Highlights of the store include 'Pay & Pick' and 'Pick & Go' capabilities, AI, machine learning, facial recognition, smart gates, robotics, smart-shelves and smart dispensing machines.
Etisalat by e& announced the launch of the worlds first autonomous telecom store. Dubbed EASE (Etisalat by e& Autonomous Store Experience), the store will be powered by AI and feature advanced technologies to empower customers and create a seamless purchase experience.
The autonomous store claims to usher in the future of retail to UAE with its combination of Artificial Intelligence (AI), machine learning, facial recognition, smart gates, robotics, smart shelves and smart dispensing machines.
Its Pay & Pick (PAP) journey allows customers to explore a range of Etisalat by e& products, from mobile rate plans to the latest handsets. Smart dispensing machines then swiftly deliver their purchases after selection. The store’s Pick & Go (PAG) journey is specially designed for fast moving accessories displayed on smart shelves. Here customers can simply pick up items of interest that automatically get added to their virtual shopping cart, pay using any of the multiple payment options, and walk out. In addition to the customer facing transactions, back-end processes have also been automated thereby streamlining operational activities and improving efficiency. All this translates in to a quicker and convenient shopping experience with zero waiting time.
Customers can enter the store using facial recognition or the Etisalat app; they can then explore and purchase a wide variety of products and services (mobile and fixed products, accessories, handsets, device trade-in) and just walk out of the store with a simple self-check out. Shoppers enjoy a quicker and more convenient shopping journey with zero waiting time; this heightened level of convenience and speed contributes to an improved overall customer experience.
Speaking at the launch, Hatem Dowidar, Group CEO, e& said: “The launch of EASE is a major milestone in our transformation journey redefining the future of retail and customer experience. This innovative integration of technology revolutionises the way connectivity services and smart devices are bought showcasing our commitment to innovation and the intrinsic value of leveraging technological advancements. Our vision has always been to simplify the everyday for our customers, and this is a major step in this direction.
Masood M. Sharif Mahmood, CEO, Etisalat by e& added: “Digital transformation is a cornerstone of our vision, empowering customers to harness the advantages of advanced technology, which has become an integral part of our work and daily lives. As industry leaders, we wholeheartedly embrace innovation to boost operational efficiency.”
“Today’s announcement reaffirms our steadfast commitment to enhancing the customer experience. The store is like a tech oasis operating in a highly integrated ecosystem of advanced technologies. With EASE Stores, we are bringing our vision of tomorrow to life, where technological advancements meet unparalleled experiences.
etisalat by e& is currently participating at GITEX Global from 16th to 20th October, with an array of technologies on the stand, all the action on the stand can also be viewed on the GITEX virtual channel https://eandatgitex.live