to advance meal production automation—an example of cross‑brand SST investment. (Restaurant Technology News)
Notable Market & Tech Signals
Market trend reporting projects self‑service ordering and AI systems are reshaping engagement and operational workflows across major chains through 2026. (Self Service Kiosk Machine)
Platforms delivering self‑service kiosks with enhanced AI, dynamic upsell, and reduced wait times are now seen as revenue channels, not just labor saves. (Restaurant Technology News)
Voice AI is advancing from pilot phase toward practical deployment across drive‑thru and self‑service interactions in 2026. (Ordering Stack)
Summary Snapshot
What’s Moving the Needle
AI at scale: Leading brands (McDonald’s, Yum Brands affiliates) are integrating AI deeper into drive‑thru, order accuracy systems, and broader operational functions.
Robotics in build‑out: Prototypes (e.g., White Castle) with robotics and automation suggest some chains are investing in physical automation beyond digital ordering.
Cross‑brand collaboration: Strategic investments like Chipotle/Cava in automation platforms indicate SST solutions gaining financial backing.
Self‑service evolution: Kiosks and digital ordering systems are increasingly tied to upsell, personalization, and operational insights.
Sources
McDonald’s AI expansion plans and strategic context — TheStreet / tech press. (TheStreet)
There are meaningful SST updates in recent months—especially around AI integration at scale, robotics prototypes in QSR settings, and industry insight pointing to 2026 as a tipping point for AI and automation adoption across the Top 50 restaurant ecosystem.
Featured
Recent Acrelec SST Initiatives
🤖 1. Strategic Voice AI Drive-Thru Partnership
SoundHound AI and Acrelec partnered to integrate advanced voice-enabled drive-thru systems globally. This combines SoundHound’s voice AI with Acrelec’s digital signage/kiosk hardware, aiming to modernize drive-thru order taking and streamline operations. The offering connects directly to the POS to process automated orders.
🌍 2. Leadership & Growth Phase for 2026
Acrelec’s role within its parent Glory Group has shifted toward being a core growth engine for unified commerce in foodservice automation, signaling a move from innovation experimentation toward enterprise-grade deployments at scale.
🖥️ 3. Continued Rebrand & Market Expansion
In early 2025 Acrelec unveiled a brand refresh and repositioning as a leader for comprehensive self-service experiences — including kiosks, drive-thrus, and checkout tech — with a large global install base and ongoing focus on restaurant customer experience innovation.
📊 4. Global Deployment Signals
Acrelec’s kiosk technology is widely deployed across airports and high-traffic venues — showing ongoing real-world SST footprint growth with customizable digital kiosks and integrated software for seamless ordering workflows.
📍 Why This Matters for SST Trends
Acrelec sits at a strategic intersection of hardware (kiosks, digital signage), software (content/experience management), and emerging AI-augmented drive-thru voice experiences. That makes it a key global SST enabler for major restaurant brands — not just a kiosk hardware supplier.
1. What’s real vs. still experimental
Live at scale now
McDonald’s AI push: drive‑thru AI, kitchen monitoring, and data/decision systems expanding globally in 2026, built on Google Cloud infrastructure and internal tools.
Self‑order kiosks, loyalty‑driven apps, and AI‑assisted upsell logic across big brands (McDonald’s, Yum, Chipotle, Cava, etc.) are standard, not pilots.
Scaling but not universal
Dave’s Hot Chicken “tech stack”: AI voice, kiosks, robotics, and data tooling layered over a modern POS/edge architecture as they pass 300 locations.
Hyphen automated makelines: Chipotle + Cava’s 25M stake shows serious interest, but installs are still in early phases vs. chain‑wide defaults.
Prototype / lighthouse
White Castle “Castle of Tomorrow”: robotic fryers, drive‑thru voice AI, and heavy automation are in a handful of concept stores, not yet an economic proof at national scale.
2. Practical architecture patterns
Think in layers rather than products:
Edge + POS layer
Modern, API‑friendly POS (Qu, Toast‑class systems, or custom for megachains).
Local edge hardware for latency‑sensitive tasks (drive‑thru audio, vision, kiosk UI).
Experience layer
Kiosks, menu boards, mobile apps, web ordering, drive‑thru HMI.
Vendors like Acrelec bundle hardware + CMS + menu logic for this layer.
AI & automation layer
Voice AI: SoundHound, in‑house engines, or other ASR/NLU tied directly into POS.
Kiosks + integrated menu boards tied to loyalty and POS.
Basic AI‑driven recommendations (cross‑sell, time‑of‑day offers) and line‑busting via mobile/web.
Pilot carefully
Drive‑thru voice AI with clear fall‑back to human and strong monitoring (accuracy, handle time, defection rate).
Kitchen analytics and forecasting tools that plug into your existing POS and inventory with minimal custom glue.
Wait‑and‑see / selective lighthouse
Heavy capex robotics unless you have sustained volume, tight menu, and a strong in‑house tech/ops champion (Hyphen‑style makelines, full robotic fry stations).
5. Implementation checklist
When evaluating anything that looks like what’s in the update, consider:
Integration: “Show me the live POS and kitchen integration, not the slide.”
Numbers: “How many stores? What’s the measured lift in sales, speed, or accuracy?”
Ops fit: “What breaks when it’s Saturday night, raining, and the drive‑thru wraps the building?”
BOTTOM LINE
Many SST deployments in 2025 failed to meet expectations due to integration gaps, data quality issues, and change management—not technology limitations.
What matters for QSR vs Fast Casual vs Full Service?
Which SST investments are table stakes vs optional?
QSR: speed + accuracy + automation
Fast Casual: personalization + mobile-first
Full Service: ops intelligence + staff augmentation
So What? Or What decision does this force me to make?
This means brands without a drive-thru AI roadmap by 2026 will fall behind on throughput benchmarks.
Operators should expect kiosks to shift from labor replacement to revenue optimization tools.
The big 2026 trend is kiosks talking to mobile apps and kitchen display systems (KDS) as one single brain, rather than separate silos.
“Privacy by Design.” Edge AI keeps data local, consider the massive legal and PR pain point (GDPR/CCPA compliance) that makes this a “must-have” for C-suite approval.
The new trend is “User-Replaceable Parts”—if a printer jams or breaks, a 19-year-old shift lead can swap the module in 30 seconds.
Executive Trends
Financials : Kiosks must achieve >20% AOV lift to justify the CAPEX.
Reliability Offline First: Systems must function during “internet blackouts” via Edge compute.
Labor Hospitality: Automation is the “Shield” that protects staff from burnout during rushes.
Security and Biometrics and Privacy: Facial recognition must be opt-in and processed locally to avoid lawsuits.
Walmart is significantly expanding its rollout of self-service key duplication kiosks from KeyMe Locksmiths, reinforcing the shift toward automated, zero-labor retail services. In 2025 alone, Walmart added 1,667 new kiosks, more than doubling its in-store footprint. By the end of 2026, KeyMe kiosks will be available in over 3,330 Walmart locations.
KeyMe’s kiosks use computer vision, multi-camera 3D scanning, and machine-learning algorithms to analyze a key’s teeth, compensate for wear, and digitally restore it to factory-original specifications. The system then cuts the replacement key on the spot, enabling high accuracy even with heavily worn keys.
Beyond Walmart, KeyMe expanded aggressively in 2025 across a broad retail base including 7-Eleven, Albertsons, Kroger, Meijer, Staples, Stop & Shop, WinCo Foods, Army & Air Force Exchange Service, and others. The company also launched a 10-store pilot with Blain’s Farm & Fleet.
According to CEO James Moorhead, self-service key duplication delivers advantages traditional manual cutting cannot: expanded key selection, advanced car-key capabilities, zero labor, zero inventory, and reduced operational burden for retailers. KeyMe now operates more than 7,500 kiosks nationwide, supported by a full suite of traditional locksmith services.
Bottom line: Key duplication is emerging as a scalable, high-margin, unattended retail category—combining AI, robotics, and computer vision to turn a once labor-intensive service into a fully automated in-store experience.
Integrated Systems Europe (ISE) in Barcelona has firmly established itself as the world’s most important trade show for professional AV, digital signage, and systems integration—and its relevance to self-service and kiosk technology continues to grow every year.
What began as an AV-centric event is now a global showcase for connected experiences, AI-driven interaction, and software-defined infrastructure that directly shapes retail, transportation, healthcare, hospitality, and public-space deployments.
Date: Feb 3-6
Why ISE Matters to the Kiosk and Self-Service Industry
ISE is no longer just about screens and speakers. It is increasingly about how people interact with technology in physical spaces—a core concern for kiosk manufacturers, software providers, and systems integrators.
Click for full size – ISE LG Invisible
Key areas of overlap include:
Digital signage as a transaction surface, not just a display
Touch, voice, and computer vision interfaces
AV over IP and remote device management
AI-enabled content personalization
Smart spaces and integrated environments
Accessibility, usability, and inclusive design
For self-service deployments, these technologies define how kiosks, menu boards, wayfinding displays, and unattended systems evolve from static endpoints into intelligent, adaptive platforms.
Most Searched and Discussed Topics Around ISE
Search and attendee interest around ISE consistently clusters around a few high-value themes:
1. Digital Signage & DooH
Digital signage remains one of the most searched and heavily trafficked topics tied to ISE. The focus has shifted from hardware to:
Content orchestration
Real-time data integration
Retail media networks
Audience measurement and analytics
For kiosk deployments, signage is increasingly transaction-adjacent, supporting ordering, upsell, queue management, and wayfinding.
2. AI in AV and Smart Spaces
Artificial intelligence is now embedded across the show floor:
AI-driven content scheduling
Computer vision for audience analytics
Voice interaction and natural language interfaces
Predictive maintenance and remote monitoring
These same AI capabilities are rapidly becoming standard expectations in self-service kiosks and unattended retail.
3. AV-over-IP and Infrastructure
ISE attracts strong search interest around:
AV-over-IP platforms
Cloud-managed AV systems
Networked displays and endpoints
This mirrors trends in kiosk fleets, where remote management, scalability, and uptime are mission-critical.
4. Smart Buildings and Integrated Environments
ISE’s “smart spaces” focus aligns directly with:
Smart airports and transit hubs
Hospitals and clinics
Stadiums, venues, and theme parks
Mixed-use retail environments
Kiosks and interactive displays are increasingly first-class components of these integrated environments, not standalone devices.
Barcelona as a Global Technology Hub
The move to Fira de Barcelona Gran Via continues to elevate ISE’s global stature. Barcelona offers:
Easy international access
Strong European and APAC participation
A growing reputation as a smart-city and innovation hub
For global kiosk manufacturers and solution providers, ISE is often the most efficient way to engage European buyers, integrators, and public-sector decision-makers in one place.
What to Watch Going Forward
For those in self-service, kiosks, and unattended retail, ISE provides early signals on where the market is headed:
Displays becoming interactive endpoints
Software overtaking hardware as the primary value driver
AI becoming embedded, not optional
Accessibility and compliance moving from checkbox to design requirement
AV, IT, and OT converging into a single ecosystem
Final Takeaway
ISE Barcelona is no longer adjacent to the kiosk and self-service industry—it is increasingly upstream from it.
The technologies showcased at ISE shape how kiosks are designed, managed, secured, and experienced worldwide. For anyone serious about the future of digital signage, interactive displays, and intelligent self-service, ISE is not optional—it’s essential.
Top 20 Exhibitors to Watch at ISE (Self-Service, Signage & Edge)
Digital Signage & Experience Platforms
BrightSign (4S150) Category leader in digital signage media players; deeply embedded in retail, QSR, and kiosk ecosystems.
Scala (STRATACACHE) (2Q220) Enterprise-grade digital experience platform powering global retail media and self-service touchpoints.
SpinetiX (4S400) Signage OS + media players known for reliability and secure deployments in public environments.
ScreenCloud (4C600) Fast-growing cloud signage CMS with strong traction in distributed retail and workplace signage.
signageOS (4M700) Critical middleware layer enabling hardware-agnostic digital signage at scale.
Kinetic LED Display: A 7,180 x 4,090mm screen composed of 88 connected LED panels. Its rotating cube-shaped modules created dynamic visual effects enhanced by AI integration. Visitors could upload photos via QR code, which LG’s generative AI transformed into Pop Art-style images displayed on the Kinetic LED.
AM Micro LED Display: The 136-inch AM Micro LED with a 0.78mm pixel pitch was a technological marvel, as the most complete AM display product at ISE 2025.
Free Entry Code to ISE 2026
ISE Invitation Code
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Giada is exhibiting at ICE Barcelona 2026, where visitors can find the team at Booth 3D70. At the show, Giada presents its latest innovations in embedded computing, designed to meet the demanding requirements of modern casino and gaming environments. ICE Barcelona is widely recognized as the premier international exhibition for gaming, entertainment, and technology, bringing together operators, system integrators, and technology providers from around the world to explore the future of the industry. Date: January 21, 2026 and Event:ICE Barcelona 2026 – a major international gaming, entertainment, and technology exhibition.
What Giada Is Highlighting
Giada is exhibiting its latest embedded computing solutions designed for the casino, gaming, and entertainment industries. The company is at Booth 3D70 during the show.
Featured Technologies on Display
1. Next-Generation Gaming Hardware
Purpose-built hardware engineered for high performance, stability, and long-term operation in demanding environments.
2. Edge AI Solutions
Intelligent computing solutions tailored for AI-driven casino and gaming applications.
Players and media tech suitable for gaming floors, lottery displays, and dynamic content workflows.
AMD-Powered Platform Highlights
Giada is demonstrating two new embedded systems:
D108
CB5-108 Both are built on AMD Ryzen™ 8000 Series processors, offering:
Advanced graphics performance
AI acceleration (up to ~38 TOPS)
Compact industrial-grade design Ideal for real-time content processing, multi-display outputs, and long-term 24/7 operation on casino floors or digital signage deployments.
Stop By and Visit
Giada invites partners, customers, and industry professionals to visit them at the event to explore how their solutions support next-generation computing in gaming and entertainment.
Company Background
Founded in 1999
Headquarters in Shenzhen, China, with offices in Hong Kong and Europe
Specializes in digital signage players, edge computers, OPS/SDM modules, and embedded motherboards for enterprise customers worldwide
Giada Showcases Next-Generation Gaming and Edge AI Solutions at ICE Barcelona 2026
Leading innovator in embedded computing presents AMD-powered gaming platforms and edge AI solutions for the casino industry
Giada is exhibiting at ICE Barcelona 2026, where visitors can find the team at Booth 3D70. At the show, Giada presents its latest innovations in embedded computing, designed to meet the demanding requirements of modern casino and gaming environments.
ICE Barcelona is widely recognized as the premier international exhibition for gaming, entertainment, and technology, bringing together operators, system integrators, and technology providers from around the world to explore the future of the industry.
Giada Product Highlights
At the Giada booth, attendees will have the opportunity to explore:
Next-generation gaming hardware engineered for performance, stability, and long-term operation
Edge AI solutions tailored for intelligent casino applications
Digital signage players and media solutions for gaming and lottery environments
AMD–Powered Casino & Gaming Computing Platforms
At the show, Giada demonstrated two new computing devices (D108 and CB5-108) powered by AMD Ryzen™ 8000 Series processors, delivering advanced graphics performance and on-chip AI acceleration in compact, industrial-grade platforms.
The AMD Ryzen™ 8000 Series integrates a high-performance GPU with an AI-enabled NPU, offering up to 38 TOPS of AI performance. This powerful combination enables intelligent gaming, real-time content processing, and high-resolution multi-display output—making it ideal for modern casino floors, digital signage, and gaming machines that require stability, performance, and long-term reliability.
Welcome to join Giada
Giada looks forward to welcoming partners, customers, and industry professionals at ICE Barcelona 2026 to exchange ideas and explore how advanced computing solutions can drive the next wave of innovation in gaming and entertainment.
Insight: NCR Isn’t Leaving Hardware — It’s Leaving the Factory
When NCR Voyix announced it was transitioning its self-checkout and POS hardware operations to Ennoconn (aka Hon Hai), some industry observers rushed to frame the move as “NCR exiting hardware.”
That’s the wrong conclusion.
What NCR is really doing is exiting manufacturing ownership — a very different thing — while doubling down on hardware as a delivery mechanism for software, services, and long-term customer lock-in.
This Is an ODM Strategy, Not a Retreat
Under the new structure, Ennoconn assumes responsibility for:
Hardware design and engineering
Manufacturing and supply chain
Repair, logistics, and fulfillment
NCR keeps:
Sales and customer relationships
Product roadmap control
Branding and market positioning
Customers still buy NCR systems. The badge doesn’t change. What changes is who bends the metal behind the scenes.
This mirrors the ODM-first playbooks used for years in computing, networking, and consumer electronics. NCR isn’t abandoning hardware — it’s industrializing it.
Why This Actually Improves Agility
Large legacy firms rarely excel at rapid hardware iteration. Long approval cycles, internal tooling constraints, and capital-heavy factories slow down enclosure refreshes, component swaps, and regional variants. NCR is a classic case of change taking 2 years.
Ennoconn specializes in high-mix, global manufacturing. That means:
Faster response to silicon and component changes
Easier cost-down iterations
More flexibility across markets and verticals
Ironically, NCR hardware may now evolve faster than it did when NCR owned the factories.
Follow the Margins, Not the Headlines
The more important shift is financial.
By moving hardware manufacturing off its books, NCR:
Reduces exposure to thin hardware margins
Improves gross margin optics
Pushes value into software, services, and lifecycle support
This isn’t about “stopping hardware.” It’s about where profits are recognized — and Wall Street understands that distinction.
NCR’s shift positions it to stay relevant in an environment where owning factories is less valuable than orchestrating ecosystems.
Branding Is Now the Moat
Customers don’t buy NCR because of sheet metal. They buy:
Global support
Proven deployments
Platform continuity
Integration depth
The NCR logo still matters — even if the unit rolls off an Ennoconn line. Trust, not tooling, is the differentiator.
The Trade-Off NCR Is Accepting
There is a risk.
As more vendors rely on shared ODMs:
Physical differentiation narrows
Hardware becomes increasingly commoditized
Software execution carries more weight than ever
NCR is making a deliberate bet that its platforms, services, and installed base are strong enough to carry that weight.
Bottom Line
NCR didn’t stop selling hardware.
It stopped being a factory.
The company is repositioning itself as a platform-led solutions provider where hardware exists to enable software, data, and recurring revenue — not to define the business.
In today’s self-service and POS market, that’s not retreat.
It’s survival by design.
Comparison Box: How Major POS & Self-Checkout Vendors Approach Hardware
NCR comparison
What This Comparison Shows
NCR is moving toward the Acrelec model, not abandoning hardware but reframing it as a software delivery vehicle
Toshiba and Diebold Nixdorf still lean on hardware heritage, appealing to conservative enterprise buyers
Samsung remains a hardware enabler rather than a solution owner
Walmart signals the future buyer mindset: OEMs must adapt to customer-defined hardware, not the reverse
Related “offload”
Sony and TCL have signed an MoU to form a joint venture that will assume Sony’s entire home entertainment business (TVs and home audio), with TCL owning 51% and Sony 49%, giving TCL operational control.
By contrast, Hon Hai’s key U.S. deal in this space is the acquisition of Foxconn Assembly LLC via its subsidiary Cloud Network Technology USA, giving Hon Hai 100% ownership of that entity rather than sharing control with NCR; NCR shows up as a customer/partner in typical EMS/ODM relationships, not as a co-owner of a JV.
Comments
In 2026, ROI is the first metric that matters in the QSR space. Adoption of technology, both for front-of-house and back-of-house, is essential for success. The trick, however, is marrying technology with the customer experience, as consumers continue to look for the human touch from their favorite brands.
An increased use of biometric technology plays a role, as facial and automated voice ordering allow brands to utilize data and previous orders to provide personalized recommendations and faster ordering. QSRs that successfully implement technology that enhances the customer journey, rather than focusing only on a long-term revenue goal will be more successful in the long run.” – Chloe Bisiaux, Director of Products & Marketing, Acrelec
Additionally, as a final point of official clarification by Acrelec, Acrelec owns its hardware and manufactures it in its owned production and assembly factories in France. They also own and operate an assembly factory in China, where additional manufacturing occurs. Most of the solutions come from the French factory.
The industry isn’t choosing between hardware or software — it’s choosing who carries the manufacturing risk and who owns the customer relationship.
Irony
Ennoconn Corporation is a subsidiary of Foxconn Technology Group (Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.). Foxconn became the majority shareholder of Ennoconn in 2007 and it operates under the broader Foxconn IPC (Industrial PC) business group. Foxconn (officially Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.) is a Taiwanese multinational electronics manufacturer headquartered in New Taipei City, Taiwan
This isn’t NCR abandoning manufacturing—it’s NCR admitting where manufacturing excellence now lives, and where enterprise value no longer does. NCR is effectively saying: “We want to be Apple, not GE Appliances.
In 2025, a long-standing in-person service option for U.S. taxpayers quietly came to an end — the Internal Revenue Service’s self-service Taxpayer Assistance Center (TAC) kiosks. After years of mixed performance and declining usage, the IRS has officially discontinued its kiosk program at physical offices nationwide.
Insights — classic reverse case study on kiosk maintenance and the cost for not executing ($500K federal contract). Nice to see my Stubby kiosks from KIS lasting as long as they did but not surprised the trackballs and keyboard gave out. Probably one of the original Dell optiplex PCs in it running XP.
📉 Outdated Technology and Operational Challenges
Originally deployed more than a decade ago, the Taxpayer Assistance Center kiosks were designed to give walk-in taxpayers a self-help alternative to staffed service counter interactions — including:
Access to Free File and other online IRS services
Retrieval of prior year tax transcripts
Employer Identification Number (EIN) applications
Other digital IRS tools
However, a Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA) review found major issues with the program. As of April 2024, only about half of the 100 kiosks located across 37 TACs were operational — with roughly 40 completely inoperable and 5 whose status was unknown.
The contractor responsible for maintenance was slow to respond to breakdowns, leaving many machines unusable for extended periods — in some cases over a year. This poor performance ultimately led the IRS not to renew the approximately $500,000 annual kiosk support contract for 2025.
✂️ Program Discontinued, But IRS Eyes Modern Alternatives
By mid-August 2025, the IRS confirmed it had begun scrapping the kiosk program altogether. Officials cited:
A sharp decline in kiosk usage (from tens of thousands of users in earlier years to only a few thousand annually)
Equipment that had become outdated and unreliable
A strategic shift toward online and mobile self-service tools that taxpayers are increasingly accustomed to using
While the physical kiosks are being phased out, TIGTA and other oversight bodies have recommended that the IRS consider modernized self-service options, such as updated hardware or laptop-based digital access at certain locations — particularly to support users without reliable home internet access.
📲 What This Means for Taxpayers
With the kiosk program shuttered:
Walk-in taxpayers will no longer find standalone terminals at TACs.
The IRS is emphasizing digital service channels and remote self-service tools.
For taxpayers without internet access, traditional in-person assistance and staffed help remain available through TAC appointments.
The end of the kiosk experiment reflects broader trends at the IRS: modernizing taxpayer services while retiring legacy systems that fail to keep pace with user expectations and technology evolution.
📌 IRS Kiosk Maintenance Contract — What’s Publicly Known
The IRS awarded a firm fixed-price contract in June 2021 to a vendor for monitoring and maintaining its self-service kiosks at Taxpayer Assistance Centers (TACs).
The contract was worth about $500,000 per year and included responsibilities such as hardware support, network connectivity, printer support, live helpdesk, on-site services, cabling, and reporting to the IRS program manager.
The IRS was in Option Year 3 of the contract during the 2023–2024 review period, and it ultimately did not exercise the 2025 option year, effectively ending the program.
Public news and watchdog reporting all refer to “the contractor” or “a vendor” without publicly disclosing the company name.
USA Spending Search brings up Netcon and Dynatouch — that makes some sense as the kiosks are definitely Kiosk Information Systems kiosks (Stubby) and Dynatouch was purchasing kiosks from KIS back in the early 2000s.
ATM Geeks addresses the rising demand for servicing cash handling equipment.
As payment technology continues to evolve, consumers now have more ways than ever
to pay for goods and services. While digital and contactless payments are expanding,
automated teller machines (ATMs), first introduced in the 1960s, remain a vital
component of the global payments ecosystem.
Nick Mehdi, founder of ATM Geeks, has witnessed this evolution firsthand. A Los
Angeles based ATM services provider, ATM Geeks was built on Nick’s early exposure to
the industry after his family installed an ATM at the fuel station they operated more than
a decade ago. Since then, Nick has observed both the growth of ATM deployments and
the mounting operational challenges faced by ATM operators in a rapidly shifting
landscape.
Today, ATM Geeks delivers a comprehensive range of services for cash-handling
equipment, supporting ATM operators nationwide.
Growth From the Start
Nick launched his first ATM venture, United ATM, an independent ATM deployer (IAD),
in 2013 after earning a finance degree from California State University, Northridge, and
gaining experience in the banking sector. Operating initially from a 1,000-square-foot
office, United ATM expanded quickly as gas stations and retailers increasingly added
ATMs to their locations.
Southern California’s competitive ATM market proved advantageous. Independent ATM
deployers (IADs) and independent service organizations (ISOs) needed reliable
partners for installations, deinstallations, repairs and parts support, services United
ATM was well positioned to provide.
When Nick sold United ATM in October 2023, the buyer opted not to acquire the service
division. Recognizing the central role service plays in ATM profitability, Nick launched
ATM Geeks to focus exclusively on installations, programming, swap-outs, repairs and
technology upgrades.
“Having reliable service level agreements, clear site documentation, and skilled teams
from warehouse to first transaction is critical,” Nick said.
Building a Reputation
One of United ATMs’ earliest projects came through a referral from ATM manufacturer
Hyosung, resulting in the installation of 110 ATMs across California. Early relationships
with several large IADs helped establish the company’s credibility and fueled rapid
expansion.
“I didn’t expect the demand to be this strong,” Nick said, noting that many clients had
previously relied on larger national service providers.
Industry veteran Bruce Coward joined ATM Geeks as General Manager nine months
after its founding. Based in Louisville, Kentucky, Bruce has played a key role in
expanding the company’s national footprint and building a technician network that now
includes over 230 service professionals across the U.S. and Canada.
Ready to assist, the ATM Geeks team includes, at left, Bruce, Devin, Nick, Simona, Vince, Hugo and Danny.
A National Technician Network
ATM Geeks’ field network includes technicians and rigging specialists skilled in both the
technical and physical demands of cash-device deployments, from software and
compliance to anchoring and site constraints.
Recruiting qualified technicians has been aided by industry growth and increased
hands-on experience among operators. ATM Geeks supplements this expertise with
manufacturer-trained technicians who provide in-house technical support.
A Structured, Customer-Focused Approach
Each project begins with a detailed statement of work, serving as a checklist for
technicians in the field. Technicians document each job with photographs, which are
reviewed by ATM Geeks’ project coordination team to ensure quality and compliance
before being shared with customers.
The company also offers route-density pricing for clustered installations and provides
shared-liability cash logistics solutions designed to reduce armored carrier meets and
costly revisits.
Meeting Complex Deployment Challenges
Among the company’s most complex projects have been ATM installations in
metropolitan transit stations, which require coordination among multiple stakeholders
and adherence to strict security and infrastructure requirements.
As ATM Geeks continues to scale, its technician network is becoming increasingly
formalized. The company recently became an authorized NCR Alteos service provider
and plans to bring technicians in-house in markets where density supports W-2 staffing.
Navigating Industry Pressures
ATM Geeks’ mission centers on helping operators manage declining cash withdrawals,
lower interchange fees and rising technology costs. While advancements such as
contactless payments, cash recycling and enhanced security improve efficiency, they
also require ongoing investment.
Adoption of NFC-enabled “tap-and-go” ATMs has been gradual in the ISO/IAD market,
but Bruce Coward expects broader uptake as older machines are replaced and consumer demand increases.
Positive Outlook for ATM Services
Industry research points to continued growth in ATM services. Grand View Research
projects the global ATM market will grow from $26.49 billion in 2025 to $31.64 billion by
2030, driven by security enhancements, biometric authentication, and smart ATM
functionality.
The outlook is especially favorable for independent operators as banks increasingly
outsource ATM ownership and operations. As banks reduce branch footprints, IADs are
expanding into underserved locations where cash access remains essential.
Expansion Beyond ATMs
ATM Geeks’ growing technician network has opened doors in adjacent cash-handling
markets, including casino redemption kiosks and smart safes for retail and foodservice
businesses. The company recently became certified on Sesami smart safes and other
platforms.
The firm has doubled its sales from 2024 to 2025 and aims to reach $15 million in
revenue within five years, positioning itself as a key service partner in an evolving
payments ecosystem.
One would be guilty of hyperbole to say that the NRF Big Show in New York City has become the largest self-service technology show in the world. But a veteran attendee can certainly say the number of unattended service exhibits has surged every year, driven by advances in AI and robotics, not to mention the retail industry’s push to better serve time-pressed customers.
Every aisle on the trade show floor at the Javits Center last week featured unattended displays showcasing AI powered merchandise offerings, digital marketing, virtual avatars, robotic delivery and electronic payment.
Echoing the previous week’s CES show in Las Vegas, the NRF Big Show unveiled a retail universe built on more personalized connection, more intuitive equipment design and better guided shopping journeys. Exhibits featured AI engines honing discovery, content directing purchases and data analyzing customer behavior.
KioskIndustry.org walked the trade show floor with an eye on self service applications. Here are our top 10 takeaways, followed by exhibitor highlights listed in alphabetical order.
Top 10 takeaways:
AI has found real world application for most if not all retail tasks, engineering a commanding presence for self service equipment, where it supports robotics in addition to product selection, payment and loyalty rewards.
Personalization of the customer experience has become the overriding factor for all types of retail, for self service as much as other retail channels. The customer expects the same level of personal engagement in self service as from social media, e-commerce, mobile shopping and in-store shopping. Virtual experience at the point of engagement has supplanted the old paradigm of weighing convenience against personal attention.
As technology evolves, sales platforms must invest in innovation to win in today’s sensory intensive marketplace. AI, robotics, voice interaction and virtual assistants improve the customer experience, including self service platforms.
As omnichannel technology advances, sales platforms must increase investment in human resources. As retail venues deploy more advanced technology, they need employees capable of managing the technology and assisting customers when needed. Technology eliminates certain jobs, mostly low skilled jobs, but it creates the need for higher skilled, tech savvy employees. Such jobs require more educated and better trained employees.
All retail touchpoints, including self service equipment, must integrate more deeply with inventory management. Access to accurate real-time inventory is integral to a successful customer journey. Inventory availability marks a major trust factor in retail customer experiences, not just a logistics factor. It delivers speed of service, lessens the need for staff intervention and reduces the likelihood of customer abandonment.
Voice recognition and interaction will continue to expand in self service due to the speed of service, the level of personalization and the ability to better serve blind and low vision customers. Like inventory availability, voice interaction boosts speed of service, lessens staff intervention and reduces customer abandonment. During the show, HiStone introduced its portfolio of AI driven checkout and recognition solutions, including Code Factory’s Voicetopping speech recognition tool. The technology can integrate with existing kiosk software.
Edge AI will become prevalent in self service equipment, as well as other retail platforms, as it does not require a constant Internet connection and supports faster data processing. It leverages the combination of edge computing and AI to perform machine learning tasks directly on interconnected edge devices. During the show, MediaTek introduced its Genio platform for edge AI applications in retail and hospitality. This includes support for vision AI and on-device generative AI; dual-display support and remote management for desktop POS; 4K resolution; and a smart kiosk with self-checkout capabilities.
Agentic AI will expand in self service applications. The technology achieves objectives by planning and executing sequences of actions, often tapping other software and APIs. Where generative AI is reactive, responding to user inputs, agentic AI is proactive. During the show, Google CEO Sundar Pichai announced Gemini Enterprise for Customer Experience, an agentic AI solution designed to bring shopping and customer service operations under a single interface. Agentic AI has particular importance for self service equipment, because it will allow it to be proactive rather than reactive.
Neural processing units (NPUs), an architecture that simulates the human brain’s neural network, allows high bandwidth AI in real time, including recognizing voice commands and creating visual content with the click of a button, taking less power than a CPU or GPU, freeing up the CPU and GPU for lower bandwidth tasks. During the show, BrightSign demonstrated media players equipped with integrated NPUs that run AI applications without compromising video or audio quality. The applications provide real-time insights and deliver instant personalization. Users can also blend AI insights with video or graphics for enhanced customer engagement. NPUs will work in conjunction with edge AI in making self service equipment AI native as opposed to AI assisted.
