In Augmented Reality News
September 8, 2022 – Vuzix Corporation, a supplier of smart glasses and augmented reality (AR) technology and products, has recently announced that Toppan, a global provider of integrated solutions across fields such as printing, communications, security, packaging, décor materials, electronics, and digital transformation, has utilized Vuzix smart glasses in its ‘RemoPick’ system. The AR glasses were used as part of a remote order picking trial for homebound seniors that took place at a 7-Eleven store in Iizuna, Japan.
RemoPick is a next-generation service that enables smoother communication by connecting remote locations in real time. The video and audio sent from the dedicated application on a transmitting terminal, such as smart glasses, are displayed on a web browser of the viewing terminal. By touching the screen on the viewer side, the image with a pointer is shared back to the sender, making it possible to accurately indicate a desired selection remotely.
By using Vuzix’ smart glasses, workers are able to intuitively receive instructions while keeping both hands free. The solution can be applied to various use case scenarios such as remote support, technology learning, and, in this trial, live commerce. In this instance, the sender was a clerk in the 7-Eleven store and the viewers were the seniors based at home.
According to Vuzix, the RemoPick trial was conducted at the Japanese 7-Eleven store in June and July. Customers at home were able to use a mobile device to see a real-time video feed from glasses worn by a clerk. Customers were then able to provide instructions and communicate with the clerk by tapping items on the screen or talking via a voice chat function. Any products selected were then subsequently delivered to their home. The store took orders once a week, with 13 people in their 60s or above taking advantage of the service in the first two weeks.
Vuzix noted that to date, customer feedback of the small summer trial has been very positive and if a second test beginning this month also proves successful, 2023 could see the launch of a full-scale service.
“We are excited to be a part of Toppan’s innovative project to address social issues in Japan. With a steadily aging population, diverse geography and persistent COVID challenges, there is a tremendous need throughout the country for a remote shopping solution such as RemoPick,” said Paul Travers, President and CEO of Vuzix. “There are over 50,000 convenience stores in Japan and some are located in mountainous or remote areas, so we believe the commencement of a rollout of this solution next year can represent a considerable smart glasses opportunity for Vuzix.”
For more information on Vuzix and its augmented reality smart glasses for remote assistance, please visit the company’s website.
Image credit: Vuzix
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About the author
Sam is the Founder and Managing Editor of Auganix. With a background in research and report writing, he has been covering XR industry news for the past seven years.