Tag: Amazon

  • Apple MacBook Air 15-inch M5: $150 Off at Multiple Retailers

    Apple MacBook Air 15-inch M5: $150 Off at Multiple Retailers

    Key Takeaway

    – The 15.3-inch MacBook Air with the M5 chip offers strong performance and up to 18 hours of battery life, making it a solid long-term choice for light-to-medium use and light creative work.
    – It’s currently discounted to $1,149 (16GB RAM, 512GB SSD) at Best Buy and Amazon, with similar savings on 1TB and 2TB variants.
    – Notable features include a 12MP Center Stage webcam with Desk View, two Thunderbolt 4 ports, a high-quality 2880×1864 Liquid Retina display, and a sturdy, familiar 2022-era chassis.

    Introduction to the MacBook Air M5 15-inch deal

    If you’re not a fan of Apple’s latest MacBook Neo with its crippling memory offering, then your best bet in terms of longevity is Apple’s entry-level 15.3-inch MacBook Air with the M5 chip, which trades at a significantly higher price tag, but a recent discount might make things simpler.

    Current pricing and availability

    Currently, this fifth-generation Apple silicon MacBook Air configuration with 16GB of RAM and a 512GB SSD is on sale at Best Buy and Amazon for $1,149, a neat $150 off its original ask of $1,299. The price cut also also seems to extend across the board with the same discount on 1TB and 2TB variants of the same MacBook model with multiple retailers.

    Who should consider this MacBook Air

    It’s easily one of the best entry-level MacBooks to get if you’re a light-to-medium user who’s looking to do daily tasks, schoolwork, and light creative workflows without breaking the bank. To make the deal even sweeter, the MacBook Air is available with free shipping in many regions, depending on your location. Furthermore, it’s available in four colorways: Midnight, Silver, Sky Blue, and Starlight.

    Why the base M5 model matters

    So, why should you go with the base 15-inch MacBook Air with the M5 chip in the first place? The M5 MacBook Air features an impressive design and delivers performance approaching that of M‑series Pro-level chips in a larger 15-inch form factor. It also happens to be a fairly recent release with the updated SKU available since March 2026.

    Technical performance

    The M5 MacBook Air features an M5 chip with a 10-core CPU and up to a 10-core GPU (base models are 8-core), a noticeable step up from last year’s M4-based Air. Apple claims the M5 MacBook Air delivers up to 11% faster single-core performance with similar multi-core performance, while the GPU can offer up to 30% greater performance in supported workloads.

    Everyday use case

    For everyday users looking for a snappy laptop that instantly opens and runs multiple Safari tabs, plays back videos for long hours, and handles Zoom calls and light video editing in apps like Adobe Premiere without getting uncomfortably hot to the touch, this is a compelling option.

    Display, battery, and exterior

    As for battery life, the MacBook Air with the M5 chip is rated for up to 18 hours of use and features a crisp Liquid Retina display with a peak brightness of 500 nits and a 2880 x 1864 resolution panel.

    Design notes

    However, for those looking to get a large aesthetic upgrade, it is worth noting that Apple hasn’t significantly updated the MacBook Air’s exterior design since 2022, which isn’t exactly an issue; the existing chassis is already sturdy and attractive, and one could argue the obvious: if it isn’t broken, don’t fix it.

    Connectivity and camera

    Connectivity options are ample, with the MacBook Air offering two Thunderbolt 4 ports and a headphone jack, which some may find pleasantly surprising for a modern ultraportable. The webcam is sharper than many mainstream laptop offerings, thanks to its 12MP Center Stage camera with Desk View. For a detailed review, check out our coverage of the new MacBook Air M5 here.

    Important note

    Disclaimer: Notebookcheck is not responsible for price changes carried out by retailers. The discounted price or deal mentioned in this item was available at the time of writing and may be subject to time restrictions and/or limited unit availability.

     

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  • Ex-Nintendo President Claims Amazon Pressured for Illegal Terms Amid Switch 2 Launch

    Ex-Nintendo President Claims Amazon Pressured for Illegal Terms Amid Switch 2 Launch

    Key Takeaway

    1. Nintendo has a history of conflicts with Amazon over issues like illegal demands for support, pricing, and third-party sales.
    2. The relationship between Nintendo and Amazon has at times led to Nintendo withholding stock and restricting product availability, especially around new console launches.
    3. Disagreements over used game sales, pricing policies, and regional scalping have contributed to ongoing tensions between the companies.
    4. Despite past conflicts, Nintendo now offers a wider selection of Switch 2 products on Amazon, with price-matching for digital releases, though tensions over policies remain.

