December 24, 2012

Very cool idea - ecoATM

Very high geekdom -- check out ecoATM: From their About page:
About ecoATM
Based in San Diego, Calif., ecoATM (www.ecoatm.com) is the first and only company to create an automated self-serve kiosk system that uses patented, advanced machine vision, electronic diagnostics, and artificial intelligence to evaluate and buy-back used electronics directly from consumers for cash or store credit. ecoATM's eCycling stations provide a convenient trade-in solution that:
■ Electronically and/or visually inspect virtually any consumer electronic device,
■ Connects consumers in real-time with a broad worldwide secondary market to ensure best pricing, and
■ Pays consumers immediately in cash and/or store credit, and
■ Automatically administers trade-in / trade-up promotions for retailers and manufacturers.
The How It Works page has more information and a video. Very clever idea -- there are a couple branches near me -- closest one is in the Everett Mall which I get near every other month or so (Costco has a Business Services branch down there, plus a great homebrewing store). Got a couple eToys that I do not use any more -- cash is always good... Hat tip to Tyler Cowen at Marginal Revolution for the link. Posted by DaveH at December 24, 2012 8:39 PM