Why Amazon Needs Its Own Phone
The global popularity of mobile computing has led to an explosion in mobile e-commerce. The amount of money spent using applications on phones and tablets grew by 117 percent between 2012 and 2013.

So it makes sense that Amazon, the leader in online commerce, would want to enter the smartphone market: if the company has more control over the mobile user experience, it will be in a better position to funnel consumers to its own online stores. Much like the original Kindle e-reader and the Kindle Fire tablet, an Amazon phone would give users a direct line to Amazon content—in this case retail goods—and give Amazon the opportunity to minimize the friction in retail transactions.
The shift to mobile buying is happening quickly. Last year, mobile e-commerce represented nearly 21 percent of all e-commerce. By the end of next year, more than a third of all e-commerce could be occurring via mobile devices.
Keep Reading
Most Popular

Why China is still obsessed with disinfecting everything
Most public health bodies dealing with covid have long since moved on from the idea of surface transmission. China’s didn’t—and that helps it control the narrative about the disease’s origins and danger.

These materials were meant to revolutionize the solar industry. Why hasn’t it happened?
Perovskites are promising, but real-world conditions have held them back.

Anti-aging drugs are being tested as a way to treat covid
Drugs that rejuvenate our immune systems and make us biologically younger could help protect us from the disease’s worst effects.

A quick guide to the most important AI law you’ve never heard of
The European Union is planning new legislation aimed at curbing the worst harms associated with artificial intelligence.
Stay connected

Get the latest updates from
MIT Technology Review
Discover special offers, top stories, upcoming events, and more.