Amazon

As Amazon continues to grow, so does its portfolio of in-house brands. It makes sense, after all, for one of the largest retailers in the world to seek more ways to further entrench itself in the everyday lives of consumers. Amazon has obviously made its presence felt in the grocery space with its AmazonFresh delivery service, ownership of the Whole Foods supermarket chain, and regular Subscribe & Save offers that often undercut brick-and-mortar deals. Here, however, we’re going to take a closer look at one of Amazon’s lesser-known endeavors, the Solimo brand, which includes everything from coffee and flavored drinks, to body soap and laundry detergent.

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If you have an Amazon Echo device, you’ve likely wondered what the best accessories would be. Whether you have an Echo Dot, Echo, Echo Show, or Echo Spot, we’ve got you covered with our favorites for each device, plus a bonus accessory that’ll work with any Alexa-enabled device!

Don’t forget to check out our Echo devices compared article where we break it down and show you exactly which of Amazon’s products will fit where in your life.

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Amazon originally started out with a single Echo device and now offers nearly a dozen Echo-branded devices, among other lineups of products. There’s a lot that goes into picking the perfect smart home products, so we’ve compared all of the Amazon Echo devices for you to help you make the best decision.

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One of Alexa’s biggest strengths is its ever-growing number of user-created Skills. With over 80,000 as of publishing, the assistant’s capabilities are about as far-reaching as can be. But that’s not stopping Amazon from kickstarting a new initiative to bolster even more. Today the technology giant is launching new Alexa Skills Blueprints; a way to make it easier for creators and organizations who may not have backgrounds in coding to integrate their content into the voice assistant. Head below for more.

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We have all done it. We’ve gotten roped into watching QVC pitch the latest and greatest gadgets and gizmos. This typically leads to one of two outcomes, either we pick up the phone and order the product, or chuckle a bit, roll our eyes, and move on.

No matter which camp you find yourself in, Amazon is vying for your attention too. The company calls its take on the experience Amazon Live. It is very similar to what QVC viewers are used to watching in addition to the perks that Prime subscribers benefit from.
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Amazon’s Alexa ecosystem is more compelling than ever before as its lineup of speakers has expanded in recent years to cover just about every budget. It’s easier (and less expensive) in 2019 to coat your home in Alexa-enabled devices and the inclusion of Apple Music makes it all the more intriguing. If you find yourself already invested in an audio setup, whether high-end or not, you may be asking yourself, “How do I to add Alexa to an existing speaker system?” In a rather wise move, Amazon has made the answer to this question easier than ever before. With various options available, it’s easier than ever before to add Alexa to your at-home audio setup. Head below for a step-by-step guide.

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Being able to have just about anything delivered right to our doorsteps is the biggest perk of online shopping. But with the rise of porch pirates and other nefarious package thieves running amok, anxiety is replacing convenience in the minds of many online shoppers. Amazon has been waging war on the issue for some time now with its Key shipment service. But how do you actually take advantage of the in-home delivery? Below you’ll find all of the information needed on how to get started with Key by Amazon and keep your deliveries safe.

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Ever since I bought fifteen Echo Dots, I have been on the lookout for more ways that I can lean on Alexa for help throughout the day. As with any voice assistant, there are areas in which I find Alexa lacking. One major disappointment that is always on my mind is how some skills do not support multi-room audio. Even with occasional letdowns like this, I am happy with my investment in the Alexa ecosystem and want to share some of tips and tricks that I have learned on my adventure.
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Qinxi (An Aukey-affiliated seller) via Amazon offers its Latitude Lite Bluetooth Earbuds for $16.89 Prime shipped when code VLKDC9CR has been applied at checkout. That’s good for a 35% discount from the going rate, is $1 under the previous price drop and one of the best offers we’ve seen. Aukey’s Bluetooth earbuds bring eight hours of battery life, Hi-Fi sound and more to the table alongside sweat-resistance. They’re great options for dedicated workout earbuds, or as a backup pair. Over 140 customers have left a 4.3/5 star rating.

