Motorola Tests Phone Vending Machines

Motorola launched a pilot program in the United States in which it will sell phones and accessories via vending machines it calls "robotic stores." Dubbed Instantmoto, the machines will sell about 30 products, including unlocked phones like the RAZR and Motorola Q.

The technology is provided by San Francisco-based Zoom Systems, which manages the networked "stores" from a central location. Initially, 20 malls and airports will play host to the Instantmoto, although Motorola may expand the program depending on its results. Vending machines with electronics are commonplace in Japan, but new to the United States.