‘You expect me to tip a robot?’ Airline passenger fumes over tip prompt on $5 airport water

Commentator Michael Knowles criticised a self-service airport shop after its checkout invited him to tip while he bought a bottle of sparkling water. His video renewed debate over tipping prompts for automated services, with customers questioning whether a gratuity is appropriate when they scan and pay for items themselves.

Knowles paid $4.29 for the drink and said he had not seen an employee. Some commenters argued that tips could benefit staff who stock shelves or clean, while others said the prompt may simply be built into the checkout software. The article also describes a separate airport kiosk that suggested tips of 10%, 15% or 18% on a water purchase.