#Japan #Tokyo #AR Glasses #Cellid Inc. #SMBC Group

Unlocking a New Shopping Experience with AR Glasses

In an innovative move set to revolutionize our shopping habits, Cellid Inc. has announced a strategic partnership with Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group (SMBC) and Seven-Eleven Japan. Together, they are launching a demonstration project that aims to integrate augmented reality (AR) technology into the retail experience. This groundbreaking initiative is expected to provide a seamless in-store experience by harnessing the power of AR glasses.

The Demonstration Project

The pilot test, commencing this week, will utilize Cellid's proprietary Reference Design AR glasses prototype. This advanced technology aims to transform how customers interact with products in Seven-Eleven stores situated within the SMBC Group's office complex. According to Cellid, this experiment will evaluate various AR functionalities crucial for modern shopping, including customer identification, product recognition, and a streamlined payment process.

These AR glasses will offer features unique to augmented reality technology, such as product recommendation displays and guidance to specific items on shelves. By superimposing digital information onto a physical supermarket environment, it presents a futuristic approach to everyday shopping.

Background and Objectives of the Project

Cellid's collaboration with SMBC began in November 2023, reflecting a commitment to explore next-generation service opportunities using AR technology. The purpose of this demonstration experiment is to take significant steps toward enhancing the purchasing experience through AR glasses, enabling intuitive interactions between the customers and their surroundings.

As consumer behavior continues to evolve, this project aims to analyze how AR technology can improve convenience while influencing purchasing decisions. There is a growing need to verify the practicality of these new services that leverage AR's unique capabilities, ultimately advancing the retail landscape further.

Cellid's Technological Innovations

Cellid Inc. is known for its pioneering work in AR display technologies. The company specializes in spatial recognition engines and waveguides, making significant strides in developing lightweight and widely applicable AR devices. One of its notable achievements is the creation of the world’s largest field of view glass, aimed at providing comfortable and immersive user experiences.

The company has also been the first to successfully develop a method for projecting full-color images onto plastic. As a frontrunner in AR technology, Cellid aims to foster collaborations with various partners to deploy AR glasses across different industries.

Vision for the Future

Satoshi Shiraga, CEO of Cellid, expressed optimism regarding the implications of this project. He articulated, “AR glasses are poised to become mainstream devices that address social issues and offer next-generation services. Our collaboration with SMBC and Seven-Eleven Japan is a significant leap towards a retail environment that provides a tailored shopping experience.” Shiraga added that feedback from the demonstration will inform future product development pathways, enhancing both hardware and software aspects.

Moreover, Cellid is gearing up for further experiments with various partners, underscoring its commitment to advancing AR technology in retail and beyond.

Conclusion

The launch of this AR glasses demonstration by Cellid, SMBC, and Seven-Eleven brings an exciting glimpse into the future of shopping. As these innovative technologies pave the way for personalized customer experiences and improve operational efficiencies, they hold the promise of redefining how consumers interact with the retail landscape. The ongoing pilot test will be a crucial stepping stone in determining the feasibility of AR integration within everyday shopping environments, potentially ushering in a new era of consumer convenience and engagement.

As the world moves towards an increasingly digital future, projects like this could well be the blueprint for how retail adapts to meet the demands of modern consumers. With the combination of cutting-edge technology and strategic partnerships, Cellid Inc. is poised to lead the way in the AR revolution in retail.