Amazon

Amazon unveiled the Ring Rover Cam, a rolling security robot from its Ring Robotics brand aimed at businesses that need non-permanent patrol cameras. The Rover Cam features large wheels for uneven terrain, a telescoping 4K periscope camera that can raise to preset heights, a built-in siren and flashing light, two-way audio, and a screen that displays recording status. Battery life is about 30 minutes (covering ~5,000 sq ft on a single floor); preorder is $999.99 with shipping expected from December 16. » Mere på theverge.com

Amazon appears to be building a new robotics team and is working on a home robot designed to live autonomously with families. The effort is based on restructurings of the former Astro team and the acquisition of Fauna Robotics, whose humanoid prototype Sprout has been integrated into the team. Job listings point to a focus on user experience and field support; form factor, specific functions and a market launch date remain unclear. » Mere på heise.de

Amazon launched a same-day service for fresh groceries in Cologne, Frankfurt and Munich at the end of October and plans to expand. For Prime members deliveries within four hours are free for orders of €29 or more; below that a fee applies. Non‑Prime customers pay a flat fee of just under €10, and a two‑hour time slot costs extra. Market observers see large potential in the online grocery market, but the segment is held back by high logistical demands and a still comparatively low online share of FMCG sales. » Mere på wiwo.de

Since the end of October Amazon has been delivering fresh groceries the same day in Cologne, Frankfurt and Munich and plans to expand to more cities. Prime members receive free delivery within four hours for orders of €29 or more; orders below that threshold incur a €3.99 fee; non-Prime customers pay just under €10. A two-hour delivery window is available for an extra charge. The move comes against the backdrop of rising online grocery sales, while brick-and-mortar retail still retains the majority of shoppers. » Mere på n-tv.de

Amazon launched a text-based extension of Alexa for Shopping that lets users describe items or send photos by SMS, receive product recommendations, and place orders directly through a contact labeled “Amazon Alexa.” The assistant can remember personal preferences, track deals and prices, and notify users when watched items go on sale. The feature rolls out to a small group of US customers immediately and will expand to millions more in the coming weeks. » Mere på theverge.com