Why the Amazon Acquisition of a Smart Doorbell Company Is a Big Deal
What the sharks on Shark Tank couldn’t see…
Ring, a video doorbell, is Amazon’s second largest acquisition ever. Fast Company talks about why this is significant:
Amazon’s main goal as a merchant is to reduce the time and hassle of online shopping. The company wants the gratification customers get from buying something at its marketplace to be as instant as possible. So the idea that Ring doorbell cams might be used to allow delivery people to securely drop packages inside the home is extremely attractive to Amazon.
Actually, Amazon already offers such a service in Amazon Key, which combines its own Cloud Cam camera and a third-party smart door lock to let customers give (monitored) front door access to Amazon delivery staffers, as well as other trusted workers like dog walkers. The Ring technology could enhance or even replace the current Amazon Key hardware and service.
Let’s not forget that Amazon has gone from selling books to “the everything store.” And now not only is Amazon at your door, but Amazon is in your home…it’s everywhere. So this is a smart play for the company’s smart home and retail visions. Another move by Bezos that establishes Amazon’s spot as leader of the “big four” pack.