    Nintendo’s Ongoing Battle with Amazon Over Game Sales

    The physical Switch 2 games, still being quite popular, keeps Nintendo’s retail influence strong. The company, however, have had ongoing squabbles with Amazon, the big online retailer. Ex-Nintendo boss Reggie Fils-Aimé recently talked about this feud which has been going on for years, revealing some interesting details.

    Reggie Fils-Aimé Spills The Beans

    During a talk at the NYU Game Center Lecture Series, Fils-Aimé shared stories from his time leading Nintendo. He explained those early days when Amazon was pushing hard to get more control over the video game market. He said an Amazon top executive asked for massive support to help the online giant offer the lowest prices, even to beat Walmart. Fils-Aimé quickly pointed out that such demands were “illegal,” showing that Nintendo refused to give in to such tactics. This was a key moment showing how Nintendo tried protecting its business and partnering relationships.

    The Conflict Over Stock and Pricing

    After this incident, Nintendo chose not to supply Amazon with stock, aiming to preserve good relations with other stores like GameStop. This move caused tensions, and other companies accused Amazon of doing similar aggressive behaviors. When the Nintendo Switch came out in 2017, the product was once again sold on Amazon, but conflicts over used games and shady third-party sellers became bigger problems. Fans found fewer directly sold new titles and consoles. The company also got worried about third parties discounting prices or scalping across regions, especially with the upcoming launch of their new handheld in 2025. Although Nintendo tried to deny some of these issues, fans kept doubts about Amazon’s practices.

    Impact of Lower Digital Prices and Ongoing Disputes

    Now, lots of first-party Switch 2 games and the console itself can be bought openly. Recently Nintendo cut digital game prices, and Amazon began to match those costs for physical copies, which is good for buyers. However, disagreements about pricing and policies between Nintendo and Amazon are still likely to crop up in the future. From clashes over stock support to pricing strategies, the rivalry seems far from over.


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  • Amazon Fire TV App: More Than Just a Backup Remote Now

    Amazon Fire TV App: More Than Just a Backup Remote Now

    Key Takeaways

    1. Amazon’s refreshed Fire TV mobile app enhances content discovery, allowing users to explore shows and manage watchlists directly from their smartphones.
    2. The app functions as a “second screen,” enabling users to save recommendations and search for new content without being in front of the TV.
    3. The mobile app is part of a broader revamp of the Fire TV interface, featuring a more streamlined and organized design with improved performance.
    4. The app now has a consistent design that aligns with the updated Fire TV interface, creating a seamless user experience.
    5. The rollout of the revamped app is initially focused on select countries, with plans for wider availability in the near future.

    Amazon has begun releasing a refreshed Fire TV mobile application that does far more than just help find a missing remote. The new app allows users to explore content, keep track of a watchlist, and initiate playback on a Fire TV device directly from their smartphone, offering a much more valuable experience compared to the basic remote features the app used to provide.

    Enhancing User Experience

    This change is significant since Amazon is clearly focused on improving content discovery rather than merely providing control options. In their announcement, the company indicated that the updated app is designed to function as a “second screen,” enabling users to save recommendations or search for new shows even when they aren’t in front of the TV.

    A Comprehensive Overhaul

    The updated mobile app is part of a broader revamp of Fire TV that Amazon introduced along with a new Fire TV interface. The company claims the overall user interface improvement is more streamlined, quicker, and better organized, featuring specific sections for various content types and technical upgrades that may result in performance improvements of up to 20% to 30% in certain situations.

    For the mobile application, consistency is key. Amazon states that the app now sports a design that aligns with the redesigned Fire TV interface found on televisions and streaming devices, signaling that they want the mobile app to serve as a seamless addition to the TV experience rather than just a standalone tool.

    Gradual Rollout

    Amazon mentions that the revamped Fire TV mobile app is initially rolling out in the UK, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Japan, and India, with plans for wider availability in those regions and other countries in the weeks ahead.

