BevTM Smart Cooler | AI-Powered Smart Fridge for Unattended Retail

Introducing AI Vending and BevTM: The Modern Alternative to Traditional Vending

AI Smart Fridge vs. Vending Machine: Side by side comparison by BevTM

TO SEE A COMPLETE LIST OF FAQS AROUND AI VENDING AND SMART COOLERS, CLICK HERE

Imagine Wal-Mart making the transition to AI Retail—fully unattended. You walk into the store and overhead are hundreds of high-resolution IP cameras. But before you even step inside, you pre-authorize your card. Once you’re in, the AI cameras sync with software, tracking movements in real time. Object recognition algorithms confidently identify what you take, and by the time you walk out, you’ve already been charged. No checkout lines. No scanning. Instant checkout. That’s what AI is doing to retail.

AI Retail and AI Vending as a concept is amazing. It strips out the friction of self-checkout with AI recognition and instant settlement—at least in theory.

Take a smart fridge—or AI cooler. It’s like a vending machine, but nothing actually “vends.” Instead, access comes through pre-authorization of a card. If funds are sufficient, the door unlocks and you grab what you want. AI visual detection instantly identifies the products, totals them up, and charges you as the door shuts.  It is not actually vending anything, but "AI vending" has stuck.

Traditional smart coolers rely on pre-auth holds, which stick around until issuers decide to release them—and that hurts customer experience and repeat business. Our approach replaces holds with a quick balance/validity check, then settles instantly when the door closes. That means clean bank statements, no phantom pending charges, and a frictionless experience.

How BevTM AI Cooler Works (Step-by-Step Transaction Flow):

  1. Customer taps, inserts, or swipes their credit or debit card or phone (i.e. Apple Pay) for quick pre-authorization.  Owner/operator can set this threshold limit.  BevTM runs an instant check on available funds to see if it meets or exceeds minimum threshold.
  2. If valid and above minimum, the smart cooler unlocks automatically and a short audio prompt plays letting the customer know that they can "go shopping" and take whatever they like.
  3. Customer shops freely—no scanning.
  4. Door closes automatically or is closed by the customer. This triggers final detection and checkout.
  5. AI cameras/computer vision identify removed products
  6. Software totals the basket. BevTM achieves 99%+ accuracy in field conditions.  Retail total is calculated instantly.
  7. BevTM settles the transaction instantly.
  8. A digital receipt and QR-code receipt is displayed and the card reader will show final amount settled/charged.

And here’s the kicker: with most unattended retail today, the real pain points are poor anti-theft protocols and clunky pre-auth systems. Rural banks especially can leave holds sitting for days. A customer who visits a machine a few times could find $150 locked up in pending charges.

Uber nailed this when they partnered with Stripe for instant settlement. That’s the model that works.

Even with the hurdles, the upside is huge. BevTM's Smart Coolers boosts average ticket size by over 30%. That’s not just a novelty—it’s a true game changer for retail. Or more precisely, for unattended retail.

BEVTM combines AI, computer vision, and operator-friendly software to deliver a micro-market solution that outperforms traditional vending. Our new AI Cooler—similar in form to HAHA Vending’s smart fridge—runs on a fully U.S.-backed software stack with transparent pricing and an in-house support team.

The cooler eliminates coils and motors. Shoppers pre-authorize payment, unlock the glass door with tap-to-pay, select multiple items at once, and go—no scanning, no one-at-a-time vending. Clients report a 30%+ increase in average ticket size with this AI vending model.

BevTM AI smart cooler with cameras and pre-auth card reader for walk-out shopping—modern alternative to vending with instant checkout
  • No coils. No motors.
  • Shoppers pre-authorize payment, tap-to-pay to unlock the glass door, take multiple items at once, and go—no scanning, no one-at-a-time vending.
  • Clients report a 30%+ lift in average ticket size with this model

BEVTM Core Features:

  • Refrigerated cabinet with commercial-grade components
  • Weight sensors + AI cameras for item-level accuracy and robust analytics
  • Integrated payments + mobile app (all-in-one platform for iOS and Android)
  • Real-time inventory tracking with predictive restock alerts
  • Anti-theft controls: auditability, photo review, and operator-initiated manual charges
  • Digital topper display for ads and built-in recurring media revenue

BEVTM Software Advantage:

BEVTM closes each transaction immediately at door close—no lingering authorizations on a customer’s card. Unlike HAHA Vending’s flow, BEVTM calculates items taken and settles the charge on exit for a cleaner customer experience.

