Two grocery stores located in Alabama have recently introduced a new approach to sell firearm ammunition, by making use of vending machines powered by artificial intelligence.
American Rounds has developed machines that are situated in Fresh Value stores in Tuscaloosa and Pell City. These machines use facial recognition technology to effortlessly verify a customer’s age and identification, which simplifies the process of obtaining firearm ammunition.
In the video, CEO Grant Magers provides a clear explanation of the machine’s function.
According to the spokesperson, their automated retail machine is highly secure. They have implemented a stringent age verification process which involves scanning the customer’s driver’s license and conducting a 360-degree scan for facial recognition to ensure that the purchaser matches the ID. He further added that their machines offer a safe, affordable, and easily accessible option for purchasing ammunition.
In the video, a representative from Fresh Value expressed their excitement about the ammo kiosk and how it has generated a lot of interest from customers.
After a city council meeting questioned its legality, the machine located in Tuscaloosa was taken down.
Upon receiving calls regarding the machines, Tuscaloosa City Council President Kip Tyner initially dismissed them as a joke.
He expressed shock as he received multiple reports about the sale of ammunition in grocery stores and vending machines. Initially, he believed it to be a false claim or a joke, but it turned out to be true.
According to the Tuscaloosa Police Chief Brent Blankley, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives has given their legal approval to the vending machines. This information was reported by the Tuscaloosa Thread.
According to the company, they have machines set up in four other areas in Oklahoma, with plans for further expansion.
