The 2026 Smart Store Combines Agentic AI, Computer Vision, Real-Time Inventory and Edge Computing.
Intel and Coresight are grouping ten trends that push the physical store into a connected operation.
Image: Intel / Coresight Research · original publication Image source ↗
What happened
Intel published a co-sponsored report from Coresight about ten challenges of retail technologies in 2026, including A's and A's, computational vision, real-time inventory, smart kiosks and edge computing.
What changes
The physical store starts functioning as a data system: it looks at inventory, traffic, interaction, availability and operation with less latency.
Why it matters
For actual omnicanality, inventory and store experience have to be as legible as e-commerce.
Implications for businesses
Before a complete "smart store," a Mexican retaster can start with visible inventory, flow analytics, digital signage and assisted training.
One Rhino’s take
The store of the future doesn't need to be filled with screens. It needs to remove blind spots: what's there, where's at, who needs it and what action goes on.
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