Made in the USA. Supported by Experts.

Proudly built and shipped from the U.S., BEVTM includes a 1-year warranty and U.S.-based technical support. Founded by the creator of VapeTM, BEVTM is engineered from real operator experience.

Smart Coolers in 2025: Why BEVTM Is the Best Choice

Retail’s digital shift has turned the humble fridge into an intelligent sales channel. Smart coolers now deliver automation, analytics, and a seamless grab-and-go experience across supermarkets, gyms, offices, campuses, gas stations, and more.

Why BevTM AI Fridges Outperform Other AI Technology

There is a lot of hype at NAMA and HAHA Vending about the new smart cooler or AI-based vending machine. I get it—it’s cool (no pun intended). But so what? If you own 100 vending machines that are already paid for, why re-invest in new equipment and go through the hassle of learning new technology?

Because you will make more money—period. AI Smart Coolers increase your average ticket by at least 30%. When someone taps their card to unlock the cooler (pre-authorization), they are free to grab as many items as they want—fast. The end result: people buy more. For example, if you do $2000 per month on average, it’s safe to say your revenue will increase by at least $600.

Diagram of BevTM Smart Cooler pre-authorization: verify card, AI identifies item, capture final amount, release hold to prevent lingering pending charges.

The Unique Differentiators: Why BevTM versus Other Smart Vending Solutions?

  1. Instant Settlement. Zero Holds. No lingering pre-auth charges—unlike HAHA Vending. Guests pay as they exit, receipts land instantly. If you want repeat business, you need this. Learn more about pre-authorization problems
  2. Anti-Theft + Audit Control — Redundant sensors + tamper detection cut shrink. Switch to audit mode and charge manually with confidence.
  3. AI That Actually Learns — Models learn from sensor data to identify what was taken and keep inventory accurate—automatically.

What Is a Smart Cooler?

A smart cooler is a connected refrigerated unit that enables:

  • Real-time inventory tracking
  • Automated, cashless payments
  • User authentication (app, card, or mobile wallet)
  • Operator analytics and alerts
  • Minimal on-site labor

The 2025 Standout: BEVTM Smart Cooler

Designed for unattended retail and efficient operations, the BEVTM Smart Cooler combines secure access, accurate item detection, and operator-grade data in a compact footprint.

Key advantages

  • Secure, unattended access
    Customers authenticate via ID, credit card, or mobile wallet to unlock. Access control reduces shrink and misuse.
  • True grab-and-go
    After unlock, shoppers take items and close the door—no manual scanning. The system automatically tallies and charges.
  • Item-level intelligence
    Shelf sensors and item recognition track what’s removed or restocked in real time, improving inventory accuracy and replenishment.
  • Operator analytics
    Live stock levels, expirations, demand patterns, and predictive restock alerts reduce outages and waste.
  • Fleet management at scale
    Remote pricing, content updates, health monitoring, and alerts streamline multi-site operations.
  • Built for tight spaces
    A sleek, compact design fits corridors, lobbies, gyms, hospitals, and universities without staffing.

Use Cases

  • Beverages & ready-to-eat: Cold drinks, snacks, fresh meals.
  • Workplace & campus: 24/7 micro-markets without checkout lines.
  • Hospitality & healthcare: Controlled access with audit trails and restock accuracy.

Looking Ahead: Smart Coolers with Dynamic Pricing

Smart vending is evolving fast. As IoT and retail software mature, vending machines are integrating loyalty programs, AI-optimized planograms, and real-time dynamic pricing. IoT sensors track inventory and traffic, AI predicts demand, and digital displays adjust prices instantly. Computer vision, cloud platforms, and external data like weather and events make machines adaptive and data-driven.  BEVTM is built to plug into these systems through APIs and modular upgrades, giving operators a future-ready dynamic pricing solution.