More smartphone accessories:

• RhinoShield iPhone X Case + Screen Protector: $19 (Reg. $30) | Amazon  
  • w/ code IXC64SSB
• Apple Watch Series 4 up to $50 off w/ deals on various styles (tax select states only)
• Anker’s Amazon Gold Box delivers deals on chargers, USB-C hubs and more
• Insignia 5W Qi Wireless Charging Pad: $10 (Reg. $15) | Best Buy
• Aukey 18W 10000mAh USB-C Power Bank: $26 (Reg. $33) | Amazon
  • w/ code AHIGASBQ
• Dynex 2.4A USB Wall Outlet 2-Pack: $15 (Reg. $25) | Best Buy
• Aukey18W  20000mAh Power Bank: $33.50 (Reg. $48) | Amazon
  • w/ code ECZ4WOU9     
• Bring home the ultra-portable WONDERBOOM Bluetooth Speaker for $50 (Reg. $70+)

Deals still live from the weekend:

• Bring home the Bose SoundLink Micro Bluetooth Speaker for $79 shipped (20% off)
• Amazon’s in-house Smart Plug hits all-time low at $15 (Reg. $25)
• Anker 50W 5-Port USB PowerDrive Car Charger: $16 (Reg. $20) | Amazon
• Aukey 18W USB-C Dual Port Charger: $13 (Reg. $20) | Amazon
  • w/ code YA62M8E2 

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Back in November, as it does nearly every year, Amazon announced that it would be offering free shipping on all orders throughout the holiday season. This promotion was surprisingly extended through January, making it more attractive for non-Prime members to continue shopping in the new year. Well, those good vibes are over as Amazon has increased its free shipping minimum, effective today. Head below for more details.

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Martha Stewart has started a new line on Amazon and it’s not one to be missed. In this collection you will find an array of products including footwear, pet supplies, gardening tools, crafting, recipe books and more. Head below to find some of our top picks from Martha Stewart’s new line at Amazon.

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If you are one of the 800,000 people that live in Snohomish County, Washington, you may soon see one of the first 6-wheeled Amazon delivery vehicles out for a stroll in your neighborhood. These cooler-sized package delivery devices are referred to as Scouts and to my eye, look very similar to one of Anki’s adorable robots.

Amazon Scouts are capable of self-navigating down sidewalks and delivering packages to the proper destinations while rolling at an average walking pace. Scouts do not appear have a ton of room inside, so do not expect to see them when ordering hefty or bulky items.
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Amazon offers the Mophie 10W Charge Stream pad+ $44.46 shipped. That’s good for an over 25% discount from the going rate and is a new all-time low at Amazon. Mophie’s 10W Qi charging pad is a great option for desks and nightstands alike. It can power up an iPhone at the max 7.5W charging speed and features a premium design. Rated 3.7/5 stars.

Of course, you’re paying a bit of a premium for Mophie’s option compared to other 10W Qi charging pads. Anker’s option is highly-rated and will only run you $22 at Amazon, if you’re looking for a more budget-conscious buy.

More smartphone accessories:

• Anker GlassGuard iPhone XR Screen Protector: $6 (Reg. $10) | Amazon 
  • w/ code ANKSD599
• Anker GlassGuard iPhone XS Max Screen Protector: $6 (Reg. $10) | Amazon 
  • w/ code ANKSD599
• Aukey Ora Clip-On Camera Lens: $16 (Reg $20) | Amazon
  • w/ code AUKEYWD7
• OLALA 6000mAh Portable Power Bank: $20 (Reg. $29) | Amazon
  • w/ code 30OLALA01
• BESTEK Round Surge Protector w/ 4 USB Ports: $19 (Reg. $27) | Amazon 
  • w/ code Y5PZUA65
• Aukey Aluminum 4.8A Dual USB Car Charger: $7 (Reg. $13) | Amazon
  • w/ code AUKEYC02 

Deals still live from yesterday:

• JBL Reflect Aware Lightning Earbuds: $30 (Reg. $50) | Harman Kardon
• TaoTronics Bluetooth Transmittter Receiver: $23 (Reg. $33) | Amazon
  • w/ code 493GG6KN
• TaoTronics LED Desk Lamp w/ USB port: $35 (Reg. $55) | Amazon
  • w/ code B9VV6JU4
• Arlo’s $450 Pro 2 Camera System brings home 1080p recording, 7-day Cloud DVR, more (20% off)
• Monoprice 10,400mAh Power Bank: $16 (Reg. $25) | Monoprice

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You may have heard of Audible before, Amazon’s in-house audio book storefront, but did you know that a 30-day free trial is available for new customers? Better yet, those that take advantage will receive two free audiobook downloads that will remain a part of your library whether you continue on or not. While the trial is certainly worth checking out, there is a lot more to Audible than meets the eye. Head below for a quick walkthrough of everything that Amazon’s audiobook service has to offer in 2019.

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Do your winter boots need updating? Amazon is your one stop shop to find an array of stylish boots for men at a great price. Even better, with a Prime membership, they will be at your doorstep in just two days. Whether you’re looking for Chelseas, chukkas, hiking boots or rain boots, Amazon has every style for your budget. Today, we are rounding up our favorite men’s boots from Amazon below, and they start at just $26.

