Would you like anything from the vending machine? Perhaps a soda, some gum, or even a couple of rounds of bullets?
According to a recent report by Alabama’s Tuscaloosa Thread, an increasing number of supermarkets across Alabama, Oklahoma, and Texas are now offering bullets for sale through AI-powered vending machines. The company responsible for these machines, American Rounds, boasts on its website that these bullet kiosks are equipped with “built-in AI technology” and “facial recognition software” that can accurately determine the identity and age of each buyer. The process of purchasing bullets from these machines is demonstrated in a promotional video, which shows that all customers need to do is approach the kiosk, provide identification, and have their face scanned by the camera. If the facial recognition software verifies their identity, the vending machine will dispense the bullets.
These automated dispensers are not your typical vending machines. American Rounds, the company behind them, refers to them as “smart retail automated ammo dispensers.”
According to the company website, American Rounds’ automated ammo dispensers come equipped with advanced AI technology, facial recognition software, and card scanning capability. The website proudly states that their technology is at the forefront of retail ammunition, and continuously integrates the latest advancements in machine learning and AI.
The use of AI technology in unexpected ways is not uncommon, but this particular application is uniquely American. It involves the use of controversial surveillance technology by a company with a strong “don’t tread on me” attitude. While the device raises serious safety and ethics concerns, the first question that comes to mind is likely: “Why?”
American Rounds prioritizes convenience above all else. The company’s website emphasizes that their machines are available “24/7,” allowing customers to purchase ammunition whenever they please without the hassle of store hours or waiting in long lines.
While some individuals may find the offer enticing, others may argue that waiting in line for bullets is necessary. Although firearms and ammunition are easily accessible in many US states, human employees retain the right to refuse purchases to customers for any reason, except for discrimination against protected classes. In situations where a potential buyer appears unstable or unwell, the human intermediary with intuition may be the only barrier between that buyer and ammunition. American Rounds asserts that its machine can accurately verify age and identity. Nonetheless, these devices may not be capable of preventing the sale of ammunition to an individual who is visibly mentally unstable.
It is still unclear which facial recognition software provider American Rounds has partnered with for its devices. It is important to note that facial recognition technology is not always accurate, particularly when identifying women and individuals from racial minority groups. While the algorithms perform well in identifying white men under optimal conditions, there is ample evidence to suggest that the technology is less effective in identifying individuals from other demographics.
Furthermore, the privacy terms of the company remain uncertain. Despite the statement by American Rounds CEO Grant Magers that they don’t sell facial recognition data, there is no visible privacy agreement or terms on the company’s website. Additionally, there is no privacy policy notice or warning displayed in the multiple videos showcasing the terminal in operation. This is concerning considering that the primary purpose of the machine is to scan an individual’s face and ID during a sensitive purchase. It is vital to address this issue as it could potentially compromise the privacy of individuals.
We attempted to contact American Rounds in regards to their privacy standards, data practices, and facial recognition software provider, but unfortunately, we have yet to receive a response.
The current status of the legality of these devices is uncertain. The Thread was informed by officials in Tuscaloosa, where two machines have been installed, that the devices meet the standards set by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. However, Newsweek notes that one of the devices has been removed due to a legal investigation by the Tuscaloosa City Council.
In a lighthearted remark to the Thread, Tuscaloosa Mayor Walt Maddox quipped, “This is exactly what the founding fathers had in mind!”
According to Magers, his devices have the potential to decrease instances of ammunition theft and illegal sales to minors. He firmly believes that the demand for his bullet ATMs is on the rise.
According to the CEO’s statement to Newsweek, there are currently more than 200 store requests for AARM [Automated Ammo Retail Machine] units in about nine states, and the number is increasing on a daily basis.
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