    The main point to note is that Amazon is positioning the Fire TV app more as a streaming companion instead of merely an accessory.

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  • Amazon’s First Look at God of War: Fans Disappointed by Kratos and Atreus

    Amazon’s First Look at God of War: Fans Disappointed by Kratos and Atreus

    Key Takeaways

    1. Amazon’s God of War series will focus on the 2018 game rather than the original trilogy, highlighting Kratos and Atreus’s relationship.
    2. The cast includes Ryan Hurst as Kratos and Callum Vinson as Atreus, with the first official image of the characters recently released.
    3. Fan reactions to the image have been largely negative, with many comparing it to cosplay and criticizing the portrayal of Kratos and Atreus.
    4. Some fans remain hopeful, suggesting that set photos may not represent the final product well and urging patience until the actual footage is released.
    5. The series is expected to debut around 2027 or 2028, while fans are also interested in a potential new God of War game featuring Kratos against Egyptian gods.

    Fans have been aware since 2022 that Amazon was working on a series based on God of War. In the summer of 2025, some early information came out that left many feeling let down. Instead of focusing on the original trilogy, the show will take inspiration from the 2018 game (the PS4 version is currently priced at about $18 on Amazon), which highlights the relationship between Kratos and his son Atreus. Recently, Amazon revealed the first official image of these two characters, and it seems to have made fans feel even more disappointed rather than excited.

    Cast Details

    Ryan Hurst, who is recognized for his performances in Sons of Anarchy and The Walking Dead, will play Kratos. Callum Vinson, known for his role in Chucky, will portray Atreus. The image shared by Amazon appears to show a scene from God of War, where Kratos instructs his son on how to hunt. Instead of generating excitement, this reveal has received a rather tepid response. Many reactions on Reddit have been mostly critical.

    Fan Reactions

    Numerous users have commented that the image looks like cosplay or resembles a low-budget fantasy film. Common complaints include that Kratos doesn’t seem big enough, the scene feels staged, and Atreus looks too contemporary with his styled hair. Some more hopeful Reddit users ask for patience, pointing out that set photos can often be unflattering and that actual footage will give a better impression. The God of War series is not likely to debut until 2027, or even 2028. Only at that time can a proper evaluation be made. Meanwhile, fans are also wishing for a new God of War game, which might feature Kratos battling Egyptian gods. However, a planned multiplayer project featuring Kratos has apparently been scrapped.

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  • Gamesir G7 Pro Controller Color Refresh Exclusive to Amazon

    Gamesir G7 Pro Controller Color Refresh Exclusive to Amazon

    Key Takeaways

    1. GameSir launched the G7 Pro Golden Ombre controller at CES 2026, now available on Amazon with an introductory discount.
    2. The controller features a gradient gold see-through faceplate, golden D-Pad, and textured removable grips.
    3. Customization options include switches for Hall Effect and micro switch triggers, as well as disabling back buttons.
    4. The G7 Pro is compatible with Xbox, PC, and Android, and includes a charging dock and additional accessories.
    5. Priced at $99.99, buyers can get a 20% discount on Amazon until February 22, 2026, bringing the price down to $79.99.

    GameSir has unveiled a fresh color option for its top-tier controller, the G7 Pro. The brand new GameSir G7 Pro Golden Ombre was presented at CES 2026 and later found on Amazon following the tech showcase. Almost a fortnight later, it is ready for purchase, complete with an introductory discount.

    Design Features

    The GameSir G7 Pro Golden Ombre showcases a gradient gold see-through faceplate along with a golden D-Pad. The shoulder buttons and mini bumpers are also finished in gold, while the triggers present a translucent black look. GameSir has equipped the controller with textured grips, which, similar to the faceplate, can be removed.

    Customization Options

    This controller includes switches located on the back that allow users to switch between Hall Effect analog triggers and micro switch triggers. Additionally, the two back buttons can be disabled using their corresponding switches. The thumbsticks feature GameSir’s unique Mag-Res TMR sticks, and both the D-Pad and ABXY buttons are designed with optical switches.