3D printing, still young, will expand in retail and has a natural fit for self service, as it delivers personalization at scale. New technologies such as edge AI (on-device processing) and agentic workflows (selection-production-fulfillment) will create opportunities for 3D printing. During the show, the Sweet Robo exhibit demonstrated this personalization at scale: a vending machine stocked with a selection of phone case styles allows customers to find and create the best design for their phone case. Once they choose a case, they can browse an image library filled with case designs or upload their own picture for a more unique look. Once they pay for the case and select a design, the machine prints the design on the case and dispenses it to the customer.
Exhibit highlights
Following are exhibit highlights from the trade show floor.
365 Retail Markets Inc.
365 Retail Markets Inc., a provider of automated retail solutions, presentedits Vision Smart Store modules that allow customers to shop from the glassfront cooler without scanning or waiting. The customer unlocks the cooler door using their payment device, then selects their products from the cooler shelves. The system’s AI powered cameras then track product movement and tag the selected products for automatic payment. Shoppers simply unlock the store, select their items and close the door.
The PicoCooler Vision offers an AI powered smart cooler, while the PicoAmbient Vision offers a standalone, AI powered ambient cabinet and the PicoFreezer Vision offers an AI powered smart freezer.
Aeritek Global Holdings
Aeritek Global Holdings demonstrated the Imbera VR27 Intuitivo self-service cooler merchandiser.
Customers access and pay for products using QR codes on their smartphones.
The system features cloud-based product recognition and transaction processing while three pop-out cameras, two on the top and one on the side, capture purchases at 60 frames per second.
The health timer can be turned on for perishable foods or off if not required, while a manual unlock button is located behind the bottom grill for power outages and health inspector testing.
Environmentally friendly hydrocarbon refrigerant offers low global warming potential and meets all federal and California refrigerant and energy standards.
Low energy interior LED illumination enhances merchandise visibility.
The cabinet comes equipped with a roller base to allow movement and precise placement during installation, plus four leveling legs for cabinet stability.
American Locker
American Locker, a provider of self-checkout parcel lockers, presented its electronic storage lockers featuring a touchscreen kiosk that allows users to access individual lockers. The system allows users to monitor issuance of stored equipment and features RFID transmitters that tag items and detect if any piece of equipment is missing from the locker.
The system also features sensors that track details of all activities happening at the lockers. The sensors and wired USB connections within the locker compartment can detect equipment failure and maintenance related issues. The system can put issuance of items on hold while notifying repair teams.
ARC by ChargeItSpot
ARC by ChargeItSpot demonstrated its centralized device management locker system designed to secure, charge and monitor employee devices, including phones, scanners, tablets and more.
The locker technology gives real-time insight into where devices are, how they’re used, and automatically sends alerts when devices need attention.
The system confirms when each device is returned to its locker for charging. When an employee accesses the locker to remove a device, the system automatically releases the most charged device.
Management can monitor an entire device fleet and see what’s in use, idle, returned late or missing. The technology automatically flags issues like broken ports, damaged devices or failing batteries, and tracks usage patterns, including peak-hour demand and user trends.
The device management system integrates with company logins, employee badges, payroll and other management functions.
BrightSign
BrightSign, a provider of digital media players, demonstrated the benefits AI is bringing to its digital signage solutions.
Media players equipped with integrated Neural Processing Units (NPUs) run AI applications without compromising video or audio quality. The applications provide real-time insights and deliver instant personalization. Users can also blend AI insights with video or graphics for enhanced customer engagement.
The company’s all-in-one display solution with BrightSignOS integration eliminates the need for an external media player and requires minimal setup.
The recently introduced BrightSign player toolkits make it easier to run AI applications at the edge, which eliminate latency and security risks associated with cloud-based AI.
The company’s brightAuthor connected activation tool uses AI to detect activity in front of the display, capturing user interest in real time and transforming content to deliver maximum impact.
Cantaloupe Inc.
Cantaloupe Inc., a provider of automated retail solutions, introduced its Smart Store Hot Hold 24-hour access ready-to-eat meals machine.
The glassfront machine maintains temperatures up to 158 degrees Fahrenheit with adjustable settings to keep food safe and ready to be consumed throughout the day. The machine serves hot soups, sandwiches and cooked meals.
The pass-through design allows restocking from the back and selling from the front.
The machine features the Cantaloupe G11 chip card reader with sales reporting into the Seed Live software management system, as well as real-time inventory and reporting.
Unique access codes ensure that only the right person can access their food.
A lighted red alert signals when products are put back in the machine incorrectly.
The machine accepts credit and debit cards as well as mobile wallet payment.
Audio assistance is available for the visually impaired.
Cashmatic
Cashmatic, a provider of payment and cash management products, presented its VisualPay customizable checkout kiosks to manage orders and payments without a cashier.
The touchscreen, available in 17, 22, 27 and 32 inches, enables customization from processor performance to the integration of contactless recognition and payment devices.
The kiosks can be installed on top of another device, on a counter or on a pedestal.
The kiosks can be configured with PCs of varying performance levels, running Android or Windows operating systems, and capable of running any type of software. They can also associate a self pay automatic checkout capable of managing both electronic and cash payments.
CDM USA
CDM USA presented its Cash DidEx (dispense, deposit, exchange) solutionsdesigned to automate cash handling at the point of payment and reduce human error and operational risk.
The company demonstrated its Essential kiosk for automating cash handling, equipped with bill and coin recycling modules.
The bill recycler accepts all USD denominations individually and features a recycling capacity of up to 80 mixed denomination bills and a cash box capacity of up to 1,000 bills.
The unit features spectral imaging sensors for accurate bill validation, while the recycled notes can be transferred to the cash box.
The coin recycler features bulk acceptance of all USD coins and a processing speed of up to 12 coins per second. The recycling hopper and cash box hopper both have a capacity of 1,000 to 1,500 coins, depending on diameter.
The closed loop recycling system and validation sensors keep cash secure throughout the process to reduce fraud risk.
Cennox
Cennox, a provider of banking equipment and technology, demonstrated its RecyclerMax banknote and coin cash recycler which allows stores to automate cash management processes throughout the day.
The RecyclerMax prepares the recycler’s tills at the start of each shift, provides top-ups during the day, then deposits the tills’ contents at the end of each working day. The solution counts, sorts and stores the notes and coins.
The system provides real-time cash flow insights for cash-in-transit and banking needs.
The web portal displays real-time information, including detailed reports, and enables remote control and manages user administration.
The recycler features a 15.6-inch touchscreen and a 3-inch thermal printer.
Crane Payment Innovations
Crane Payment Innovations, a provider of automated payment solutions, demonstrated an integration between Mashgin’s AI-powered checkout system and CPI’s Paypod cash automation system. The integration is designed to allow locations using Mashgin’s touchless self-checkout kiosks to accept cash payments.
The Mashgin self-checkout system uses 3D cameras and computer vision to identify multiple items simultaneously when placed on the system’s tray for purchase without the need for manual scanning or barcodes. The Paypod integration adds a cash handling module to the process.
The Paypod accepts bills and coins and dispenses change, eliminating the need for staff to handle cash while increasing efficiency and security.
Custom America Inc.
Custom America Inc. presented its Link kiosk, featuring a splash-proof and shatter-resistant PCAP touchscreen, FHD 27 or 32 inches, with 80mm receipt printer, 2D scanner, NFC reader and accessories such as LED light bar, payment device bracket, Storm AudioNav 1400 and webcam.
The kiosks are available in countertop, floor-standing and wall mount models.
Diebold Nixdorf Inc.
Diebold Nixdorf Inc. demonstrated its self-checkout solution that uses SeeChange Technologies’ computer vision AI technology. Diebold Nixdorf’s Vynamic Smart Vision uses SeeChange’s SeeWare machine learning to recognize fruits, vegetables, baked goods and items without a barcode.
The solution uses a computer vision algorithm to identify items, eliminating the shopper’s need to search a long list or remember the price look-up to find the desired item.
SeeChange’s edge-to-cloud AI platform also enables the self-checkout kiosk to improve the speed and accuracy of self checkout.
Elanda
Elanda, a provider of POS and self-checkout kiosks, introduced its K21 family of restaurant kiosks to improve performance and flexibility in POS and self-service solutions. The K21 line includes a POS kiosk, a countertop POS kiosk and a kitchen display system, each with a 21.5-inch LCD touchscreen.
The K21 kiosks operate on Windows 10/11 and Android 14 and are available in countertop and floor-standing models with printers and camera. Peripheral payment options include magstripe, NFC, RFID, fingerprint, EMV scanner and ADA keypad.
Flytech Technology Inc.
Flytech Technology Inc., a provider of POS, self service and embedded computing technology, presented its retail self-service kiosks.
The K655N3 works on the Intel 14th generation operating system and features a 15-inch touchscreen, an AI camera and versatile peripherals.
The K669N3 works on the Intel 14th generation operating system and features a 19-inch touchscreen, an AI camera and versatile peripherals.
The K670 works on the Intel 14th generation operating system and features touch panels from 15.1 to 21.5 inches and accommodates different touch panel PCs with Intel processor platforms, including Intel Elkhart Lake, Tiger Lake, Alder Lake-N and Meteor Lake. It also features VESA mounting compliance and versatile peripherals.
The K889 works on an Intel/Qualcomm processor and features a 21.5-inch touchscreen, mounting options, a lighting indicator and versatile peripherals.
The K87BN3 works on the Intel 14th generation operating system and features a 27-inch touchscreen. It comes equipped with a variety of restaurant-specific peripherals.
The K879 works on Intel and MediaTek processors and features a 21.5-inch touchscreen, an NFC display and versatile peripherals.
FTx POS
FTx POS, a provider of retail POS systems that support e-commerce, customer loyalty, age verification, digital signage, warehouse management and more, presented information about its upgraded POS bundle.
POS hardware peripherals include a 2D barcode scanner, biometric fingerprint scanner, digital signage integration and automated upselling.
The bundle also includes theFTx AdPro, offeringaccess to a library of ready-to-use templates and built-in campaign management tools to create promotions on POS displays
Fujitsu North America
Fujitsu North America demonstrated its POSi avatar at a retail self checkout machine. The avatar, a personalized checkout interface, uses AI to guide shoppers through self checkout, helping customers scan items and complete transactions, even using their own devices.
The avatar was designed to assist, detect and adapt to all checkout situations, helping shoppers avoid and resolve issues at self checkout. POSi accesses data from POS, loyalty and inventory systems, providing AI‑driven automation that can help reduce queues, flag exceptions and support attendants at SCO stations.
Fujitsu also shared exhibition space with GK Software, which became part of Fujitsu in 2025. GK Software presented self-service solutions included the following:
GK Vision offers AI-powered fraud detection, self-scanning and real-time interaction.
GK Engage delivers real-time incentives and tailored communication to strengthen loyalty.
GK Drive offers a cloud-native platform for fuel and convenience retail that unifies forecourt management, fast checkout and food service.
Funpad Technology Ltd.
Funpad Technology Ltd., a provider of retail and foodservice hardware and software technology, demonstrated its freestanding, countertop and wall-mounted self-checkout kiosks serving supermarkets, restaurants, hotels, corporate breakrooms and transportation hubs.
The self-checkout kiosks offer AI food recognition, AI package recognition, AI loss prevention, interactive touch, RFID checkout, RF loss prevention and digital signage.
The kiosks run on Android 14 and Windows 10 and 11 operating systems and offer touchscreens ranging in size from 15.6, 21.5, 23.8 and 31.5 inches.
Gertec
Gertec, a provider of retail POS kiosks, payment and printer equipment, introduced three self-service kiosks running on the Android 15 OS: the SK315, the SK210S and the SK100.
The SK315 kiosk features a 15.6-inch touchscreen display, along with NFC payment, a 1D/2D reader, a printer and a camera.
The SK210S features a 10.95-inch touchscreen display, along with NFC payment, a 1D/2D reader, a printer and a camera.
The SK100 features a 10.1-inch touchscreen, along with NFC payment, a 1D/2D reader, a printer and a camera.
Glory Global Solutions
Glory Global Solutions, a provider of financial transaction technology, demonstrated its new kasaGO retail financial service kiosk which allows customers to manage their money while shopping. The kiosk allows people to send money, pay bills, deposit and withdraw cash.
The kiosk uses the Acrelec C24 which features a 24-inch display screen, printer, scanner, card reader, cash recycler, multilingual service and live customer support. Financial capabilities include cross border remittance, domestic transfers, stored value accounts, check cashing, bill payment and cryptocurrency acceptance.
The company plans to launch a pilot with customer-to-customer remittances from the U.S. to Mexico and Columbia.
HiStone/Code Factory
HiStone introduced its portfolio of AI driven checkout and recognition solutions, including the Voicetopping speech recognition technology from Code Factory. The technology can integrate with existing kiosk software.
Restaurant customers can order meals through voice commands, while shoppers at retail stores can use voice to locate products, check prices and navigate store layouts.
Speech recognition technology also improves accessibility for customers with visual or mobility limitations. Beyond helping locations comply with accessibility regulations, speech interfaces make kiosks more inclusive by enabling natural interaction for those who struggle with touchscreens.
The technology enables kiosks to understand complex requests, process natural speech and respond with natural sounding voices.
Ibase solution
Ibase solution, a provider of kiosks, gaming machines and energy storage solutions, introduced its Hot Meal Station which stores, heats and serves precooked meals. The machine holds 24 SKUs for a total 72 items.
The customer selects their meal on the 21.5-inch selection screen, then pays via NFC reader to prompt the machine to heat and deliver the meal in a box. The average delivery time is two minutes.
The machine features a 55-inch interactive display screen for advertising messages. Options include a card reader, QR code scanner and bill acceptor.
Ibase solution does not provide the food for the machine.
I+diotlabs/Zebra
I+diotlabs, a provider of AI and IoT powered infrastructure for retail and foodservice, demonstrated its self checkout and autonomous capabilities at the Zebra Technologies exhibit. The company integrates AI, hardware and software into kiosks, tablets and smart lockers to support self service ordering and pickup at physical locations.
The company’s solutions include multi-lingual, voice enabled ordering. The main focus is on retail and foodservice locations.
ID Tech
ID Tech, a provider of payment solutions, introduced its NEO 3 family of unattended payment solutions.
The Kiosk IV offers a contactless reader for ATMs and self-service kiosks. The unit supports contactless credit card payments and mobile payments as well as loyalty and reward programs.
The VP3350 is a mobile reader that comes in three versions: MFi Apple Lightning, Bluetooth and USB-C. The reader integrates with a tablet or POS terminal, is equipped with pass-through charging, and offers flexible mobile and loyalty payments through Apple VAS and Google Smart Tap 2.1
The VP7200 offers an NFC contactless solution with a QR scanning option. The reader hosts applications and can drive an external screen, supporting both open and closed loop payments.
The VP6825 is a PIN-on-glass device that supports chip, PIN, contactless, QR codes, barcodes and magstripe payment methods. The device has a 4.3-inch digital touchscreen for video ads and supports Apple Pay, Google Pay, Samsung Pay and loyalty/rewards programs.
The AP6800 runs on Android and features a 5-inch digital touchscreen with PIN-on-glass that supports chip, PIN, contactless, QR codes, barcodes and magstripe payment methods. The device can also support an external display of up to 4K resolution.
Ingenico
Ingenico, a provider of payment acceptance solutions, has partnered with Samsung Electronics America Inc. , a technology provider, and Talus, a fintech provider of integrated payments technology, on a mobile business operating solution for the North American marketplace.
With Ingenico SoftPOS tap-to-pay capabilities, the Talus mobile app transforms NFC-compatible Samsung mobile devices into payment terminals. No dedicated payment hardware is required.
Businesses can accept card and digital wallet payments in-store or in the field. Beyond payments, the platform brings together inventory, customer management and real-time insights in one intuitive experience.
Compliant with PCI MPoC and tap-to-phone frameworks, the solution has been designed to deliver secure contactless transactions.
Ingenico also presented its Axium SX platform running entirely on Android, offering an extensive payment applications portfolio.
Innovative Technology
Innovative Technology introduced its NV4000 muti-bill recycler designed for high volume POS terminals or self-checkout applications to provide mixed denomination recycling.
The recycler has the capacity to dispense up to 680 bills of five different denominations, optimizing operational efficiency and reducing the need for frequent refills.
The company also presented the Spectral BNF (bunch note feeder) for the NV4000 to allow multi-bill deposits to accelerate transactions.
By combining the NV4000 with a smart coin system and coin elevator, retailers are equipped with a complete cash payment solution for both bills and coins.
The company also presented information about its age and identity verification solutions including MyCheckr, MyCheckrMini and ICU Lite, which can assist in selling age restricted goods such as alcohol or tobacco.
The devices can be utilized at the cash register as an aid for staff or fully integrated within self-service terminals to automate age checks.
The technology can also help prevent access to restricted areas where age-related goods are located such as walk-in coolers, bars and liquor stores. When the devices are linked to MyConnect, alerts can be sent to staff via an app to notify them of a potential underage access attempt which can be remotely granted or denied.
In addition to performing age verification, the technology is equipped with demographic data insights to provide retailers with analytical data to better understand customer demographic characteristics.
Intel/Unistop Tech
Unistop Tech, a provider of AI-powered robotic technology, demonstrated its Mr. R AI-Powered Autonomous Retail Solution at the Intel exhibit. The self-contained robotic store can hold 300 SKUs and more than 2,500 total items.
The robotic arm and shelf system can scan, pick and dispense products in the delivery chute under 12 seconds. Customers order on a touchscreen and watch the robotic pick and dispense via a window.
The machine includes ambient, chiller and freezer zones to enable diverse inventory, while the AI intrusion detection supports high security environments.
Features include dynamic pricing, whereby the AI automatically adjusts pricing based on weather, demand surges and expiry dates.
The AI also identifies rising product demand in real time and automatically highlights high velocity items, enabling locations to capitalize on buying trends. Using non-identifiable vision analytics, the system also detects demographics to recommend products and increase cart size.
JCM Commerce Mechatronics Inc.
JCM Commerce Mechatronics Inc., the U.S. sales arm of Japan Cash Management, owned by JCM Global, presented money handling and automated payment equipment.
The exhibit included cash deposit and cash recycling equipment.
The company offers components for ATMs, ticket dispensers, adjustment machines, vending machines and kiosk terminals for the banking, retail and transportation industries.
Kiosk Information Systems/Posiflex
Kiosk Information Systems demonstrated its BOPIS pickup lockers for contactless order retrieval, which can be used for food, retail and package delivery, allowing customers to order via kiosk or app and collect items using a PIN or QR code from a designated locker. The solution streamlines pickup, reducing labor and improving convenience.
The company partners with Toast and Pebble for restaurant POS technology and with Grubbrr for ordering software.
Posiflex demonstrated its Autonomous Device Intelligence to provide AI-enabled commercial IoT and self-service solutionsin the retail, hospitality and healthcare sectors.
The Autonomous Device Intelligence solution supports self-checkout kiosks, voice interaction for self-order kiosks, and remote monitoring and self-check-in for healthcare.
Kisan America Inc.
Kisan America Inc., a provider of cash handling equipment, introduced its KR10 kiosk option, a cash and coin recycling solution.
The kiosk runs on the Linux operating system and features a 4.3-inch touchscreen and holds four drums, holding 1,00 notes per drum, with a 2,000-note collection cassette. It is available as a standalone unit or a self-checkout payment unit.
The kiosk contains four modules for recycle storage that each process a maximum of 100 notes.
The cash management dashboard connects with Kisan smart safes and recyclers to automate cash handling and deliver insights on cash activity.
Laurenti Brasil LTDA
Laurenti Brasil LTDA demonstrated its Flex kiosk which integrates the functions of a cash register and self-checkout kiosk. With one movement, a location can switch between assisted mode and self-checkout mode. Software systems such as CresLane’s Flex Check-out enable switching between cashier and self-checkout modes.
Features include a 17-inch touchscreen, a barcode scanner, an RFID reader, a printer and an option for a cash recycler.
The kiosk accepts credit and debit card payments as well as digital wallets and WIC/EBT.
To address shoplifting, a weight verification device can validate whether the product placed on the tray matches the product read on the barcode reader.
Livex.ai
Livex.ai, provider of an AI agent that connects digital, voice and physical environments, presented its Livex Gateway, an interactive AI screen for use in physical settings that provides a conversational interface for customers to get information, find products and interact with the brand.
Tapping Google Cloud and NVIDIA technology, Livex Gateway extends its intelligence into the real world through holograms, kiosks and QR experiences that inform, guide and convert prospects into customers in person, turning stores, kiosks or products into active customer touchpoints that sell, support and retain customers.
The company’s virtual agents on the 86-inch, 4k interactive display can see, hear and respond like humans, delivering real-time problem
Loomis
Loomis, a provider of cash management, logistics and financial services, demonstrated its Titan R7 cash automation system that delivers cash recycling and automates deposits and withdrawals to reduce errors, save time and streamline cash handling, while providing visibility and control over every transaction.
The machine features a 21-inch touchscreen and eight recycle/dispensing drums to support handling of high transaction volumes.
Turnkey cash automation delivers automated cash-recycling technology that can simplify cash-handling procedures and reduce operating costs for businesses operating 10 or more cash registers.
Payment options include credit/debit cards, mobile wallets, QR codes and contactless payments.
Maken
Maken, a manufacturer of POS hardware, introduced its next-generation kiosks to address key retail trends: the shift toward autonomous shopping, labor optimization and seamless omnichannel experiences. Each solution is designed to help retailers reduce wait times, enhance transaction efficiency and scale seamlessly across store formats.
The KH 2730 is a 27-inch freestanding ordering kiosk with a built-in receipt printer and scanner, a camera and an indicator light. A ticket number holder is optional, as are countertop and wall-mounted options.
The KH1500C is a 15.6-inch countertop kiosk with a built-in 88mm receipt printer, a 2D scanner, a card reader holder and an availability indicator light.
The KKR2400 is a 23.8-inch self checkout terminal featuring a 88mm receipt printer and a Datalogic 9300i scanner. The customer can place items on the tray, scan barcodes, review the product list on the digital screen, modify the selections if needed, choose the payment method, pay and take a printed receipt.
Masterworks Automodules Tech Corp.
Masterworks Automodules Tech Corp., a manufacturer of cash handling equipment, demonstrated a prototype of a new cash recycler.
Besides cash recyclers, the company’s product line includes a coin deposit side cart, self-serve payment kiosks, a self checkout kiosk, cash deposit machines, smart safes, a cash handling machine for public transportation hubs, a front office payment system, cash sorting machines, a cash deposit machine with rear access bag collection, note and coin recycle modules and bank note validators.
MediaTek
Mediatek, a provider of fabless semiconductor designs, unveiled an IoT platform that combines 5G and Wi-Fi 7 support with edge AI and multimedia capabilities. The platform, which leverages an octa-core ARMv9 CPU and embedded NPU to support generative AI, is designed for an array of retail IoT products, including automatic identification and data capture applications, table-service kiosks, point-of-sale systems and digital signage.
The company also presented the Genio platform for edge AI applications in retail and hospitality. This includes support for vision AI and on-device generative AI; dual-display support and remote management for desktop POS; 4K resolution; and a smart kiosk with self-checkout capabilities.
MediaTek also demonstrated the Posiflex HK 1610 self checkout kiosk, for which it provides the chipsets. The HK 1610 is built around a Rockchip RK3399 processor with integrated peripherals support and can host scanners, payment devices and wireless connectivity.
MediaTek also provided information about its integrated platform for intelligent devices, including scalable edge AI, carrier-grade 4G/5.
NCR Voyix
NCR Voyix debuted its next-generation portfolio of microservices-based applications built on the Voyix Commerce Platform.
VoyixPOS uses a cloud-to-edge design to enable centralized management, real-time insights and rapid innovation across grocery, fuel and convenience stores.
Voyix Self-Checkout integrates with POS, loyalty and analytics along with Picklist Assist, which uses computer vision and machine learning to automatically suggest and fill pick-look-up codes, streamline item lookup and improve accuracy.
Voyix Back Office provides a unified retail management application that organizes inventory, purchasing, loyalty and analytics. It delivers near real-time visibility and automation to reduce complexity and improve efficiency across multiple locations.
Voyix Supply Chain integrates planning, analytics and execution, including warehouse management, to deliver real-time visibility and control receiving, picking, packing and shipping. The tool enables data-driven decisions for manufacturing, distribution and service operations across multiple warehouses.
Voyix Kitchen offers a kitchen display system that accelerates order fulfillment and improves communication between front- and back-of-house.
Voyix Insight with conversational AI provides an analytics application with conversational search that provides real-time insights, recommended actions, alerts and automated targeting for forecasting, labor and shrink.
Voyix Loyalty offers an AI-driven loyalty application for omnichannel personalization, rapid offer deployment and predictive insights that launches promotions in minutes, predicts churn and next‑best actions, and keeps earn‑and‑redeem active even offline.
PAL Robotics
PAL Robotics demonstrated StockBot, its autonomous inventory robot that combines RFID technology and robotics to automate daily inventory counts and optimize stock management, provide real-time updates and streamline order fulfillment. The solution has been designed to provide an understanding of what is in stock, where it is located, and what needs immediate attention.
StockBot autonomously navigates the sales floor and the backstore, scanning products and detecting items that are not where they should be. By providing precise positional information, the robot enables the workers to correct errors quickly and restore availability.
Through accurate and systematic RFID scans, StockBot uncovers misplaced products and restores full visibility over the sellable inventory.
Where retailers often rely on physical shielding materials to prevent cross-readings between adjacent areas such as the sales floor and the stockroom, this approach requires installation work, limits store layout flexibility and must be maintained over time. StockBot removes this dependency through virtual shielding by scanning only the intended areas and avoiding unwanted cross reads. The robot delivers accurate, targeted data without any additional materials or structural adjustments.
Partner Tech
Partner Tech, a provider of POS terminals, mobile solutions, self-checkout and kiosk systems, presented its enterprise-grade retail technologies, with a strong focus on AI-powered self-checkout.
The company introduced its cash drawers, cash management accessories and an ADA compliant keypad from Anker Group. The tactile keypad provides a non-touch input option for self-service environments and supports voice-guided assistance, helping retailers offer more inclusive checkout experiences. The solution also aligns with global accessibility initiatives, including the European Accessibility Act.
The company’s self checkout kiosks also integrate LOC Software ThriVersA technology, enabling AI-powered product pick lists, intelligent theft prevention and real-time in-store analytics.
Through its partnership with Vispero, Partner Tech now offers the JAWS screen reader for kiosks, available across Partner Tech’s self-service portfolio, including Alfred, K27II and PS-137 kiosks and Starling, Alfred and Paula self-checkout solutions.
JAWS speech-guided interaction also integrates with Partner Tech’s ADA tactile keypad, enhancing inclusive self-service experiences for customers with disabilities.
PAX Technology
PAX Technology presented information about its recently announced partnership with Wink that combines PAX’s payment hardware with Wink’s AI-driven platform, creating persona-powered commerce where a customer can pay simply by being recognized, with no wallet, card, or phone required.
Through semi-integration, Wink’s application interfaces with PAX’s BroadPOS app to deliver biometric identity authentication, including face, palm and voice recognition. This enables fast, frictionless and secure checkout experiences, while safeguarding merchants against fraud.
The combined solution works with Wink’s payment platform that provides real-time transaction processing across payment acquirers.
The company also demonstrated its M11 unattended payment device to support the usage of QR codes and contactless payments in retail environments.
POSBank
POSBank demonstrated its Forged printer for foodservice and retail. The printer works on the Intel Core and Celeron processors and features 15- and 15.6-inch ultra thin bezel displays.
The fanless thermal management system evenly distributes heat throughout the aluminum case, enabling stable operation without noise and minimizing internal dust flow as well as efficient cooling.
The powered USB supports versatile peripherals, while the modular input/output box enables expansion of peripherals.
The display screen is made of tempered glass to enhance durability and clarity, and the adjustable touch angle provides usability in various work environments.
Pyramid North America Inc./Kiosk Manufacturer Association
Pyramid North America Inc., exhibiting in the Kiosk Manufacturer Association booth space, presented its Polytouch line of self checkout kiosks.
The Polytouch kiosks are available in basic configurations to address a variety of use cases off the shelf. Add-on components such as touch display or peripheral modules such as printers are available.
The Polytouch pSyCo offers a countertop self-checkout terminal featuring the POS 500 as the POS system. Features include a scanner integrated into the worktop and a VESA mount which can fit most POS systems with a screen diagonal of 15.6 to 23.8 inches. Scanner, printer and payment modules are optional.
The Polytouch Fex 21.5 features a compact chassis and various mounting options. With its minimal frame, flat touchscreen and portrait orientation, the unit resembles a tablet.
The Polytouch Passport 321 autonomous store kiosk features a 32-inch display screen. The two-screen version serves several customers simultaneously.
The Polytouch self-checkout project Portal designed by Edeka features a 15-inch touchscreen and optional scale, coin dispenser and bill dispenser.
The Polytouch Swift is available in 24-, 27- and 32-inch projective capacitive touchscreens, a printer camera, scanner and attached payment keypad.
Pyramid North America mainly uses PCs and touchscreens from its AKHET and Faytech partner brands.
Sesami
Sesami, a provider of self-serve banking solutions, demonstrated its Tidel S4 single and bulk note validator, which can be configured with a storage vault, mailbox drop vault or pedestal to reach counter height compatibility.
The unit accommodates two note cassettes that hold up to 1,200 notes per cassette or 2,250 notes per cassette.
Features include a 7-inch console screen; a personal identification number and/or iButton to allow managed access to functions, reports and instant access; a note validator maintenance door that enables the validator heads to be removed in the event of a note jam, and an integrated printer with a see-through screen, paper cutter and feeder.
Shekel Scales
Shekel Scales, a provider of retail weighing technology, demonstrated a self-serve retail cooler which customers access by presenting a payment option. The customer opens the cooler door after presenting their payment card, then removes products from the shelves and closes the door.
Product recognition sensors ensure the proper product was removed from the cooler. The system uses AI to create “product-aware” scales and real-time shelf monitoring systems. The system tracks item removal by weight signatures and supports frictionless payment flows.
Shenzhen Meking Electronic Technology Co. Ltd.
Shenzhen Meking Electronic Technology Co. Ltd. demonstrated its M6 Series POS modules, all of which combine a screen module with a system box module. The screen module comes in 15-, 15.6-, 18.5- and 21.5-inch configurations. The system box module is available as an Android box module, a Windows box module and a touch monitor box module.
Peripherals include:
MSR
Fingerprint reader
RFID reader
I-button
9.7-inch second display screen
11.6-inch second display screen
15-inch second display screen
15.6-inch second display screen
USB peripherals include a 5MP camera, a 2D barcode scanner, a fingerprint reader, an i-button reader and a magnetic stripe reader.
The company also provides touch monitors, touch panel PCs, PC boxes, distributed screens and pole mounts.
Simbe
Simbe, a provider of retail shelf digitization and store intelligence, introduced Tally 4.0, itsnewestshelf-scanning robot and the flagship data capture method of its store intelligence platform. The robot introduces improvements in runtime, vision, sensing and edge AI.
With up to 12 hours of runtime, high-resolution and specialty cameras, expanded 3D and 360-degree coverage, and the full-stack NVIDIA AI infrastructure platform, Tally 4.0 delivers insights into what’s in stock, how it’s priced and where it’s placed.
Tally 4.0 provides a foundational data layer for the physical store, connecting shelf conditions to the decisions that shape initial use cases, including on-shelf availability, price and promotion accuracy, and item location precision, while elevating store team and shoppers’ experiences with more mature applications for planogram compliance, forecasting, replenishment, omnichannel fulfillment and merchandising.
Soundhound AI
Soundhound AI demonstrated its Employee Assist technology that provides in-store employees with access to information that allows them to complete tasks they may be unfamiliar with. The tool offers a form of on-the-floor training without the need for manuals.
In a restaurant, a server wearing a headset can get answers to questions about many aspects of the operation, including order status, manuals, ingredients and allergens. A kitchen staffer can get updates on inventory, supply orders or other operations issues.
A store manager can build an AI agent to prompt conversations with employees or to send links to customers’ phones in response to questions.
