Spain is installing new drink vending machines which offer discounts on drinks depending on what temperature it is outside. On the information display screen, the soda machine outlines the price of each drink according to the external temperature, up to three different price ranges. It sounds like the machine records the outside temperature and charges the appropriate price according to the preset temperature ranges.

At temperatures of up to 77 degrees Fahrenheit, the drinks cost 2 euros. At 77.8-84.2 degrees, the price decreases by 30% to 1.40 euros. When the temperature exceeds 86 degrees, the drinks go on sale for half price.

It’s amazing how technological advances change even the small conveniences of vending machines. I’m still getting over the shock that pop machines accept credit cards as payments. As our society moves more towards plastic and paperless methods of payments, our commerce system will change with it. Pretty soon you’ll be able to scan your visa at a gumball machine. Though currently in Spain, I don’t doubt the temperature discount machines will soon be available here, or maybe they are already?