Bottom line: If you want a secure, low-touch, data-driven cooler in 2025, the BEVTM Smart Cooler delivers the right mix of intelligence, security, and operational control

The Ultimate FAQ Guide to AI Smart Fridges & Coolers

Updated: Aug 2025 · VapeTM & BevTM

This FAQ explains AI smart coolers (AI smart fridges) for unattended retail and micro markets—computer vision, sensors, payments, setup, theft prevention, integrations, and operations—so operators can compare smart coolers vs. micro markets and deploy at scale.

Learn more at VapeTM.com and BevTM.com.

1What makes the machine AI?
Our machine uses learned models and makes inferences on what was took.  In short: it’s AI because the machine learns from data and infers what happened using computer vision + sensor fusion, rather than relying on static, brittle rules.  
2What happens if someone leaves the door open?
A: The door is on a hinge and it will automatically close.  If the customer took items from the machine, they will be charged once the door closes.  If the customer did not take anything then there will be no charge and the pending charge will be removed to show zero.  
3What is the lifespan of this technology? Will I need to replace parts?

A: Lifespan of this technology is not known because we don't have a crystal ball, but here is the breakdown:

  1. Cameras: Our IP-cameras should be top-of-the-line for 5–7 years and should last 5–7 years even with increased environmental exposure.
  2. Machine Learning: AI models typically have "performance drift" over 6–12 months, but we have a dedicated software team to monitor performance and make continuous improvement.  With quarterly updates, we expect our software to work for over 10 years.  Android Enterprise Recommended devices are generally expected to deliver ~5 years of security updates, but with OS upgrades and back-end maintenance, we expect a lifespan of over 10 years. 
  3. Payment Terminal: Our payment terminals are new models and should last well over 5-years before needing to be replaced or upgraded.  
  4. Other Hardware: There are few moving parts which makes this technology special and in a rare instance, we have parts available for purchase on our website.  However, we warranty all parts for one year.  Expect other components to last several years before anything needs to be replaced.
4Can I add a cash acceptor?
A: No, a bill acceptor is used to make a purchase and our machines facilitate full-access shopping in which case the customer is charged automatically upon exit.  Hence, our machines do not support bill validators.  
5Is there an app on the phone or is the backend on a website?
A: There is a mobile app (iPhone and Android) and web-based portal.  The mobile application is fully built and self-sufficient with payment integration and most customers prefer to only use this.
6How does the AI initially know what is being sold? Do you have to train it?
A: Operators select products from our master library—or add new SKUs—and set the machine’s initial quantities. When a customer removes an item, computer vision identifies exactly which product was taken.  No, you do not need to train the machine.  Our kiosks and software were uniquely developed for existing vending operators that don't have AI expertise.  The problem with other smart coolers is that they require pre-existing knowledge in AI application and machine learning.  Our machines bridge the gap and we developed roll-out ready software to help you scale from day 1!
7Can the card reader integrate with VendSoft? (Inventory management system for large routes)
A: Yes, the card reader can integrate with vendsoft and third party apps.  Because we own the software and host in on Amazon-Web-Servers, we have the ability to provide API integration with third-party apps in the event you need access.
8This AI stuff sounds super complicated, am I going to need training or have to train my staff on how to work the machines?
A: This is the #1 question and we agree that AI and its applications are intimidating.  Because of our operating knowledge and experience (Founder grew up in the coin-operated amusement and ATM space), we developed a program that is operator friendly, roll-out ready, and made the learning curve extremely simple and dummy proof!  We are selling to vending companies and being able to do this was a crucial part of our development plan.  So to best-answer the question: No, we developed the technology for traditional vending operators that aren't AI-experts.  Hence, we developed the AI to be ready-to-go out the door and not need training or expertise. 
9What are the recurring fees?