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Amazon offers a number of services for its Prime members. Some are more well-known than others, like two-day shipping. Having a Prime membership also unlocks access to a variety of other services, which may not be at the top of your perks list. One of those is AmazonFresh. This add-on service is a simplified way to get your groceries delivered in major cities across the United States. While it isn’t included in the cost of a Prime membership, it does offer a compelling time-saver for busy parents. If you’ve ever wondered about AmazonFresh, head below for a full walkthrough.

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While Amazon has expanded its offerings in a variety of categories over the last year, it has seen a huge growth among its small business marketplace. In fact, a new press release this morning states that more than 50,000 “small and medium” businesses exceed $500,000 in sales last year. As well, Amazon is sharing that companies selling over $1-million worth of goods in 2018 increased by 20% year over year.

So what does that mean for you, the consumer? The good news is there are more ways than ever to buy your favorite goods on Amazon. The bad news? It’s more important than ever to shop with precaution, as the marketplace has been flooded with unauthorized resellers. Head below for more details and a few tips for keeping yourself safe on Amazon.

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As the voice assistant war rages on, Amazon is looking to take a lead over Siri and Assistant with its latest enhancement to Alexa. The lovely digital companion is now being updated with the ability to sound like a professional newscaster. Backed by new text-to-speech technology, Alexa now sounds more natural than ever. Head below for all of the details and to hear the difference for yourself.

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I love home automation. For so long I have bought a thing or two here and there to expand my smart home, but up to this point the high-cost of HomeKit-enabled accessories has kept me from going all-in on light bulbs and switches.

When I made the switch to using Alexa as my primary voice assistant, one of the deciding factors was how inexpensive it is to buy Alexa gear compared to competitors that support Apple HomeKit. Head below for a look at which lighting products I’m using to illuminate my home.
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Amazon is now making its entry-level Fire TV Stick more appealing for shoppers. The $40 streaming stick is now going to be bundled with the company’s new Alexa Voice Remote, an upgrade that would have normally cost you $30. The improved controller debuted with the Fire TV 4K and adds a few key features into the mix. Most notably, you’ll find Bluetooth support as well as power and volume control of your TV set thanks to built-in IR. The updated bundle of the Fire TV Stick is now available for pre-order at Amazon and will be shipping on January 23rd. Those who already own the Fire TV Stick can also now upgrade to the better remote for $14.99, scoring you a 50% discount.

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Aukey Direct via Amazon is currently offering its 10050mAh Portable Power Bank in Silver or Gray for $17.81 shipped when code INBLHV46 has been applied at checkout. Normally selling for $27, that’s good for a 33% discount and is one of the lowest prices we’ve seen for this model. Aukey’s portable charger packs enough power to refill your iPhone nearly four times over and sports a single 2.4A USB port. With over 1,600 customers having left a review, it carries a 4.1/5 star rating.

More smartphone accessories:

• Anker SoundBuds Curve Bluetooth Headphones: $20 (Reg. $26) | Amazon
  • w/ code ANKER3263
• TaoTronics 5W Qi Charger & Car Mount: $10 (Reg. $22) | Amazon
  • w/ code MYCVZEYE
• Sonos Beam with AirPlay 2 gets nearly 20% discount to $320
• Aukey 20000mAh USB-C Power Bank: $27 (Reg. $48) | Amazon
  • w/ code FYGKCZFL
• Bestek 150W Car Power Inverter w/ Dual USB ports: $12 (Reg. $16) | Amazon
  • w/ code Z9HT4MT8
• Expand your Alexa-enabled smart home w/ Insteon’s $40 In-Wall Dimmer Switch (Reg. $55)
• LG TONE PLATINUM+ Bluetooth Headset: $150 (Reg. $200) | Best Buy

Deals still live from yesterday:

• Seneo 7.5W Qi Fast Wireless Charging Pad: $8 (Reg. $16) | Amazon
  • w/ code QSSCM9IZ
• Aukey 4-Port USB Wall Charger: $16 (Reg. $20) | Amazon
  • w/ code AUKEYD48 
• Aukey 5V USB-C Car Charger: $10 (Reg. $15) | Amazon
  • w/ code 53K6G2E7
• OtterBox SYMMETRY iPhone XR Case: $29 (Reg. $35) | Amazon
• Aukey Compact Dual USB Wall Charger: $7 (Reg. $13) | Amazon
  • w/ code AUKEYD49  

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While Amazon already has a healthy video on demand service with its Prime Video offerings, this week it has expanded further to reach a whole new audience. Amazon’s IMDb subsidiary is taking the wraps off its new Freedive streaming service. Although ad-supported, it’s available for anyone to use for free. While inventory is admittedly somewhat thin at launch (more on that below), with Amazon’s backing, Freedive has the chance to be a very viable service for cordcutters. Hit the jump for additional details.

