A cashless vending machine takes payment electronically instead of coins and notes. You choose on the screen, pay (AIVS machines use a QR code), and the machine delivers your item once payment is confirmed. For the owner there is no cash to collect, and each sale is recorded for the owner dashboard.
What does cashless mean on a vending machine?
It means the machine has no coin slot or note reader. Payment is made on your phone or card instead, and the machine only starts once the payment goes through. AIVS machines are self-service and cashless, so there is no cash inside the machine to count, steal or run out of change.
How does a purchase work, step by step?
- Choose what you want on the touchscreen. At an AI Printbox that is your photo or design on a phone case; at a Topi Express it is a helmet clean.
- Pay by QR code at the machine. AI Printbox is S$15 a case and Topi Express is S$5 a clean.
- The machine starts once payment is confirmed: about 3 minutes to print a case, about 5 minutes to clean a helmet.
- Collect your item. The sale is recorded for the owner.
What does cashless change for the owner?
There is no cash to collect or bank, so a visit to the machine is for restocking and checking rather than emptying a cash box. The owner dashboard shows revenue, device status and inventory from your phone, so you can see what sold without being there. The upkeep that remains is described in what maintenance a vending machine needs each week.
What if a payment goes wrong?
Customers can message AIVS on its WhatsApp line for technical support and refund enquiries, +65 8878 4061. Refund conditions are set out on the terms page, so read them before you use or buy a machine. Owners can also use the optional support plan from S$99 a month, which includes 24/7 technical help.
What should you check before choosing a cashless machine?
- Which payment methods the machine accepts, and ask for the list in writing rather than assuming.
- How the money reaches the owner, how often, and what fees apply.
- Whether sales are visible in a dashboard you can open yourself.
- Who handles a failed payment or a refund request, and how quickly they reply.
For the wider picture of what such machines offer, see smart vending machines in Singapore.
Frequently asked questions
Do AIVS machines take cash?
No. AIVS machines are self-service and cashless, so there are no coins or notes to collect.
How do I pay at an AIVS machine?
You choose on the screen and pay by QR code at the machine, then collect your item.
Who do I contact if a payment goes wrong?
AIVS lists a WhatsApp line for technical support and refund enquiries: +65 8878 4061. Check the terms page for the conditions that apply.
The machines
AI PrintboxA self-service machine that prints a customer's own photo or a design onto a phone case in about 3 minutes. 13 machines in Singapore malls and Changi Airport.From S$5,000 · More details →
Topi ExpressA plug-in machine that disinfects, deodorises and sterilises a motorcycle helmet in 5 minutes for S$5. Built for motorcycle shops, petrol kiosks and detailing centres.From S$1,800 · More details →