Is This The New Checkout Feature Of The Future?

Move over self-checkout and grocery store robots helping to make your shopping experience more enjoyable (or entertaining at best). I experienced what I can only imagine to be the checkout experience of the future at the airport the other day, and my mind is absolutely blown.

Airport Snack Habits, You're Not Alone

I know i'm not the only one who, even with best intentions and a backpack full of snacks, spends unnecessary money at the airport before boarding a flight. Anytime i've traveled, whether with a group of friends, or during a solo flight while people watching at the gate, just feels weird not to pop into 'Hudson News' or one of the other airport shops to grab a must-have overpriced plane snack.

Especially with the snack options these days, or should we say lack of snack options these days on flights, you want to be equipped with your favorite flight treats, whether that be peanuts, combos (my choice, always), or something from the candy rack.

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Move Over Self-Checkout, Make Way For 'Just Walk Out'

During a recent flight to Las Vegas from JFK, after I walked to my gate (just to make sure it actually existed, right?), I back tracked and headed towards one of the shops to grab a drink and snack for the plane.

As I approached, I noticed something different about this particular store, there was no cashier, or register, it was marketed as a 'Just Walk Out' situation, technology by none other than Amazon. I scanned in using ApplePay on my phone, and the gate opened to let me into the 'snack shack.'

READ MORE: Sam's Club Announces AI Receipt Checking Technology

After walking around the store and looking at my options, I landed on a bag of combos, a Diet Coke, and a pack of gum to hold me over the six hours until I arrived in Sin City. I grabbed my items and headed for the exit, another gate, which lifted as I got near.

A few minutes later, the charge came through on my phone (yes, a whole $17.39 for three items). I never spoke to an employee, or even saw one for that matter. It was a wild, yet convenient experience, just another sign of the changing times I guess.

There was no receipt, so I have no idea if it actually rang up the three items by their advertised prices in the store, who knows. I enjoyed my 'Brian' Diet Coke (below) all the way to Vegas, as I slept through snack and drink service on the flight itself.

Have you utilized this new 'Just Walk Out' payment system at the airport, if so, share your experience with us!