Amazon introduced a new gadget that helps shoppers make a grocery list by speaking into it or scanning product's barcode for same or next day delivery through Amazon Fresh.
Amazon Inc., the biggest online retailer, is reinventing the way people shop for groceries. A new tech gadget called the Dash helps shoppers make a list of groceries and other goods from Amazon Fresh, simply by speaking into it or using the barcode scanner built within. The device is free, but as the retailer tests the gadget, it is only available on invitation by Amazon for its Prime Fresh members. The memebership costs $300 per year. Amazon Dash brings the shopping to your kitchen so new items can be added anytime, anywhere.
The tiny standalone gadget uses your home's Wi-Fi connection to set up a list and upload it to user's account. Users can log items with Amazon Dash by scanning the product's barcode or via voice recording. It can then be viewed by users on the Fresh site, where the orders are currently placed, to purchase and schedule a delivery. The device works independently and is limited to Amazon Fresh and the company's same or next day delivery system for fresh groceries. The service, however, is available in only in a few cities in Southern California, San Francisco Area and Seattle Area.
"Point at what you want and Dash adds it to your list. Scan a week's worth of groceries in minutes. Dash recognizes millions of items available on AmazonFresh and Amazon.com," Amazon said on its website.
Amazon introduced its Fresh service as a part of the pilot program in Seattle area. Last year, the service was expanded to select regions in Los Angeles and San Francisco Bay areas. But the retailer is skeptical about expanding further as the demand remains limited.
Amazon's introductory website for Dash does not mention if the device will remain free for all or even if it will make to the market. The retailer expects that the device will compel users to shop more.
Here is a video by Amazon explainign how to use the devce.