Star Micronics
Star Micronics, a manufacturer of POS hardware and systems, presented a real-time conversational solution from Mobile Insight, a provider of a virtual interactive brand ambassador.
No matter where the shopper is in their buying journey – browsing, comparing or ready to buy – Mobile Insights’ VIBA engages shoppers with relevant information, personalized recommendations and answers to their questions.
Leveraging Google Cloud, Mobile Insight delivers tailored AI brand personas for a guided shopping experience with human-like interaction in-store. Deployed through tablets, kiosks or QR codes, the combination of structured buyer journeys and AI recommendations boosts purchase intent, driving sales conversations.
The virtual agent identifies shoppers’ needs and provides the appropriate product details at the right time in the journey, moving shoppers toward purchase, and handing conversations to live sales reps as needed.
Storm Interface
Storm Interface, a manufacturer of keypads, keyboards and computer interface devices, was one of several exhibitors demonstrating the Jaws for Kiosk, providing accessible keypads for blind and low vision users. The solution offers speech-guided interactions through a screen reader purpose-built for kiosks.
Combining tactile input, custom scripting and enterprise support, Jaws for Kiosk enables consistent, compliant experiences across physical environments.
The screen readers offer efficient navigation using the following:
Flexible reading controls: Users can read content continuously or move through it by sentence, word or character.
Structured navigation: Keyboard commands allow users to jump directly to headings, links, regions, form fields, lists, tables and other elements. JAWS also provides features such as the Virtual HTML Viewer and element lists, allowing users to scan a page’s structure without wading through every line of text.
Element context and feedback: Screen readers announce the type of element, allowing users to understand how the interface is structured, how components behave and which actions are available at any given time.
Form interaction and error handling: Screen readers announce labels, required fields, input types and validation errors, allowing users to complete tasks independently.
Braille support: Screen readers can output information to refreshable braille displays, offering users tactile access to text, structure and formatting.
Stratacache
Stratacache, a provider ofconsumer, audience and passenger engagement technology, displayed the Walkbase millimeter wave sensor solution to provide retail locations a way to accurately measure in-store customer behavior without collecting or divulging customers’ personally identifying information.
Walkbase is Stratacache’s in-store analytics solutions provider focusing on how customers, employees and resources interact with stores and locations.
Using electromagnetic waves to capture location, pathing and dwell time data, the solution is a privacy-centric solution to measure in-store customer behavior. The millimeter wave sensors contain no camera lenses and capture no biometric or personally identifiable information.
As the millimeter wave sensor solution works without using a camera, it is also a versatile analytics tool, able to work in environments where other sensors fail, such as in bright sunlight or darkness.
The millimeter wave sensor technology cBan cover wider areas than typical in-store tracking tools and is able to plug directly into retail media video players. The solution is available to retailers following trials within a large regional U.S. grocery store.
The machine is stocked with a selection of phone case styles, allowing customers to find the best fit for their device. Once they choose a case, they can browse an image library filled with various designs or upload their own picture for a more unique look. The customer then pays for the case and the machine loads a blank case from its inventory, prints the selected design on the case and delivers it to the customer. In 90 seconds, the machine brings their vision to life.
The company also recently introduced a chocolate candy 3D printing machine, allowing customers to choose from hundreds of pre-set shapes across dozens of product categories.
The company also offers cotton candy, ice cream, popcorn, lollypop, marshmallow vending machines, along with balloon machines.
Telpo
Telpo, a provider of kiosks, cash registers, ticket validators, voice over internet and biometric devices, demonstrated its K1 self-service kiosk designed for retail, foodservice and healthcare environments.
The kiosk runs on the Android 14 operating system and features a 25-inch display screen, along with a dual lens camera for facial recognition, SIM slots, peripheral ports, a thermal printer, a payment module and a digital audio speaker.
Tillster
Tillster demonstrated its restaurant self-order kiosks for QSR and fast casual brands that tie directly into a restaurant’s POS, payments and loyalty stack to boost ticket size and improve throughput while keeping pricing and menus in sync.
The kiosks run a locked-down, secure OS with encrypted connections; payment is handled at EMV terminals with P2PE so card data is not stored on the kiosk.
Monitored dashboards alert operators to performance issues, sync errors or connectivity issues.
The self-order kiosks also integrate with kitchen display systems to route orders efficiently to the kitchen and adjust prep times based on menu complexity and volume.
Toshiba Global Commerce Solutions
Toshiba Global Commerce Solutions demonstrated its Vision Kiosk which allows shoppers to place multiple items on a tray and have them scanned simultaneously without barcodes, enabling transactions of multiple items in less than 10 seconds.
The solution uses AI computer vision and loss prevention tools with a smartpad weight based scale for ensuring accurate payment.
The biometric camera monitors customer behavior and identifies potential shrink activities at checkout.
The kiosk integrates with scanners, cameras and NFC payment.
The Vision Kiosk was one of several technologies the company demonstrated in the convenience, grocery, specialty, hospitality and entertainment venues.
Touch Dynamic
Touch Dynamic, a provider of touch computer and POS systems, introduced its Summit self-checkout kiosk, featuring a 21.5-inch portrait display, using SoftPOS technology to offer contactless payments directly through the device via tap-to-pay, requiring no external terminal. The unit operates on Intel, Alder Lake, Meteor Lake or MediaTek G700 processors, performing across Windows, Linux and Android 13 with GMS.
The Summit has been designed with multiple CPU options, wireless connectivity and is compatible with Epson printers. It can be wall mounted, counter mounted or on a stand and is designed for retail, hospitality and enterprise environments.
Options include an ADA pad, a 2D barcode scanner and a variety of payment modules.
TouchWo
TouchWo, a manufacturer of touch panels, PCs and kiosks, presented its smart order kiosks and service kiosks for restaurants.
The company’s self-order kiosks offer customizable menus that can be updated in real time, allowing restaurants to change promotions, pricing and menu items as needed.
Most kiosks offer integrated payment processing, enabling customers to pay directly through the kiosk using credit/debit cards, mobile wallets or other payment methods.
Customers can also personalize their orders, adding or removing ingredients, selecting portion sizes and choosing special instructions.
The company’s restaurant reservation kiosks let guests reserve tables, select seating preferences and confirm arrival times, streamlining reservations and reducing staff workload. The kiosks’ sealed enclosures block food crumbs, drink spills and cleaning sprays from damaging internal components while the tempered glass with a smudge-resistant coating repels fingerprints, ketchup and grease. The reinforced edges on the frames withstand accidental bumps from chairs, trays or bustling guests.
The company’s kitchen display kiosks centralize orders, update statuses in real time, and keep staff aligned. Cooks tap to mark items as “in progress” or “complete,” while servers track orders instantly. The units withstand splatters, high temperatures and constant use.
UIC Connect
UIC Connect presented its products and services, which include real-time transaction, aggregation, L3 certified payment applications, terminal and device management, cloud-to-cloud integration, payment engine, PCI-DSS gateway and tokenization.
Terminals include 4-, 5- and 6-inch Android terminals for mobile payment, embedded contactless devices for unattended payment and Android and PIN pad terminals for countertop payment.
UST
UST, a provider of generative AI in retail, demonstrated its solutions for enhancing in-store customer engagement, including 3D holograms that offer voice interaction with customers and virtual try-on that allows customers to see how they look in apparel before making a selection.
Solutions also include:
Intelligent inventory management: Cameras and IoT devices track inventory from the warehouse to the sales floor, providing real-time visibility into stock levels.
Enhanced in-store operations: IoT enhances various in-store operations through connected devices, including smart shelves equipped with weight sensors to detect and report stock levels, while IoT-enabled tags help in asset tracking and management. Sensors can also monitor the in-store temperature control and humidity levels.
Reduced shrink: IoT devices such as smart cameras and motion sensors work in tandem with vision intelligence systems to provide comprehensive surveillance and real-time alerts on potential security breaches or theft.
Personalized promotions: Vision intelligence analyzes customer demographics and behavior through surveillance footage, enabling stores to offer real-time personalized promotions, enhancing the shopping experience and boosting sales.
VenHub Global Inc.
VenHub Global Inc., which provides a fully-robotic, autonomous retail store, presented its VenHub Smart Store, enabling 24/7 unattended shopping.
The store is designed to serve both operators and consumers by eliminating the need for on-site staffing, thereby reducing operational overhead and providing a personalized shopping experience.
The platform offers mobile customer engagement, adaptive product displays, real-time inventory automation and precision in-order handling.
The AI-driven platform streamlines restocking, ensures high-demand items are available and reduces product waste.
The company is also developing mobile units.
Verifone
Verifone announced its expansion of the Verifone Victa device portfolio alongside new ecosystem partnerships. New relationships announced at NRF 2026 include:
Shopify: Verifone now supports Shopify POS with select Victa devices, expanding merchants’ choice of enterprise-grade payment devices. Anchored by Shopify POS Hub, the integration enables consistent performance, expanded peripheral compatibility and flexible checkout configurations.
Bilt: A new partnership brings Bilt’s customer experience platform to Verifone’s merchant network. Built on Verifone’s Android-based developer platform and leveraging the Verifone gateway, the integration enables loyalty, member engagement and personalized experiences to run seamlessly on Victa devices.
Aevi: A single global integration provides access to Aevi’s cloud-based payment orchestration and commerce capabilities across Verifone devices, simplifying multi-region deployment, local payment support and ongoing estate management.
Built on a single, unified platform, all Victa devices share the same EMV certification foundation — allowing partners to certify once, deploy across the portfolio, and stay compliant through future over-the-air upgrades. The platform also benefits from Verifone’s biometric capabilities, including palm vein and facial recognition.
Product introductions included the following:
In-lane and countertop checkout:
Victa Register– A merchant-facing POS solution combines a touchscreen, modular accessories and scalable performance.
Victa Lane – A customer-facing payment terminal delivers fast, in-lane checkout, whether deployed standalone or paired with Victa Register.
Mobile and portable commerce:
Victa mini– An portable payment device designed for mobility and space-constrained environments, supporting secure checkout for pop-up retail, curbside service and mobile use case.
Victa mobile plus and Victa portable plus – Designed for commerce on the move, these devices deliver multitasking across payment and business workflows. Powered by an Octa-core processor, they support in-aisle, curbside or high-traffic environments.
SoftPOS device:
Victa SoftPOS mobile and Victa softPOS tabletenable contactless payments and business workflows without dedicated payment hardware. Victa SoftPOS mobile supports on-the-go use with integrated contactless payments, while Victa SoftPOS tablet offers a larger touchscreen to support customer-facing and operational tasks.
Unattended and rugged environments:
Victa unattended– A payment solution engineered for self-service environments such as kiosks, vending, transit and parking.
Victa mobile ruggedized – A mobile payment device enabling secure payment acceptance and Android-based business applications in the field.
In addition to new devices, Verifone introduced Verifone Touch, a customer-facing self-service kiosk available in 22-inch and 27-inch display options. Verifone Touch enables content delivery and customer engagement alongside Victa devices without requiring a dedicated payment terminal.
WestarPOS
WestarPOS, a POS and kiosk hardware maker, introduced its CRS001 POS kiosk that can be used for self checkout, self ordering and as a cashier station. Users can switch between horizontal and vertical screens to adapt to different retail scenarios.
The kiosks are available with 15.6-, 18.5- and 24-inch main screens and 15.6- and 18.5-inch secondary screens.
Features include a built-in 80mm thermal receipt printer, a 2D scanner and a speaker. Optional peripherals include an NFC reader, a camera, a microphone, POS bracket, wall-mount kit and a floor-standing column.
Yo-Kai Express
Yo-Kai Express introduced its Yo-Kai Express beverage vending machine, an AI powered, fully robotic machine offering fully customized, fresh cooked boba on demand. The machine offers both cold and hot drinks, as well as toppings.
Cold drinks include traditional Boba Milk Tea, Oolong Milk Tea, Mango Pomello Sago, Matcha Milk Tea, Taro Milk Tea, Thai Iced Tea, Grape Green Tea, Coconut Milk Tea, Jasmine Green Milk Tea, Chai Milk Tea, Hojcha Milk Tea, Chocolate Milk Tea, Iced Coffeee and Protein Shakes.
Hot drinks include coffee and tea, while toppings include Boba, Lychee Jelly, Coconut Jelly, Sago, Fresh Grape and Mango Jelly.
Media Gallery
Thomas Guthmann presents the I+diotlabs retail technology at the Zebra Technologies exhibit.
Michael Stocker introduces the kasaGO retail financial service kiosk at the Glory Global Solutions exhibit.
Andy Lin and Amanda Tsung introduce Yo-Kai Express robotic beverage vending machine.
Lori Leung introduces the CRS001 POS kiosk at the WestarPOS exhibit.
Heather Hooks shows a prototype of a new kiosk at the Verifone exhibit.
Show attendees explore the fully automatic Venhub store.
Robert Wang presents connection and payment services at the UIC Connect exhibit.
Raul Chang shows the 3D hologram avatar at the UST exhibit.
Weiqi Kuang presents the restaurant kiosks at the TouchWo exhibit.
Garrett Russell introduces The Summit kiosk at the Touch Dynamic exhibit.
Don Richardson demonstrates the Vision Kiosk at the Toshiba Global Commerce Solutions exhibit.
Paul Burchard demonstrates the Tillster self-order kiosk.
Bruno Molfetto presents the phone case printing machine at the Sweet Robo exhibit.
Pedro Sanchez presents the Telpo self-serve kiosk.
Bjorn Sjolund and Larry Payne present the Walkbase wave sensor solution at the Stratacache exhibit.
Demonstrating interface technology for blind and low vision users at the Storm Interface exhibit are Marty Oakton, Matt Ater, Matthijs Verhagen, Luca Pappalardo and Nicky Shaw.
Ken Froese presents the virtual interactive brand ambassador at the Star Micronics exhibit.
Ishai Reinfeld presents the Employee Assist technology at the Soundhound AI exhibit.
Caitlin Allen introduces the Tally 4.0 robot at the Simbe exhibit.
Shayne Boelter presents the Tidel S4 single and bulk note validator at the Sesami exhibit.
Bob Madson presents the Shekel Scales smart cooler.
Zahdan ELZahdan presents the Polytouch line of self-checkout kiosks from Pyramid North America at the Kiosk Manufacturer Association exhibit.
Steve Kwon presents the Forged printer at the POSBank exhibit.
Pernilla Gibson of Partner Tech and Dennis Lavallee of CK Systems introduce features for a self checkout kiosk including an ADA compliant keypad.
Kate Torrey presents information about PAX Technology’s partnership with Wink to offer persona powered retail purchases.
Alex Font Ibanez demonstrates the StockBot inventory control robot at the PAL Robotics exhibit.
Jessica Bryant introduces a self checkout kiosk at the NCR Voyix exhibit.
Yingfeng Xie demonstrates POS modules at the Shenzhen Meking Electronic Technology Co. Ltd. exhibit.
Nelson Wu presents the Posiflex HK 1610 self checkout kiosk at the MediaTek exhibit.
Kenji Huang presents a prototype for a new cash recycler at the Masterworks Automodules Tech Corp. exhibit.
Ivy Zhang introduces the new retail kiosks at the Maken exhibit.
Kendall Walker presents the Titan cash automation systems at the Loomis exhibit.
Jerry Li demonstrates the virtual agent at the Livex.ai exhibit.
Daniel Ha introduces the KR10 cash recycling kiosk at the Kisan America Inc. exhibit.
Luis Laurenti demonstrates the Flex kiosk at the Laurenti exhibit.
Joe Scutellaro, Kim Kenney and Jed Sullivan present food pickup lockers at the Kiosk Information Systems/Posiflex exhibit.
Francisco Hincapie, Samuel Quiroz and Aldo Coronado present cash handling kiosks at the JCM Commerce Mechatronics exhibit.
Nigel Tsui presents the Unistop Tech robotic store at the Intel exhibit.
Brian Bellerose introduces the NV4000 muti-bill recycler at the Innovative Technology exhibit.
Mike Parker demonstrates the Axium SX payment platform at the Ingenico exhibit.
Justin Ning introduces the NEO 3 family of unattended payment solutions at the ID Tech exhibit.
Kevin Liao introduces the Hot Meal Station vending machine at the ibase solution exhibit.
Mateus Larrabure introduces retail kiosks at the Gertec exhibit.
Wei Li presents the Funpad retail self-checkout kiosks.
Charles McCluskey introduces the POSi avatar at the Fujitsu North America exhibit.
Chloe Chen and Irene Lee present retail self service kiosks at the Flytech Technology Inc. exhibit.
Patrick Smith and Dino Harba demonstrate a POS hardware bundle at the FTx POS exhibit.
Judy Lu presents the K21 self-order kiosk at the Elanda exhibit.
Richard Lawler presents the product recognition technology at the Diebold Nixdorf exhibit.
Giulio Mineo and Jeremy Lemcke demonstrate the Link kiosk at the Custom America Inc. exhibit.
Jacob Blair presents the integration of the Mashgin AI powered self checkout with the CPI Paypod at the Crane Payment Innovations exhibit.
Melanie Endres of Code Factory demonstrates the VoiceTopping speech recognition technology at the HiStone exhibit.
Peter Sentowski presents the RecyclerMax at the Cennox exhibit.
Andres Renoso demonstrates the Essential kiosk at the CDM USA exhibit.
Giuseppe Rossi demonstrates the VisualPay kiosks at the Cashmatic exhibit.
Tony Danna presents the Smart Store Hot Hold merchandiser at the Cantaloupe Inc. exhibit.
Victoria Martensen demonstrates the ARC by ChargeItSpot centralized device management system.
Misty Chalk presents benefits AI is bringing to digital signage solutions at the BrightSign exhibit.
Adam Antoniou presents the Imbera VR27 Intuitivo self-service cooler merchandiser at the Aeritek Global Holdings exhibit.
Chris Hobson shows the self-serve smart lockers at the American Lockers exhibit.
Jon Floyd and Bill Reidy present the Vision Smart Store modules at the 365 Retail Markets exhibit.
Self-checkout is no longer just a row of terminals at the front of the store. Sam’s Club is in the middle of a radical experiment: remove traditional lanes altogether and replace them with mobile Scan & Go plus AI-powered exit verification. Costco and Walmart are moving in almost opposite directions, revealing three very different answers to the same question: what does “self-service” look like in a world of vision AI, edge computing, and rising shrink?
Sam’s Club: when the phone becomes the kiosk
Sam’s Club is betting the future of its checkout on a simple idea: the member’s smartphone is the primary self-service device. Traditional staffed and self-checkout lanes are being phased out in favor of Scan & Go in the app and computer-vision “exit arches” that verify the basket in seconds as shoppers leave.
From a kiosk and self-service perspective, the architecture matters more than the app branding.
The fixed POS and self-checkout terminals at the front end shrink dramatically; the “front end” effectively moves into the aisle and into the shopper’s hand.
AI-powered gates at the exit become the critical control point, comparing the digital receipt to what is actually in the cart without a human manually scanning items or checking paper receipts.
Sam’s has publicly tied Scan & Go usage to higher visit frequency, higher spending, and stronger renewal rates among engaged members. That makes this more than a cost-cutting exercise: frictionless self-service plus strong membership data is being treated as a growth engine.
Costco: controlled self-checkout and human-first front ends
If Sam’s is deleting the front end, Costco is tightening it. Costco has dialed back and re‑shaped its self-checkout footprint, using item limits, stricter ID checks, and closer supervision to manage fraud, membership sharing, and user frustration. Self-checkout is positioned as a “quick trip” convenience — not as the default for full-cart warehouse shopping.
Costco is experimenting with app-based scan and pay and digital verification, but it is doing so within a model that still prioritizes staffed checkout as the backbone for big transactions. For kiosk stakeholders, Costco’s strategy emphasizes:
Self-service as a supplement to, not replacement for, high-touch lanes staffed by trained cashiers.
Risk control first, automation second: technology is deployed to reinforce the existing operating model rather than rewrite it.
In this framework, kiosks and terminals are still the primary points of interaction at the front end, and the store remains a classic hardware-centric self-service environment with guardrails.
Walmart: hybrid and hyper-local self-checkout strategy
sams self-checkout comparison
Walmart lands between Sam’s Club’s aggressive mobile-first play and Costco’s guarded approach. Across the fleet, Walmart continues to invest in self-checkout, but it is selectively reducing or even removing self-checkout in some stores while expanding staffed lanes where shrink and congestion are problematic.
At the same time, Walmart is one of the most active experimenters with AI-enhanced kiosks, computer vision, and mobile Scan & Go, including pilots that blend traditional barcode scanning with cameras and sensors for real-time validation. For the kiosk industry, Walmart’s model highlights:
A hybrid front end where self-checkout kiosks, staffed lanes, and mobile self-scanning coexist, tuned store-by-store to risk and demographics.
Increasing use of AI at the terminal (and behind it) to detect anomalies, reduce mis-scans, and guide associates to intervene when needed, rather than removing hardware outright.
This “configuration as a variable” strategy keeps kiosks central to the experience while quietly shifting more intelligence and decision-making into the software layer.
What it means for kiosk and self-service providers
The contrast between Sam’s Club, Costco, and Walmart is not just about brand philosophy; it marks a structural change in how self-service gets delivered. Sam’s Club treats the fixed terminal as optional, relying on mobile, edge AI, and computer vision at the exit to harden an almost invisible checkout experience. Costco doubles down on staffed lanes and constrained self-checkout, prioritizing human control and membership integrity over maximum automation. Walmart, meanwhile, keeps kiosks in the mix but uses AI and configuration flexibility to find the right balance between automation, labor, and loss prevention store by store.
For kiosk and self-service suppliers, a few implications stand out.
The value is shifting from the box to the stack: computer vision, edge AI, fraud controls, and tight integration with mobile and loyalty are becoming as important as the physical terminal itself.
“Self-checkout” now spans fixed kiosks, phones, sensors, and gates, which opens room for new devices but also pressures traditional front-end hardware to evolve or risk being bypassed entirely.
For us, Sam’s Club offers a clear look at a post-lane front end, while Costco and Walmart show why many retailers will keep living in a hybrid world for years: hardware is still crucial, but the winning play marries it to AI, mobile, and being smarter at the edge.
What About…?
Relying on a phone-centric model absolutely raises inclusion and accessibility questions, even if the SKU count and store format make Sam’s easier to automate than a full-line Walmart. The design risk is shifting from “can you reach the kiosk” to “do you have, understand, and trust the app,” which is a different kind of barrier.
Mobile-only and who gets left out
Sam’s is signaling a future where Scan & Go is the primary, and in many clubs the only, way to check out, with AI verification at the exit. Even with very high smartphone penetration among 50+ adults, there is still a meaningful minority who either don’t own a modern device, don’t install retail apps, or are not comfortable managing payments on a phone.
Groups at risk of being excluded or frustrated include:
Shoppers without smartphones, low-income members on limited data plans, or people with older devices that struggle with new apps.
Customers with lower digital literacy or “app fatigue” who resist yet another login, password, and payment set-up for routine shopping.
Accessibility and ADA implications
Accessibility law and litigation around self-service have focused so far on kiosk reach, tactile controls, and non-visual access, but the same principles apply to mobile-first journeys. If a retailer effectively makes app use a condition of service, that app and the surrounding flow have to work with screen readers, voice control, and assistive tech, and there must be reasonable alternatives when they don’t.
Key angles:
Visual and motor impairments: small tap targets, complex navigation, and fast time-outs can make app-based checkout unusable for some, just as inaccessible touchscreens did in earlier kiosk lawsuits.
Cognitive load: forcing customers to juggle membership, scanning, coupons, and payment in an app can overwhelm some users, especially under time pressure in a busy club.
How Sam’s is trying to backstop it
Sam’s has indicated that associates with mobile devices can scan and check out members who don’t or won’t use Scan & Go, effectively turning staff tablets into roving POS for edge cases. That mitigates some exclusion, but it’s operationally fragile: if staffing is tight, the “fallback path” becomes slow or invisible, and those customers feel second-class compared to app users.
From an accessibility and customer-experience standpoint, best practice would be:
Clear, in-store signage that non-app options exist and where to get help, rather than quietly assuming everyone will install the app.
Ensuring the mobile app itself meets WCAG/ADA expectations (screen reader support, high contrast, alternative input), plus training associates to proactively assist members who appear stuck.
Takeaway
Sam’s is showing what happens when SKU simplicity meets aggressive digital transformation, but also that mobile-only pushes the accessibility surface area off the kiosk and onto the phone. Self-service providers and retailers will have to design for:
“No-lane” environments and “no-phone” customers at the same time, using staff-held devices, secondary kiosks, or assisted-service flows as a safety net.
An expanded view of ADA and inclusive design that covers both physical kiosks and required mobile apps as a single, end-to-end experience.
Privacy?
Sam’s Club’s new model is very camera‑heavy, but the company says it is not using biometrics like facial recognition on members in the exit flow today. The privacy issues are still real, though, because you have persistent cameras tied to an account-based, app-driven journey.
What tech Sam’s is using
Sam’s AI “arches” at the exit use multiple 4K cameras and computer vision running on edge GPU servers to capture images of the entire cart and match them to a recent receipt in real time. The system focuses on identifying items and associating them with a transaction, whether paid via Scan & Go or a register, and has been rolled out to roughly all 600 clubs.
Sam’s CTO has explicitly said that the exit system does not use facial recognition or biometrics and does not look at “human characteristics” to identify members; the stated purpose is item recognition only. Some deployments also add RFID in the exit truss to assist the AI in validating what’s in the cart.
Privacy and data concerns
Even without biometrics, this is still a dense data environment: the app ties purchases, visit patterns, and in‑club behavior to a named membership account, and the computer‑vision system records carts and movement through the exit. Privacy advocates have already flagged concerns about how long video and sensor data are retained, how they are linked to profiles, and whether they might later be repurposed for more intrusive uses like behavioral scoring or face recognition.
Sam’s Club’s privacy notice allows for biometric data in specific use cases (for example, virtual try‑on features that scan a customer’s face for eyewear fitting in the app), which shows the company is at least open to biometric processing in some contexts, even if the exit arches are currently item‑only. That makes transparency and clear limits on use and retention essential if they want to maintain trust while pushing a no‑lane, camera‑rich model.
From Decline to Discipline: Why Steak ’n Shake Turned to Automation
For decades, Steak ’n Shake built its reputation on made-to-order burgers, table service, and late-night diners. But by the late 2010s, that model was under severe pressure. Rising labor costs, inconsistent service, shrinking margins, and declining traffic forced leadership to rethink the fundamentals of how orders were taken, processed, and fulfilled.
Rather than incremental change, Steak ’n Shake opted for structural automation — replacing labor-heavy front-of-house workflows with self-service kiosks, digital menu boards, and streamlined kitchen operations. The result was not just cost reduction, but a fundamentally different operating model.
For technical points they are one of the first to use biometrics (and get sued for it with PopID) and one of the first to accept bitcoin (via Acrelec kiosks running NCR Aloha). They accept cash too.
These actions place Steak ’n Shake among the most aggressive kiosk adopters in the U.S. restaurant industry.
Insights — Unofficially, we were interested in fact we see kiosks from Elo but also Acrelec. We dug into it and it appears Elo was initially used and is used in maybe 20% of installs. This was about the time of the pandemic when those first went in. Elo was suffering supply chain issues and Acrelec stepped in to fill out the other 80%. And yes the cash is handled by CashInfinity by Glory. POS we think is NCR Aloha. — CraigK
Self-Order Kiosks as the Primary Ordering Channel
Steak ’n Shake didn’t deploy kiosks as an “option.” In many locations, kiosks became the default ordering interface, with traditional cashier stations reduced or removed entirely.
steak-n-shake
Key impacts of kiosk-first ordering:
Labor compression: Fewer cashiers required per shift
Higher order accuracy: Customers enter orders directly
Improved throughput during peak hours
Consistent upselling through guided UI prompts
By shifting order entry to kiosks, staff could be reassigned to food prep and fulfillment, where speed and consistency matter most.
This reflects a broader kiosk industry trend: kiosks are no longer additive — they are operational infrastructure.
Alongside kiosks, Steak ’n Shake expanded its use of digital menu boards to regain control over pricing, promotions, and menu complexity.
Digital displays enabled:
Rapid price changes without reprinting costs
Daypart-specific menus
Simplified menu layouts aligned with kiosk flows
Easier testing of limited-time offers (LTOs)
This synchronization between kiosks and displays reduced customer confusion and shortened decision time — a subtle but critical factor in increasing order velocity.
Automation as a Business Survival Strategy
What makes Steak ’n Shake especially relevant to kiosk professionals is why automation was deployed.
This was not a tech vanity project. It was a survival strategy.
Automation allowed Steak ’n Shake to:
Operate stores with significantly fewer staff
Stabilize unit economics in lower-traffic locations
Reopen or sustain stores that would otherwise be unviable
Create a standardized, repeatable operating model for franchising
In effect, kiosks and automation became the enabler of scalability, not just a cost-cutting tool.
Operational Simplification and Kitchen Flow
Self-service ordering only works if the back of house can keep up. Steak ’n Shake paired front-end automation with menu rationalization and kitchen workflow changes. Menu rationalization = selling fewer things, better, faster, and more profitably.
Benefits included:
More predictable order patterns from kiosks
Fewer customizations than verbal ordering
Cleaner handoff between ordering and production
Better data visibility into item-level demand
This is a key lesson for kiosk deployments in QSR: front-end automation must be designed with kitchen realities in mind.
What Steak ’n Shake Signals for the Kiosk Industry
Steak ’n Shake’s transformation highlights several broader truths relevant to kiosks, displays, and unattended ordering:
Kiosks are now core infrastructure, not experimental tech
Legacy brands can modernize without abandoning their identity
Labor-light models are becoming the default, not the exception
Digital ordering is as much about control as it is about convenience
For kiosk manufacturers, software providers, and integrators, Steak ’n Shake validates the long-term demand for durable, scalable self-service platforms in high-volume restaurant environments.
The Bigger Picture: Automation as Brand Reset
Perhaps the most important takeaway is that Steak ’n Shake used automation to reset its business model — not just improve efficiency.
By embracing kiosks, digital displays, and simplified operations, the brand repositioned itself for a future where:
Labor availability is uncertain
Cost pressure is permanent
Speed and consistency outweigh traditional service rituals
Accessibility
Likely Partial Compliance — by obligation of the ADA (Title III of the ADA requires public accommodation without discrimination), Steak ’n Shake restaurants must provide accessible services and facilities. However:
The chain has not publicly disclosed a formal compliance certification for self-service kiosks.
ADA guidance for kiosk accessibility is still evolving, and actual compliance can vary by location and implementation.
Best practice standards in kiosk deployments (reach ranges, audio assist, tactile controls) go beyond what many current restaurant kiosks provide.
For truly inclusive ordering, restaurants often supplement kiosk ordering with alternatives (staff-assisted ordering, mobile apps, etc.) — and it would be prudent for Steak ’n Shake to do the same where kiosk use alone isn’t accessible to all customers.
Notes
Some of the units accept cash. Looks like Glory
POS “warts” are likely Verifon UX3xx
POS software — Despite industry chatter (e.g., on forums about things like “Aloha” or “CashInfinity” mentioned by managers in unofficial posts), there is no authoritative public source confirming a specific commercial POS software product (like Aloha, PAR, Oracle MICROS, Revel, or NCR) as the exclusive POS software used by Steak ’n Shake.
Bitcoin — Steak ’n Shake also partnered with Speed to enable Bitcoin and stablecoin payments using Lightning Network integration
https://kioskindustry.org/crypto-acceptance-in-self-service/ — “Our experience so far with bitcoin is that it has been faster than credit cards, and when customers choose to pay in bitcoin instead of credit cards, we are saving about 50% in our processing fees,” Dan Edwards, Steak ‘n Shake’s chief operations officer, said during a presentation at Bitcoin 2025. [Note — 50% is nice but UPI in India or Pix in Brazil save 100%. See Reforming Retail]
We are checking with Acrelec and Elotouch to reconcile pictures
Digital menu boards –– While Steak ’n Shake hasn’t publicly disclosed the specific make and model of its digital menu board displays, the chain’s self-service and drive-thru signage is integrated as part of its broader kiosk ecosystem delivered by Acrelec, a major provider of QSR kiosk and digital ordering solutions.
Conclusion
Steak ’n Shake is less a fast-food story and more a case study in applied automation — one that continues to influence how QSR brands think about kiosks, ordering, and growth.
We are semi-experts on Epic Check-In as we utilize Optum for our healthcare and UNH. Last time just discussing the check-in process with my nurse raised my blood pressure by 20 points.
