Fintech is changing the way people borrow, invest and pay for things. But there's another type of technology -- most noticeably in China -- that's altering the way urban dwellers interact with their living and shopping environments.
Here's a snapshot of some of the ways that Chinese developers are using the internet of things, artificial intelligence and big data to improve people's living and shopping experiences:Dalian Wanda Group upgraded its property management platforms at two Wanda Plazas by installing cameras that use behaviour-recognition technology to track shoppers' movements inside the mall, such as how long a person lingers in a store and whether they walk out with a bag in their hand.
Dalian Wanda also uses proptech when designing its shopping malls. The software can construct a three-dimensional model using inputs from the designer and contractor throughout the construction process to maximize efficiency and ensure quality. If enough data creates a warning, alerts are sent out to maintenance workers in the field who can pick up the job, similar to Uber drivers accepting a booking.
A surprising finding emerged at one city-centre tower: 70 per cent of workers were female. So Shui On renovated one of its shopping malls -- Xintiandi Plaza -- below this office area, tailoring an entire five floors just for women. The screen also offers brand suggestions based on previous shopping habits. The whole process is pared with facial recognition technology, so second-time visitors need only to stand still in front of the screen.
. China’s use of kindergartens as instruments of genocide is another noteworthy innovation by our future imperial overlords. There’s so much we can learn from that rich, vibrant culture.