During theNRF 2025, the largest global event in the retail sector held from January 12 to 14 at the Jacob K Convention Center. Javits, in New York, a Zebra Technologiespresented its latest innovations in artificial intelligence and new products aimed at the sector. In your space at the event, the company highlighted how its technology is transforming the concept of modern stores through the initiativeThe Modern Store powered by AI, that demonstrates how AI is revolutionizing retail operations
Among the highlights of the Zebra, the launch of a set of AI tools for mobile computing that includes software development kits (SDKs) for data capture with integrated AI and solution accelerators optimized for selected Android mobile devices from the brand. This package facilitates the development of AI applications allowing clients, developers and independent software vendors (ISVs) easily integrate cutting-edge AI features into their mobile applications
These AI resources aim to enable frontline workers to easily capture, precision and speed the context of workflows and integrate them directly into Zebra Companion, a new comprehensive set of AI agents specifically designed to empower retail workers. This multimodal generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) solution is being developed in collaboration with selected clients from the industry, to improve productivity and enhance the consumer experience
The Zebra Companion, that will be available in the United States starting in the second quarter of 2025, initially for clients participating in the early access pilot program, it is an innovative solution that provides employees with instant access to critical information and support for problem-solving, optimizing both routine tasks and those generated by unexpected events. Focusing on ethical practices and data privacy, Zebra ensures that the use of artificial intelligence is safe and responsible. The suite includes tools such as
- Knowledge brokerAllows simple and conversational interactions with support and standard operating procedures (SOPs), helping employees to integrate quickly and find the necessary information at the right time
- Sales agentProvides support to answer questions about products, check availability and prices in real time, in addition to suggesting cross-selling and upselling, helping employees provide more personalized service to customers
- Device AgentEnsures the best use and maintenance of Zebra equipment, solving problems quickly and integrating data contextually, what reduces downtime and keeps retail operations running smoothly
- Merchandising AgentUses advanced image recognition technology to monitor shelves and identify issues such as stock gaps, products out of place, wrong prices and inaccurate signage, ensuring more efficient merchandising operations
"For years we have incorporated AI into our products", elevating the results for our clients and partners. Our solutions are shaping the future of frontline operations and creating ways of working. We take pride in collaborating with our extensive community of partners and clients to enhance our AI and GenAI capabilities to automate workflows, simplify processes and increase efficiency, explain Vanderlei Ferreira, CEO of Zebra Technologies in Brazil
According to theZebra’s 17th Annual Global Consumer Study, 72% of buyers stated that they were dissatisfied with the lack of assistance received from employees in stores. On the other hand, almost 90% of employees believe they could provide a much better experience to customers if they had access to mobile technology tools to facilitate real-time communication and prioritize tasks. This scenario reinforces the importance of technologies that empower frontline workers, with solutions that use artificial intelligence to optimize workflows and decision-making. In addition to the mobile computing AI Suite and Zebra Companion, Zebra introduced several other solutions aimed at transforming retail operations, including
- Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) SolutionsThis technology uses radio waves to uniquely identify and track objects, allowing the capture of hundreds of items at once. In the next three years, 41% of retailers plan to use RFID tags and readers to prevent theft and improve inventory management
- Zebra MC3400 and MC3450 Mobile ComputersAvailable in two formats, these devices are ideal for retail, helping with restocking shelves, inventory management behind the scenes and acceleration of e-commerce orders
- Self-service solutions (self-checkout)Equipped with Zebra scanners and tablets, these solutions allow customers to make payments quickly and conveniently. This reduces queues and makes the check-out process much more efficient
- Zebra EM45 RFID Enterprise MobileA compact device, similar to a smartphone, that combines precise RFID reading and mobile computing. With a platform ready for AI, the EM45 offers a modern and secure experience, allowing employees to monitor the stock, help colleagues or clients and manage operations directly from your pocket, without needing multiple devices. Currently available in North America
- Zebra Kiosk SystemsHighly flexible and modular, these systems can be configured for various functions, as self-service, loyalty registration, returns or customer check-in. Add-on peripherals allow retailers to create new revenue opportunities while enhancing the consumer experience
Two retail giants, Rack Room ShoesandTarget, they took the stage at the NRF conference as part of the event agenda to share how Zebra's solutions have driven their digital transformations and redefined their operations, highlighting the real impact of innovative technologies in the daily life of retail
