Dilip Kumar, the VP of AWS applications at Amazon, addressed concerns about the company’s grocery technology in a recent interview. Amazon is shifting away from the “Just Walk Out” technology used in its large grocery stores in favor of Dash Carts, which allow shoppers to skip the checkout line but require manual scanning or entering of items. These new Dash Carts aim to improve the user experience and address some of the issues with the current smart carts.
Despite reports suggesting otherwise, humans are involved in training the AI powering the Just Walk Out technology, rather than watching through cameras to tally up shoppers’ bills. Kumar clarified that the amount of human involvement has decreased as the algorithms have improved in accuracy. Media reports about human reviewers have been deemed erroneous by Kumar, who emphasized that associates are responsible for labeling and annotating data to enhance the AI systems.
The decision to focus on Dash Carts stems from the significant cost of implementing Just Walk Out infrastructure in large grocery stores, where numerous cameras and sensors are needed. Dash Carts are more scalable based on the number of customers and align with customer preferences in the retail format. Shoppers in larger trips to the grocery store value tracking spending, item locations, and using coupons, which are better supported by the smart cart experience.
The Dash Cart, introduced in 2020 at Amazon Fresh stores and later expanded to Whole Foods stores, features built-in sensors and scanners that allow shoppers to register items as they place them in the cart. Despite Amazon’s decision to prioritize the Dash Cart for continued investment, plans for Just Walk Out in other Amazon stores and third-party locations are not being abandoned. The company is aware of the current limitations of the Dash Cart and is working on developing a more user-friendly and intuitive version for the future.
Amazon’s next generation of Dash Carts aims to provide a more seamless shopping experience, with features such as a lighter cart, bigger basket, and improved intuitiveness in adding items. Customers will have the option to sign in with an app or use an on-cart credit card reader for a more convenient checkout process. While Amazon did not specify a timeline for rolling out the new versions of the cart, Kumar expressed hope that the improvements will address current frustrations and ultimately enhance the overall shopping experience.
In conclusion, Amazon continues to invest in and expand the Just Walk Out technology for smaller stores and third-party venues, while also focusing on improving the user experience with Dash Carts for larger grocery stores. The company’s goal is to provide customers with a convenient and efficient shopping experience while adapting to their preferences and feedback. With ongoing advancements in grocery technology, Amazon aims to remain at the forefront of innovation in the retail industry.
