Vending machines know the 'age' of the customer

On the 12th of November, Fujitaka (Japan) launched the vending machine market to determine the buyer's age. According to the manufacturer, this smart vending machine " calculates " the age of the buyer based on bone structure and skin. It is particularly suitable for the sale of " sensitive " items such as cigarettes.

With this vending machine, customers must look at the camera's image sensor located on the top of the machine and press the button. After 3 seconds, the machine will determine the age of the buyer is over or under 20 years (the prescribed age to buy cigarettes in Japan). If customers are in the age group, the machine will sell drugs.

With some special cases like buyers near the age of 20, the machine will ask customers to put the card in the reader when buying.

Fujitaka said it tested the vending machine with 500 people aged 10 to 69, with up to 90% accuracy. According to company spokesperson, the vending machines are very easy to use for older people who often have difficulty scanning the card.

Another special feature of the machine: it only sells to the cardholder. The Japanese Tobacco Association is planning to issue an adult-only cigarette card, where only cardholders can buy the drug, which will help limit smokers.

This machine will be sold worldwide in the spring of 2008.

MINH ANH