Taiwan’s first unmanned convenience store debuts facial recognition checkout technology

By MOOK Scenic Spots Kelly, compiled and reported
 
Following the buzz created by unmanned convenience stores launched in places like South Korea and Shanghai, Taiwan’s leading convenience store chain 7-ELEVEN has announced the launch of its first unmanned store “X-STORE” in Taiwan. Not only is it the country’s first unmanned convenience store, but the entire store operates using high-tech features that are truly novel.

7-ELEVEN’s newly launched unmanned store “X-STORE” is located at the President Chain Store Corp. headquarters on Dongxing Road in Taipei City. The store covers an area of 22 ping and integrates the OPENPOINT membership system, iCash, product recognition, facial recognition, voice interaction, and a self-service POS checkout system. It has digitized product labels and also introduced a brand-new digital billboard. Technologies such as floor-sweeping robots help create a fully unmanned store.

President Chain Store Corp. has collaborated with CTBC Bank to launch Taiwan’s first smart “X-ATM,” which features four major functions: vein and facial recognition, multi-language support, loose change deposits, and foreign currency withdrawals.

X-STORE uses blue lighting combined with large glass panels to present a futuristic interior and exterior design, creating a sense of wonder akin to being inside a spacecraft. The main feature of X-STORE is its facial recognition system, which is required for both entering the store and completing the checkout process. In addition to self-service checkout, the store also offers a self-service coffee area, microwave zone, and hot food section, allowing customers to heat their own food — achieving a fully unmanned and zero-staff operation.