Thedacare provides a nice template for improving check-in. Just providing a web login isn’t a good check-in. We note the kiosks appear to be from Olea Kiosks.
Executive Summary (What Matters)
From EpicShare — By redesigning patient arrival around Epic Welcome kiosks, MyChart mobile check-in, and staff-assisted self-service, ThedaCare doubled daily visit volume, eliminated check-in wait times, and reached top-quartile patient satisfaction—without adding registration staff.
This is not a technology story alone. It is a workflow and behavioral design success, enabled by Epic but driven by physical layout, staff role changes, and patient education.
1. What ThedaCare Actually Changed (Operationally)
Before (Common Epic Environment)
Digital check-in existed (MyChart, Hello Patient)
Patients still defaulted to the front desk
Kiosks were present but not visually dominant
Registration staff remained transaction-focused
After (Digital Arrival Model)
Front desk removed as the primary entry point
Self-service Welcome kiosks placed at every entrance
Staff redeployed as arrival concierges, not clerks
Patients given three equivalent check-in paths:
MyChart mobile check-in (Hello Patient)
Epic Welcome kiosks
Assisted self-check-in (staff-guided)
Key insight: Digital tools alone don’t change behavior. Spatial design and staff signaling do.
2. Epic Capabilities Used (and How They Were Positioned)
This model works because it leverages existing Epic functionality, not custom development.
Research shows waiting time strongly impacts satisfaction—but ThedaCare’s results go further.
What Patients Responded To
Control – “Let me do this myself”
Optional help – assistance without pressure or embarrassment
Privacy – no public front-desk conversations
Certainty – clear confirmation that check-in is complete
By June 2025:
66% kiosk check-in
27% mobile (Hello Patient)
7% face-to-face
Zero reported check-in wait times
89% Press Ganey top-box score (96th percentile)
4. Staffing Model: The Hidden Win
What Changed for Registration Teams
No longer “gatekeepers”
Became digital guides and problem solvers
Supported patients only when needed
Handled 2× visit volume with the same headcount
Actionable Lesson
If your Epic kiosk rollout increases staff anxiety, you’ve framed the role wrong. This works when staff are positioned as helpers, not replacements.
5. Implementation Playbook
Phase 1: Prove It
Use a new or redesigned facility as a test bed
Eliminate the front desk as the visual default
Place kiosks directly in the line of sight
Phase 2: Train Before Go-Live
Introduce Welcome + Hello Patient before opening
Run open houses and walkthroughs
Train staff on when to step in—and when not to
Phase 3: Normalize Digitally
Bake check-in education into scheduling calls
Reinforce via reminders and signage
Ensure the same options exist across specialties
Phase 4: Scale
Expand once behavior stabilizes
Monitor self-service mix, not just adoption
Measure arrival-to-room time, not kiosk usage alone
6. Why This Matters for Epic Customers Today
For Epic organizations struggling with:
Registration bottlenecks
Staffing shortages
Patient experience scores
Underused kiosks or mobile check-in
ThedaCare proves the constraint is not Epic—it’s arrival design.
Epic already supports this model. The differentiator is how intentionally it’s deployed.
Bottom Line
ThedaCare didn’t “add kiosks.” They replaced the front desk with a digital arrival strategy, powered by Epic and validated by patient behavior.
If you’re evaluating kiosks, mobile check-in, or “digital front door” initiatives in Epic, this case is best viewed as a workflow transformation blueprint, not a technology success story.
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OptConnect Acquires DPL Wireless: A Shift Toward Intelligence-First IoT
The acquisition of **DPL Wireless by OptConnect signals a meaningful evolution in the IoT connectivity market—particularly for unattended infrastructure such as ATMs, kiosks, vending, micro-markets, lockers, and EV charging.
This is not a scale-for-scale deal. It is a vertical intelligence play.
DPL Wireless has long specialized in ATM and BTM telemetry—monitoring device health, power anomalies, environmental conditions, and early indicators of failure. These are environments where downtime is unacceptable and predictive insight is far more valuable than raw connectivity.
OptConnect brings global cellular orchestration, carrier abstraction, fleet logistics, and enterprise-scale IoT management. Together, the two companies are positioning themselves as more than a connectivity provider: they are building an AI-driven device intelligence platform designed to understand what unattended devices are doing, why issues occur, and how failures can be prevented before service is disrupted.
How This Compares to Cradlepoint and Ventus/Digi
The strategic intent becomes clearer when compared to other leaders in the space.
Cradlepoint is best understood as an enterprise edge networking company. Its strength lies in routing, SD-WAN, security, and branch connectivity. Cradlepoint excels where IT-managed networks, complex traffic routing, and security policy enforcement are required. However, its focus is the network—not the operational health of unattended devices themselves.
Digi International and its Ventus portfolio are rooted in industrial-grade embedded hardware. Digi shines in long lifecycle modem deployments, OEM integrations, and ruggedized connectivity. The intelligence layer exists, but the emphasis remains hardware-centric rather than predictive operations.
OptConnect + DPL takes a different path. The emphasis is outcome-driven intelligence:
Is the device healthy?
Is it about to fail?
Is the issue network, power, hardware, or environment?
Can we act before a truck roll is required?
Why ATM Telemetry Matters Beyond ATMs
ATMs are one of the most demanding unattended environments. If predictive models work there, they translate naturally to kiosks, vending machines, EV chargers, and smart retail infrastructure.
This acquisition suggests OptConnect is betting that the next phase of IoT competition will be won not by who connects the most devices—but by who understands them best.
Bottom Line
Connectivity is becoming commoditized. Intelligence is not.
If OptConnect successfully scales DPL’s telemetry expertise beyond financial infrastructure, it could become the connective tissue—the “nervous system”—for the next generation of unattended technology deployments.
Execution will determine whether this is a quiet backend enhancement or a defining platform shift. But strategically, the direction is clear.
PRESS NOTICE
Why OptConnect + DPL?
We’re delighted to announce that OptConnect has acquired DPL Wireless — combining DPL’s deep ATM and BTM telemetry with OptConnect’s global IoT intelligence. That means more next-gen cellular IoT products, enhanced reliability, and opportunities to scale.
What This Means for You
Minimizing disruption is our top priority; that’s why everything you like about each organization stays the same. No changes to pricing, contracts, or support.
So what can you expect in the future?
More support coverage
More engineering power and expertise
More innovation, delivered faster
The best customer experience in the industry
Stronger roadmap and greater long-term stability
Faster shipping and fulfillment backed by OptConnect scaled logistics
Together with DPL, OptConnect is creating the most advanced AI-driven connectivity and devices intelligence platform in the industry – and delivering even better results for your business.
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Photo provided by the Consumer Technology Association.
Tech Report from Las Vegas
Everyone knows AI is changing the way we live. What became obvious walking the CES show this week is that everything from making the morning coffee to using the toilet to knowing the best route to get to wherever you’re going when you leave the house (and how you get there) will be done on autopilot.
AI has become the intelligence engine behind a rapidly growing number of physical tools people use in both private and public environments, handling perception, decision making and control.
And while the goal of CES has always been to showcase home technology, as this technology has advanced, so has its application to public spaces.
As noted in last week’s CES preview article, the line between “smart home” and “smart environment” is blurring. AI and robotic technology developed for the home (B2C) has been adapted to public spaces (B2B).
Artly AI’s automatic barista configurations, for example, show a single AI-robotics stack being monetized via cafés (B2B services), self-serve kiosks (B2B2C) and potentially, home units (B2C).
Bioconnect’s VitalPlatform, meanwhile, demonstrates how consumer-friendly camera screening becomes an enterprise analytics platform for wellness and safety.
Tools such as AI video avatars and emotion recognizing interactive music are boosting customer experience in public spaces as well as homes. Biometric device-stored personal identities eliminate the need for cards or apps while maintaining privacy, in both the home and the public space.
The strategy for tech innovators of “design once, then sell to both households and owners/operators in the public environments” offers a way to boost ROI on R&D.
Automation in the public space was on full display at the main CES venues – the Las Vegas Convention Center, The Venetian Expo and the C Space Campus (Aria).
Following are highlights from the show floors in alphabetical order.
AETI Global
AETI Global, a provider of food and beverage vending machines, demonstrated its Magic Coffee Series machines, including the MCF Vending Pro, which serves more than 10 hot beverage options, including coffee, latte, cappuccino and hot chocolate.
Beverages are served in 12-ounce cups in 60 to 120 seconds, and the machine holds a capacity of 150 cups and 80 lids.
The series also includes the MCF Mini and the MCF Mini Dual machines.
AETI machines also include ice cream, cotton candy, popcorn, balloon, souvenir and phone case vending machines.
Ahln
The Ahln smart delivery box offers a secure and automated smart delivery system designed to store and facilitate package deliveries. It provides users with a contactless and convenient method to receive their parcels, eliminating issues like theft and failed deliveries.
The box stores parcels in a secure, tamper-proof locker. Only the designated recipient can access the package using a unique code or app authentication.
Retailers can integrate the box into their checkout process, allowing customers to choose a secure locker delivery option.
For e-commerce businesses and logistics providers, the box streamlines the delivery process, reducing the need for multiple delivery attempts. This leads to cost savings on fuel, labor and package replacements due to theft or misdelivery.
The system demonstrates how one automation platform supports both home and commercial environments, defining the B2C/B2B blending at CES.
Antamix
Antamix presented its multifunctional culinary robot that automates key cooking processes — chopping, mixing, heating, steaming and kneading — all within a single, compact device. The unit is designed for both consumer and commercial kitchens.
The robot demonstrates how one robotic platform supports both home and commercial environments, once again demonstrating the B2C/B2B blending at CES.
Adaptive cooking intelligence: a temperature and viscosity–sensing system for automatic recipe adjustments.
Modular attachments tailored to regional cuisines (African, Mediterranean, Asian, etc.).
Controlled induction heating with precise temperature.
A 1,000-watt DC motor torque for handling heavy doughs, dense batters and tough ingredients.
Dishwasher safe components.
Aquablu
Aquablu, a provider of hydration systems, presented its Refill+ Series 2. Powered by Aura, the company’s new operating system, it connects all Aquablu products and data into one ecosystem that offers more variety for users and gives facility managers full control through real-time insights.
With over 60 drink combinations — from hot water at 75 degrees Centigrade and 90 degrees Centigrade to chilled or extra-sparkling water with enriched flavors — the system offers maximum variety without the need for multiple machines. All flavors are enriched with vitamins and minerals, and contain no sugar.
Operators can change flavors with automatic RFID detection.
Users can personalize hydration with five water types, six flavors and three functional boosts.
The company also introduced a new flavor: Refresh, consisting of cucumber, yuzu, and mint, enriched with vitamins C and B12.
The Aura operating system allows facility managers to proactively manage maintenance and replenishment, and to gain real-time insight into usage, system status, and CO₂ and plastic bottle savings.
Artly AI
Artly AI, a manufacturer of AI enabled robots for various service tasks, presented its Artly Barista Bot, featuring an AI-powered robotic arm that functions as a barista, making various coffee drinks. The robot was developed to combine robotics with artistic coffee-making skills, using deep learning and motion capture to learn its techniques by observing human baristas.
The Barista Bot can mimic complex movements to create consistent, high-quality beverages.
The bot comes in three physical options: an open station designed for cafes, offices or retail stores; an enclosed option with a protective enclosure to prevent unauthorized access and an enlarged fridge for increased storage and an integrated display screen for promotions; and a kiosk option, a fully self contained coffee station featuring a built-in condiment bar and a walk-in storage area, designed for malls, campuses and public spaces for high traffic locations such as airports or events.
Atomic RFID
Atomic RFID, a provider of access control technology, presented its ATOM-ICOM AI touchscreen intercomkioskwith VirtualGuard for secure entry. The AI-powered platform and touchscreen act as a 24/7 virtual guard, verifying visitors via QR codes, facial recognition or RFID credentials.
The platform controls gates and doors remotely through the company’s cloud-based app or web interface, with seamless integration for any property.
The company also provided information about its UHF long range RFID reader, its advanced access control cloud, its UHF RFID tags, its Wiegand 26 keyfob, its Wiegand 26 access card and more.
Autel Intelligent Technology Corp., Ltd.
Autel Intelligent Technology Corp. Ltd., a provider of diagnostic, testing systems, smart charging systems and electronic components, demonstrated its EV MaxiCharger AC Compact Gen2 and its EV MaxiCharger DC50.
The AC Compact Gen 2 offers a turnkey solution for AC charging with enhanced reliability through architectural optimization and multi-layer safety design. The DIY replacement and one-click installation design reduce user costs and enable rapid deployment.
The MaxiCharger DC50 is an all-in-one 50 KW DC fast charger with a compact size designed for space-constrained commercial sites. Dual 5G and Mesh networking ensure 99.9% uptime.
The company’s EV Maxicharger solutions also include the AC Pro, the DC Fast, the AC Ultra and the DC Hipower.
Bioconnect Inc.
Bioconnect Inc., a digital healthcare company specializing in AI based contactless biometric screening technology, introduced its VitalTracker and VitalPlatform — honored as a CES 2026 Innovation Awards Honoree for advancing Human Security for All through accessible, camera-based health monitoring.
The AI-powered rPPG (remote-photoplethysmography) technology measures vital signs in seconds, requiring no wearables or other sensors. Users simply look at the screen to check heart rate, respiration, blood oxygen, estimated blood pressure, stress and more.
The VitalPlatform turns every measurement into actionable insight with dashboards, analytics and APIs/SDKs that integrate seamlessly into kiosks, smart mirrors, enterprise wellness programs and industrial safety solutions.
The hardware product line includes two kiosks, a smart mirror and a software development kit.
Biopop International
Biopop International introduced its Elixir to offer non-invasive health assessments in under 60 seconds for clinics, wellness centers, gyms and corporate campuses.
The company makes health monitoring accessible in non-clinical settings such as public facilities, corporate wellness programs and smart city environments.
The device utilizes near-infrared spectroscopy to perform non-invasive blood analysis. By emitting near-infrared light, the device captures data on how the light is absorbed, reflected and scattered by blood vessels.
The kiosk has an 18-inch LCD touchscreen and integrates with mobile apps for data tracking and trend insights.
The Elixir is beneficial for monitoring and supporting the prevention of serious illnesses, but is not a medical device and is not covered by health insurance.
Brolan Tech Limited
The Brolan shoe-cleaning robot combines cleaning, drying and sterilization of leather, coated surfaces, canvas, fabrics and mixed materials to clean shoes in 30 to 60 minutes. Genuine leather and non-washable materials are not recommended for machine cleaning.
The machine sprays micro and nano bubbles over the shoe that penetrate fibers to lift and remove stubborn dirt. Following washing, the machine forces low heat, dual air drying on the shoes, maintaining the shape.
The triple sterilization includes ozone treatment that removes bacteria, fungi and microbes; micro bubbles containing hydroxyl radicals break down deep seated bacteria; followed by hot air that provides secondary sterilization during the drying process.
The machine features a bionic robotic arm that integrates infrared ranging smart dimensional analysis, pressure sensor adjustable cleaning force, 3D movement spatial awareness, and program matching smart decision making.
Cafecito Lady LLC
Cafecito Lady LLC, a coffee roaster based in Vancouver, Washington, introduced a prototype of its DriTender dispensing platform to automate the dispensing of dry ingredients such as coffee, tea, spices and specialty granules. The system combines software with adaptable hardware to deliver consistent results across commercial, hospitality and specialty food environments.
Key benefits include consistent dispensing, reduced waste and overportioning, and modular hardware with shared software.
One machine can connect with others over a network while the web interface allows devices to create recipes.
The company’s TamTender is a liquid dispensing variant for sauces, syrups, concentrates and other flow-based ingredients.
CHAEVI
CHAEVI, a provider of EV charging technology, was a 2026 CES honoree in AI for vehicle tech and advanced mobility as the world’s first multi-standard system (MCS + CCS + NACS) covering all charging types in the U.S.
The CHAEVI MCS megawatt EV charging platform delivers up to 3.75 MW charging for heavy-duty vehicles, while supporting passenger EVs with up to 400 KW.
Its modular, stackable MegaWatt Power Stack allows low-cost expansion, eliminating long queues caused by limited chargers.
At long-haul rest stops, CHAEVI MCS uses AI-based smart sequential scheduling to recharge dozens of trucks during the mandatory 8-hour rest period. It also features integrated AI diagnostics, liquid-cooled power modules and energy conversion.
Coffee bara
Coffee bara introduced its “Drink Drop Done” coffee cup recycling solution featuring an AI driven robotic cup separator. The four-step solution consists of recognition (via an embedded lightweight edge AI vision), separation (via a precision robotic gripper for handling non-rigid objects), cleansing (via high pressure fluid control) and loading (via a high-density stacking mechanism).
The computer vision instantly detects and classifies incoming cups and materials, even if crushed or misaligned.
The gripper securely grasps and transfers objects to separation stations based on material properties and containment levels.
The contamination detection and removal processes ensure clean, grade-A material moves to the next stage.
Clean material is automatically baled or loaded for shipment to recycling facilities, maximizing throughput and minimizing waste.
Deye
Deye, a global provider of energy technologies and energy storage systems, presented its Smart EV Charger that can directly connect to any AC port of the inverter and is controlled by the inverter via LoRa communication. The charger offers flexible options to take advantage of low-cost electricity, with modes such as plug and play, time of charge or solar energy only.
The company’s PV-BESS-EV charging solution combines solar generation, battery storage and EV charging designed for shopping centers, office parks, EV charging stations and other urban infrastructure.
The solution maximizes the use of solar power and minimizes electric usage.
Digi International
Digi International, a provider of connectivity solutions, presented its newest embedded solutions for OEMs, integrators and developers seeking to build, deploy and manage connected systems.
Digi XBee for Wi-SUN offers a complete Wi-SUN solution comprising developer kits, XBee modules, Digi XBee Hive border routers and integrated remote management.
The Digi XBee Hive Gateway comes ready to connect with a SIM and data plan, expanding the XBee portfolio with advanced connectivity and edge compute capabilities, bridging sensor networks to cloud applications easily and securely.
Digi Connect EZ WS designed for patient care environments provides secure serial connectivity that boots in seconds and runs for years, enabling safe integration of medical devices into hospital networks.
Digi Connect Sensor XRT-M paired with Digi Axess is a battery-powered cellular gateway for remote monitoring that provides actionable insights from distributed assets.
Digi AnywhereUSB Plus delivers secure, scalable USB-over-IP connectivity, allowing peripherals to be accessed anywhere on the network.
ElectricFish
Electric Fish’s Turbo Charge solution shifts EV infrastructure from centralized and inconvenient parking hubs to distributed, charge-and-go nodes embedded in existing fuel stations, enabling fast scale without grid expansion.
The 400squared EV charging device embedded in gas stations connects to local power grids, enabling customers to charge vehicles in 10 minutes and enabling existing fuel stations to expand into the EV market without investing in freestanding EV charging stations.
EV owners pay by tapping their payment card and do not have to download an app.
The device uses AI powered energy management, featuring 400 KW continuous output power and energy storage capacity. The AI engine optimizes energy flow in real time, deciding when to store energy, charge vehicles or interact with the grid. It continues operating during power outages.
Managed via the EletricFish Reef platform, each device provides real-time operational insights.
ElectricFish installs and monitors the device remotely.
The company presently serves locations in Michigan and Massachusetts, with additional states coming soon.
Euhomy
Euhomy displayed its ice machines for both home and commercial use. The product line again demonstrates how one tech platform supports both home and commercial environments, defining the B2C/B2B blending at CES.
The Luna Pro Crescent Ice Maker features app control with status visualization and multi-parameter adjustment, in addition to slow melting crescent ice, a water circulation system, energy efficient cooling and one-touch self cleaning.
The Rock Pro Sphere Ice Maker offers 6.3-cm sphere ice with continuous freezing along with app control and status monitoring for management of ice shape and production.
The Rock Plus Square Ice Maker features a large square ice design with dual modes and LED status display.
Eyebot
Eyebot, a vision test kiosk that delivers a doctor-verified eyeglasses prescription directly to a user’s phone or inbox, announced a partnership with The Framery at 1-800 Contacts, an online glasses retailer. Users will now be able to move seamlessly from a rapid vision test to a doctor-verified eyeglasses prescription to a curated eyewear selection — in just minutes.
Once users have their prescription, they step into The Framery Experience, a curated eyewear space designed by the vision care experts at 1-800 Contacts, to find their pair. Users can explore frames that fit their style, then try them on in-person or virtually.
Every vision test is reviewed by a licensed eye doctor to ensure accuracy and clinical oversight.
Faytech Tech Co. Ltd.
Faytech Tech Co. Ltd., a global manufacturer of touch monitors and PCs, demonstrated its HumanBeam Technologies immersive 3D virtual assistant that engages customers in hotels, coffee shops and tourist centers. The virtual assistant is always ready to guide, inform and elevate every guest’s journey.
The interactive avatar handles routine requests, guest inquiries and upsells that drive revenue and loyalty. It also offers multi-language support where needed.
In health care training sessions, the virtual patient simulation prepares students and clinicians with life-like, conversational virtual patients powered by HumanBeam’s 3D AI engine and can run standardized scenarios for history taking, triage, empathy training and clinical reasoning.
Flying Turtle
Flying Turtle presented its AI enabled robotic barista vending machine featuring a wide array of options, including multi-flavored drinks such as sodas and smoothies, protein shakes, as well as coffee and tea.
Health-conscious consumers can easily adjust the sweetness level, ranging from no sugar to 100%, ensuring each drink perfectly suits individual preferences. The machine uses recyclable materials like polypropylene (PP#5) for all cups, lids, and straws.
Once a customer places an order on the machine, the machine allows a second customer to also place an order while it prepares the drink for the first customer, reducing waiting time when customers are queuing at the machine.
The machine collects real-time data on usage and ingredients, enabling precise optimization of operations to ensure that ingredients are consistently stocked and available. Payment options include e-wallets, including DuitNow QR, GrabPay, TnGo and more.
FormLabs
Formlabs, a 3D printing provider, introduced its Form 4, its next-generation resin 3D printer to improve speed, accuracy, reliability and material versatility.
Form 4 and its biocompatible version, Form 4B, mark the next evolution in stereolithography (SLA) 3D printing technology, delivering the majority of parts in under two hours for all materials without compromising on dimensional accuracy or surface finish.
Form 4 combines a new print engine with updates to the company’s materials library — 23 unique resins on Form 4 and 37 on Form 4B available at launch — as well as new accessories and post-processing solutions.
The company believes resin printing is suited for applications requiring tight tolerance and smooth surfaces, such as rapid prototyping, tooling, manufacturing aids, models and low- volume end use parts.
Fujitsu North America
Fujitsu North America demonstrated its physical AI capabilities including its spatial world model technology which is designed to facilitate human-robot collaboration by helping robots predict and react to human behavior.
This solution leverages data from fixed and mobile cameras to map actors and objects in a physical space on a 3D scene graph. AI then interprets the causal relationships and models how humans in the physical space will act.
The model enables robots to assess spatial dynamics and respond appropriately. Under normal conditions, robots autonomously perform routine tasks. When changes occur in the space, the model proactively shifts to centralized control based on predicted future scenarios.
Gole Robotics
Gole Robotics’ AA-2 autonomous delivery robot was a CES 2026 innovation honoree. Designed for apartments and mixed-use complexes, the AA-2 balances privacy and convenience.
The solution addresses challenges from the rapid growth of overnight delivery, including worker fatigue, safety risks and elevator congestion, while offering residents a seamless contactless experience.
Through integration with the EV-1 elevator interface, AA-2 autonomously calls and rides elevators. It completes multi-drop deliveries to up to three households in a single trip, ensuring efficient, human-free, last-mile logistics within residential buildings.
Flexible materials absorb impact, ensuring safe operation around residents, children and property during nighttime hours. After unloading, AA-2 deflates to minimize storage size. When returning to the charging station, it recharges both battery and air simultaneously for immediate redeployment.
The delivery robot demonstrates how one robotic platform supports both home and commercial uses, once again defining the B2C/B2B blending at CES.
Gwang Myung Tech Co. Ltd.
Gwang Myung Tech Co. Ltd., maker of an unmanned civil service issuance machine, presented its smart universal kiosk designed for a wide range of users, including people with disabilities, older adults and children. The kiosk integrates information, ticketing, payment and printing to assist such individuals.
The ergonomically designed kiosk features standardized screen and control positions with ensured foot and knee clearance.
It also offers diverse accessibility and multi-lingual support, including Braille keypad and voice guidance, high contrast mode and low screen mode.
AI powered interfaces include eye tracking and facial recognition.
Accessibility features include wheelchair accessibility, sign language support, voice assistance and high contrast visual display.
Iceplosion
Iceplosing offers a tabletop carbonated slushie machine that makes 32-fluid-ounce frozen carbonated slushies in as little as three minutes and 16–fluid-ounce ice cold sodas in as little as two minutes.
Designed for both consumer and commercial use, the machine makes drinks from bio-degradable polypropylenedrink-flavored syrup capsules, using standard 60-liter carbon dioxide gas bottles.
The machine does not require a plumbed-in water supply, has a user touchscreen and self cleans for one minute following use.
Product offerings include both sugar and non-sugar drinks.
Keenon Robotics Co. Ltd.
Keenon Robotics Co. Ltd. presented its service robots, from specialized to general-purpose and from commercial to home applications.
The T10 “Chef’s Special” AI-powered delivery robot integrates voice, touch and vision to offer a dynamic and intuitive service experience. A touch on its head accessory activates responsive head movement and voice, while its AI tray detection ensures seamless item pickup by detecting retrieval automatically.
Designed for narrow-space navigation (59 cm) and precise obstacle avoidance, the T10 features a sensor fusion system with four stereo vision sensors and LiDAR for safe, autonomous operation.
Optimized for food and beverage auto-serving in tight spaces, it features a 23.8-inch high-resolution screen that enhances both self-pickup guidance and advertising. A selection of head accessories provides customization options to align with different branding needs.
Micro-Star International Co. Ltd.
Micro-Star International Co. Ltd. presented its EV charging solutions, including AC Level‑2 home and commercial chargers, portable travel chargers, and DC fast chargers.
The company’s Hyper 80 Dual delivers 80 KW output with dual CCS1/CCS2 connectors, enabling one vehicle to charge at full power or two simultaneously.
Driver-friendly features include a 10.1-inch display, RFID authentication, plug and charge, and multiple payment options.
The Hyper 80 Dual is built to withstand temperatures ranging from 22 degrees Farenheit to 122 degrees Farenheit, with IP55 dust/water resistance, IK08 impact protection and high-altitude operation.
The company’s EV Series delivers up to 14 KW (60 A) AC charging with broad connector support (Type-1, Type-2, NACS),
The Eco Series delivers up to 22 KW three-phase output with flexible input configurations and supports renewable energy integration and scalable charging for larger-battery EVs.
Nexus Patio Tech
Nexus Patio Tech demonstrated its customized smart tech solutions — including self-serve kiosks, web platforms, mobile apps and autonomous robots.
The Nexa Touch kiosk features natural voice AI and a responsive touchscreen, allowing customers to order by speaking, tapping or combining the two. The kiosk integrates with POS systems such as Toast, Square, Stripe and more.
The company also provided information about its service and delivery robots which automate the transport and delivery of orders and integrate with the Nexus digital ecosystem, connecting orders, cashiers, kitchens, deliveries and customers in a single flow. The robots have sensors to avoid collisions and an interface for personnel.
Nosh Robotics
The Nosh cooking robot prepares fresh meals using computer vision, robotics and culinary intelligence. Instead of relying on presets or fixed cooking times, Nosh continuously observes food as it cooks — adjusting heat, seasoning, stirring and timing in real time.
Users simply load pre-chopped ingredients, select a recipe on the Nosh app and let the robot take over.
The internal camera monitors color, texture, moisture and cooking progress in real time. Based on what the AI sees, it autonomously decides when to add the next ingredient and seasonings, how to adjust heat, when to stir and when to stop.
Nosh offers more than 500 programmed recipes. Its AI interprets each recipe as a sequence of cooking states. This allows it to reproduce dishes of high quality while also offering personalization. Users can personalize seasoning levels, thickness or salt preferences through the app, which Nosh then executes automatically.
Onenex
Onenex presented its identity verification solution for analyzing identity documents. The company designed its software using AI and facial recognition to verify the authenticity of identity documents in real time, enabling precise analysis of paper type, format and document technicalities.
All data is encrypted using AES-256, ensuring secure transmission and storage.
Features also include remote monitoring and access to detailed statistics.
The company’s self-serve kiosk welcomes guests autonomously with visitor authentication and instant access to services.
The desktop streamlines check-ins for front desks.
The battery powered suitcase enables mobile identity verification.
OpticWash
OpticWash, a maker of automatic eyeglass cleaning kiosks, introduced its downsized Elite unit (18 inches tall) to fit into smaller areas. In addition to eyeglasses, the devices sanitize water resistant smartphones, watches and jewelry.
The system uses pure water at low pressure to ensure a scratch-free and streak-free finish, and UV-C sanitization to eliminate bacteria and viruses. It also recycles water to reduce waste.
The system operates without harsh chemicals, heat or high pressure.
Perfect Corp.
Perfect Corp., a provider of AI and augmented reality solutions for beauty, fashion and retail, demonstrated how intelligent AI agents and modular, scalable APIs are redefining personalization, product discovery and visual experiences.
The company’s AI beauty agent tools move beyond static try-on and analysis experiences to become intelligent and personalized digital advisors.
Designed to seamlessly integrate across e-commerce, mobile, and in-store touchpoints, the AI agents enable brands to automate expert-level consultations, streamline shopper decision making and increase conversion.
The YouCam AI agent uses a single selfie combined with real-time dialogue to analyze skin concerns, understand shopper preferences and recommend products tailored to each individual.
Perfect Corp.’s enterprise-ready APIs include:
AI skin analysis APIs for precise skin assessment.
AI face APIs for accurate face shapes and face ratio analysis.
Virtual try-on APIs for beauty, watch, jewelry, accessories, apparel and shoes.
GenAI content creation API.
Prologium Technology
Prologium Technology, a provider of lithium-ceramic battery technology, marked its 20th anniversary by unveiling its proprietary Superfluidized All-Inorganic Solid-State Lithium Ceramic Battery technology.
Using this platform, ProLogium also debuted a new generation of EV battery modules, while expanding the technology into multiple applications including electric construction machinery, e-bikes, humanoid robots and power management and energy storage systems for AI data centers.
The technology addresses shared pain points across diverse use cases — driving range, charging efficiency, low-temperature operation and battery safety. The company aims to accelerate low-carbon transition in transportation and industrial energy use, and to establish a foundation for the next-generation battery market.
Red Wolf Technology
Red Wolf Technology, a provider of retail automation for the mobile accessories industry, demonstrated 3D printing technology to help retailers manufacture products at the point of sale. The platform combines hardware, proprietary software and automation to support real-time manufacturing directly in retail environments.
The company demonstrated a 3D printing machine for phone cases and home accessories.
The technology is designed to allow retailers to move away from traditional stocking models and toward local, just-in-time production, improving margins while reducing environmental impact.
Repla Inc.
Repla Inc.’s Puri-Checker material content scanner for recycled plastic flakes analyzes the composition ratios of plastics, which aids in the recycling process. The company specializes in enzyme-purified recycled plastic that is free of impurities.
The device tests each sample’s composition of plastic flakes and displays its quantity in real time on a screen. When the flakes are placed in the feeder, they move to the conveyor belt. Sensors then check the spectrum of the spread flakes on the conveyor belt. The PC receives the spectral information and determines the type of materials.
Where many plastic recycling processes rely on manual resources, Puri-Checker utilizes optical recognition and deep learning software. It identifies nine types of plastic, their metallic particles and colors, with close to 100% accuracy.
Richtech Robotics Inc.
Richtech RoboticsInc., a provider of AI-driven robots operating in commercial and industrial environments, demonstrated its robotics solution platform, presented by its humanoid robot, Dex.
Accelerated by the NVIDIA Jetson Thor, Dex operates in dynamic environments, adapting with real-time reasoning and performing complex tasks with detailed precision, all while operating for four hours on a single charge.
The Dex presentation included four robotic solutions:
ADAM, employing its core barista duty, making coffee.
Matradee Plus, equipped with accuracy in food delivery capabilities.
Titan, a logistics delivery system.
