Last week India’s first cashless store, WhatASale, launched a vending in our office building. What is WhatASale? It is India’s first cashier-less store that’s opened up in Kochi, Kerala. You need to follow three simple steps: download its app, open it and scan the unique QR code while entering the store. That’s it. You can now pick the items you need, and you can pay for via different online payment options.

Subhash S, CEO & CTO, Watasale, shared that he was inspired to attempt this because of the media attention received by Amazon Go. Using a combination of QR codes, computer vision, sensor fusion, deep learning, and AI this concept of pick up and go has been made possible. While they have an actual store, my experience is limited to the vending machine. You download the app and enter a one time password of 4 digits on the keypad. This will open the door.

Then you check and pick up what item or items you want. So far I and my colleague have only picked up Lays and Orea cookies. You know, when you get peckish 4 to 5 hours after dinner. You get the bill sent to the app and you pay later. You can use your credit/debit card or online payment apps. So easy. Best thing – this is a local company!