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AnkerDirect via Amazon offers its 10W Wireless Qi Charging Stand for $17.99 shipped. That’s down from the usual $25 price tag and the best offer that we can find. This model is perfect for charging Android devices at 10W speeds or the latest iPhones at 7.5W. Its stand design is perfect bedside tables or your desk, making it easy to see notifications and more. Rated 4.4/5 stars.

More smartphone accessories:

• Beats urBeats3 Lightning Headphones: $40 (Reg. $50+) | Best Buy
• Anker PowerPort Power Strip w/ USB: $30 (Reg. $35) | Amazon
  • w/ code ANKERPS2
• Samsung 10W Qi Charger: $15 (Reg. $20) | Samsung
• Sony’s 7-inch In-Dash Receiver adds CarPlay + Android Auto to your ride for $348 (Reg. up to $430)
• Sonos One is down to $146.50 (Orig. $199), more in Amazon’s 20% off Warehouse Deals Sale 
• Keep an eye on your health w/ Omron’s Smart Blood Pressure Monitor: $48 at Amazon (Reg. $65) 
• Best Buy’s new 2-day sale takes $150 off the latest iPad Pro, deals on Beats, TVs, more

Deals still live from yesterday:

• Aukey 90-Degree Lightning Cable 2-Pack: $13 (Reg. $15) | Amazon
  • w/ code AUKEY90L 
• Veckle CD Slot Magnetic Car Mount: $7 (Reg. $11) | Amazon
  • w/ code C2NLOSBW
• Aukey 16W Bluetooth Speaker: $27 (Reg. $39) | Amazon
  • w/ code AUKEY92L
• ESR Rambler Rugged iPhone X Case: $8.50 (Reg. $17) | Amazon
  • w/ code TQHEMSSN
• Aukey 6.6-Foot MFi Lightning Cable: $7 (Reg. $9) | Amazon
  • w/ code AUKEY91L

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Today Amazon is updating its Key in-home delivery service with a new way to have packages safely stowed away. If having a UPS or FedEx delivery driver open your front door is out of your comfort zone, now you’ll be able to have them leave items in your garage. Thanks to integrating Chamberlain MyQ garage door openers, you’ll be able to know your packages are safe and sound without sacrificing privacy for in-home delivery. Head below for additional details as well as other enhancements Amazon has made to the service.

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When it comes to redesigning a room, it’s never easy. What wall color should you choose? Sofa? Lamp? Tables? There are all too many choices, but Amazon is doing its best to help you simplify your options. Amazon Showroom will let you design a room based on specific wall colors and items places around the room, showcasing a specific design that you can shop for once you make a decision.

This service will be great if you are needing to redesign a living room. You’ll be able to customize many aspects of this virtual living room, and hopefully more areas will be added as time goes on like offices, kitchens, bedrooms, bathrooms, and other living areas.

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Up to this point, I have been adamant about using Siri as the only virtual assistant in my home. Feelings on this began to change as Siri failed my wife and I time and time again. Whether it be our iPhones not hearing us say “Hey Siri” several times in a row, or seeing them change the correct transcription of what we actually said into what it thought we said, these failures have really gotten on our nerves. For this reason and many others, I have bought several Echo Dots and am now using Alexa to control my smart home accessories.
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At this point, most of our readers at 9to5Toys have an Amazon Prime membership. But as 2019 gets underway, we’re going to look at how to take your Amazon experience to the next level. Obviously, benefits like two-day shipping and access to a vast library of content make a Prime membership more compelling than ever before. But it’s other services like Amazon Family that make online shopping much easier.

The problem is most people don’t know that Amazon Family exists. Or what even does. This free perk is certainly an intriguing option for young families with little time to shop, let alone track down the best deals. Head below for a look at everything Amazon Family has to offer you in 2019.

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The Retro Fighters N64 Controllers are now available for pre-order. After its popular Kickstarter campaign over a year ago and taking care of an issue with the early backer run, the Brawler64 Next Gen game pads have successfully made it to Amazon.
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Tomtoc is offering its 360° Protection Premium Laptop Sleeve for an extra 15% off. Regularly $69.99, you can pick one up now for $31.44 on Amazon when applying code 9TO5MAC15 at checkout. That’s good for a 60% discount off the original price tag and the best offer available. More details below.