Every transaction has credit card fees plus there are software fees and AI fees.  A full breakdown on recurring fees are as follows:

Credit Card Fees: 4% + 10 cents per transaction

AI Recognition Fee: 4 cents per transaction

Software Fee: $39 per month per machine

Communication Fee: $20/month for wireless or free for Wi-Fi. 

10Can I get a discount if I buy more than 1?

A: Yes, we offer tiered pricing for bulk orders and have a distributor program available as well.  To qualify for tiered pricing, please fill out our form here.  

Bulk Pricing Equipment: 5% on orders of 6 or more and 8% on orders of 20 or more.

Distributor Pricing: 20% discount on all equipment with MOQs (Minimum Order Quantities)

Enterprise Software Discount: 20% discount on software fees for operators with 50+ machines

11Do you guys come fix it if its broken?
A: No.  We don't provide manual labor.  We provide all the tools, software, tech-support (live and chat), parts, and guides to make your life easy, but all operators are required to be self-sufficient.  In a rare case that a machine can't be fixed, we would replace it under warranty.  While the shopping experience is automated and seamless, an operator is required to work.  Hence, this is a semi-passive and scalable business, but don't be fooled by vending companies that say it is a passive investment!  
12Can't you just steal from it?
A: You can try to steal from the machine and block the cameras or be super sneaky and quick, but the end result is this: the machine will catch you!  Here is how it works: Our computer vision sees what you took and in the event it can't see, it can see before and after you leave the machine.  It will run an auto-audit comparing inventory in the machine before and after it was closed and in the event of a camera blockage or quick trick, the software will flag the transaction and charge the customer what is missing.  You also have the ability to be alerted and manually charge the cardholder.  
13What’s the difference between a micro market and an AI smart cooler?

A micro market uses self-checkout and a true AI smart cooler/fridge uses auto-checkout.  To understand the key differences, refer to the chart below. 

Aspect Micro Market AI Smart Cooler
What it is Open kiosk or retail area with shelves and racks.  Customers use self-checkout (ie. scans items) like you see in airports and Wal-Mart. Closed and locked kiosk with AI camera detection that identifies what items were took and automatically charges customers what they took upon exit. 
Footprint Medium–large (a wall or room). Needs shelving, power, kiosk space, décor/fixtures. Small (single/few doors). Needs power + data; fits tight locations.
Product range Broad: snacks, drinks, fresh food, sundries—hundreds of SKUs. Narrower: items that fit the doors (beverages, RTD food, regulated items). Tens of SKUs per door.
Checkout flow Customer scans items at a kiosk and pays on a credit card terminal terminal.   Customer taps a card or iPhone to unlock the door, takes items, and leaves.  The system auto-detects what items were took and charges your card when you leave—automatically.
Age-restricted sales Challenging without staffed oversight; must gate the area or lock sections. Has the ability to verify age with ID Scanners and biometric facial recognition similar to VapeTM's age-verification methods.
Loss/shrink Higher risk (open access) and you need a good layout policy to mitigate against this. Lower risk with AI camera detection and unique audit ability with BevTM.
Throughput/volume High for many simultaneous shoppers; scanning can bottleneck at peak. Less than 10 seconds per shopping experience allows for quicker transactions.
Capital Expenditure/CapEx High with planograms, fixtures, and labor. Low and easier to scale.  More automation.
Data quality Sales/logs from kiosk; limited item-level behavior. Item-level data per shopping session with insight into failed attempts.
Ideal placements Larger workplaces, gyms, apartments, hospitals—broad demand and space. Everywhere including tight footprints, age-restricted areas, hospitals, hotels, and everywhere you see a traditional vending machine!
Bottom line: AI Smart Coolers are a more affordable and scalable option, but choosing the right provider with instant checkout/settlement, easy-to-use software, and audit/theft prevention is important.
14What types of cameras are used for detecting item removal?
High-resolution, IP-cameras with depth sensors, multi-angle coverage (remove blind spots) and infrared/thermal detection to improve performance in low light. 
15How accurate is the AI in identifying the correct product?
Typical end-to-end recognition accuracy is ~95–99% but is closer to 95% in practice due to packaging similarity, mixed planograms, and not always ideal lighting.  BevTM performs >99% under inconsistent facings, poor lighting environments, and similar products including identical products in different sizes (i.e.. 12 oz coke and 20 oz Coke)! 
16Can the system detect when a customer puts an item back and adjust charges?
Yes. If a product is put back before the door closes, the customer won't be charged.  You may ask what if the customer  puts the item back on a different shelf or in a different position...BevTM will track hand-object interaction and shelf positions and whether the item is returned to its original position or not, BevTM has you and the customer covered and will charge the truth!  
17Does the cooler use weight sensors, computer vision, or both?
Many AI vending machines out there are vision-only (camera but not sensors or weight measures).  This fact is irrelevant in itself, it's the results that matter in practice--in the field.  A well-oiled machine performs >99% accuracy like BevTM--we uses field data from mixed lighting scenarios, similar packaging, and real-life targeted theft attempts plus child-like shenanigans and tricks.  Hybrid models and new gadgets often suggest improved performance, but this is one of the biggest myths.  How a machine makes inferences to detect what is took is what matters and different technologies can achieve the same thing.  How the technology learns and behaves on a software platform is what drives results. 
18How are similar-looking products handled?
Similar products don't mean identical products, so to be able to recognize differences, two things are crucial.  1. High-end cameras.  2. A product database that maintains high-integrity, high resolution images.  BevTM provides both and won't allow operators to upload their own product images without our unique approval process that looks at product edges and zooms in on pixels.  

