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Amazon has introduced a new feature that allows members to link their accounts with popular mobile apps, virtual worlds, and video games to purchase physical products. Known as Amazon Anywhere, this feature offers gamers an immersive shopping experience where they can buy game-related clothing, decor, and other merchandise. The initial launch of Amazon Anywhere focuses on “shoppable entertainment” in a game called Peridot, developed by Niantic, the creators of Pokémon Go. Peridot is an augmented reality game that combines real-world exploration and caring for unique creatures with the power of artificial intelligence. Currently available on iOS and Android, players can now shop for a wide range of items, including t-shirts, throw pillows, and phone accessories featuring their beloved magical creatures, all within the app itself.
In virtual worlds, the ability to purchase physical products has been limited mainly to virtual currency and in-game digital items. Amazon aims to change that with Amazon Anywhere. By bringing the convenience of Amazon stores to Peridot, users can now discover and acquire unique and relevant items in the game, which will be delivered straight to their door. To access this feature, users need to have an Amazon account and link it to Amazon Anywhere games. Ordering is simple and seamless – if you spot a hoodie that catches your eye, just tap “buy” and complete the purchase.
Developers are encouraged to sign up and integrate Amazon Anywhere into their games and virtual worlds, giving their merchandise greater exposure to their target audience. Product details, pricing, estimated delivery dates, and Prime eligibility will be prominently displayed, mirroring the familiar shopping experience on the Amazon website. This feature allows developers and creators to expand their in-game or in-app environments, offering more than just digital products and providing a new way to engage their audience without concerns about selection, shipping, or fulfillment. They can now focus on creating extraordinary experiences.
In the past, parents have expressed concerns about their young children making in-game purchases or completing orders on mobile devices. It will be intriguing to observe how the introduction of Amazon Anywhere may impact these unplanned purchases and whether the company will be understanding when it comes to issuing refunds.
