ReadWriteWeb reports that a company called Smug Coffee has created what it says is the world’s first smart mug, or “smug.”
Instead of opting for wasteful plastic cups, coffee drinkers can instead buy a special mug with embedded radio frequency identification (RFID) chips that store account information and purchase habits.
Customers simply present their mug to a special scanner at check-out, and the barista can see their recent coffee orders – making a personalized ordering experience much easier. No need to grab a wallet or fork over cash – the chips connect to the customer’s coffee shop account and automatically deduct funds.
The Smug not only speeds up ordering and paying, but it helps save Mother Earth one plastic cup at a time. By using the mugs, customers are offered discounts and deals and can earn points toward free drinks.
Editor’s Note: What are some other possible uses of RFID in the consumer space? Let us know in the comments below.
Photo by Smug Coffee.