Scorpion, showcasing new abilities with enhanced visual monitoring.
The ADAM robot was especially busy during the show, serving a variety of coffee drinks. ADAM also serves as a boba tea maestro, serving bubble tea creations, and as a mixologist, serving cocktails from its drinks library.
Shenzhen Wan Ai Chef Technology
The wan AIChef ultra from Shenzhen Wan Ai Chef Technology offers an AI-powered cooking system designed to transform complex cooking into a seamless, automated experience. Users simply load ingredients. The system then automatically identifies each component, determines optimal cooking methods, controls temperature with commercial-grade precision and executes the entire process autonomously.
Features include smart ingredient recognition, AI precision temperature control with ±3°C stability and a self-evolving recipe system trained by master chefs and continuously refined through real-world data.
The company connects cooking hardware, software intelligence, and food supply systems into a closed-loop experience.
Integrated with wan AiOS, the company’s dietary intelligence platform, the system can also generate personalized meal plans and support long-term nutrition management — bridging the gap between cooking convenience and wellness outcomes.
Soundhound AI Inc.
Soundhound AI Inc., a provider of voice and conversational intelligence, demonstrated its Dynamic Drive-Thru, which it currently provides to Burger King UK. The voice AI allows customers to verbally place orders and make changes that the AI assistant can understand. The AI assistant also attempts to upsell the customer before completing the order.
The automated voice assistant processes requests and sends them directly to the point-of-sale system, streamlining operations and enhancing the overall guest experience.
Soundhound previously announced plans to integrate its Dynamic Drive-Thru voice AI technology with Acrelec’s content management system and digital signage enclosures. The combined solution enables customers to place orders seamlessly through an automated voice assistant, which processes requests and sends them directly to the point-of-sale system – streamlining operations and enhancing the overall guest experience.
The fully integrated system not only offers consumers greater speed and convenience, but also helps restaurants optimize labor by freeing up staff to focus on restaurant operations, while remaining available to assist when needed.
Starbot Inc.
Starbot Inc.’s AI-powered humanoid robots with dual robotic arms assist in various service environments, combining perception, motion execution, interaction and intelligent scheduling.
In restaurants, they take orders, deliver food and interact with customers.
In hotels, they welcome guests, provide room service, offer concierge assistance and assist in facility tours.
In security public parks, they conduct inventory surveillance and monitor perimeters.
In home environments, they assist with household tasks, entertainment, security monitoring and smart home integration.
Stern Pinball Inc.
Stern Pinball Inc. introduced its two newest games, Star Wars: Fall of the Empire and The Walking Dead Remastered.
In Star Wars: Fall of the Empire, players take part in the adventures and experience Star Wars-inspired moments through a pinball experience. The game takes players on an adventure to save the galaxy with a fresh take on the original Star Wars trilogy. The games are available in Pro, Premium and Limited Edition models.
In The Walking Dead Remastered, players battle walkers and survive key scenes from The Walking Dead in an immersive physical pinball experience. The development team, led by John Borg, the designer of the original game, has created a modern version of the original show.
Sunmi
Sunmi presented its Flex 3 Android-based, self-service kiosk designed for retail and hospitality, featuring a bezel-less display and a dual-layer back and flat design. The integrated AI accelerator architecture provides voice interaction, facial recognition and loss prevention.
The solution can be used for self checkout, self ordering, kitchen display system and ESOP workstation.
The solution is designed for corporate visitor registration, healthcare and electronic class boards.
The interactive display is available in three sizes: 18.5 inches, 23.22 inches and 3.27 inches.
Seven stands are available: a retail version floor stand, a retail version desktop stand, a restaurant version floor stand, a restaurant version desktop stand, a Lite desktop stand, a Lite floor stand and a Lite L-shaped desktop stand.
Surreal Nexus Technology Inc.
Surreal Nexus Technology Inc. introduced its Breakreal R1 AI-powered countertop cocktail machine that acts as an automated AI bartender. The machine mixes cocktails using multiple internal liquid lines and a robotic dispensing arm.
The machine handles up to eight preloaded ingredients, including alcohol, syrups, soda, juices and more.
Users describe their preferences via text or an app, prompting the system to generate a customized beverage recipe and send it to the machine to mix.
The recipe engine contains more than 500 recipes and an unlimited number of AI generated recipes. Drinks are made in between 20 and 40 seconds.
The machine comes equipped with a self cleaning mechanism.
Sweet Robo
Sweet Robo, a provider of food and entertainment product vending machines, introduced its Chocoprint chocolate vending machine. The machine allows customers to watch the process through a display window as the robotic printer brings 3D designs to life in chocolate.
Customers choose from hundreds of pre-set shapes across dozens of product categories, including both dark and white chocolate.
There are two print models, each offering a flavor option, a refill capacity, a print speed and packaging and delivering options.
The company also offers cotton candy, ice cream, popcorn, lollypop, marshmallow vending machines, along with machines for balloons and phone cases.
TechForce Robotics
TechForce Robotics, an AI-driven service robotics platform focused on hospitality, foodservice and commercial automation, presented its robotics technologies, including new platforms designed to increase operational efficiency, improve service speed and drive incremental revenue.
The company provided information on how its Robotics-as-a-Service platform enables scalable deployment, ongoing support and recurring value creation.
Techforce also demonstrated a countertop Beverage Bot dispensing machine that rotates four cups at a time. The system is engineered to dispense both carbonated beverages and multiple tap beer selections with precision, delivering cold beverages with minimal to no foam while preserving product quality and consistency.
By reducing beverage serve time and increasing throughput, the Beverage Bot enables venues to capture revenue that might otherwise be lost when patron demand exceeds human serving capacity.
The company’s robots provide operational workloads including waste transport, linen and material movement, supply and inventory distribution, back-of-house and facilities support, internal deliveries, routing, and beverage service support.
Uno Home
Uno Home offers an AI powered smart mirror that scans a person’s face and provides personalized health insights for consumers. A facial recognition camera enables the system to measure heart rate, blood pressure and stress level.
The system monitors breathing, heart rate and movement during sleep, then transforms the data into a visual report that includes insights to improve sleep.
The Uno Home can be used in clinics and other settings in addition to homes.
VisioLab
VisioLab presented its “grab, pay and go” retail self-checkout system powered by AI computer vision technology. Once the customer places their selected items on the tray, the AI camera identifies each item by sight in less than a second without the use of barcodes.
Customers can pay using QR codes and access and download digital receipts via QR code after checkout.
Up to 10 products can be placed comfortably on the tray at one time. For drinks, more products can be placed.
The average training time is about four minutes for an inventory of about 150 articles. Some retailers achieve training times of two minutes.
The solution combines real-time analysis with data visualization and intuitive operation to support user experience and decision making.
Venhub Global Inc.
VenHub Global Inc., a provider of a fully-robotic, autonomous retail store, demonstrated its VenHub Smart Store, enabling 24/7 unattended shopping.
The solution is designed to serve both consumers and operators by eliminating on-site staffing, reducing operational overhead and delivering a personalized shopping experience.
The platform offers adaptive product displays, real-time inventory automation, robotic precision in-order handling and mobile customer engagement.
The AI-driven platform streamlines restocking, reduces waste and ensures high-demand items are available.
In addition to fixed smart store models, the company is also developing mobile units to offer fully robotic, unattended stores.
WTI Wireless
WTI Wireless, a manufacturer of M2M connectivity solutions, presented wireless 4G and 5G routers for 2-, 4- and 5-port devices.
The remote power switches automatically reboot locked devices. The redundant power supply pings an assigned IP address every minute. If the equipment does not respond following 10 attempts, the redundant power supply will disconnect the outlet for 10 seconds before turning it back on.
The routers’ magnetic antennas power Ethernet cables, PCI compliance, dual SIM, split data routing, adapters, cloud monitoring, plug and play, and primary or failover capabilities.
Xbot
Xbot coffee machines are enclosed robotic cafés that integrate a commercial-grade machine with a robotic arm, grinder, milk system and payment terminal.
The solution comes with digital order screens and encompasses two square meters of space.
The Xbot automates cup handling, grinding, extraction, milk foaming, syrup dosing and serving, with some models handling up to 300 cups in eight hours and operating continuously.
The “mini” version comes with extending side digital screens for marketing and entertainment messaging.
The machine is available in standard, metal, cyber, wood and cork designs.
Xoxo Beverages
Xoxo Beverages presented its automated cocktail-mixing machine that crafts cocktails in as fast as 30 seconds. The AI driven machine uses controlled fluid mixing and dilution technology to produce consistent, bar-quality cocktails at scale.
The pod and pump driven machine meters beverages and mixers through fluid lines, then dispenses a programmed recipe into a container.
A touchscreen menu enables users to select the cocktail and strength, prompting the machine to access the associated recipe.
Features include remote management, data driven cocktail recipes, beverage quality control, an analytics dashboard, automatic cleaning and enhanced calibration.
Zentech Electrical Electronics Ltd. Co.
Zentech Electrical Electronics Ltd. Co. introduced its HamurAI to automate the dough kneading process with AI, image processing and automated sensors.
Core features include a sensor head, a camera module, an infrared temperature sensor, an AI main board and an human machine interface display.
A smart recipe management module analyzes environmental conditions such as temperature and humidity as well as flour quality to determine the optimal water, ice and kneading time.
Dough analysis with image processing analyzes dough properties like consistency, texture, color and glossiness with a high resolution camera to identify the best kneading point.
The technology stack includes real-time texture and color monitoring via industrial camera analysis to detect baking stages, and AI monitored water/ice ratios based on ambient temperature and humidity sensors.
Attendees stand in line to order coffee from the Xbot Mini robotic coffee machine.
Cole Barratt shows the 5400 router at the WTI Wireless exhibit.
Luke Hettermann demonstrates the VisioLab self checkout system.
Attendees converge at the fully robotic VenHub retail store.
Christopher Erpelding presents the Beverage Bot machine at the TechForce Robotics exhibit.
Bruno Moletto presents the Chocoprint chocolate vending machine at the Sweet Robo exhibit.
Ivy Zhang presents the Flex 3 Android-based, self-service kiosk at the Sunmi exhibit.
Roper Fuentes presents the newest Stern Pinball games.
David Pitts demonstrates the Dynamic Drive-Thru ordering at the SoundHound exhibit.
Cheston Cheung presents an EV charging battery module at the Prologium exhibit.
The ADAM robot prepares coffee at the Richter Robotics exhibit.
Cheston Cheung presents an EV charging battery module at the Prologium exhibit.
Nathan Liu presents the YouCam AI agent at the Perfect Corp. exhibit.
Shihan Liu of Genrobot explores the burger order kiosk at the Nexus Patio Tech exhibit.
Julianna Jui presents the Hyper 80 Dual at the Micro-Star International exhibit.
Nathan Zhang presents the Keenon Robotics delivery robot.
Jeff Chung presents a prototype of the AA-2 autonomous delivery robot at the Gole Robotics exhibit.
Narishige Abe demonstrates robots in the Fujitsu spatial world model.
Deegan Pope presents the Form 4 next-generation resin 3D printer at the FormLabs exhibit.
A customer places a coffee order at the Flying Turtle vending machine.
Parisa Alinasab and Galya Westler introduce the HighBeam immersive 3D virtual assistant at the Faytech exhibit.
Bob Blumenscheid presents edge-to-cloud solutions at the Digi International exhibit.
Wilson Ventura and Ruifeng Bi present the Smart EV Charger at the Deye exhibit.
Sam Cho presents the MSC charging platform for both trucks and cars at the CHAEVI exhibit.
Jason Smith presents the MaxiCharger DC50 at the Autel exhibit.
Adam Geary presents the touchscreen intercom kiosk for access control at the Atomic RFID exhibit.
Daniel Lee presents the Barista Bot at the Artly AI exhibit.
Benjamin Mimoun presents the new hydration system at the Aquablu exhibit.
Elliott Campbell presents the MCF Vending Pro coffee machine at the AETI Global exhibit.
Halil Ozdogan introduces the HamurAI dough kneading machine at the Zentech Electrical Electronics Ltd. Co. exhibit.
Phoebe Yeung presents the automated cocktail-mixing machine at the XoXo Beverages exhibit.
Youngse Yoo demonstrates the Uno Home smart mirror.
Wenxuan Wu presents the Breakreal R1 AI-powered countertop cocktail machine at the Surreal Nexus Technology Inc. exhibit.
Loek Janssen of XYZ Reality, a London based augmented reality company, checks out the humanoid robot at the Starbot Inc. exhibit.
Lu Zhengyuan presents the wan AIChef ultra cooking machine.
Dong Eun Shu presents the Puri-Checker material content scanner for recycled plastic flakes at the Repla exhibit.
Jessie Cervantes presents phone cases from a 3D printing machine at the Red Wolf Technology exhibit.
Bryan Myers presents a prototype of the OpticWash Elite cleaning kiosk.
Enzo Casagrande and Akexandre Casagrande present the Onenex identity verification solution.
Michael Mcaffee presents the Nosh cooking robot.
Sebastian Lynn presents the B2B ice machines at the Euhomy exhibit.
Andrew Heighway introduces the Iceplosion slushie machine.
Jeong Sung Hwan introduces the smart universal kiosk designed for people with disabilities, older adults and children at the Gwang Myung Tech Co. Ltd. exhibit.
Kiyo Gomi presents the self-serve Eyebot kiosk.
Leonardo Mattiazzi introduces the Turbo Charge solution at the ElectricFish exhibit.
Gyunmuk Kang presents the coffee cup recycling solution at the Coffee bara exhibit.
Rick Valdez introduces a prototype for the DriTender dispensing platform at the Cafecito Lady LLC exhibit.
Huan Yu and Emily Chen present the Brolan shoe-cleaning robot.
Chloe Kim presents the Elixir at the Biopop International exhibit.
Hajin Shin introduces the VitalTracker and VitalPlatform at the Bioconnect Inc. exhibit.
Anta Trimula introduces the Antamix cooking robot.
Mansoor Yahya presents the Ahln smart delivery box.
Why It Matters for Kiosks, AI, Payments, and Self-Service in 2026
American National Standards Institute (ANSI) quietly set the tone for the next decade of technology competition with the release of the U.S. Standards Strategy 2025 (USSS). While framed as a
ANSI Standards
policy document, the implications are immediate and operational—especially for companies working in kiosks, unattended retail, payments, AI, accessibility, and digital services.
This is not an abstract standards update. It is a strategic declaration that standards are now instruments of economic power, market access, and national security.
ANSI’s message is clear: standards are no longer background compliance artifacts. They are now competitive infrastructure. Technologies that fail to align with recognized standards risk being excluded from global markets, public-sector deployments, and regulated industries.
For kiosk and self-service ecosystems—where payments, accessibility, AI, hardware, and software converge—this raises the stakes dramatically.
Private Sector Leadership Is Reaffirmed (But Conditional)
The USSS explicitly doubles down on private-sector-led, market-driven standards, pushing back against government-mandated or geopolitically driven frameworks.
However, there is a catch:
Private leadership only matters if industry participates.
Companies that actively engage in standards bodies will shape outcomes. Those that don’t will inherit them.
Emerging Technology Collision Zone
ANSI highlights AI, biotechnology, and quantum computing, but the downstream effects spill directly into:
In 2026, standards will increasingly define how these technologies are allowed to interoperate, not just how they perform.
Accessibility and Trust Move Center Stage
Accessibility, usability, and transparency are no longer “nice to have.” They are becoming core acceptance criteria—especially for public-facing systems.
Expect:
Tighter alignment between accessibility and AI interaction standards
Increased scrutiny of voice AI, multimodal UX, and inclusive design
More linkage between accessibility compliance and procurement eligibility
For self-service systems, accessibility compliance is becoming a market entry requirement, not a retrofit.
Global Competition Is Explicit
ANSI openly references geopolitical manipulation of standards. Translation: the U.S. intends to actively contest international standards bodies, not merely observe them.
This affects exporters, multinational deployments, and vendors relying on global certification pathways. The companies best positioned for 2026 will be those aligned with internationally recognized, ANSI-influenced standards frameworks.
What This Means for the Industry
Standards strategy is now a business strategy
Compliance teams become strategic assets
Industry groups and alliances gain influence
Early alignment beats late remediation
For kiosks and self-service, the era of “build first, certify later” is ending.
Final Takeaway
ANSI’s U.S. Standards Strategy 2025 signals a shift from compliance as cost to standards as competitive leverage.
For kiosk, self-service, AI, and payments companies, the question in 2026 is no longer “Are you compliant?” It is “Are you shaping the standards—or reacting to them?”
Standards Readiness Checklist
For Kiosk, AI, Payments & Self-Service Vendors (2026)
Use this checklist to assess whether your organization is positioned for ANSI-aligned standards leadership—or exposed to future risk.
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This is not a leadership shuffle—it’s a business model declaration.
Glory is now signaling that Acrelec will be its growth engine for unified commerce in foodservice automation. Glory’s push to integrate Acrelec and Flooid reflects a deliberate move to redefine itself from a cash automation vendor to a full-stack retail technology player — mirroring broader industry convergence between software, payments, and customer experience.
After guiding Acrelec from startup to global QSR technology leader, co-founder Jacques Mangeot has stepped away. Founder exits often create uncertainty—but in this case, the structure of the new leadership team suggests consolidation, scale, and execution are now the priority.
From Founder-Led Innovation to Enterprise Execution
With Acrelec now firmly embedded inside Glory’s global automation portfolio, the emphasis shifts from entrepreneurial experimentation to platform discipline. This typically means tighter product roadmaps, more standardized deployments, and a stronger focus on profitability at scale—critical for serving multinational QSR brands operating tens of thousands of locations.
Software and Unified Commerce Move to Center Stage
The appointment of Diane Palmquist as President of the Acrelec Group is particularly telling. Her background in enterprise software and unified commerce platforms (including Flooid) strongly suggests Acrelec will deepen its focus on cloud-managed platforms, SaaS revenue, analytics, and orchestration layers that sit above hardware.
In practical terms, this points to tighter integration between kiosks, drive-thru systems, POS, payments, loyalty, and AI—moving Acrelec closer to a software-first QSR operating platform, rather than a collection of point solutions.
Operational Rigor and North American Scale
The promotion of Bruno Lo-Ré to CEO reinforces this trajectory. His track record of doubling revenue and restoring profitability in the Americas highlights an execution-focused mindset. Expect fewer pilots, more fleet-wide rollouts, and stronger emphasis on serviceability, uptime, and lifecycle economics—key concerns for QSR operators in 2026.
Tighter Alignment With Glory’s Automation Strategy
From Glory’s perspective, Acrelec becomes the customer experience layer within a broader automation stack that includes cash management, payments, and back-of-house optimization. This alignment positions Acrelec to expand beyond traditional QSR use cases into hybrid retail, foodservice, and unattended environments where automation ROI is under intense scrutiny.
What This Means for the Market
For competitors and partners alike, this is a maturation signal—not disruption. Acrelec is evolving into a predictable, enterprise-grade platform vendor with global reach. That raises the bar for regional kiosk suppliers, niche integrators, and even large incumbents competing on unified commerce, drive-thru AI, and self-service at scale.
Fewer vendor experiments
Longer RFP cycles
Higher switching costs
Bottom line:
Acrelec’s leadership reset suggests 2026 will be less about experimental innovation and more about disciplined growth, platform consolidation, and operational intelligence.
For QSR brands betting heavily on self-service and automation, that’s exactly where buying decisions are heading.
Acrelec’s push into unified commerce will put it in more direct competition with NCR Voyix, Diebold Nixdorf, and PAR’s Brink POS ecosystem.
where Acrelec competes differently
NCR → legacy POS gravity
Diebold → payments + banking heritage
Acrelec → CX + orchestration + QSR-first DNA
If Acrelec executes this platform-first pivot effectively, Glory could see software-driven recurring revenue grow from sub-10% today to a more sustainable 25–30% range by 2028. Note that we are speculating these numbers. We like to predict and are mostly correct and often wrong.
The executive reshuffle at Acrelec isn’t merely about succession — it’s a marker of strategic acceleration. Glory Global is systematically repositioning Acrelec from a hardware-driven QSR innovator to the centerpiece of its unified commerce and automation agenda, setting the stage for scaled global execution.
acrelec comparison table
Press Release
Glory Global Solutions Announces Executive Leadership Changes in subsidiary Acrelec Group
BASINGSTOKE, UK 5 January 2026 – Glory Global Solutions has today announced a major change in executive leadership at its subsidiary, Acrelec, as the company prepares to drive accelerated growth on a global scale.
After guiding Acrelec from its origins as a start-up to its present position as a global technology leader, co-founder, President and CEO Jacques Mangeot has stepped down from his roles and left the business. The company expresses its deep appreciation for Jacques’ vision, leadership, and dedication, which have been instrumental in shaping Acrelec’s journey and success to date.
To ensure a seamless transition and position the company for its next stage of development, we are pleased to announce the following appointments, effective immediately:
• Diane Palmquist has been appointed President, Acrelec Group.
• Bruno Lo-Ré has been promoted to Chief Executive Officer, Acrelec Group.
With more than 25 years of experience in global enterprise software, Diane Palmquist brings a distinguished record of leadership, strategic vision, and innovation across multiple industries. She joined leading Unified Commerce Platform provider Flooid in 2020, successfully led the company through its acquisition by Glory in 2024, and became a member of the Acrelec Board of Directors in June 2025. Renowned for her unwavering commitment to excellence and collaborative approach, Palmquist is poised to help drive Acrelec’s next wave of growth.
“I’ve seen firsthand how strong platforms and focused leadership can unlock transformational growth,” said Palmquist. “I look forward to working closely with Bruno and leading the Acrelec team to accelerate growth and deliver lasting value for customers worldwide.”
Bruno Lo-Ré joined Acrelec in 2016 as CEO of Acrelec France and has since held several key leadership positions, including Executive Vice President of Food & Beverage and Co-CEO of Acrelec Americas. Under his stewardship, Acrelec Americas doubled its revenue, restored profitability, and secured partnerships with major customers, underscoring his proven ability to scale innovative businesses and deliver results.
“Over the past decade, I’ve had the privilege of helping shape Acrelec alongside an exceptional team as we’ve grown our global footprint, expanded our capabilities, and earned the trust of customers around the world,” said Lo-Ré. “As CEO, my priority is to build on this momentum. I’m energized by the opportunity to scale our impact and strengthen our position as a global QSR tech leader.”
Toshimitsu Yoshinari, CEO of Glory Global Solutions, Acrelec’s parent company, shared his support for the transition: “I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to Jacques for his unwavering commitment and boundless energy in shaping Acrelec’s journey from a small start-up to a global leader in Quick Service Restaurant technology solutions. Under Diane and Bruno’s leadership, I’m certain we will capture the significant market opportunities before us. I am excited about the dynamic growth strategy we have in place and the future we are building together at Acrelec.”
– ENDS –
About GLORY
As a global leader in smart automation solutions, we provide the retail, hospitality, and financial industries with confidence that their cash is protected, their processes are optimized, and the customer experience they deliver is truly exceptional.
Our software, hardware, and digital platforms help businesses in more than 100 countries enhance the experience they deliver in store, in restaurant, and in branch. While we span the globe, we personally engage with each customer to address their unique challenges and goals, whether it be enhancing staff efficiency, reducing operating costs, or enabling a more rewarding customer experience.
Employing over 11,000 professionals worldwide with dedicated R&D and manufacturing facilities worldwide, GLORY is built on a rich customer-focused, technology-driven heritage spanning more than one hundred years. For further information please visit www.glory-global.com
About Acrelec
Acrelec, a subsidiary of Glory Global Solutions, is a global technology company focused on reinventing the customer experience for restaurant and retail brands. Leveraging decades of software, hardware and service expertise, the company develops and integrates new platforms that increase customer engagement, optimize efficiency and improve operations. With over 120,000 installations across more than 70 countries, Acrelec counts many of the world’s best-known restaurant mega-brands among its customers.
Media Contacts:
GLORY
Paul Race
Vice President Strategic Marketing
+44 (0) 7887 052366 [email protected]
The Industry Group & Kiosk Industry Group Unveil Major Announcements at NRF 2026 – Visit Booth 2203
WESTMINSTER, Colo. — January 6, 2026 — The Industry Group and Kiosk Industry Group are pleased to announce several major initiatives and recognitions in conjunction with the upcoming National Retail Federation (NRF) 2026 Big Show in New York City. Attendees are invited to visit Booth 2203 at the Javits Center to explore groundbreaking self-service technology, meet industry leaders, and celebrate excellence across the self-service, kiosk, digital signage, and retail automation ecosystem. PRnewswire and APnews
At Booth 2203, The Industry Group will feature in-person demonstrations, insights, and conversations on kiosks, touchless solutions, digital wayfinding, conversational AI, accessibility-first design, and next-generation self-service systems alongside key partners and exhibitors. Come experience hardware, software, and service innovators shaping the future of retail customer engagement.
Hall of Fame Inductees Recognized
In addition to NRF participation, the Kiosk Industry Group is proud to announce the 2026 Hall of Fame inductees — a prestigious cohort of pioneers whose contributions have significantly influenced the self-service and kiosk industry. The Hall of Fame honors decades of leadership, technical innovation, industry advancement, and the sustained impact of individuals who helped shape how consumers interact with self-service technology. Full details are available at https://kioskindustry.org/2026-hall-of-fame-inductees/.
These inductees represent a range of experience — from early development of interactive terminal systems to trailblazing work in accessibility, automation, and market adoption. By highlighting these people, the Kiosk Industry Group reinforces its commitment to documenting the history and evolution of a technology touching billions of daily transactions worldwide.
Best of 2025 Industry Group Awards
Also debuting at NRF are the Best of 2025 Awards, honoring outstanding projects, products, and innovations from the past year that exemplify excellence in design, accessibility, automation, and deployment across self-service. Winners reflect the breadth of achievement in kiosk and self-service technology. See https://kioskindustry.org/best-of-2025-industry-group-awards/.
“We’re thrilled to bring together these major announcements at NRF — from celebrating visionary leaders to highlighting breakthrough solutions,” said Craig Keefner, Executive Director of The Industry Group. “Our booth at 2203 is a hub for connection, learning, and insight into the future of retail automation.”
About The Industry Group & Kiosk Industry Group
The Industry Group aggregates expert portals and resources across kiosks, digital signage, POS, accessibility, and retail automation. The Kiosk Industry Group champions industry best practices, thought leadership, and programs that support innovation in self-service.
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Across the year, UCP expanded their portfolio of certified solutions, deepened processor alignment, and broadened supported device platforms. That work may sound incremental, but it sets the stage for a very different 2026—one where unattended payments move decisively from “specialized” to standardized enterprise infrastructure.
2025 was not about flashy experimentation. It was about infrastructure hardening.
Across the year, UCP expanded certifications, deepened processor alignment, and broadened supported device platforms. That work may sound incremental, but it sets the stage for a very different 2026—one where unattended payments move decisively from “specialized” to standardized enterprise infrastructure.
Axium Is Crossing the Adoption Threshold
One of the strongest signals in UCP’s update is the repeated reference to Ingenico Axium support across multiple ecosystems, including Worldpay triPOS and Datacap.
This matters because Axium is no longer just “certified.” It is becoming operationally preferred:
Supported across gateways and processors
Increasingly common in unattended, semi-attended, and hybrid deployments
Familiar to enterprise IT and payments teams
For integrators and kiosk OEMs, this reduces friction. For operators, it reduces risk. In 2026, expect Axium to move from optional to assumed in many RFPs.
Unattended Payments Are No Longer a Side Channel
UCP’s continued growth across parking, EV charging, vending, and self-service retail reinforces a broader industry truth: unattended payments are now core transaction channels, not edge cases.
That shift brings consequences:
Higher expectations for uptime and remote management
Greater scrutiny on certifications and processor redundancy
Unattended environments are increasingly evaluated with the same rigor as traditional POS—sometimes more so.
Fleet Cards Signal EV and Commercial Convergence
Datacap’s support for Fleet Cards, paired with EV charging momentum, is an important indicator. Fleet payments are no longer confined to fueling. They are bleeding into:
In 2026, fleet compatibility will increasingly show up in RFPs outside of traditional transportation verticals. Payment platforms that cannot support mixed payment types will struggle to scale.
Certification Depth Is Becoming a Differentiator
UCP’s emphasis on offering solutions with multi-processor and multi-device certifications highlights a key competitive shift edge. Pricing still matters—but certification coverage now reduces deployment risk, accelerates rollout timelines, and lowers long-term support costs.
For operators, this changes vendor selection criteria. For middleware providers, it elevates their role from commodity connector to strategic enabler.
NRF and the Retail–Unattended Blur
UCP’s presence at NRF Retail’s Big Show underscores a growing convergence. Retailers increasingly expect unattended endpoints—kiosks, lockers, EV chargers, vending—to plug into the same payment and reporting architecture as staffed lanes.
That convergence will accelerate in 2026.
Bottom Line
The most important takeaway from UCP’s update is not any single certification or device. It’s the pattern.
2026 is shaping up as a scale year for unattended payments:
Fewer pilots
More standard platforms
Higher operational expectations
Deeper integration with enterprise retail and infrastructure systems
For the kiosk and self-service industry, unattended payments are no longer something you “add on.” They are something you build around.
NMI — NMI is a leading payment gateway and technology provider in the fintech industry. Founded in 2001, NMI offers a comprehensive suite of payment processing solutions for businesses of all sizes.
Honeybee Kiosk – A versatile, user-friendly self-service solution designed for financial services, retail, and restaurant environments.
Unattended Payment Trends in 2026 by Kiosk Industry
A wave of unstaffed payment systems is spreading fast – think kiosks, ticket machines, fuel stations. These setups let people pay without cash, just cards or phones. Speed matters most to users, that is why many choose them. Around-the-clock availability plays a big role too. Touchless methods gained ground after health concerns rose. Businesses like these models because staffing expenses drop. More customers move through in less time. Sectors like stores, public transport, hotels now rely on them heavily. Safety features get more attention every year. Linking these tools into larger digital networks keeps improving
Key Insights and Trends
Folks grab it fast – about 62 percent of Americans do every week – thanks to how quick and hands-off it feels. When things go wrong, though, some just walk away instead.
Fresh numbers point past $100 billion on the horizon. Movement isn’t just about old-school machines anymore – new spaces are pulling weight. Think small markets tucked into office corners, busy travel hubs, even hospital hallways. Growth feeds off these shifts quietly. What once stood still now moves where people live their days.
Running things gets cheaper when you skip cash work. Faster exchanges happen without delays piling up. Machines stay open all day every day, no breaks needed. Clear updates come through right away with each sale tracked live.
Focusing now on tap-to-pay options instead of physical swipes. Moving fast toward phone-based wallets for smoother checkout. Devices must meet EMV standards – no exceptions. Connecting payment tools directly into company software happens more often these days. Fewer standalone machines, more linked-up solutions across departments.
What started small now runs on steady systems. By 2027, trial phases give way to broader use across sectors. Mainstream setups take over where tests once stood. Widespread adoption becomes normal rather than exceptional. Year by year, experimental steps fade into daily operation.
Finding a steady rhythm between ease of use and safety matters most when handling payments. When things run without hiccups, people feel confident. Smooth steps build trust over time
Common Applications
Grocery Self-Checkouts
Parking & Transit Kiosks
Gas Stations
Micro-Markets(Corporate offices, universities)
Laundromats
Carwashes& Utilities
The Future
One day soon, most transactions might happen without anyone watching. Devices will think ahead, making choices based on habits. Closed-loop payment cards could track rewards automatically. Systems may tie together machines, apps, and information smoothly. The whole process runs itself, start to finish.
January 2026 — The Save Mart Companies has launched an Amazon return kiosk program across its Save Mart, Lucky and FoodMaxx banners. Customers can now conveniently return eligible Amazon purchases at its California and western Nevada store locations. After a successful
amazon return locker
pilot program in 15 stores, the service has expanded to 140 additional locations and will be available at all remaining stores by February 2026. The pilot program demonstrated strong customer adoption, showing measurable increases in both store traffic and sales compared with non-participating locations. Full article at Progressive Grocer
Feb 2023 — Formal launch of a new self service return locker or return kiosk as we like to call them is announced by KIOSK Information Systems and Inmar. Here is the press release link. Self service return lockers & kiosks enable automated, package-free and label-free returns for products purchased online. For more information or questions you can always email [email protected]
return kiosk – click for full size
These units are already deployed in multiple locations (some of which we cannot disclose) and availability is now.
