Walmart has announced a major change to how customers check out in stores, signaling a shift away from traditional self-checkout machines toward a system it believes will work better for shoppers and employees alike. The move comes after years of mixed reactions to self-checkout lanes.

For some customers, self-checkout feels convenient. As the article notes, “things go a bit faster and makes life a little bit easier, especially when you’re just picking up a few items.” Scanning your own items and paying quickly can save time, particularly during short trips.

However, the experience has not been positive for everyone. Many shoppers dislike being responsible for scanning every item themselves, dealing with errors, or waiting for assistance when something goes wrong. Even with multiple machines, “lines can still build up with these self checkout lanes,” reducing the convenience they promise.

Walmart says the replacement system is designed to reduce frustration, improve flow, and create a smoother checkout experience. By rethinking how customers move through checkout, the company hopes to balance speed with simplicity while easing pressure on both shoppers and staff.

This change reflects a broader realization in retail: technology alone does not always equal a better experience. By stepping back from heavy reliance on self-checkout, Walmart is responding to customer feedback and aiming for a checkout process that feels faster, clearer, and more human.