    Compatibility and Accessories

    The GameSir G7 Pro in this colorway is the standard Tri-Mode version, which works with Xbox through a wired connection. It’s also compatible with PC (2.4GHz and wired) and Android (Bluetooth). It boasts a 6-axis gyroscope and a polling rate of 1000Hz, but these features only function when connected to a PC. The package includes a charging dock, two additional D-Pads, a 2.4G adapter, and a 3-meter long braided USB-C to USB-A cable.

    Selling at $99.99, the GameSir G7 Pro Golden Ombre is available exclusively on Amazon. Buyers can receive a 20% discount by checking the coupon price box, reducing the cost to $79.99, which is the same price as the Shadow Ember and Mech White models listed on GameSir’s website. Amazon indicates that the coupon is active until February 22, 2026.

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  • Amazon Kindle eBooks Now Partially DRM-Free for Readers

    Amazon Kindle eBooks Now Partially DRM-Free for Readers

    Key Takeaways

    1. Starting January 20, 2026, publishers can sell Kindle eBooks without copy protection (DRM).
    2. DRM-free eBooks can be downloaded as PDF or ePub files, allowing use on non-Kindle devices.
    3. Users can find the “Download EPUB/PDF” option in the “Digital Content” section if a DRM-free version is available.
    4. Publishers must manually convert older titles to DRM-free format, while new releases can use Amazon’s automatic conversion service.
    5. Some publishers now offer DRM-free downloads, but there is currently no way to check if a book is DRM-free before purchase.

    In December, Amazon notified publishers they would have the ability to sell Kindle eBooks without copy protection starting on January 20, 2026. This development means that certain eBooks can now be downloaded not just to Kindle e-readers and devices with the Kindle app, but also as DRM-free PDF or ePub files.

    How to Download eBooks

    To download an eBook, simply choose it from the “Digital Content” section of your Amazon account. If a DRM-free version is available, you will see the “Download EPUB/PDF” option listed under “More Actions”. This feature enables the reading of books on eReaders that do not have the Kindle app installed. The option to sell books without DRM also allows for sharing with friends, leading Amazon to give publishers the choice of whether to offer their books with or without DRM.

    Conversion Process for Older Books

    For titles published prior to December 9, 2025, publishers must convert them to the DRM-free format manually. For new releases, Amazon provides an optional automatic conversion service. According to Good E-Reader, many large publishers have yet to provide their titles without copy protection in the Kindle Store. However, we found that some publishers, including Drachenmond, Hidden Gnome Publishing, and Fabylon, now permit DRM-free downloads from Amazon. Despite this, there seems to be no way to determine if a book is DRM-free before making a purchase.

    Good E-Reader | Perfecto Capucine (teaser image)

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  • Amazon Kindle Scribe Colorsoft e-Reader Launches New Model Variant

    Amazon Kindle Scribe Colorsoft e-Reader Launches New Model Variant

    Key Takeaways

    1. Amazon has released a new color option, “Fig,” for the Kindle Scribe Colorsoft, with no changes to features or specifications.
    2. The Kindle Scribe Colorsoft (64GB) is priced at $679 and will be available in the US on January 28.
    3. Availability in other markets is currently uncertain but expected to follow.
    4. The Kindle Scribe Colorsoft includes advanced features like note-taking with a stylus, AI-driven search, and chatbot capabilities.
    5. It has an 11-inch color display that offers excellent contrast and a paper-like feel.

    Amazon has introduced a fresh model of the Kindle Scribe Colorsoft. There are no alterations in features or specifications, as this is merely a new color choice. This new hue, named “Fig,” adds a bit of flair, although its overall look stays the same due to its subtle tone and not a vibrant finish.

    Pricing and Availability

    According to Amazon, the Kindle Scribe Colorsoft with 64GB of storage will be priced at $679 and is set to arrive in the US on January 28. It’s still uncertain if or when this new version of the e-reader will be available in other markets and locations, but it should just be a matter of time.

    Features and Functionality

    Regardless, the Amazon Kindle Scribe Colorsoft is a fully-equipped e-reader that also comes with some advanced capabilities. For example, users can jot down notes using the included stylus, and there’s an AI-driven search and chatbot feature accessible too.