Tomtoc 360° Protection Premium Laptop Sleeve $31.44 (Reg. $70)

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As it does each year, Amazon Digital Day will once again take place during the last week of December. This time around Amazon is promising that its third annual digital goods sale will be the largest in history, with deals on movies, TV shows, mobile games, apps, eBooks, and more. You’ll find all of the best offers from Amazon Digital Day on this landing page. Head below for more details and what to expect on December 28th.

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Amazon has made it easy for you to shop top holiday gifts from your favorite celebrities, athletes, and influencers this Christmas. In the Amazon Celebrity Store you will find names including Kylie and Kendall Jenner, Jordan Speith, Jessica Alba, Aaron Rodgers, and more. Even better, this list features prices for every budget. Celebrities have picked items from brands like PUMA, Under Armour, Calvin Klein, Hugo Boss, and others. Head below to find our top picks among the celebrity holiday gifts, which range from fashion and accessories to makeup and much more.

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Voice assistants from Apple, Google, and Amazon can be both delightful and frustrating to use. Sometimes I facepalm at how badly they misunderstand me, but truth be told, I am happy they exist because they do make living in a smart home much simpler. With the announcement that Anki Vector will receive an update to provide access to Alexa next week, it is quite possible that more of these little robots could find themselves a home.
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Just a week ago we reported that Alexa will begin using self-learning techniques to understand conversations better. Now the voice assistant is gaining another piece of functionality, one that offers more tangible benefits other than natural speech. Amazon is beginning to roll out improved home security system support, meaning Alexa play a greater role in keeping you and your humble abode safe. 
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Back in September Amazon announced a completely revamped Echo lineup with new speakers and whole host of fresh Alexa-enabled technology. This included new entries like its first in-house smart microwave and wall plug. Fast forward three months later and nearly the entire lineup has been released and subsequently discounted for the holiday season. That is, except for Amazon’s Echo Link. Today the $200 accessory hits the market as a means for adding Alexa to high-end stereo systems, taking a page out of the Sonos playbook.

Those looking for standalone amplification will have to wait a bit longer, however, as the Echo Link Amp is not slated to be released until 2019. So what does Amazon’s $200 add-on get you? Head below for more.

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If you owned a SEGA Genesis during your childhood, there’s a good chance you’ll be ecstatic to hear that Amazon is bringing several of its classics to Fire TV devices. Popular titles include Sonic the Hedgehog 1 & 2, Sonic CD, Golden Axe 1-3, The Revenge of Shinobi, and many more. The total number of classics coming to Fire TV is 25, but there will be no need to buy each one individually as they will all be bundled together under the unsurprising name of SEGA Classics.
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Holiday shopping is coming to a close and retailers are beginning to send out notices that free shipping windows are also closing. In case you missed it, earlier this week we put together an all-encompassing guide of which retailers offer in-store pickup and other key dates in the lead up to Christmas. This morning, Amazon has announced its official plans for the next 11 days including expanded free shipping and one-day delivery on Christmas Eve. Head below for full details.

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We’re getting down to the finish line of the holiday shopping season, and retailers are beginning to share deadlines for Christmas shipping windows. So if you’re still thinking about doing some online shopping, now is the time to get it done. For most retailers, the last day to buy online and have it delivered by the 25th is rapidly approaching. Head below for a list of holiday shipping deadlines for each major retailer.

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If you have an Alexa or Assistant-enabled device in your home, it’s likely that you’ve asked it a question and gotten the generic response back “I’m sorry, but I can’t help with that right now” or something similar. Well, Alexa soon will use context to help better understand your commands through conversation.

This is a huge breakthrough in technology, as it’s something that humans do naturally. It’s easy if someone gets the wording almost right when talking to you, and your brain fixes the sentence mid-conversation. However, technology has yet to be able to understand conversational speech. This type of advancement with Alexa would make it one of the best smart assistants around.

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After an aggressive year that saw Amazon open various physical retail locations, including significant expansion of its Go storefronts, it appears the online giant is now targeting airports. A new report from Reuters this morning claims that Amazon is looking to shake up the travel scene. After what feels like years of minimal innovation and rising prices for travelers, Amazon’s autonomous shopping technology may be just the right fit for airports across the United States.

So how do Amazon and air travel fit together? Head below for more.

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As it does each year, Amazon is sharing its post-mortem of the most popular items sold on its online marketplace. We’ve already detailed which products were the best-sellers throughout Black Friday and Cyber Monday. Now we’re diving into what Amazon is calling the Best of Prime 2018, which details this year’s most-purchased listings and other interesting tidbits that give a glimpse into the average Prime member. Head below for more.

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