This contributed story by Dr. Michael Feindt, Strategic Advisor with Blue Yonder, originally appeared in Forbes on June 2, 2022. Excerpts from the story below. To see the full story Forbes.com.

Software in the form of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) solutions is about to become a whole lot more attractive to the retail space. Ironically, it may just be hardware that secures this smart future.

When people look at their iPhone, do they see a piece of hardware or software? The answer is probably the former, despite it being the software that makes our lives more connected, seamless, manageable and tech-driven.