    Consequently, handwritten notes can be searched with ease, and files can be imported from Google Drive and Microsoft OneDrive. The latter can also be utilized to send notes to Microsoft OneNote. Finally, this e-reader features an 11-inch color display that reportedly provides excellent contrast ratios and a paper-like sensation.

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  • Amazon Unveils Starlink Competitor with 1 Gbps Satellite Internet

    Amazon Unveils Starlink Competitor with 1 Gbps Satellite Internet

    Key Takeaways

    1. Amazon has launched the Leo Ultra antenna for satellite internet, targeting government and business clients, currently in private preview with a commercial launch planned for next year.
    2. The Leo Ultra boasts impressive performance, with download speeds of up to 1Gbps and upload speeds of 400Mbps, significantly outperforming previous models.
    3. Compared to competitors like Starlink, which offers lower speeds, the Leo Ultra presents a strong competitive edge, particularly with its private networking services.
    4. The new antenna allows direct connections to AWS and other cloud services, minimizing reliance on the public internet and enhancing security.
    5. Amazon is working with SATCOM Security to improve the security of satellite internet connections, addressing vulnerabilities found in existing systems.

    Amazon has introduced the Leo Ultra this week, marking the debut of its antenna designed for satellite internet services, specifically tailored for government and business clients. This hardware is launching in a private preview phase, with plans for a wider commercial launch expected sometime next year. Although the company has yet to reveal pricing or availability information, this update offers a first look at the new antenna’s design and specifications, which measures 20 inches by 30 inches.

    Impressive Performance Specs

    According to Amazon, the Leo Ultra is touted as “the fastest customer terminal in production,” boasting download speeds of up to 1Gbps and upload speeds of 400Mbps simultaneously. These speeds are a substantial improvement compared to the smaller 11-inch Pro antenna, which can manage up to 400 Mbps download, and the 7-inch-square Nano that can handle up to 100Mbps.

    Competitive Edge

    When making a comparison, the Starlink Performance Kit offers download speeds of up to 400Mbps, which is around half of what Amazon claims for the new antenna. SpaceX has indicated that their V3 satellite will eventually support a total download bandwidth of 1Tbps, with gigabit speeds available to Starlink users by next year. Nonetheless, Amazon’s Leo Ultra could provide significant advantages through its private networking services, setting it apart from existing satellite internet systems.

    You can establish direct connections with AWS and other cloud services, allowing users to avoid the public internet. This method could reduce risks, especially after researchers from UC San Diego and the University of Maryland recently identified serious security weaknesses in unencrypted GEO satellite links.

    Security Features

    Amazon, along with SATCOM Security, is making strides towards enhancing the security of satellite internet connections.

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  • Amazon Plans Up to 30,000 Corporate Layoffs for Profit Growth

    Amazon Plans Up to 30,000 Corporate Layoffs for Profit Growth

    Key Takeaways

    1. Amazon is planning to lay off up to 30,000 corporate employees, primarily in operations, devices, services, and human resources.
    2. The layoffs are part of a broader cost-cutting strategy initiated under CEO Andy Jassy, aimed at improving operational efficiency and productivity.
    3. Affected employees will be notified next week, but exact details about severance packages and support for job searches are not yet available.
    4. The layoffs could lead to project delays, hiring freezes, and centralized internal services as the company seeks to streamline teams.
    5. More information about the specific teams impacted by the layoffs is expected to be released in the coming days.

    Amazon is gearing up for a big corporate shakeup that could lead to the loss of up to 30,000 office jobs, according to a report by Reuters, which cites sources in the know. The layoffs are projected to begin next week, mainly targeting corporate divisions like operations, devices, services, and human resources.

    Significant Workforce Impact

    If the numbers mentioned are accurate, these job cuts would make up a major part of Amazon’s corporate workforce. Reuters describes the total as being in the low tens of thousands and indicates that the teams affected will be notified as the company rolls out its plan. It’s important to mention that these insights come from unnamed sources, and Amazon has not issued any official statements at this moment.

    Broader Cost-Control Measures

    This potential layoff strategy follows previous job cuts across various sectors within Amazon, reflecting a wider trend of cost-cutting within the tech industry. Under the leadership of CEO Andy Jassy, the company has emphasized a need to streamline decision-making, cut down on red tape, and enhance productivity, possibly through automation and AI. Management has previously suggested that these changes could alter the structure of corporate teams.

