From August 15 to 17, citizens in Shanghai can have an amazing opportunity to fully enjoy the convenience brought by AI technology, as the 2nd China Unattended Retail Conference and Exhibition is being held at the Shanghai New International Expo Center.

A total of three exhibition areas have been set up in the venue, and nearly 400 companies are participating, showcasing a variety of ideas such as unattended retail terminals, retail technology and products, goods and supply chain services.

The glittering blue lights of the X-24h Smart Convenience Stores have attracted many visitors’ eyes. Each of those blue “boxes” integrates three main features: automatic sorting, producing and selling. In the future, they will be put in use in train stations, airports, office buildings, scenic spots and other populated public spaces.

In a robotic store, by only scanning the code to pay, customers can get fresh ice cream made by a robotic arm.

Robot vendors are another highlight of the exhibition. With the help of sensors, the robot will carefully avoid people walking into its path. Customers can complete their purchase and payment by clicking on the screen on the top of the robot. Then the glass window will be opened automatically for people to pick up their items. If the customers take the wrong goods, the smart robot can sense and remind them.

In an unattended store, a robot is dancing to welcome the customers.

The development of AI also brings convenience to the food delivery industry. A robot developed by Meituan has been working in Songjiang University City, reducing the burden of many food deliverypersons.