The unit received a large amount of press for its unveiling at NRF 2023. Drawing footfall into a retail physical store is a big advantage of these units.
Summary
Faster — No more standing in line to speak to a person to return item purchased online
Increased footfall — Makes it more likely for consumers to “use your store” and physically visit it
Safer – physical distancing is here to stay
Recurring customer sales – ease of return translates into more online sales, on repeated basis
From recent tradeshow — I could not be more excited about executing the official partnership between KIOSK Information Systems and Inmar Intelligence –
Online shopping continues to increase in popularity and, without the ability to try before buying, customers often need to make returns. Consumers made an estimated $428 billion of product returns to retailers in 2020, equating to 10.6% of U.S. retail sales. The financial impact is significant as each retail return costs approximately 59% of the item’s purchase price. In partnership with Doddle and Inmar Post-Purchase Solutions, KIOSK offers a retail returns solution that improves customer experience and frees up retail staff.
Using self-service kiosks enables staff to spend less time managing returns and more time serving shoppers — about 94 percent more time.
“Online returns are crucial to e-commerce success, but despite being vital to loyalty and purchase frequency, returns are often frustrating for shoppers,” said Dan Nevin, General Manager at Inmar Post-Purchase Solutions. “Self-service kiosks eliminate this frustration while adding value to host merchants. Processing 1.8 million returns during our national rollout, and maintaining a customer satisfaction rate of 93 percent, clearly indicates shoppers are embracing self-service returns.”
In addition to greater convenience, in-store returns are also more sustainable, as customers fit their return journey into their normal schedules. Returns are consolidated in one place as well, which makes shipping more efficient and reduces the consumption of fossil fuels.
WINSTON-SALEM, NC, Jan. 31, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Inmar Post-Purchase Solutions, a leading provider of post-purchase customer experience and e-commerce returns solutions, and KIOSK Information Systems (KIOSK), the leading self-service solution provider in North America, have partnered to bring unprecedented convenience and efficiency to the product returns process.
Self-service returns kiosks enable automated, package-free and label-free returns for products purchased online. This innovative approach to returns processing provides cost savings, increases Net Promoter Scores (NPS), boosts shopper loyalty and improves sustainability — without adding staff.
Process More Returns with Less Staff while Increasing Customer Satisfaction
Using self-service kiosks enables staff to spend less time managing returns and more time serving shoppers — about 94 percent more time.
“Online returns are crucial to e-commerce success, but despite being vital to loyalty and purchase frequency, returns are often frustrating for shoppers,” said Dan Nevin, General Manager at Inmar Post-Purchase Solutions. “Self-service kiosks eliminate this frustration while adding value to host merchants. Processing 1.8 million returns during our national rollout, and maintaining a customer satisfaction rate of 93 percent, clearly indicates shoppers are embracing self-service returns.”
In addition to greater convenience, in-store returns are also more sustainable, as customers fit their return journey into their normal schedules. Returns are consolidated in one place as well, which makes shipping more efficient and reduces the consumption of fossil fuels.
KIOSK designs, manufactures, monitors and supports the nationwide kiosk deployment. KIOSK IT professionals monitor real-time IoT alerts on the system, and software and component-level performance, which facilitates industry-leading uptime statistics.
“Because these kiosks are so quickly adopted and heavily used throughout each day, uptime is paramount to delivering the optimal post-purchase experience,” said Kim Kenney, CEO of KIOSK. “Our comprehensive service wrapper provides a consistent and reliable returns experience in the field, ensuring that first-timers naturally transition to repetitive loyal users.”
Related Pictures
We visited our local Whole Foods and saw one of these. There was a line and dropoff times were less than 3 minutes. The biggest drawback we saw was the storage locker needs to be twice the size as it ran out of room and forced the unit offline.
click for full size – amazon drop off locker
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About Inmar Intelligence Post-Purchase Solutions
The post-purchase experience is often where a company’s customer experience strategy delivers its greatest value. To maximize this value, commerce data solutions company Inmar Intelligence formed a joint venture with Doddle, an international provider of e-commerce solutions. Operating under the Inmar Intelligence brand, the new company offers end-to-end, post-purchase solutions and analytics for brands, omnichannel retailers, pure-play e-commerce retailers and parcel carriers. By combining Inmar’s technology and nationwide network of returns processing centers with Doddle’s digital returns platform and experience in developing pick up/drop off (PUDO) networks, this new entity provides frictionless delivery and returns experiences for shoppers and merchants, while offering carriers new growth opportunities.
For more information about Inmar, please follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn or Facebook, or call (866) 440-6917.
About KIOSK Information Systems
KIOSK helps organizations digitally transform by enabling automation with self-service solutions to improve the customer experience, while increasing operational and cost efficiencies. With over 29 years of experience and 250,000+ kiosks deployed, KIOSK is the trusted partner of Top 100 Retailers and Fortune 500 clients: delivering proven expertise in design engineering and manufacturing, application development, integration, and comprehensive support services. We offer an innovative portfolio of self service kiosk machine solutions along with managed services and IoT capabilities to ensure a seamless user experience.
For more information about KIOSK, please follow us on LinkedIn or call (800) 509-5471.
The Kiosk Industry Group Hall of Fame recognizes individuals whose long-term contributions have materially shaped the self-service, kiosk, accessibility, automation, and interactive technology industries. It exists to document and honor sustained impact over time, not short-term success or product cycles.
Inductees are selected based on decades of leadership, technical innovation, industry building, standards development, accessibility advancement, and real-world deployment experience. Many of those recognized were active in the industry before kiosks, digital signage, and automated retail were widely understood or commercially established.
The Hall of Fame serves as a historical record for a specialized but influential industry, highlighting the people whose work helped define how the public orders, pays, navigates, accesses services, and interacts with technology in shared spaces. It reflects the industry’s evolution from early public terminals to modern, inclusive, mission-critical self-service systems.
With pleasure we welcome our latest members.
Dave Gonsiorowski
For twenty years, Dave Gonsiorowski shaped how people interact with tech through self-service tools. Starting out long before touchscreens became common, he helped build systems that let users do more on their own. While working at WebRaiser, then moving into roles at Flextronics, his influence grew quietly but steadily. Instead of chasing trends, he focused on making kiosks reliable at scale. Over time, what began as basic internet-linked stations turned into complex networks across continents. His path tracks closely with the shift from simple machines to full production pipelines worldwide. His career reflects the evolution from early web-connected kiosks to enterprise-grade global manufacturing and deployment models.
Gower Smith
Now picture this: Gower Smith shaped how machines sell things, way ahead of his time. Through ZoomSystems, he turned self-service shops into something smarter. Before anyone said “autonomous,” he was already building it. Machines learned to adapt because of ideas he pushed forward. Smooth, quick transactions? He worked on those years ago. His work laid the foundation for smart vending, product automation, and friction-reduced retail long before “autonomous retail” became a mainstream concept — and he remains active in the space today
Howard Horn
Starting out on the H32 platform long ago, Howard Horn built his path steadily through real-world kiosk technology. Over two and a half decades at Advanced Kiosks shaped much of that journey. From basic public terminals way back when, he moved into today’s setups used by governments, hospitals, and big organizations. One thing stayed true throughout – his focus on what actually works in the field. His career spans from early-generation public access terminals to modern government, healthcare, and enterprise self-service systems.
Heinz Horstmann
Back in the early days, Heinz Horstmann stepped into a niche few understood. His role wasn’t just about starting SiteKiosk. One of the founding figures, he shaped how locked-down browsers work today. Public terminals rely on rules he helped write. The Kiosk Industry Group counted him among its first supporters. Three decades have passed since that beginning. By 2026, SiteKiosk will stand at thirty years – a mark not many reach. Time has tested it. Few software tools last this long.
Christoph Niehus
Starting out with Heinz Horstmann, Christoph Niehus shaped SiteKiosk into a lasting name in kiosk software. Through his efforts, standards rose for securing terminals, managing devices, and rolling out browser systems across the globe. His work helped professionalize kiosk security, device control, and browser-based deployments worldwide.
Kenneth Larsen
Starting out two decades back, Kenneth Larsen stepped into a quiet scene that soon turned loud. Early on, he brought self-checkout stands to betting spots across America, just as laws changed. His team at KT Group moved fast, landing deals with big names like Wynn Casinos, Churchill Downs, because they saw what others missed. One by one, partners followed – DraftKings included. Trouble came when rivals blocked fair access; his response wasn’t shouting but strategy. Courts sided with him, marking a shift in how rules are applied today. That win didn’t make headlines, yet it altered who gets heard behind closed doors. His work also set legal precedent through successful action against anti-competitive practices, shaping fair-play standards within the industry.
Neil Farr
Fifty-seven years old, Neil Farr began shaping digital tools back in nineteen ninety-seven. Running Working Solutions – known also as Creative IT – kept him deep in tech builds for years. After that chapter, he moved into leading Acquire Digital with steady focus. Through each role, his work touched countless screens guiding people through spaces. Big displays, route helpers, systems connecting users to places – all part of what held his attention. Time after time, project by project, he stayed rooted in how interfaces behave in real environments. His leadership spans decades of interactive signage, wayfinding, and enterprise digital experience platforms.
James Winsor
Back in the day, a man named James Winsor started shaping how kiosks were built across America. His work with Arral Industries laid groundwork during those first key years. From there, he moved on to AVT, diving deeper into automated systems. That shift helped link standalone machines to larger tech networks. What began with basic hardware soon became part of smarter setups. His path wasn’t flashy – just steady steps forward. Machines once isolated now fit into wider workflows. The evolution felt quiet but mattered all the same. One project led to another, each building quietly on the last. Not loud, yet impossible to ignore. His role? More like wiring invisible threads behind progress. Early choices rippled further than expected. Over time, small efforts added up. Without drama, pieces fell into place. A legacy formed through persistence, not proclamation. Influence grew where few noticed. Things changed because someone kept pushing them along. Step by step, machine by machine. That is how it unfolded.
Scott McInnes
A man who built businesses where others saw machines, Scott McInnes shaped four kiosk-driven ventures across twenty years. Envision Kiosks came first, then Paykiosks Internet Terminals Inc. followed close behind. DVDNow Kiosks changed how people rented films, while TapSnap turned events into instant photo moments. Instead of just selling hardware, he reimagined what these standalone units could do. From payments to entertainment, his ideas gave rise to fresh ways of connecting services to users. Each company tapped a different need, yet all shared one core idea – simplicity through self-service. Over time, that vision proved repeatable, scalable, even ahead of its moment. His work demonstrates how kiosks can anchor entirely new business models across payments, media, and experiential marketing.
Manfred Wilner
After two decades and more spent working with transaction printers and kiosk hardware, Manfred Wilner sharpened his skills at companies like Swecoin, then moved on to Zebra Technologies. Behind every smooth self-service machine lies dependable tech – printers, devices, outputs – work that rarely grabs headlines but matters deeply. His path shows how quiet infrastructure can shape real-world performance when things need to just work. His career reflects the often-unsung importance of reliable output, printers, and peripherals in mission-critical self-service systems.
Bruce Bailey
A man who spent decades focused on access for all, Bruce Bailey once served on the U.S. Access Board before retiring. Well ahead of widespread rules, he guided how self-service machines could serve more people. Because of his work, today’s kiosks often reflect ADA-conscious choices in their structure and layout. His influence continues to be felt across ADA-aware kiosk design and standards.
Gregg Vanderheiden
Half a century ago, one man began a quiet shift in tech design. Gregg Vanderheiden did not chase trends; he focused on access. Through TRACE, tools emerged that let people with disabilities interact differently. Kiosks changed. So did ATMs. Software adapted slowly at first, then steadily. Standards across nations now carry his mark. Not because of slogans or noise – just persistent effort. Work stretched beyond labs into real-world function. Influence grew without fanfare. His influence spans kiosks, ATMs, software, and global accessibility standards.
Special Recognition
Phil Day
A man named Phil Day helped shape how things worked behind the scenes in Scotland for NCR. His work quietly held up years of progress in machines you serve yourself on, like ATMs. Though not always seen, his influence ran deep through the systems built during that time.
Ted Henter
Few saw it coming when a former motorcycle racer changed how people interact with machines. One breakthrough reshaped access for countless users across libraries, banks, stores. Technology once out of reach now speaks clearly to those who need it most. A single invention opened doors far beyond its original purpose. Ideas born from personal necessity often ripple outward in quiet but lasting ways. Inventor of JAWS (Job Access With Speech), Ted Henter transformed digital accessibility worldwide. His work remains foundational to accessible computing, including kiosks, terminals, and public-use systems.
Dave Haynes
For more than two decades, reporting on digital signs and touchscreens became a craft Dave Haynes shaped with clarity, truthfulness, and wit (often referred to as snark). Through Sixteen:Nine, he gave depth to stories others overlooked. Recognition of digital signage as real business tools grew because he treated them seriously long before most did. Stepping back in 2025, he left behind work that defined how people saw an evolving field.
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LG’s new self-order kiosk offers easy access for all and smart chat features — What stands out about LG’s newest kiosk is how it puts access first. Instead of treating ease of use as something added later, the system uses voice-driven AI so people can speak their choices – browsing options, selecting items, finishing payments – all without touching a screen. By doing this, it responds to legal standards like the ADA but goes further by tapping into a shift already underway: more shops are turning to spoken commands because they just work better for everyone. The result? A machine that listens, adapts, includes.
Self-Order kiosk launched by USEN in Japan with LG Business — “Ticket and Pay” — Out front, a new kind of machine has appeared in Japanese eateries – developed by USEN alongside LG Business. This isn’t just another screen to tap your meal choice. It handles tickets, takes orders, then collects payment – all without switching tasks. Speed matters most where lines move fast, so every step flows into the next. Behind it, tight coordination between tech and software cuts setup time. Locations get identical tools, thanks to shared design rules. Not flashy, but built to keep pace.
Conversational AI Voice by URway with AI Connect Bar — Out of nowhere, sound becomes smarter. Not just words heard but meaning caught – right the first time. A new kind of voice steps into stores and eateries where noise never stops. Instead of screens or taps, people speak. What sets it apart? Understanding intent even when things get loud. Built for kiosks, yet flexible enough to adapt on the fly. This isn’t about flashy tech talk – it works quietly behind the scenes. Clarity matters most when orders pile up fast. Context keeps replies accurate, not robotic. Real situations shape how it performs, not lab tests. As demands rise, so does its role. The future of service might not be seen – but heard.
Picture this. An actual scene unfolds – cameras rolling on the AI Connect Bar handling drink requests during loud kitchen chaos. Sound matters when machines listen. Here, it picks up words clearly even with clattering pans nearby. Not magic. Math tuned sharp. Think fast food spots where headsets strain against blaring fryers. Or stadiums packed with yelling fans. Places most voice tech stumbles. This doesn’t skip beats. Works while others quit. Proof? Orders go through right the first time. Real talk in real noise wins again.
Vending – Skittles project with Giada — From bright screens to smart tech inside, the Skittles vending effort with Giada proves machines are more than just snack dispensers now. Built on strong hardware plus eye-catching design, it turns routine purchases into moments that connect with people. Instead of only selling candy, this setup lets the brand speak directly through motion, color, and response. With each interaction, buyers see what Skittles stands for – without a single ad playing. Technology here doesn’t shout; it invites. Moments like these reshape how products meet public spaces.
Industry Recognition – Giada Named Intel® Prestige Partner –Awarded Intel Prestige Partner status, Giada stands out in the world of embedded systems. Not just another name on a list, their work aligns tightly with real-world needs at the network edge. Performance over time has proven they deliver solid results using Intel technology. Reliability matters most when digital signs run nonstop or factory setups depend on stable hardware. Meeting those long-term demands is where Giada shows strength. Their partnership isn’t about titles – it ties directly to how well products hold up under pressure.
Product MiniPC AIO – Giada AIO 10.1″ with Rockchip Now Available — A fresh take on compact tech arrives. This 10.1-inch all-in-one system from Giada runs on a Rockchip processor. Small size meets solid output – ideal when budgets tighten but demands stay high. Built-in screen plus tight build suits self-service stations, dashboards, machine interfaces. Runs light on energy while keeping costs down. Fits neatly into setups where space matters just as much as spending.
Drive-Thru Innovation – Acrelec and SoundHound — A fresh take on fast food service begins with smarter technology behind the scenes. Instead of relying only on staff, machines now handle orders using natural speech recognition. One company pairs voice tools with order systems so customers speak just once. This approach cuts down mistakes that happen with handwritten tickets. When employees spend less time clarifying items, lines move faster without extra hires. Pressure builds on restaurants to keep up – fewer workers want these roles, while people demand speed and precision. What results is a quieter shift: fewer misunderstandings, smoother pickups, more consistency during rush hours. Behind it all sits software trained to understand muffled requests through cracked car windows.
Accessibility Leadership – Starbucks Inclusive Framework — Starting strong on access, Starbucks built an Inclusive Framework that shapes how people interact with stores and screens. Not just policies, but real design choices guide every kiosk, app, and counter layout. One step at a time, their model shows what wide-reaching inclusion can look like when baked into everyday systems. Across cities and devices, the experience stays grounded in practical ease. This isn’t trend-driven – it grows from consistent decisions behind the scenes. What stands out is how normal it feels, despite the complexity underneath.
Accessibility Hardware – Dot-X Braille Pad — Not far below the surface of everyday tech lies the Dot-X Braille Pad. This tool changes how people who are blind or have weak eyesight engage with kiosks. Touch becomes the main way to navigate, giving control back to the user. Instead of relying on someone else, individuals can move through menus quietly and alone. A quiet independence takes shape here, step by step. For those managing public systems, it’s one less hurdle in meeting access standards. Usability deepens when design listens closely. The experience feels smoother because barriers start to dissolve.
Telemedicine – Mayo Clinic and Remote Flight Physicals — Out in the open, far from hospitals, pilots get checkups through screens. A booth with cameras and tools sends data straight to Mayo Clinic doctors. These visits happen without paper trails, using tight digital locks for safety. Instead of driving miles, aviators sit inside a pod that talks to experts live. Machines guide part of the exam while physicians watch remotely. Trust stays strong because rules are followed exactly. No middlemen step in; it goes directly from person to system. What once needed appointments now fits into a quiet corner at an airport.
Digital Signage – LG Expansion into Hotels and C-Stores — Not just shops anymore. LG moves its screen tech into motels and corner stores, where screens now guide guests, share updates, leave notes about deals. A shift happens quietly – displays do more than flash ads, they help people move, choose, understand. Kiosks blend in, part of a bigger plan where every screen has a job. This isn’t future talk, it’s what’s going up on walls today.
Digital Signage Software – Studio DX by Acquire Digital — What you see on screen matches exactly what creators intended, thanks to Studio DX. This software, built by Acquire Digital, keeps every image sharp and aligned across displays. Where high-end visuals matter just as much as reliable operation, companies choose this tool. It ensures uniform results, whether used in one location or many. Performance stays steady even when demands grow.
POS Solution – Honeybee Payment Terminals — One thing you notice about Honeybee payment terminals? They work smoothly with many different platforms. Whether it is a self-service booth or a traditional checkout, these devices fit right in. What helps? Support for multiple operating systems out of the box. For teams setting up payment tech, that kind of adaptability cuts down complications. Even in stores without staff at every corner, they hold up well. Standardizing across setups suddenly feels less messy.
Bill Payment – EasyPay’s European Footprint — Across Europe, EasyPay runs thousands of standalone machines where people pay bills without help. These units handle payments for power, water, city fees, plus loan installments. Even now, many choose this way over digital tools. Cash remains central here, fitting how some manage daily finances. Machines stay busy in neighborhoods far from banks. Their spread shows trust in hands-on, automatic stations. Not everyone clicks online – some prefer pressing buttons on a screen outdoors.
Visitor Management – Utah Housing Authority Kiosks — Out front, a kiosk stands ready at a housing complex run by the Utah Housing Authority. One after another, guests check in using the touchscreen station instead of waiting for help from an employee. This shift means less time spent tracking who comes and goes. Staff now handle fewer routine tasks tied to entry logging. People living there find it easier to get what they need without confusion piling up. Each visit gets recorded automatically, cutting down on errors made by hand. Behind the scenes, data flows straight into secure databases for review later. Over time, patterns emerge that help adjust how spaces are managed day to day.
Information Kiosk – Schiphol Airport PRM Call Points — Airport zones often overlook access needs, yet here at Schiphol, something different takes shape. Scattered across terminals, help stations built by SiteKiosk, Storm Interface, and Prestop become quiet tools of autonomy. Travelers who face mobility challenges reach out through these units without delay or dependency. Built tough, placed smart, they answer a simple need – dignity in movement. When support arrives fast, inclusion feels less like policy, more like habit.
Self Ordering Kiosks – New LG Kiosk — totally accessible with conversational AI voice
Information Kiosk – Schiphol and Airport Airlines — PRM call point – Sitekiosk, Storm and Prestop
Here is more technical overview.
Self-Ordering Kiosks – New LG Kiosk with Full Accessibility and Conversational AI
LG’s latest self-ordering kiosk represents a meaningful step forward in inclusive self-service design. Built with accessibility as a core requirement rather than an afterthought, the platform integrates conversational AI voice interaction, allowing users to navigate menus, place orders, and complete transactions without relying solely on touch. This approach addresses ADA concerns while also aligning with broader industry trends toward voice-enabled interfaces that improve usability for all customers.
Self-Order Kiosk – USEN “Ticket and Pay” with LG Business in Japan
In Japan, USEN and LG Business Solutions launched the “Ticket and Pay” self-order kiosk, blending ticketing, ordering, and payment into a single streamlined experience. Designed for high-efficiency foodservice environments, the system reflects Japan’s advanced adoption of self-service while showcasing how integrated hardware and software partnerships can accelerate deployment and consistency across locations.
Audio Innovation – Conversational AI Voice by URway with AI Connect Bar
URway introduced its Conversational AI Voice solution through the AI Connect Bar, delivering hands-free ordering and interaction in demanding retail and restaurant environments. By emphasizing audio clarity, contextual understanding, and kiosk-ready deployment, URway demonstrates how voice AI is maturing beyond novelty into a practical interface layer for real-world self-service use cases.
Live Demonstration – AI Connect Bar in High-Noise Environments
A live video demonstration of the AI Connect Bar taking orders in a high-noise environment highlighted a critical industry challenge: voice reliability under real conditions. The system’s ability to accurately capture and process speech amid background noise reinforces the viability of conversational AI for QSRs, drive-thrus, and public venues where traditional voice systems often fail.
Vending – Skittles Branded Project with Giada
The Skittles vending project powered by Giada illustrates how modern vending has evolved into a brand-driven digital experience. Combining vibrant visuals, reliable embedded computing, and interactive engagement, the deployment shows how consumer brands can use vending as both a sales channel and a marketing platform.
Industry Recognition – Giada Named Intel® Prestige Partner
Giada’s recognition as an Intel Prestige Partner underscores its technical credibility in the embedded and edge-computing ecosystem. This designation reflects consistent performance in delivering Intel-based solutions that meet the reliability, performance, and lifecycle demands of kiosk, signage, and industrial deployments.
Product Brief – Giada AIO 10.1″ with Rockchip Now Available
Giada’s new 10.1″ all-in-one platform powered by Rockchip targets cost-sensitive yet performance-driven applications. The compact form factor, integrated display, and ARM-based efficiency make it well-suited for lightweight kiosks, control panels, and interactive signage—expanding options for deployments where power consumption, price, and footprint are critical.
Drive-Thru Innovation – Acrelec and SoundHound
Acrelec and SoundHound continue to push drive-thru automation forward by combining intelligent ordering software with conversational voice AI. Their work demonstrates how AI-driven ordering can reduce friction, improve accuracy, and increase throughput at a time when labor constraints and customer expectations are reshaping the drive-thru experience.
Starbucks has taken a proactive approach to accessibility through its Inclusive Framework, influencing both digital and physical customer touchpoints. By embedding accessibility principles into design standards, Starbucks sets a benchmark for how large enterprises can scale inclusive self-service experiences across thousands of locations.
Accessibility Hardware – Dot-X Braille Pad
The Dot-X Braille Pad introduces a tactile accessibility solution that enhances kiosk usability for blind and low-vision users. By enabling private, independent interaction without external assistance, the device addresses a longstanding gap in self-service accessibility and provides operators with a more robust compliance and usability option.
Telemedicine – Mayo Clinic and Remote Flight Physicals
Mayo Clinic’s use of telemedicine for remote flight physicals highlights how secure, kiosk-enabled healthcare services can extend specialized care beyond traditional clinical settings. This application demonstrates the growing role of self-service and remote diagnostics in regulated, high-trust medical workflows.
Digital Signage – LG Expansion into Hotels and C-Stores
LG’s expansion of digital signage solutions into hotels and convenience stores reflects a broader shift toward experience-driven displays. These deployments focus on operational messaging, promotions, and wayfinding, showing how signage and kiosks increasingly converge as part of a unified in-store digital strategy.
Digital Signage Software – Studio DX by Acquire Digital
Studio DX from Acquire Digital emphasizes pixel-perfect content control for premium signage environments. Designed for accuracy and consistency, the platform appeals to brands and venues where visual fidelity is as important as uptime and scalability.
POS Hardware – Honeybee Payment Terminals
Honeybee payment terminals stand out for their broad platform compatibility, supporting a wide range of operating systems and deployment scenarios. This flexibility makes them attractive for integrators seeking to standardize payments across kiosks, POS systems, and unattended retail environments.
Bill Payment – EasyPay’s European Footprint
EasyPay has built a substantial bill-payment kiosk footprint across Europe, demonstrating the continued relevance of unattended payment systems for utilities, government services, and consumer finance. The scale of deployment highlights strong demand for reliable, cash-friendly self-service options.
Kiosks deployed by the Utah Housing Authority modernize visitor management and service access in public housing environments. These systems improve efficiency, reduce staff workload, and provide residents with clearer, more consistent access to services.
Information Kiosk – Schiphol Airport PRM Call Points
At Schiphol Airport, PRM (Passengers with Reduced Mobility) call point kiosks supplied by SiteKiosk, Storm Interface, and Prestop demonstrate best-practice accessibility in aviation. These information kiosks ensure travelers can request assistance quickly and independently, reinforcing how thoughtful kiosk design directly supports inclusive travel.
Historical — Best of 2024
We can also look back at 2024 and see who won last year for reference.
Best of 2024 Self-Service Kiosk Award Winners – Press Release
Self-Service Kiosk and Digital Signage Award Winners for 2024 —
Innovations in Immersive Technologies
WESTMINSTER, Colo., Jan. 8, 2025 — Kiosk Industry Group, the marketing arm of KMA Kiosk Association, announces the Best of 2024 Self-Service award winners. The winners exemplify the best in self-service and kiosk design, including kiosks. You can meet many of the winners and chat at NRF this week. Stop by 1602 (the first booth down A lower level). If you are attending, look us up on the mobile and matchmaking app and say hello. We also donated $100 for every entry made (which were free) to Retail Orphans and IHL.
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By 2025, Walmart handles self-checkout differently. Instead of just installing extra machines, they mix smart tech into the process. Artificial intelligence helps run some checkouts now. Shoppers can scan items on their phones while moving through aisles. A few stores test systems where payment happens without scanning at all. In places with higher theft rates, fewer standard kiosks stay open. Membership-only lines appear in select spots. These moves aim to cut losses, manage staff needs, and keep service steady. The changes show how big chains adapt when technology meets real-world challenges. Vendors who make kiosks watch closely. So do companies that supply point-of-sale tools. Retailers across the industry pay attention too – what works here often spreads later.
These days, spotting changes at Walmart self checkout matters more than you might think. Not long ago, they relied on outside help – now things shift toward keeping everything inside the company. NCR once had a bigger role, but slowly that fades into background duty.
It always pays to pay attention to Walmart Self Checkout these days.
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Key Self-Checkout Technology Changes at Walmart (2024–2025)
Over the past 12 months, Walmart has made significant strides in advancing its self-checkout technology. Here are some key developments:
Insight — Walmart isn’t ditching self-checkout next year. That idea mostly pops up in headlines trying to grab attention. A few stores tweaking things doesn’t mean every location follows suit. News sites love big sweeping claims even if reality is far more measured. The company usually makes careful moves, adjusting slowly instead of tearing everything down. Changes happen block by block, not all at once across the board.
Some Walmart locations will still have self-checkout in 2025, though a few are scaling back where theft spikes or lines get messy. Rather than apply the same setup everywhere, adjustments depend on each store’s layout and loss patterns. Behind these changes sits a mix of staffed registers, tech-enhanced kiosks using smart cameras, phone-based scanning, even test runs without any checkout at all. Store type shapes what you’ll see up front – no universal plan fits every aisle now.
Walking into a store without needing to stop at a register? That is what Walmart tests now. Using cameras plus computer vision helps track items picked up by shoppers. One trial swaps out cashiers for invisible tech instead. As people exit, their bill adds up silently through sensor networks. No scanning, no lines, just walking out with groceries. This idea borrows from earlier models but builds differently. Stores watch movement, weight shifts on shelves, even hand grabs. Behind the scenes, software connects each item to a shopper’s account. Trials run quietly, not everywhere yet. Results could shape how supermarkets operate later. Technology steps forward while humans step back during checkout moments
Checkout-Free Store Pilots and Computer Vision
One big shift at Walmart involves testing checkout-free locations. These smart shops skip traditional lines entirely. That change could save money on staff, yet brings up concerns about spending and personal data. Cameras and machine learning now watch store activity closely. This helps stop theft while speeding things up. Shoppers can scan items using a phone app instead of waiting. The company leans more on digital tools than cashiers here. Some places are cutting down self-checkout stations. Stores adjust layouts based on where losses happen most. Hidden sensors plus video intelligence detect unusual behavior. Preventing fraud becomes easier with these upgrades. Certain aisles give faster service to paying members. Access costs extra, turning ease into income International Supermarket News
Reduces labor but raises privacy & capex questions
AI & automation
Computer vision, ML
Shrink reduction + faster throughput
Mobile Scan & Go
App-based checkout
Shifts cost to software ecosystem
Rebalancing kiosks
Fewer SCO lanes in some stores
Loss-driven redesign
Loss prevention tech
RFID, AI vision
Fraud mitigation
Member lanes
Walmart+ priority
Monetized convenience
Mobile Scan & Go Expansion Across Walmart Stores
Now rolling into more locations, Walmart’s mobile scan feature lets shoppers tally purchases on their phones while moving through aisles. Moving past old-style lines, payment happens inside the same app after scanning each item. More access means less waiting at registers across participating sites. Smaller delays shape a smoother way to finish buying what you need.
AI-Powered Self-Checkout Kiosks and Computer Vision
Out front, Walmart is trying out checkout machines that think for themselves. Not only do they scan items automatically, but they learn from each mistake too. Behind the scenes, cameras watch every move – spotting when someone forgets to ring up a purchase. Instead of pressing buttons, customers just grab what they need and walk. Over time, the system gets sharper at telling apples from oranges – literally. Even small differences in size or shape won’t fool it twice. From start to finish, less waiting happens now. Some say it feels like the store knows you’re leaving before you do
Identify products without barcodes (like fresh produce)
Might spot someone taking things they should not have. Could catch mistakes when items get scanned wrong
Provide a more intuitive and user-friendly interface
Contactless Payment Options
Folks wanting touch-free ways to pay? Walmart listened. Their updated self-service kiosks now take more kinds of digital cash – phones that beam payments, credit cards you just wave near a reader. Moving fast because habits changed. Less touching, more tapping. Systems adjusted without making a big show about it. Just works when you need it.
AI-Driven Queue & Lane Management
Walmart now uses smart tech to handle lines at self-checkout spots. Sensors keep an eye on how long people wait. When the line grows, more lanes pop open without anyone needing to step in. This happens thanks to artificial intelligence watching the flow. Customers move through faster because of it. The whole process adjusts itself in real time. Efficiency gets a quiet boost behind the scenes.
Walmart+ and Member-Exclusive Checkout Experiences
Now here comes a twist – Walmart+ links directly into how members move through checkout lines. Some stores offer special paths just for them. Speed picks up when scanning items alone. Membership opens quicker exits at self-service stations.
Starting with a spoken command, shoppers can now move through checkout using just their voice at certain Walmart locations. A new kind of kiosk listens and responds, helping people who may struggle with traditional screens or buttons. Instead of tapping or swiping, you talk – like asking a question – to complete your purchase. This approach opens up easier access for many, especially those with visual or motor challenges. Behind each interaction is software that understands everyday speech patterns. Not every store has it yet, but testing continues in real-world settings.
