Walmart is using Blockchain for delivery

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In a statement published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) on Thursday, Walmart describes a "smart package" that would include a device that would record information on a blockchain regarding the package content, its environmental conditions, its location and more.

It also suggests that its smart package could be used in conjunction with other new technologies, including "autonomous vehicles", such as drones.

The patent was first introduced in August 2017 and, in particular, is based on the filing of Walmart, submitted last year to a drone package delivery tracking system based on blockchain.

Walmart explains in the filing that online shopping has posed delivery problems for retailers, especially regarding perishable products requiring temperature control, which requires further innovation.

Walmart has sought to apply blockchain technology to other areas of its business.

Last year, it joined Kroger, Nestle and other food companies in a partnership with IBM to use the blockchain to improve product tracking. It supported a similar effort in China with JD.com in December.