ROUNZ Supplies AI Shopping Device to U.S. Optical Store, Targets Japan

ROUNZ's AI shopping device, known as ROUNZ Mirror or ROUNZ Touch, is designed to enhance the eyewear purchasing experience by providing automated product information. When a customer tries on glasses in front of the device, it reportedly displays details like price, color, and size, allowing shoppers to access information without needing immediate staff assistance.

The system integrates AI for personalized recommendations, analyzing a customer's face shape into one of eight types and suggesting suitable frames. It also offers virtual fitting, enabling customers to preview how various glasses look and try on products not physically present in the store. For continuity, facial identification technology allows shoppers to resume their experience across multiple devices within a store, remembering previously tried items for comparison.

Beyond customer convenience, ROUNZ states the device aims to improve store operating efficiency. The company's chief executive, Kim Myung-seop, demonstrated features including real-time interpretation in 14 languages, addressing potential language barriers for international customers. ROUNZ's strategy is to establish a "smart optical store model" that balances customer experience with operational streamlining in both domestic and overseas markets.

While ROUNZ reports interest from major Japanese optical chains following its exhibition, the U.S. deployment is to a store that is yet to open. This means the practical impact on customer experience and store operations from these initial international ventures remains to be observed.