Pickle-flavored tart? AI inspires Japan's convenience stores

Lawson, one of Japan's biggest convenience store operators, has said it will roll out three new AI-inspired food items, which were created around the theme What on earth is this? Fears that advanced artificial intelligence could wipe out humanity have dominated global headlines, but in Japan the technology is being used for a sweeter purpose -- developing never-before-seen convenience store desserts. For customers tired of the usual egg sandwiches and rice balls, major chains are turning to AI to develop products, including some unexpected flavors. Lawson, one of the country's biggest convenience store operators, said on Tuesday it will roll out three new food items, including a pickle-flavored lemon tart and a bread roll filled with red bean paste, margarine and yogurt cream. These products, to be launched this month in Tokyo and neighboring regions, were created using AI around the theme "What on earth is this?