Amazon Dash Wand – Version 2.0 of the Dash Button

Amazon has just unveiled version 2.0 of its Dash Button: the Amazon Dash Wand. I'm going to explain to you why the retail giant is betting so much on this little smart health connected gadget.

The Amazon Dash Wand aims to link the virtual world and the physical world. Even if it’s not Jeff Bezos’s first try, the least we can say is that this new album is much more successful. Combining the functionality of a Dash button, the versatility of a Rash scanner and the artificial intelligence of Amazon, Dash Wand could really revolutionize the way you shop.

Amazon Dash Wand: a Dash 2.0.

Like Amazon's first barcode scanner, which was limited to Amazon Fresh customers, this little smart health connected stick has a rubber loop at the top for hanging; this time, it is also magnetic to be able, for example, to fix it on the fridge. Unlike the Echo, this product should remain handy, so it is important that it is not stored in a drawer and has a user-friendly design.

The Dash Wand concept is pretty straightforward: it’s a basic barcode scanner that works with the Amazon ecosystem. As soon as you scan something available for purchase on Amazon, that product is automatically added to your cart. Once you're ready to buy it, all you have to do is validate your Amazon cart via the app or from your web browser. If Amazon does not sell the item, it will offer an alternative.

Amazon Dash Wand: a little Alexa overlay

Like the Echo Tap or the Alexa Voice Remote for Fire TV, you need to press a button to activate Alexa. Why ? Simply to save the battery. The Dash Wand is powered by two AA batteries. With Wi-Fi, a barcode scanner and an AI assistant, the product must already be very greedy!

So by pressing and holding the button on the front of the stick, you will be able to activate Alexa. But beware, this is a lighter version since you will not be able to trigger your music, create alarms, etc.

Otherwise, Alexa works as expected. You can add items to your shopping list or cart, ask questions, play games, listen to jokes, etc. You can also request a cooking recipe.

Amazon Dash Wand: a little too early

In the end, the Amazon Dash Wand arrives a little too early. The people who buy a Dash Wand will become beta testers; Prime members can virtually get it for free. Users also get a three-month trial of Amazon Fresh.

Either way, the biggest shortcoming is the Amazon Fresh delivery area. Currently limited to a few cities in the United States and a Review area in Paris, products and other perishable products will not be added to your Amazon basket when you scan them.

AB SMART HEALTH REVIEW