Contact VapeTM Today

Questions? Call us at +1 888-537-8273

 

Micro‑Market Powered by AI

Micro Market Powered by AI Smart Coolers & Smart Fridge 

BEVTM combines AI-computer vision, and operator-friendly software to deliver a micro-market solution that outperforms traditional vending. Our new AI Cooler—similar in form to HAHA Vending and Retail 365 units—runs on a fully U.S.-backed software stack with transparent pricing, in-house support, and seamless payment integration.

Explore AI Micro‑Market Solutions See Smart Cooler Specs Visit BEVTM.com

Why operators choose BEVTM

AI Vending that is built for real vending machine operators that have large routes and wish to upgrade from traditional vending or wish to scale with AI vending smart coolers. 

AI Smart Coolers

Computer‑Vision Merchandising

Configurable planograms and secure item recognition for unattended retail.

Smart Fridge

Storefront‑Friendly Design

Modern form factor—similar to HAHA Vending and Retail 365—ready for fast install and service.

Nayax

Nayax Integration

Payments, device management, and telemetry for reliable ops and transparent reporting.

Ops Tools

Operator‑Friendly Software

U.S.‑backed stack, remote updates, and fleet tools that improve revenue capture.


Built for micro‑markets that outperform vending 

Serve more SKUs with fewer headaches. AI‑driven accuracy, cashless checkout, and real‑time telemetry—out of the box.

High‑margin merchandising via secure computer‑vision recognition.
Storefront‑friendly Smart Fridge form factor for quick installs.
Nayax payments + device management with transparent reporting.
Remote updates, fleet tools, and U.S.‑backed, in‑house support.

Bring BEVTM micro‑markets to your location

Tell us about your footprint and SKU mix—we'll recommend the ideal configuration for your fleet.

Learn More Talk to Sales

 


Highlights

  • Computer vision recognition
  • Nayax payments & telemetry
  • Storefront‑ready Smart Fridge
  • Remote updates, fleet tools
  • U.S.‑backed support 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the BEVTM micro‑market solution?

A micro-market platform using AI Smart Coolers and a Smart Fridge with computer vision, age verification, and operator-friendly software that outperforms traditional vending.

Does BEVTM integrate with Nayax?

Yes. BEVTM supports Nayax for payments and device management, enabling cashless checkout and robust telemetry.

How does BEVTM compare to HAHA Vending and Retail 365?

BEVTM offers a similar form factor with a fully U.S.-backed software stack, transparent pricing, and an in-house support team.