Voice-Assisted and Accessibility-Focused Checkout
Walmart has been piloting voice-assisted kiosks in select stores. These systems use natural language processing to guide customers through the checkout process, making it more accessible for all users.
Mobile Self-Checkout Expansion
The retailer has expanded its mobile self-checkout options, allowing customers to complete their entire shopping journey using their smartphones in more stores across the country.
What Walmart’s Self-Checkout Changes Mean for Retailers and Vendors
Folks now scan items on their phones while moving through aisles – this new step rolls out further, reaching additional locations nationwide. One less stop at checkout, simply walk out after tagging each piece along the way.
Now comes a shift at Walmart. Their new self-checkout tweaks? Not just about cutting staff numbers. Cameras plus smart software take over tasks once done by people. That means less need for cashiers. Yet setting it up demands careful tech coordination. For stores elsewhere, similar upgrades could follow. But linking systems gets harder than expected. Suppliers might face tighter digital requirements too. The balance tilts – savings on wages meet spikes in setup effort. Simplicity fades when machines watch every item scanned
Running tabs on phones moves expenses away from physical stations into digital platforms
Loss prevention now drives UX decisions
Making money through subscription levels at checkout is becoming more common
Accessibility risk increases with mobile-only flows
So What Else Has Walmart Been Up To?
What else is new with Walmart? Over the past year, the company explored fresh tech ideas to improve how things work behind the scenes and for shoppers too. One project involved smart shelves that track inventory on their own. Another test used robots to scan shelf tags and check prices. Stores tried out self-driving delivery vehicles in select neighborhoods. Workers began using wearable devices to speed up warehouse tasks. A voice-powered tool helped employees find items faster. Some locations tested cashierless checkout systems. Virtual reality training popped up in employee programs. Drones started flying through warehouse aisles to count stock. Online shopping got a boost from AI sorting recommendations. Each step aimed at keeping pace without slowing down
Drone Delivery
A bird’s-eye view shows small aircraft dropping packages near homes – Walmart now flies them in collaboration with DroneUp, Zipline, or Flytrex. Across several states, trials keep rolling, swapping long waits for quicker doorstep drops. Speed matters less than reliability, yet both are improving overhead. These sky couriers handle urgent runs when roads get crowded or slow.
AI-Powered Inventory Management
Walmart tests smart systems that learn on their own to handle store supplies better. These tools guess what shoppers will want before shelves empty. Sometimes, items move faster when the system adjusts early. Stock stays balanced because updates happen constantly behind the scenes. Supply routes get smarter over time without extra effort.
Autonomous Vehicles
Testing robots that drive themselves? That is happening now for deliveries straight to homes, also inside stores. Trucks without drivers move cargo across distances, while tiny driverless machines handle nearby drop-offs. These experiments aim to shift how goods get transported, using new tech on roads today.
Augmented Reality (AR) Shopping
Shopping at Walmart gets a tech twist with augmented reality. Through screens, customers see how clothes or makeup might look on them without stepping into a fitting room. Moving around large stores becomes easier when digital arrows guide the way overhead. Some tools let you preview furniture in your living space before buying. Experiments continue to blend physical aisles with smart overlays. What you see changes as you walk, making choices clearer. Digital layers sit atop real shelves, adding info where needed.
Blockchain for Supply Chain Transparency
A fresh move into blockchain has taken root at the store, testing how well it tracks goods from source to shelf. One step beyond paper trails, this digital ledger watches over food journeys, making sure what’s promised is what arrives. Instead of guessing origins, every ingredient gets a timestamped record. Trust builds not through claims but through shared access to data everyone can check. Safety steps up when contamination risks show early in the chain. Even distant farms get visibility, linking their harvests directly to customer confidence. Proof of authenticity travels with each item, reducing fraud chances. Behind labels, real stories unfold – grown here, shipped there, checked often.
Robotics in Warehouses and Stores
Walmart has been testing various robotics solutions, including:
Automated pickup towers for online orders
Shelf-scanning robots for inventory management
Floor-cleaning robots to improve store maintenance
Voice Shopping
Now adding things by speaking is easier at Walmart. Using devices such as Google Home or Alexa, people can drop products into their online cart without typing. This feature keeps growing. Talking to a gadget helps fill the basket slowly. Not every store works this way yet. The system links voice tools straight to Walmart’s website. Some shoppers prefer saying what they need instead of clicking around. Each command moves an item inside. It started small but now covers more goods.
Advanced Analytics for Personalization
Shopping feels different now. Data shapes what shows up first. Patterns in choices guide suggestions. One click leads to another offer. Behind screens, systems learn fast. Details add up quietly. Results show right when needed. Each visit adjusts slightly.
Flying these tech tests shows Walmart is pushing new ideas while keeping pace with shifting retail currents. Though change moves fast, the company keeps adjusting without fanfare.
Crypto Bitcoin and Ethereum
Not often talked about but Walmart is the funding for OnePay app which allows crypto buying and selling. And as of 2026 you can convert crypto into dollars, which can then be used at Walmart Checkout.
When you “spend” crypto at Walmart, OnePay sells some of your crypto for USD and credits that to your OnePay cash balance; you then pay Walmart using that balance via card, virtual card, or app, just like any debit product.
At the Walmart POS, the transaction clears on normal card/payment networks (Visa/Mastercard/ACH‑linked), so Walmart never touches or prices items in BTC/ETH directly; all FX/volatility and conversion logic stays inside OnePay.
Walmart’s strategy in backing OnePay is to own more of the customer’s financial relationship, increase spend and loyalty at Walmart, and capture part of the fintech/crypto economics that would otherwise go to banks and neobanks.
A Walmart‑owned fintech can see granular transaction patterns, which improves targeting for promotions, BNPL/credit underwriting, and inventory decisions tied to specific customer cohorts.
Linking spend data, app behavior, and in‑store purchases positions Walmart to build tailored financial products (e.g., short‑term credit for frequent shoppers) that strengthen long‑term loyalty
Demographics — The crypto features are framed as a way to attract new, younger, and more digitally savvy users and then convert that interest into more Walmart spend via easy crypto‑to‑cash conversion in OnePay.
Retail Adoption as a Catalyst for Bitcoin’s Utility
Walmart’s OnePay app already serves 150 million weekly U.S. shoppers, making it a distribution channel with unparalleled reach. By enabling users to convert crypto holdings into cash for in-store purchases, bill payments, or credit card repayments, OnePay is embedding Bitcoin and Ethereum into the fabric of daily life. This utility-driven approach addresses a critical weakness in crypto’s early adoption-its perceived lack of real-world use cases. Data from 2025 underscores the growing retail demand for crypto: 28% of American adults now own cryptocurrencies , with Bitcoin as the most sought-after asset. The ability to spend crypto at a retail giant like not only validates its utility but also reduces friction for new users
Behind this review: Walmart’sownupdates, talkswithsuppliers, earlyprogramdetails, alongwithcoverage from outletsfocusedonstoretech. Afewprojects are smalltests – whatworksinoneplacemightnotshowupelsewhere.
Is Walmart removing self-checkout in 2025? — Walmart is not eliminating self-checkout entirely in 2025, but it is selectively reducing or reconfiguring traditional self-checkout lanes in certain high-theft or high-friction stores. Instead of a one-size-fits-all approach, Walmart is shifting toward location-specific checkout strategies that combine attended checkout, AI-assisted self-checkout, mobile Scan & Go, and checkout-free pilots depending on store format and shrink risk.
Does Walmart still use NCR for self-checkout? Yes, Walmart still uses NCR Voyix technology in parts of its checkout infrastructure, but its role has changed. Walmart has increasingly brought software, analytics, and decision-making in-house, reducing reliance on third-party platforms for innovation. NCR now functions more as a hardware, services, or fallback infrastructure provider, rather than the primary driver of Walmart’s self-checkout roadmap.
How does Scan & Go differ from kiosk checkout? Scan & Go allows customers to use their smartphones to scan items while shopping and pay directly in the Walmart app, bypassing fixed self-checkout kiosks entirely. Traditional self-checkout kiosks still require customers to scan items at a terminal at the end of the trip. Scan & Go reduces queues and hardware dependency but shifts complexity to mobile UX, account authentication, and loss-prevention controls.
Are checkout-free stores replacing kiosks? No. Checkout-free stores are pilots, not replacements. Walmart is testing checkout-free technology in limited environments to evaluate labor savings, accuracy, and customer acceptance. These pilots complement—not replace—self-checkout kiosks, mobile checkout, and staffed lanes. For most Walmart locations, hybrid checkout models will remain the dominant approach for the foreseeable future.
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Cover photo provided by the Consumer Technology Association.
CES 2026 Preview
Economic uncertainty hangs across much of the globe, but technology remains on the march. AI spending will continue to rise in 2026, with 68% of CEOs increasing investment, according to Teneo, the CEO advisory firm.
Next week’s CES show in Las Vegas (Jan. 6-9) will preview much of this investment, which includes robots, automated retail equipment, EV charging stations, food preparation equipment, biometric identification technology and more. The show will encompass exhibits and conferences at three main campuses: the Las Vegas Convention Center, The Venetian Campus and the C Space Campus (Aria).
From AI powered personalization to seamless omnichannel ecosystems and next generation social shopping, CES 2026 will bring together the retailers, brands, platforms and creators defining the new retail economy.
The conference portion of the show allows business leaders and pioneering thinkers to address the industry’s most relevant issues. The retail conference track will examine the evolution of discovery, experience and purchase, with sessions including:
Content to commerce: The world of social shopping
Experience driven retail
The future of “search” at retail with Justin Honaman, head of worldwide retail and consumer goods industry strategy and business development, AWS
Attendees will see AI engines customizing discovery, content linking to purchases, advanced store tech enhancing in-person experiences and data insights predicting consumer needs. Retailsystems.org will be on the show floor to cover a retail world built on deeper connection, intuitive design and more intentional shopping journeys.
Show highlights will include CES Innovation Awards 2026 honorees, recognizing outstanding design and engineering across technology products. The awards program reached new heights this year with a record number of product submissions with over 3,600 entries, awarding a total 319 honorees.
Attendees can explore select winning products in person at the CES Innovation Awards Showcase at the Venetian, booth #50043.
Following are innovation awards highlights.
LG Display
12-inch Under Display Camera-infrared OLED
The 12-inch UDC-IR OLED addresses regulations requiring the driver monitoring systems to alert drivers if they are not fully focused on driving, placing an IR camera behind the panel, thereby reducing concerns about privacy invasion. The pixel design is optimized to allow the IR camera to detect the driver’s status while providing the minimum required IR transmittance and high-quality images for DMS.
16-inch Dual View OLED for automobile
The LG 16-inch Dual View OLED transmits separate screens to the driver and passenger through a single display. Not only CID (center information display), It can also be applied to RSE (rear seat entertainment) and CDD (co-driver display), increasing its display applicability.
Designed for apartments and mixed-use complexes, the AA-2 is an autonomous delivery robot that balances privacy and convenience. It addresses challenges from the rapid growth of overnight delivery, including worker fatigue, safety risks and elevator congestion, while offering residents a seamless contactless experience. Through integration with the EV-1 elevator interface, AA-2 autonomously calls and rides elevators. It completes multi-drop deliveries to up to three households in a single trip, ensuring efficient, human-free last-mile logistics within residential buildings.
AEON
Hexagon humanoid robot
Built for industrial environments, AEON Hexagon can safely operate alongside workers and take on repetitive or hazardous tasks. Its design draws on psychological principles to gain workforce acceptance and be regarded as a collaborator rather than a machine. The robot combines agility, spatial intelligence and versatility to support applications such as manipulation, machine tending, asset inspection, digital reality capture, teleoperation and operator assistance.
Shenzhen AIRSMART Technology Co., Ltd.
AI Turning Keys portable desktop AI keyboard speaker
AI Turing Keys is a portable desktop AI keyboard speaker designed for emotional expression. Even beginners can play freely by combining “voiceprint recognition, emotion recognition” and a text-to-music AI model. It uses a camera and microphone to detect the user’s real-time emotions, generates personalized music and transforms it into dynamic on-screen sheet music paired with interactive key lighting. Through two-way tag matching between cloud content and user behavior, it delivers a 24-hour personalized audio livestream, offering a unique blend of real-time emotional expression and immersive musical interaction.
Shenzhen Maono Technology Co., Ltd.
AI voice changer gaming microphone
The DM40 wireless microphone delivers studio-grade vocal performance for gamers, streamers and creators. Its proprietary high-stability, low-latency bidirectional wireless system ensures audio transmission across PCs, consoles and mobile devices. The microphone features intelligent hardware controls, including a multifunction smart knob for gain/volume adjustment and touch-activated mute/noise reduction buttons. The AI-powered Maono Link software leverages large language models to enable hyper-realistic voice transformation and scene-specific tone presets, adapting the mic for gaming, live streaming or voice acting.
Doosan Robotics / Maple Advanced Robotics Inc.
Scan&Go AI-powered autonomous mobile robot
The Scan&Go AI-powered autonomous mobile robot supports large-scale manufacturing with instant, mobile automation, requiring no CAD, no-code programming. Using physics-informed AI and 3D vision, Scan&Go interprets complex geometries in real time, generating tool paths directly from point-cloud data. Traditional automation struggles with large composite structures due to irregular curves, cutouts and non-repetitive geometries, making CAD-based pre-programming and static setups impractical. Scan&Go overcomes these challenges through autonomous mobility, real-time path generation and functional safety, requiring no fixtures or manual input. Mounted on a self-driving forklift, it autonomously navigates, positions itself and operates across large areas.
AIPARK/Hanseo University
AiVATAR personalized AI avatar videos
TheAiVATAR SaaS platform creates personalized AI avatar videos speaking 140 languages from text input. Users can generate their custom avatar with just one photo and 10 seconds of voice input. This eliminates time, location and language constraints in video production, enabling knowledge sharing without filming equipment. By democratizing multilingual, personalized video content creation, AiVATAR makes professional-quality videos accessible to all, offering efficiency and reach in disseminating individualized content across language barriers.
CHAEVI
Charging platform delivering ultra-fast EV charging
The CHAEVI MCS is a next-generation megawatt EV charging platform delivering up to 3.75MW ultra-fast charging for heavy-duty vehicles, while supporting passenger EVs with up to 400kW. Its modular, stackable MegaWatt Power Stack allows low-cost expansion, eliminating long queues caused by limited chargers. At long-haul rest stops, CHAEVI MCS uses AI-based smart sequential scheduling to recharge dozens of trucks during the mandatory 8-hour rest period. It features integrated AI diagnostics, liquid-cooled power modules and energy conversion.
Twohands Interactive Inc.
DIDIM Mini AR-based physical education platform
DIDIM Mini is an augmented reality based physical education platform for children ages 3–5 that combines move, think and play into interactive activities that build healthy habits while keeping learning fun. Kids run, jump and complete missions on an AR screen projected onto the floor, improving coordination, problem-solving and social skills through active play. Unlike passive screen time, DIDIM Mini creates immersive, hands-on learning. A high-precision LiDAR sensor detects movement in 0.06 seconds, ensuring instant feedback with no lag. Its portable, installation-free design with safe, curved edges fits easily into classrooms and daycares.
GhostPass
CityFlow seamless ID and payment experience
CityFlow removes the need for central server storage and enables secure, hands-free authentication for both identity verification and payment. Users complete authentication and payment through biometrics alone, without launching an app, tapping a device or presenting a card. Biometric data is stored only on the user’s smartphone through a decentralized structure and never transmitted externally. Encrypted, tiered data transmission ensures that only the minimum required information is shared per institution. If a device is lost, CI-value deletion permanently erases the original biometric data.
COSMAX
MaXpace automated device for personalized cosmetics at the point of experience
MaXpace enables beauty brands to instantly design and deliver personalized cosmetics at the point of experience, supporting skincare, foundation and lip products through modular cartridge boards that can be swapped easily, allowing multiple product types to be produced with a single platform. From precise ingredient dispensing and hygienic mixing to completion of the final product, MaXpace ensures consistent quality and reliability. The ShadeXense algorithm and a patent-pending formulation structure analyze each consumer’s skin data and preferences to generate an optimal, tailored formula in real time.
mobilio Co.,Ltd.
NavigateX autonomous robot platform for continuous 24/7 inspection
NavigateX is an autonomous robot platform for continuous 24/7 inspection. Equipped with a 360-degree camera and IoT sensors, it collects real-time spatial data to generate detailed digital twins of facilities such as factories and power plants. The system visualizes multi-level maps, supports anomaly detection and tagging, and integrates with existing facility alarms through a web-based interface. NavigateX enables remote inspection, predictive maintenance and automated safety monitoring.
Xbrew (shenzhen) Technology Co., Ltd.
Nitrogen Coffee Machine
The Nitrogen Coffee Machine addresses the problem of frequent replacement of nitrogen cylinders and high consumables costs when using traditional equipment. The machine does not require the replacement of consumable gas cylinders. The machine can efficiently purify nitrogen from the air and accurately inject it into the coffee liquid, giving the drinks a dense, silky taste and rich foam, committed to the concept of sustainable environmental protection.
SNAPPASS by ANDOPEN integrates on-device facial recognition with encrypted, user-held tokens for passwordless multi-factor authentication, ensuring network isolation, data security compliance and immunity from credential leaks. SNAPPASS unifies access control for both physical and digital assets, streamlining IT and operational alignment while reducing support overhead. Its self-sovereign and zero-trust approach enables rapid deployment and compatibility across existing infrastructures, empowering organizations to scale authentication without user or network limits.
CES 2026 paints a clear picture of where consumer technology is heading. Much of what’s being showcased for home use in 2026 will likely filter into public unattended spaces over the next few years. Let’s unpack likely “downstream” technologies that could show up in the public spaces by 2027–2029, based on those trends.
We asked one of our AI engines to speculate and here is theirt response.
1. AI-powered personalization in homes
CES highlights tools like AiVATAR (AI video avatars) and AI Turing Keys (emotion-recognizing interactive music). These point toward home devices that can adapt entertainment, communication and environment to one’s mood or schedule.
Speculation: We may see AI companions integrated into smart mirrors, TVs or kitchen displays that auto-adjust lighting, music or video content based on emotional state or tone of voice.
In unattended spaces: Expect similar emotional personalization in hotel lobbies, gyms or waiting areas — spaces that can “read the room” and adjust audiovisual ambiance automatically.
2. Biometric and decentralized ID systems
GhostPass CityFlow and SNAPPASS both suggest the rise of biometric, device-stored identities. These eliminate the need for cards or apps while maintaining privacy via local encryption.
Speculation: Homes could employ biometric home-entry systems that double as payment authorization — imagine paying for grocery deliveries just by confirming your face or voice.
Public unattended applications: Expect biometric kiosks, smart vending and EV chargers that authenticate users without logins or payment cards. See this interview with Frank Olea.
3. Robotic delivery and autonomous assistance in residential areas
The AA-2 autonomous delivery robot is an early signal of automated last-mile logistics becoming common in denser living environments.
Speculation: Expect apartment complexes and suburban neighborhoods to adopt resident-integrated delivery corridors where small robots or drones deposit secured packages directly into smart lockers or kitchen drop-in ports.
Public unattended use: Think community-based robot hubs for coffee, meals or parcel exchange — autonomously coordinated using building’s IoT and AI-powered elevator systems.
4. AI-driven appliances and creation devices
Products like the Nitrogen Coffee Machine and MaXpace personalized cosmetics station show companies bringing industrial-grade automation and customization into personal devices.
Speculation: The home kitchen will evolve toward ingredient-based fabrication systems — devices that mix, bake or brew to order for dietary goals. The bathroom might feature auto-formulated skincare or fragrance units similar to MaXpace.
Unattended settings: Smart cafés and “micro-labs” inside offices or co-living spaces could use these systems for on-demand, personalized consumption experiences.
5. Attention-aware displays and mixed reality learning
LG’s under-display camera IR OLED and DIDIM Mini AR system reveal how sensors and displays merge for interaction and attention awareness.
Speculation: We’ll see AR projection learning systems for home fitness and early education — lightweight, foldable, portable and safe for kids or adults.
Public unattended applications: Interactive play zones, hotel gyms, airport lounges and even public libraries could incorporate projection-based mixed-reality environments for exercise, training or entertainment.
6. Energy intelligence and ultra-fast charging at home
CHAEVI’s megawatt platform is mainly for fleet and industrial charging, but its modular design will likely scale down.
Speculation: Home-level versions could manage multiple EVs, solar storage, or home microgrids using AI scheduling to balance power loads — essentially “smart panels” that cooperate with city grids.
7. Human-centric autonomous robotics
The AEON Hexagon and Scan&Go robots highlight a larger push for robots that collaborate safely and adaptively without constant programming.
Speculation: Expect home-maintenance robots that autonomously map and monitor your house, doing inspections for leaks or hazards, integrating with digital twin dashboards for homeowners.
In summary, CES 2026 marks a convergence of AI intuition, identity security and physical autonomy that will reshape both private and unattended public spaces. The dividing line between “smart home” and “smart environment” is fading — imagine a future where your neighborhood café, postal kiosk and apartment lobby all share your AI identity and preferences but never your private data.
For more than two decades, self-service technology advanced in cycles—touchscreens improved, hardware got cheaper, networks got faster, and operators layered efficiency gains on top of familiar models. That era is ending.
2026 is not about incremental improvement. It is about structural shifts already underway becoming unavoidable.
This pillar article outlines where those shifts converge—and why kiosks, payments, and public-facing automation will look fundamentally different by the end of 2026.
1. The End of “Good Enough” Hardware
For years, platforms like the Intel J1900-class Celeron survived on inertia. They were cheap, familiar, and “good enough” for static UI, basic video, and form-based transactions.
That tolerance is disappearing.
AI workloads—especially voice recognition, computer vision, and real-time personalization—change the economics of kiosk hardware. Performance is no longer measured in clock speed alone, but in local inference capability (TOPS).
By 2026, kiosk hardware splits cleanly into two camps:
Ultra-cheap commodity compute USB-stick-level or disposable compute for signage and non-interactive endpoints.
Purpose-built edge AI systems Fanless, industrial mini-PCs designed to run AI locally, offline, and reliably.
What disappears is the middle: underpowered x86 platforms trying to do AI they were never designed to handle.
2. Touchscreens Stop Being the Center of the Experience
Touchscreens are not going away—but their role is changing.
For 30 years, touch trained users how to interact with machines. It worked because it mirrored physical behavior: point, press, confirm. But touch has limits:
High friction for complex transactions
Accessibility challenges
Language barriers
Hygiene and durability concerns
Voice and conversational interfaces remove those constraints.
By 2026:
Voice becomes the primary interaction layer
Touch becomes secondary: confirmation, fallback, accessibility, or assisted use
The critical shift is not “touchless,” but interface hierarchy. The screen becomes a support surface—not the conversation itself.
3. Drive-Thrus Become the World’s Largest AI Classroom
Self-service adoption has always followed a pattern:
Now, drive-thrus are teaching people to trust machines with conversation.
Drive-thru environments are ideal AI training grounds:
High transaction volume
Predictable language patterns
Immediate feedback loops
Zero patience for failure
Consumers don’t think of this as “AI.” They think of it as ordering food faster. That’s exactly the point.
By 2026, conversational ordering at drive-thrus normalizes voice-first interaction across retail, hospitality, healthcare, and government services.
4. AI Moves to the Edge—Because It Has To
Cloud-based AI models proved the concept. They did not prove operational viability for self-service.
For kiosks and public-facing systems, centralized AI creates problems:
Latency during peak demand
Recurring cloud costs at scale
Privacy and compliance exposure
Fragility when connectivity fails
The response is not abandoning cloud AI—but rebalancing it.
By 2026, the dominant model becomes hybrid:
Local edge inference for real-time interaction
Cloud orchestration for updates, learning, and analytics
This shift delivers:
Faster response
Better privacy
Higher uptime
More consistent personalization
Centralized AI stops being the default. Edge intelligence becomes mandatory.
5. Privacy Becomes a Feature, Not a Policy Statement
As AI becomes conversational, users become more aware of what systems hear, store, and transmit.
Running AI locally changes that conversation:
Less data leaving the device
Fewer compliance dependencies
More transparent system boundaries
In 2026, privacy is no longer just legal language—it’s architectural.
Operators who can say “this interaction stays here” gain trust that cloud-only systems cannot easily match.
6. ATMs Fade from the Center Stage
ATMs are not disappearing—but their cultural role is shrinking.
Consumers increasingly expect:
Digital access to funds
Real-time account movement
Embedded financial services
The ATM becomes a special-purpose tool, not a primary interface.
High fees, declining cash usage, and alternative fulfillment models push ATMs to the margins—especially in urban and suburban environments.
By 2026, banks and retailers invest more in multi-function self-service kiosks than standalone cash machines.
7. Payments Hit a Breaking Point
Merchant tolerance for interchange costs has been eroding for years. By 2026, pressure reaches a visible inflection point.
Regulatory scrutiny, alternative payment rails, and operator fatigue converge. Whether rates change immediately or not, the conversation shifts decisively.
For networks like Visa and Mastercard, 2026 is less about defending status quo pricing—and more about preserving relevance amid accelerating alternatives.
Payments don’t collapse—but they fragment.
8. Government Services Enter an Uneven Automation Cycle
Public sector services face a paradox:
Rising demand
Shrinking or unstable staffing
Politically volatile funding
Midterm outcomes
The result is uneven automation.
By 2026:
Some jurisdictions accelerate self-service aggressively
Others stall or reverse programs mid-stream
Kiosks become less about innovation and more about continuity of service. Where staffing declines, automation fills gaps—not as a convenience, but as infrastructure.
What 2026 Really Represents
These predictions are not about technology breakthroughs. They are about organizational thresholds being crossed.
In 2026:
Self-service is no longer optional
Legacy systems lose political and operational cover
AI stops being experimental and becomes infrastructural
The winners will not be those chasing novelty—but those who understand where friction, trust, and economics intersect.
That is the shift already underway. 2026 is simply when pretending otherwise stops working.
22Miles Wraps 2025 with Momentum in Digital Signage, Wayfinding, and AV Innovation
As 2025 comes to a close, 22Miles is reinforcing its position as a key technology provider at the intersection of digital signage, wayfinding, and AV systems integration. In its December newsletter, the company highlights continued thought leadership, regional growth, and real-world customer deployments that underscore how enterprise-grade signage platforms are evolving beyond screens into fully managed digital experience ecosystems.
Thought Leadership Through Podcasts and Webinars
A central theme of the December update is 22Miles’ growing role as an educational resource for AV professionals and digital signage operators. Through a series of podcasts and webinars, the company has been addressing practical topics such as CMS selection, content strategy, accessibility requirements, and AV project management.
Rather than focusing solely on product promotion, these sessions reflect a broader industry trend: signage platforms are increasingly judged not just on features, but on how well they support deployment planning, compliance, and long-term operations. This approach resonates with enterprise buyers who are managing multi-site rollouts and complex stakeholder environments.
Regional Scale: Indiana as a Digital Signage Hub
The newsletter also highlights 22Miles’ strong regional footprint in Indiana, where more than 30 organizations across healthcare, education, cultural venues, and corporate campuses rely on its platform. The Midwest continues to be an important proving ground for large-scale signage networks, particularly in environments where wayfinding accuracy, uptime, and content governance are critical.
This concentration of deployments illustrates a broader market reality: digital signage success often depends less on flashy interfaces and more on consistent execution across diverse locations and use cases.
Keeping Installations on Track: Lessons from the Field
One of the featured blog posts in the newsletter offers insight from a 22Miles Product Delivery Specialist with more than a decade of deployment experience. The key takeaway—“Don’t assume, ask questions”—will sound familiar to anyone who has managed signage or kiosk projects at scale.
The article emphasizes three recurring success factors: organization, communication, and patience. These lessons align closely with what integrators and end-users alike have learned over the past few years: digital signage failures are rarely caused by software limitations alone, but by breakdowns in coordination between IT, facilities, AV, and content teams.
Debunking Wayfinding Myths
Wayfinding remains one of the most misunderstood segments of the digital signage market. In another featured piece, 22Miles addresses persistent myths around complexity, cost, and maintenance. While legacy projects often involved expensive mapping exercises and heavy customization, modern platforms are increasingly designed for iterative updates, centralized management, and lower total cost of ownership.
This shift is particularly relevant for venues facing frequent layout changes, temporary events, or accessibility updates—situations where static signage quickly becomes a liability rather than an asset.
Customer Spotlight: Nashville Music City Center
The December newsletter closes with a customer spotlight on the Nashville Music City Center, where 22Miles technology is being used to transform in-venue displays into flexible digital advertising and communications assets. Centralized scheduling and location-based content control allow the venue to rotate promotions, manage sponsors, and tailor messaging by event or audience.
This use case highlights a growing trend: venues are increasingly viewing digital signage as a revenue-generating and operational tool, not just an informational display.
Looking Ahead to 2026
With increased activity on LinkedIn and a stated focus on higher education and large-venue deployments in early 2026, 22Miles appears poised to continue expanding both its market presence and its role as an industry educator.
For organizations planning digital signage or wayfinding projects in the coming year, the themes from this newsletter—simplification, operational discipline, and platform scalability—offer a clear snapshot of where the market is headed.
Editor Notes: Terminal management platforms like PayLoader reflect a broader shift toward DevOps-style lifecycle management for payment hardware — especially in environments where on-site support is expensive or impractical.
Why Terminal Management Is Becoming a Competitive Differentiator — As Android-based payment devices proliferate across kiosks, self-checkout, and unattended retail, managing firmware, keys, and branding at scale has become a hidden cost center for operators…
Implications for Kiosks, Self-Checkout, and Unattended Commerce include Remote branding for unattended screens, Reduced truck rolls, Faster security patching
Why It Matters Now
Lower compliance risk across fleets
Cost reduction per site visit avoided
Scale challenges beyond 1,000+ terminals
How Android proliferation changed terminal lifecycle management
Why multi-OEM TMS is suddenly critical (vs optional)
Datacap Launches Terminal Management System for Android POS and Payment Devices
Chalfont, PA — Datacap Systems Inc. has introduced PayLoader™, a new multi-OEM Terminal Management System (TMS) designed to give POS providers and resellers centralized control over the configuration, deployment, and ongoing support of payment devices across distributed merchant environments.
As Android-based POS and payment terminals continue to proliferate across retail, restaurant, and unattended use cases, managing firmware, security keys, branding, and application updates at scale has become a growing operational challenge. PayLoader is positioned to address that gap by enabling remote, centralized management of payment device fleets—reducing reliance on manual processes and costly on-site service visits.
What Problem PayLoader™ Is Designed to Solve
For many POS providers and resellers, device management has become fragmented:
Multiple OEMs across a single merchant estate
Manual firmware and configuration updates
On-site service calls for routine changes
Security risks tied to key injection and version control
Limited visibility into deployed payment hardware
As payment environments scale—particularly with Android-based terminals—these challenges directly impact operational costs, security posture, and merchant uptime.
What Is PayLoader™?
PayLoader™ is a Terminal Management System (TMS) that enables Datacap-integrated POS providers to remotely manage payment devices from a single platform. It supports both console-based management and API-driven workflows, allowing partners to automate device updates programmatically if desired.
At launch, PayLoader supports Android payment terminals from:
Ingenico (AXIUM product line)
PAX Technology (Android terminal portfolio)
Datacap has indicated that additional hardware OEMs are planned as PayLoader expands.
Core Capabilities of the PayLoader Terminal Management System
PayLoader consolidates multiple device-management functions into a single orchestration layer, including:
Remote Key Injection (RKI)
Firmware and OS updates
Payment and POS application deployment
Device configuration management
Dynamic branding and screen control
Fleet-wide update scheduling
API access for automated DevOps workflows
By centralizing these functions, PayLoader aims to reduce operational overhead while improving consistency and security across large device deployments.
Why Terminal Management Matters More in 2025
Terminal management has evolved from a back-office utility into a strategic requirement. Several trends are accelerating this shift:
Android POS adoption across attended and unattended environments
Rising service costs tied to truck rolls and field labor
The need for rapid updates across geographically dispersed locations
For POS providers supporting enterprise and multi-location merchants, scalable terminal management is now a prerequisite rather than a differentiator.