    The layoffs are part of a larger attempt to improve operational efficiency and shift resources toward key initiatives. According to the sources, some positions might be combined or redefined, while others might be eliminated entirely. However, specifics regarding severance packages, support for finding new jobs, and precise timing were not detailed in the report.

    Financial Considerations

    While cutting jobs can significantly reduce payroll costs, it often comes with immediate restructuring expenses, potential interruptions for teams working on ongoing projects, and might even impact daily operations. Companies that engage in extensive layoffs typically use the savings to redirect funding toward important areas or investments.

    The impact of these layoffs will differ across various teams. Projects linked to long-term product strategies may face delays or cancellation, hiring freezes could be prolonged, and internal services might be centralized to minimize overlap in roles as the Seattle-based tech giant seeks to enhance overall efficiency.

    Traditionally, Amazon tends to inform employees about layoffs before making public announcements, so more information is likely to emerge in the coming days as the news spreads and teams begin to receive formal notifications. For workers and observers, the next few days should shed light on which parts of Amazon’s vast operations are most affected and how the e-commerce and data center giant plans to assist those impacted.

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  • Amazon Plans to Cut 600,000 Jobs Using AI and Robotics

    Amazon Plans to Cut 600,000 Jobs Using AI and Robotics

    Key Takeaways

    1. Shift to Automation: Amazon plans to automate 75% of its operational tasks, aiming for significant efficiency and cost savings of about $14 billion from 2025 to 2027.

    2. Shreveport Model: The Shreveport, Louisiana facility serves as a prototype for automation, using 1,000 robots and employing 25% fewer workers than similar sites.

    3. Expansion Plans: Amazon intends to implement the Shreveport model in 40 additional logistics centers by the end of 2027, reducing workforce needs through natural attrition.

    4. Job Replacement Concerns: The move towards automation is leading to debates about job losses, with experts warning that Amazon may become a net job destroyer.

    5. Public Relations Strategy: Amazon is framing its transition as a shift towards “advanced technology” rather than explicitly mentioning automation and AI, aiming to manage public perception.

    The current shift in technology within the logistics sector is compelling numerous firms to rethink their workforce strategies. As per detailed insights from the New York Times, Amazon is gearing up to restrict its employee growth in the next few years. While the e-commerce giant anticipates its sales volume to double by 2033, its strategic aim is to replace over 600,000 jobs in the US by leveraging cutting-edge technology and automation.

    Focus on Automation and Efficiency

    The automation in Amazon’s fulfillment centers is expected to be the main area of focus, with the goal of automating 75% of its overall operational tasks. This extensive digital shift is projected to yield substantial efficiency improvements and notable cost reductions, with internal evaluations suggesting about $14 billion in savings from 2025 to 2027. This translates to roughly $0.35 less in fulfillment expenses for each item delivered.

    Shreveport as a Model

    The Shreveport, Louisiana facility is set to be a model for this automated future. Referred to as the Shreveport model, this warehouse currently operates with a thousand robots and has 25% fewer employees compared to similar non-automated sites. The planned addition of more cobots (collaborative robots) is expected to further decrease the need for human workers, leading to greater reductions in the workforce.

    By the end of 2027, Amazon intends to implement the Shreveport model in around 40 more logistics centers. Facilities that are only a few years old, such as those in Stone Mountain, Georgia, are also being adapted to fit the new robotics framework. An internal analysis for Stone Mountain indicates that it may need as many as 1,200 fewer employees after the transition. The company aims to achieve this reduction mainly through natural attrition, effectively instituting a hiring freeze for standard warehouse roles. The remaining positions will shift towards more skilled technical roles, like mechatronics, but the overall number of required staff is projected to decline sharply.

    Debate on Job Impact

    The scale of job replacement by AI is sparking significant discussions. Amazon has reacted by characterizing the documents as not fully representative and highlighting the emergence of new, more challenging positions. However, the leaked documents indicate a focused public relations approach, avoiding the explicit use of terms like “automation” and “AI” and opting for “advanced technology” to shape public opinion.

    Daron Acemoglu, an economics expert at MIT, forecasts that if these plans are fully executed, the company, which was once seen as a major job creator, could turn into a net job destroyer.

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