Future of vending machines in Japan? Blank machines.

DyDo, in collaboration with Toyota, is testing a new minimalist vending machine called Haku that adapts its appearance for various environments.

So, DyDo Drinco is teaming up with Toyota to tackle the massive vending machine scene in Japan. It’s a double-edged sword; convenient drinks are everywhere, but those flashy ads can be an eyesore. To blend in with places like historic Kyoto, some regulations limit vending machine aesthetics, putting pressure on manufacturers to create custom designs.

Enter their latest gadget, Haku, a minimalist white machine. Forget buttons and slots; it sports a flat screen that adapts its visuals based on location, like rustic wood tones or flashy neon for a game center. You buy drinks by scanning a QR code, which means cash is a no-go. Critics online have been harsh, calling it “stupid” and “a pain to use.” But hey, let’s give Haku some time – it’s still in testing at Toyota Woven City. Let them vend for a while!

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