Amazon Kills Glow, Its Ugly Video Calling Gadget For Kids

Amazon is formally discontinuing its Facetime-esque, Facebook-Portal-esque Glow gadget, which was geared toward youngsters and allowed them to learn books, play video games, and have video calls with distant kin.

In September 2021, Amazon launched the $250 Glow. Likely born out of the pandemic’s push to remain linked remotely, Amazon added Glow to its burgeoning portfolio of unique {hardware} merchandise like Astro and Echo. But just slightly greater than a 12 months after Glow’s launch, Amazon has determined to kill the product, a spokesperson from the corporate confirmed to Gizmodo. The firm didn’t disclose gross sales figures for Glow. Facebook equally killed the buyer model of its Portal video calling machine in June after weak gross sales.

“At Amazon we think big, experiment, and invest in new ideas to delight customers,” the spokesperson mentioned. “We also continually evaluate the progress and potential of our products to deliver customer value, and we regularly make adjustments based on those assessments. We will be sharing updates and guidance with Glow customers soon.”

A fast search on Amazon’s web site additionally confirms that Glow is not up for buy. According to Amazon’s original press release, Glow featured an 8-inch show display the place youngsters may learn books, play video games, and speak with their kin and pals by way of video name. Those on the opposite finish of the Glow name may play alongside utilizing a Glow app. Glow additionally featured a 19-inch touch-sensitive interface that was projected onto the floor in entrance of the machine.

It’s not instantly clear why Amazon axed Glow, however the tech large’s foray into shopper tech merchandise has been hit or miss. The Echo and Alexa are arguably staples within the trendy family, whereas the Astro robotic—a glorified Alexa on wheels—has did not catch on with its hefty price ticket and restricted launch.