The ubiquitous ATM does not appear to have evolved much in the last decade. It is estimated that 80% of customers still use them to withdraw cash and another 10% to view balances statements - pretty basic transactions. Of course, some allow you to dispense postage stamps. In Russia, they can convert rubles to dollars. In Japan, they allow you to play games of chance (can you imagine being stuck behind someone doing that?)
But given how hungry banks are for getting your funds, deposits have been difficult for ATMs to automate. They are somewhat cumbersome today with need to fill out envelopes and for them to be verified by the bank the next day. Banks also discourage cash deposits.
That is about to change. This WSJ article describes new ATMs which can scan images of checks and accept currency and coins.
Another step in the introduction of the Check 21 initiative. One less reason for banks to hold on to funds for days on out of town checks.
