AI Smart Fridge Unveiled | Your Complete Guide to Unmanned Retail FAQs

Unmanned retail technology is becoming an increasingly common sight across different corners in Hong Kong.Thanks to their seamless "Grab-and-Go" experience compared to traditional vending machines, Smart Fridges have become the top choice for businesses looking to enhance spatial functionality.

For first-time users who still have a few questions and concerns about the new technology, the FreshUp team has compiled the most frequently asked questions to serve as your better understanding.

🛒 Shopping Process & Details

Q1. Can I return a product to the shelf or exchange it after taking it out? 

Our AI Smart Fridges feature transparent glass doors designed to provide a shopping experience similar to a physical retail store. Before closing the door and finalizing the settlement, customers are free to pick up, inspect, and return items. However, please note that once the door is closed, the system will recognise the transaction as complete and process the payment automatically. At this point, no exchanges or refunds can be made.

Q2. Is there a limit on how many items I can purchase at once? 

A significant advantage of AI Smart Fridges is that there is no limit on the number of items you can take in a single session. Whether you’re grabbing a single drink or preparing afternoon tea for an entire team, simply take everything you need while the door is open. The system will automatically identify all selected items once the door closes, eliminating the need for multiple checkouts.

Q3. Does the payment process take a long time? 

After the door is closed, the system typically completes item recognition and payment processing within seconds. There is no need to wait in front of the fridge, achieving a true "Grab-and-Go" experience that perfectly fits the fast-paced lifestyle of Hong Kong.

🛡️ Technical Accuracy & Safety

Q4. How does the system know exactly what I’ve taken? 

Our Smart Fridges are powered by advanced AI Edge Vision technology and a multi-sensor array. The system can accurately handle complex real-world scenarios, such as items being taken out simultaneously, items being taken and then quickly placed back, or products being partially obscured by a hand. This powerful dynamic analysis capability ensures flawless records by capturing the most complete and authentic data. 

💡 Want to learn more about this "Black Tech"? Read our featured column: The Secret Behind Unmanned Retail: How AI Edge Vision Achieves a Stunning 99.99% Accuracy Rate?

Q5. Is it possible for the system to charge me incorrectly? 

This is a common concern. In reality, the AI recognition accuracy of our Smart Fridges reaches 99.9%. Compared to traditional manual cashiers, our systematic processing significantly minimizes the risk of error. Additionally, users can instantly verify their spending through their e-payment platforms, ensuring every transaction is transparent.

Q6. Do the cameras infringe on personal privacy? 

Rest assured, the internal cameras are used solely for product identification and transaction path tracking; they do not possess facial recognition capabilities. Fresh Up strictly adheres to privacy and data protection regulations, ensuring all data is used exclusively to optimize the shopping flow and guarantee transaction security.

💡 Accessibility & Scenarios

Q7. Do I need to download an app or pre-register? 

No specific app download is required to use FreshUp Smart Fridges. To provide the most convenient frictionless shopping experience, users only need to complete a one-time membership registration using their mobile number. Subsequently, customers can make direct payments or top up their FreshUp Wallet to enjoy the freedom of shopping anytime. Our system fully supports major electronic payment tools, including Visa, Master, PayMe, AlipayHK, and WeChat Pay, ensuring a safe and smooth transaction process.

Q8. Will I be charged if I open the door but don’t buy anything? 

Absolutely not. The charging mechanism is based on two conditions: "Item Removal" and "Door Closure." If a customer simply opens the door to browse without taking any items, the system will recognize that the inventory remains unchanged once the door is closed, and no charges will be incurred.