Amazon's “Just Walk Out” technology at Amazon Fresh stores reportedly relied on human labor. The company introduced the system in 2018, allowing people to walk into a store, pick up what they want to buy, and leave without checking out to receive a receipt later.
According to a report in The Information, Amazon claimed to have installed numerous cameras and sensors in its stores to track what customers grab, but the company doubts it will rely entirely on AI and technology. Instead, it reportedly used hundreds of Indian workers to track customers.
What reports made claims about Amazon's “Just Walk Out” technology?
- The company used India-based remote checkout to check what customers were buying and leaving the store.
- The cashier work was outsourced to India and included more than 1,000 Indian workers, the Information reported.
- The company cut local jobs in favor of lower-wage workers in India.
- Amazon has decided to remove Just Walk Out technology from Amazon Fresh stores, saying it takes too long.
- The report claimed that outsourced workers in India took hours to collect tracking data, which was then used to generate receipts that customers received much later.
What Amazon Said About 'Just Walk Out' Technology
Amazon said its “Just Walk Out” technology will now be replaced with smart carts that allow customers to skip the checkout line. Customers can also see their spending in real time. Amazon spokeswoman Carly Golden said the company has heard from customers who like not having to wait in line at the checkout line, but also want to see their receipts and savings. A spokesperson said Smart Cart provides customers with these benefits, as well as the convenience of not having to wait in line at the checkout line.
Get business news, today's gold rate, India news and other relevant updates on Hindustan Times website and app.