Datacap Perspective
According to Datacap, the increasing role of custom POS applications has made unified device control essential:
“Custom POS applications are becoming core to the merchant experience and managing them across a growing fleet of devices is critical,” said Justin Zeigler, VP of Product at Datacap. “PayLoader unifies device management across merchants and OEMs, giving our POS partners one place to orchestrate app updates, keys, branding, and configurations.”
Insight — From a kiosk and unattended perspective, this reflects how payment terminals are increasingly treated as managed endpoints rather than static peripherals.
Who PayLoader™ Is Designed For
PayLoader is targeted primarily at:
POS software developers and ISVs
POS resellers and solution integrators
Payment solution providers
Multi-location retail and restaurant operators
Self-service and unattended commerce deployments
The system is intended to function as an infrastructure layer beneath the POS application, rather than a merchant-facing tool.
PayLoader Within Datacap’s Omnichannel Payments Platform
PayLoader integrates into Datacap’s broader omnichannel payments ecosystem, which supports processor-agnostic payment routing across attended, unattended, online, and mobile environments. By extending centralized control to the device level, Datacap is reinforcing its focus on scalability and operational efficiency for channel partners.
POS providers not yet integrated with Datacap’s platform can initiate onboarding through Datacap directly.
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Much has been reported about new capabilities of self service equipment thanks to technology, but when it comes to vending, one maxim has never changed since the time Hero of Tesibus is believed to have invented a coin-operated machine to dispense sacrificial water in ancient Egypt: Service makes the difference.
In vending industry parlance, “service” serves as a catch-all term for all aspects of vending machine service: replenishing products, answering customer questions and ensuring equipment reliability. As technology has evolved, however, ensuring reliable machine service has become more critical thanks to the myriad nuances of surging equipment capabilities.
Consider, for example, a fully robotic coffee station that allows customers to place and pay for orders from a menu of over 250 drink combinations using their phones. Robojo Coffee, based in Westerville, Ohio, secures a commitment from the customer for daily cleaning and maintenance before ordering the machine from the manufacturer in Germany.
Speaking of industry parlance, technology has also expanded the definition of “vending” beyond the traditional use of selling consumable food and beverage products to include non-consumable products such as industrial supplies, consumer electronics and more.
And as vending equipment has expanded beyond the more traditional applications, the challenge of providing reliable service has become more multi-faceted for OEMs interested in supporting their customers as well as protecting their own reputations.
In the traditional foodservice applications as well as those in the more recent amusement, financial and gaming machine sectors, professional operators installed machines and took responsibility for servicing equipment. Location based operational management, known as “self op,” existed, but was not the norm. The traditional vending service model provided dedicated service networks that equipment OEMs could rely on.
As applications expanded beyond the established user groups, however, service models needed to adapt. Pioneers in these non-traditional spaces included Redbox (VHS movies), Zoom Systems (electronics) and Fastenal (industrial supplies).
COVID jumpstarts self service
With COVID, the service challenge jumped into even higher gear as retailers and other organizations tapped vending machines to continue to serve consumers in the absence of on-site employees. Many such organizations maintained these unattended sales systems even after employees returned to work following COVID.
“Many of the top challenges facing retailers today – labor shortages, improving the customer experience, data management, and more – are solved through technology,” Jim Roddy, president and CEO of the Retail Solutions Providers Association, told retailsystems.org following the recent RetailNow show in Las Vegas. “With many of those merchants having unique requirements, they are best served working with resellers who can tailor solutions specific to their needs as well as provide fast, personal service.”
Vending equipment OEMs, for their part, have not been slow to recognize the changing service landscape.
“We’ve seen growth in all categories since the (COVID) rebound,” said Ashley Huber, chief marketing officer at The Wittern Group, a longtime manufacturer of vending equipment under the U-Select-It, Selectivend and Federal Machine brands.
Foodservice and retail businesses were strongly impacted by COVID, Huber said, but the controlled dispensing segment (such as industrial supply machines for worksites) was even more affected.
“We have seen growth in both segments (traditional vending and controlled dispensing), but I’d say by and large we see a higher level of growth in the controlled dispensing type application in some of those specific verticals,” she said. “We touch every type of operator on both sides, traditional and non-traditional. Obviously, two very different types of customers, different levels of background knowledge on vending, as well as support needs.”
Equipment service needs surge
The need for field service is especially acute for locations not serviced by a traditional vending operator.
Crane Payment Innovations, another longtime equipment manufacturer, has a variety of service models to meet customer needs. The company currently resolves over 75,000 service dispatch tickets across the U.S. and Canada for its vending and unattended retail clientele.
“It depends what you want,” said Jillian Dabovich, director of business development for CPI service. “CPI may not have a contract for a client with one machine, but can service the on-site IT for that unit. When it comes to the actual CPI component, those are always available to be sent back into our CPI depots and repaired. We do have the ability to work with organizations of all sizes.”
“If something breaks I’m able to put it into a ticketing system that is easy to follow,” she said. “I can see where that technician is within their route and when they’re going to arrive onsite.”
Nick Kokkinakis, chief operating officer at Smart Retail-X, which specializes in providing automated retail systems, agreed that field service is taking on greater importance.
“The service side of the business is steadily growing and represents a meaningful and increasing percentage of our overall operations, especially as our installed base expands internationally,” he said.
Smart Retail-X provides service cost estimates based on equipment type, location, service agreement level, usage profile and warranty status. For larger clients, this is often structured within service contracts or preventive maintenance agreements. Operating costs are calculated using historical service data, energy consumption, spare parts usage, software licensing, connectivity and labor.
“This allows us to provide realistic TCO (total cost of ownership) models to customers,” Kokkinakis said.
Technology grabs a bigger role
As equipment technology has advanced, tech support has become a key aspect of service support.
“Maintenance is included because we are the technology provider, not the operator,” said Gower Smith, chief product officer of Shin Starr, manufacturer of the OLHSO Korean robotic food truck. The company’s service level agreements specify the level of support and response time.
“Our client is the operator,” Smith said. “And as we sell, we include full technical support and all technology support, so that includes all the software support, menu support, the technical support for our partner. We are motivated for their support because our revenue is a share of their revenue.”
Shin Starr offers customers direct operational support, including 20 engineers at its manufacturing facility in South Korea, and R&D support from the South Korean government to maintain the engineering support.
Recognizing the complexities of service in today’s technology intensive environment, Smith has also launched Autonomous Alliance, a San Francisco based coalition for organizations interested in expanding access, placement and delivery of autonomous commerce solutions.
Robojo Coffee, a fully automated retail coffee store, focuses heavily on training the customer about maintaining the machine. One hour per 24-hour day is needed for cleaning and maintenance. The process begins before the unit is ordered from the manufacturer in Germany.
“Once a commitment is obtained, we will work to identify the best location within the location, provide the best financial option, provide a customized operational setup, and order the unit from our partners in Germany,” said Ken Green, company CEO. “Robojo coordinates the delivery of the unit from Germany to a centralized warehouse. From here, the unit is inspected and verified to be in full operational condition, and is repackaged to deliver to our partner’s location(s). Everything from installation, training and initial setup is fully coordinated by Robojo to ensure our clients’ success from day one.”
The first Robojo installation was at a Columbus, Ohio hospital in 2022. Now there are six in total, including hospitals, a corporate building and a museum coming in January.
Technology drives vending use cases
Applestone Solutions, based on Stone Ridge, New York, offers an excellent example of a retailer expanding its operation using vending technology, an evolution that requires reliable service support.
Founded as a butcher shop, Applestone Meat Company installed refrigerated vending machines in its stores stocked with fresh meat and processed foods several years ago to allow customers to purchase its products 24/7.
In 2019, the company changed its name to Applestone Solutions, offering a cloud based vending solution compatible with any vending machine running Android, Linux, or Microsoft Windows operating systems, enabling item-level tracking, variable pricing and multiple network connectivity modes to help retailers expand operations, promote more products, manage inventory and offer automated BOPIS (buy online pick up in store) services.
To ensure reliable machine service, Applestone Solutions partnered with The Pelican Group, a San Francisco based vending management company that specializes in establishing vending service partnerships for retailers and other organizations. By partnering with a vending management company such as The Pelican Group, a client organization spares itself the hassle of finding and contracting vending service providers for its locations, an arrangement that is especially profitable and efficient for clients with numerous locations.
The Pelican Group’s service contracts include installs, maintenance, repairs and parts in addition to product replenishment, said Jason Scherer, company president.
As self service technology has evolved, Scherer noted that micro markets are playing a bigger role than ever on both the retail landscape and in work sites. Micro markets are unattended self service spaces with coolers, coffee brewers and open shelves where customers pay at a payment kiosk using cashless methods. These alternative automated retail systems came on the scene in the mid 2000s and are largely serviced by traditional vending operators.
Larger brands on board
The need for reliable equipment service has also taken on new importance for some of the larger retail brands investing in vending machines, including Chick-fil-A, White Castle and Nestle Pizza.
Ben Wheeler, a kiosk industry consultant, recently joined T-ROC Global, a provider of retail automation and revenue optimization services, to help with a nationwide service organization for brands expanding into vending. T-ROC Global currently has a network of 32 warehouses that support more than 2,000 machines across the U.S. to meet the needs of such brands.
T-ROC Global provides maintenance for a Chick-fil-A branded food vending machine at Georgia Tech in Atlanta, which recently introduced its first branded machine following an initial deployment at Childrens Hospital of Georgia, according to the company’s website. The machine is operated by Kiosk Operators, a Dallas based equipment manufacturer, and is replenished by Chick-fil-A employees.
RFPs on the rise
With the demand for self service on the rise, RFPs for vending service are expanding. A recent review of RFPs found most require equipment service.
“There are a lot of RFPs where they want all of that included,” said Jillian Dabovich at CPI. “They see a value and see more uptime when you have specific experts doing a piece of that puzzle.”
Nick Kokkinakis at Smart Retail-X sees RFPs paying more attention to post installment service.
“In most professional tenders, equipment service expectations (uptime, response time, preventive maintenance, spare parts availability) are clearly defined and treated separately from vending or product-related services,” Kokkinakis said.
As a case in point, the Garland County Courthouse in Hot Springs, Arkansas posted its first vending RFP in 2025 which cited “equipment reliability” and “service and responsiveness” as key points for evaluation.
“If it takes them two weeks to come and look at it, that’s usually not a good response,” Darryl Mahoney, the county judge who oversaw the Garland County Courthouse bidding process, told this website. “We’d at least like to have them here within a week.” Mahoney said evaluations can be done by checking the bidder’s references, either by phone or in person.
Service arrangements vary
Service arrangements vary considerably for vending machines and other automated retail systems in today’s operating environment.
Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport has expanded its self service offerings in recent years and relies on its retail concessionaires for managing equipment service, said Roxann Favors, assistant aviation director and chief revenue officer at the aviation department. The aviation department business project managers have monthly meetings with the concessionaires for updates on any service interruptions.
“PHX has not experienced widespread systems being down for equipment,” Favors said in a phone interview. Sometimes machines are out of service for technology upgrades, many of which take place overnight.
“If those units are not back up, they have staffed registers to be able to still process everyone,” she said. “We’ve never experienced a significant number of ‘down’ units with the concessionaires’ self service equipment.”
Following are summaries of vending equipment providers’ field service operations listed in alphabetical order.
Crane Payment Innovations
Crane Payment Innovations, based in Malvern, Pennsylvania, launched its depot service center in 2024, allowing customers to ship components to be repaired, maintained or serviced at a centralized CPI location. Previously a machine owner or operator had to set up an account with an authorized third party service center. The new service model provides strategic distribution of spare parts across the country to expedite availability and reduce downtime.
The company currently has more than 450 service techs, all of whom are company employees as opposed to subcontractors.
“Businesses no longer have to wait for days or weeks to get their payment systems back up and running,” said Jillian Dabovich director of business development for CPI service. “Instead, technicians can swiftly diagnose issues, replace faulty components and restore functionality. This agility translates to improved customer experiences and uninterrupted revenue streams. With CPI’s service model, businesses can avoid unnecessary stockpiling. Instead of maintaining a large inventory, they can rely on CPI’s just-in-time parts availability.”
CPI evaluates first time fix rates, as well as mean time between failures, by account on a weekly and then month-over-month basis to look for trends and help provide proactive resolution. The mean time between failures analysis is a common metric in other markets which CPI brings to the vending/unattended retail space.
“While ensuring the first-time fix provides maximum uptime, the mean time between failures (by machine) tells a full diagnostic story to identify commonalities in service requests to adjust and solve for,” Dabovich said.
FASE Vending
FASE Vending, based in Norristown, Pennsylvania, offers several machines that serve casual hot food, such as pizzas or wings, within minutes.
The company’s Pizzadoor machine features a 32-inch order touchscreen to offer pizzas 24/7. The machine uses an electric oven to rethermalize and serves a chilled 14- to 20-ounce pizza in a box in as fast as 90 seconds.
The company has also launched a hybrid vending and locker unit called Barizza for micro markets and other locations along with a self-service oven called Ovensys that features an in-tray cooking technology. The machine includes a parent module that communicates with other modules to place and pick up orders.
Gregory Raffaele, company CEO, handles most service issues remotely since the equipment features connectivity systems to upload updates and perform remote troubleshooting.
The most common hardware maintenance issue consists of recalibrating or replacing sensors that can be performed by operators in a few minutes.
Payment terminal related issues are handled by the payment terminal manufacturers and typically consist of firmware updates.
Robojo Coffee
Robojo Coffee, a Westerville, Ohio provider of a fully automated coffee store, secures a commitment from the customer for daily cleaning and maintenance before ordering the machine from the manufacturer in Germany.
“Everything from installation, training, and initial setup is fully coordinated by Robojo to ensure our clients’ success from day one,” said Ken Green, CEO. The company also provides maintenance support.
“For preventative maintenance we have predetermined costs for each type of event based on the amount of labor and costs for parts from our experience in doing it,” Green said. “For other maintenance and repairs, we use a pass-through model and cost-plus on parts.”
Shin Starr
Shin Starr, based in San Mateo, California, provides direct service support for its robotic restaurant trucks which automatically prepare, cook and serve phoned-in orders. There is currently a flagship OLHSO Korean BBQ restaurant and two OLHSO robotic food trucks in California with new openings scheduled in 2026.
The company is developing a service manual so that operators will be able to handle regular maintenance, with Shin Starr providing support if components malfunction, said Gower Smith, chief product officer. High severity issues such as a machine not serving customers would get an immediate response.
Smith gained experience developing a national service organization when he launched Zoom Systems in 2002 to sell electronics. Prior to creating his own service network, he partnered with Fujifilm, which had over 500 W-2 employees who were engineers, for field service, in addition to some 1099 techs.
“They had electro-mechanics, they had electronics, and they had software capability,” Smith said. “That was a very important partnership and we’re looking to replicate that.”
Smart Retail-X
Smart Retail-X, a Miami, Florida based provider of automated retail systems, offers vending machines made by Magex, an Italy based manufacturer, featuring elevator dispensing and configurable product shelves using variable weight management. The company’s field service team focuses on installation, preventive maintenance, corrective maintenance and upgrades.
The company offers customers a service contract for ongoing support, including hardware trouble shooting, software updates and system upgrades.
Service KPIs include first-time fix rate, response time, mean time to repair, equipment uptime, preventive maintenance compliance and customer satisfaction scores.
T-ROC Global
T-ROC Global, a Coral Gables, Florida based provider of retail automation and revenue optimization services, has a network of 32 warehouses that support more than 2,000 machines across the U.S.
“Who has the reach to reach out?” asked Ben Wheeler, a kiosk industry consultant who serves as senior director of business development for retail at T-ROC Global, citing the challenge of establishing a nationwide field service organization for brands invested in supporting their brand equity.
T-ROC Global currently provides maintenance for a Chick-fil-A branded food vending machine at Georgia Tech in Atlanta, which recently introduced the machine inside the Clough Undergraduate Learning Commons following an initial deployment at Childrens Hospital of Georgia, according to the company’s website.
Vending Concepts
Vending Concepts, a Fort Worth, Texas based provider of both new and refurbished vending equipment, is a wholesale vending equipment provider, part of the traditional model of the vending equipment distribution system (manufacturer to wholesale to operator to location to consumer).
The company provides service support for both new and used equipment and provides phone support for all equipment and on-site repair, including refrigeration support.
Refurbished used equipment remains popular due to the rising costs of new equipment, said Mark Bentley, the company’s national sales manager.
Some of the machines include parts warranties. Customers that don’t have a warranty can buy parts, have them sent and get a local tech recommendation if necessary.
The company also provides service for glass door coolers, which are used extensively in micro markets, which continue to expand.
The Wittern Group
The Wittern Group, a Clive, Iowa based manufacturer of vending equipment under the U-Select-It, Selectivend and Federal Machine brands, offers service for all of its equipment under its Vendnet division.
Vendnet has facilities nationwide and in Mexico and Canada, providing phone troubleshooting, repairs and parts support.
“If somebody’s having an issue with their machine, they call in,” said Kim Murphy, customer experience manager of Vendnet. “If it’s not something that we can walk them through over the phone or through videos, then they have the option of sending a technician out to them.”
The company repairs all equipment parts, including payment equipment, whether or not the card reader is a Wittern equipment brand.
When a customer requests an onsite service visit, they get a price estimate.
There are currently more than 1,000 products available that can be ordered online or over the phone that can be delivered in one to two days.
The Wittern Group also hosts a service school four times a year for service techs, all of whom are subcontracted, and grants a company certificate. In addition, there are more than 500 service videos.
The company provides a factory direct warranty on equipment but does not currently offer extended service contracts.
Self-service technology in restaurants has moved beyond pilots. AI drive-thru, kiosks, mobile-first ordering, and selective automation are now operational realities—especially in QSR and fast casual.
Here’s a short executive brief summarizing what’s actually happening across major brands as we head into 2026.
Executive Brief
McDonald’s — Rolled out Order Ahead nationwide in the U.K. app (Nov 11) and said its Google Cloud edge platform is now live in hundreds of U.S. restaurants to speed in‑store AI/computer‑vision use cases. Restaurant Business Online+1
Starbucks — Began using AI for inventory counts in select U.S. stores to reduce waste and out‑of‑stocks (late Nov).
Yum! Brands (Taco Bell, Pizza Hut, KFC) — Year‑to‑date but still active: partnership with NVIDIA to scale voice drive‑thru and computer‑vision apps toward ~500 locations; rollouts have been referenced across multiple outlets and earnings updates through 2025. Restaurant Dive+2Axios+2
Wendy’s — Continuing expansion of FreshAI (Google Cloud) to 500–600 drive‑thrus by end of 2025; ongoing through Q4. Business Insider
Panera — Announced Panera RISE strategy (Nov 18), including renewed in‑café experience with upgraded self‑ordering kiosks and streamlined digital ordering. Panera Bread+1
White Castle — Opened its “Castle of Tomorrow” prototype featuring a new Flippy robotic fryer generation and other automation (Oct). Dispatch
Shake Shack — Pushing digital menu boards/combos to improve drive‑thru speed and accuracy; expansion noted in Q2–Q4 updates. CX Dive
Wingstop — Highlighted its Smart Kitchen (AI‑assisted forecasting/workflows) in Nov commentary and renewed DoorDash pact noting 70%+ digital sales; new loyalty program coming in 2026. foodondemand.com+2DoorDash+2
Papa John’s — Expanded Google Cloud AI use for personalized ordering/marketing (chatbot, offers) announced this spring and still rolling through 2025. Reuters
Burger King (RBI) — 2025 remodel program continuing with heavier emphasis on kiosks and modernized drive‑thru; plus fresh voice‑AI demos in the U.K. Restaurant Dive+1
Chick‑fil‑A — Continued rollout of Mobile Thru lanes and opened additional elevated drive‑thru prototypes this fall; also testing automated retail (vending) last month. QSR Magazine+2Yahoo+2
Portillo’s — “Restaurant of the Future” model (launching in TX) features double drive‑thru, an order‑ahead lane, and self‑serve kiosks. MySA
Here’s the latest SST (self‑service technology) update summary relevant to the top 50 restaurant companies (covering kiosks, voice/AI ordering, automation, mobile/app ordering, and related tech trends as of late Dec 25 2025):
Recent Notable SST Activity
1. Drive‑thru AI & Voice Ordering Expansion
Many quick‑service brands (e.g., Wendy’s, White Castle, Checkers & Rally’s, Bojangles, Taco Bell, KFC, Pizza Hut, Church’s, Carl’s Jr./Hardee’s, Del Taco, Panda Express) are actively deploying or piloting AI‑driven voice ordering in drive‑thrus. These systems aim to improve throughput and reduce staff load, though user experience results vary by brand. Canopy
2. Wendy’s Drive‑Thru Automation Deployment
Wendy’s continues scaling its Fresh AI drive‑thru system to hundreds of locations this year, coupled with digital menu boards and kiosk‑like enhancements to ordering lanes. Restaurant Dive
3. Broader Self‑Service Kiosk & AI Trends
The restaurant industry’s self‑service tech market (kiosks, digital ordering, AI bots) is rapidly growing, with forecasts for kiosks and related AI systems driving major adoption through 2025–2028. Modern Restaurant Management
AI‑powered self‑ordering kiosks and chatbots are being increasingly adopted to reduce errors, personalize orders, and offload staff duties. NOAM
4. Robotics, Automation & Integration Tech
White Castle has highlighted futuristic designs blending robotics (e.g., robotic fryers) and mobile ordering into new restaurant concepts. Restaurant Technology News
Industry trend reports show rising interest in automation across kitchens, linking order systems with prep and queue technology to cut wait times. QuikServ
Self‑service kiosks and AI restaurant tech are key growth areas in 2025, reshaping guest engagement and operational workflows across major chains. MobiDev
Tesla appears to be silently rolling out a significant change to its new V4 Supercharger stations: the removal of individual credit card terminals in favor of a centralized payment hub.
New photos and reports indicate that at select new V4 sites, the individual contactless payment readers, previously a hallmark of the V4 stall design, have been removed. In their place stands a single standalone kiosk that serves the entire cluster of chargers.
For the last year, V4 Superchargers have been rolling out with a small screen and a credit card reader built into every stall. This was a response to government regulations (such as the NEVI program in the US and similar laws in Europe) that require on-site payment options for drivers who don’t want to use an app.
and manage a growing, multi-brand charging ecosystem more cleanly.
Why the pricing + UX combo is a strategy (not an accident)
A user report cited by Not a Tesla App says the kiosk price was about double the existing Tesla rate at that location. Not a Tesla App . That implies Tesla is treating kiosk payment as a premium, walk-up convenience rate Tesla can truthfully say: “We provide walk-up payment,” but by making kiosk payment meaningfully more expensive (reportedly ~2× at least at one site) Tesla:
Making NRF Work Better—for Retailers and Exhibitors
Barney and Rethink Retail
Each year, thousands of retailers and solution providers gather at the NRF Big Show with the same goal: to find ideas, partners, and technologies that genuinely fit their business.
And each year, many leave disappointed—not because innovation was lacking, but because too many conversations missed the mark.
NRF doesn’t fall short due to technology. It falls short when conversations become sales pitches instead of discovery.
This is a simple guide for both retailers and exhibitors on how to make NRF more effective—by prioritizing good advice, clearer expectations, and better use of time.
NRF Is a Discovery Environment, Not a Closing Room
Retailers don’t come to NRF to sign contracts on the show floor.
Exhibitors don’t realistically expect deals to close in a booth.
The real value of NRF is discovery:
What problems are real versus assumed?
What solutions work in live environments—not just in demos?
What fits a retailer’s operational, technical, and budget reality?
When exhibitors treat NRF as a selling opportunity, retailers disengage.
When retailers treat booths as free consulting sessions with no intent, vendors disengage.
Both outcomes waste time.
For Retailers: Better Questions Lead to Better Conversations
Retailers can dramatically improve booth conversations by shifting from “Show me what you do” to “Help me understand if this fits.”
Questions that tend to unlock real insight include:
Where does this solution typically struggle in real deployments?
What does this require from store operations—not just IT?
What does a pilot really demand in time, people, and support?
What usually stops projects like this from moving forward internally?
These aren’t confrontational questions. They’re clarifying ones. And they often shorten conversations by quickly identifying whether a solution is relevant—or not.
For Exhibitors: Advice Builds Trust Faster Than Features
Retailers at NRF don’t need more features. They need context.
Exhibitors who consistently stand out tend to:
Explain who their solution is not for
Share lessons learned from failed or stalled projects
Acknowledge trade-offs instead of overselling perfection
Ask thoughtful questions before launching into a demo
Providing honest guidance—even when it leads to disqualification—signals confidence and credibility. Over-pitching does the opposite.
Ironically, the exhibitors most willing to say “this may not be right for you” are often the ones retailers remember and follow up with.
Time Is the Most Valuable Currency on the Show Floor
NRF conversations work best when both sides quietly align on a few basics:
Is this an exploratory conversation or an evaluative one?
How much time do we realistically have?
What would justify a follow-up—or a clean no?
A focused 10–15 minute conversation with clarity is far more productive than a long, unfocused pitch. Efficiency isn’t cold—it’s respectful.
Why Good Advice Matters More Than Ever
Retail technology has become more complex, not less. Integrations, service models, compliance, security, field support, and total cost of ownership all matter—and often matter more than the product itself.
In this environment:
Retailers need help seeing around corners
Vendors need credibility more than volume
Honest conversations outperform polished decks
NRF works best when it feels less like Tinder or Bumble and more like informed matchmaking.
The Bottom Line
NRF delivers the most value when:
Retailers arrive curious but prepared
Exhibitors lead with insight, not scripts
Both sides focus on fit rather than flash
The best outcome of NRF isn’t a deal—it’s clarity.
And clarity, followed up thoughtfully, leads to better decisions for everyone involved.
☐ Define success in advance Decide what “good” looks like: discovery meetings, partner conversations, analyst briefings, or competitive intelligence — not closed deals.
☐ Pre-book your top 10–20 meetings Use the show as a forcing function for conversations that would otherwise take months to schedule.
☐ Use the tradeshow website and mobile app Typically for NRF using the matchmaking Grip app will provide 50 good contacts PRIOR to the show
☐ Have a Press and PR strategy Newsletters are great for establishing interest, and you generally have their contact info. LinkedIn is a very low traffic channel and typically saturated with “Come See” blurbs prior to show. Set up the show as Event and then invite your customers via LinkedIn. That is better than just a shotgun post hoping you hit something.
☐ Clarify your 30-second story What problem do you solve, for whom, and why now — without slides or demos.
☐ Align booth staff roles Who qualifies, who demos, who handles executives, who captures notes.
☐ Prep intelligent questions For retailers: “What’s breaking in your current workflow?” For vendors: “Where are deployments stalling — and why?”
☐ Have lightweight digital assets ready QR code to a one-pager, demo video, or follow-up page — not a content dump. For your website and your landing page, remember that likely 70% of viewers are going to be on mobile. Test your assets using mobiles for effectiveness.
During the Show: Maximize Signal, Minimize Noise
☐ Protect time ruthlessly Every conversation should earn its place. It’s okay to politely disengage.
☐ Listen more than you pitch The best insights come from how people describe their problems, not your solution.
☐ Qualify fast Are they a buyer, influencer, partner, or “interesting but not now”?
☐ Capture context, not just contact info Write down why the conversation mattered and what to do next.
☐ Walk the floor intentionally Look for patterns: what’s everywhere, what’s missing, what feels forced.
☐ Schedule follow-ups on the spot A calendar hold beats a business card every time.
After the Show: Where ROI Actually Happens
☐ Follow up within 5 business days Reference the specific conversation — generic emails get ignored.
☐ Share internal insights What trends kept coming up? What assumptions were challenged?
☐ Measure outcomes, not swag Meetings booked, pilots discussed, partnerships advanced.
☐ Decide what changes before the next show Messaging, booth design, demo flow, staffing mix.
Reality Check
Trade shows don’t fail because of bad technology. They fail because companies show up without a plan, chase the wrong conversations, and confuse activity with progress.
When it comes to kiosk deployment, one of the first strategic decisions companies face is whether to choose an off the shelf model or invest in a custom built design . The short answer is simple. If you’re deploying only a few units or kiosks play a smaller role in your business, a standard model may be suitable. But for medium or large scale deployers where brand identity, differentiation, and exclusive functionality matter, a custom kiosk design can be a major competitive advantage.
Brand Identity Belongs to Your Business
For many deployers, especially those reselling a kiosk solution as part of their product, brand identity is everything. In many industries, a kiosk is one of the few tangible touchpoints a customer interacts with, making it an extension of your brand.
Companies invest heavily in brand equity, visual design, user experience, and the value connected to their product. A standard kiosk in the market can cause:
Competitors to appear identical
Your brand investment becomes diluted
You may find yourself showcasing the same kiosk as your competitors at tradeshows or customer sites
A custom design ensures your kiosk reflects your brand, your colors, your architecture, and user experience rather than blending in with the rest of the market.
Differentiation
One of the strongest arguments for a custom kiosk is differentiation. When multiple companies use an off the shelf kiosk, the product experience often becomes a commodity, leaving price as the only point of distinction. That’s a losing battle.
A custom kiosk enables differentiation that actually matters to your customers, such as:
Usability, which reduces error for users, increases ROI, and lowers stress on staff
Aesthetics, which increase brand credibility and drive higher engagement with the kiosk
Smaller or more refined footprint
Faster and more intuitive user experience
Improved serviceability and maintenance
When customers can instantly recognize your kiosk, you’re not competing on cost, you’re competing on value, innovation, and user experience.
Purpose Built Solutions
Standard kiosks serve many use cases, industries, and environments which means they’re general, but general rarely equals optimal. Your deployment may require specific components like durability, accessibility, and security features that a standard unit can’t fully support.
Custom engineering provides:
A kiosk sized, shaped, and designed for your environments
Component sets organized for maximum performance
Hardware designed around how your users interact with the product
A refined, integrated solution
If you want the best product in your category, purpose built design is almost always the path that gets you there.
How Kiosk Innovations Approaches Custom Design
At Kiosk Innovations, we specialize in thoughtful design, a process that begins with listening. Every deployment, industry, and workflow is different, which is why we work closely with each client to understand what matters most:
Aesthetics and brand presence
Ease of use
Security
Footprint limitations
Overall visibility and customer engagement
Serviceability
Budget and long term goals
By valuing long term partnerships, we ensure the solution we engineer is not only functional, but truly aligned with your business objectives. Our team brings decades of experience designing kiosks that are innovative, reliable, and tailored to the exact needs of each deployment.
If you’re looking for a kiosk solution that reflects your brand, stands out from competitors, and is built specifically for your use case, a custom design may be the right strategic move and Kiosk Innovations is here to help you build it.
Helping research companies validate their counts and clients is thankless but its better than mysterious undocumented numbers. Companies like to talk about what they are going to do but rubber hits the road when they do it.
What about kiosks and Dunkin Donuts?
dunkin donuts kiosk
Notes:
Dunkin used to be Aloha and NCR but not anymore. Pretty sure Oracle.
In July 2024 Dunkin hits the 4000 new next gen stores mark
Late 2025 Dunkin Donuts has over 10,000
We estimate kiosks have gone into 3000 of those stores.
Most have two so almost 5000 kiosks?
The Verifone protrusion reminds us of AT&T Bill Pay (out of ADA spec) [see AT&T Bill Pay]
NextGen stores typically include dedicated pickup counters or areas for mobile and kiosk orders — a key part of decongesting the counter and drive-thru.
Leadership changes at Inspire worth noting. Inspire Brands, parent company of Arby’s, Dunkin’, Baskin-Robbins, Buffalo Wild Wings, Sonic, and Jimmy John’s, has made several key leadership changes to accelerate growth across its portfolio. IPO delayed.
Our figures (3,300 stores & 4,700 kiosks) are plausible estimates based on rollout scale and typical kiosk counts per store.
What About Five Guys and Kiosks?
Germany
Notes:
Five Guys has not published any system‑wide numbers or percentages for kiosk‑equipped stores, and there is no clear evidence of a standardized kiosk rollout comparable to what you see at brands like McDonald’s or Taco Bell.
Five Guys’ 2025 disclosures and coverage talk about projected total openings (for example, 46 U.S. franchised and 22 company‑run openings)
Public fact sheets and brand storytelling emphasize nearly 2,000 locations worldwide and continued expansion, but do not introduce a formal “NextGen” label the way Dunkin’ or McDonald’s does
What We Think?
Our best guess is they are running limited pilot right now (we have pictures).
Our educated estimate is between 40-100 units. They have fairly simple menu
