Hyundai and Amazon have partnered to make the process of purchasing a new Hyundai vehicle easier and more convenient. Starting in 2024, customers will be able to browse and purchase specific models of Hyundai cars on Amazon. The cars can be shipped directly to the customer’s home or can be picked up at a local dealership. This collaboration marks the beginning of what could be a significant shift in the car buying experience, as other automobile brands are likely to follow Hyundai’s lead in making their vehicles available for purchase on the Amazon platform.
This move reflects the ongoing trend of “Amazonification” in car buying, where the convenience and accessibility of online shopping continues to transform traditional retail processes. The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the shift towards online car sales, with some companies offering the option of having the car delivered to the customer’s door immediately after the purchase is made. By making vehicles available on Amazon, one of the world’s largest e-commerce websites, car manufacturers are taking advantage of the trend towards one-click shopping and the growing preference for online purchases.
In other consumer tech news, Sonos, a manufacturer of speakers and audio equipment, has announced that a new product will be released next year. While the exact nature of the product has not been disclosed, there are speculations that Sonos might be entering the headphone market, a departure from its focus on connected speakers and amplifiers. This potential move could represent a significant expansion of Sonos’ product range, as it seeks to tap into new market opportunities.
Simone Giertz, known for creating “shitty robots,” has ventured into producing useful devices through her web store, Yetch. Her latest invention, the Coat Hinger, is a metal coat hanger that folds in on itself to save space. Designed for people with small closets or minimal space, the Coat Hinger offers a practical solution for organizing clothes. The product will be available for purchase through a Kickstarter campaign, supported by Giertz’s reputation for delivering innovative and practical gadgets.
In a fascinating story, senior writer Andy Greenberg shares the untold story of three young hackers who created the malware tool Mirai. The attack led to a massive denial-of-service attack that disrupted the internet in 2016 and prompted the FBI to take notice. Greenberg’s investigative report uncovers the motivations and actions of the hackers, providing a compelling insight into the world of cybersecurity and cybercrime. Greenberg shares his findings in the latest cover story for WIRED, shedding light on the development and impact of Mirai.
Overall, the collaboration between Hyundai and Amazon signals a transformation in the car buying experience, while other consumer tech developments reflect the ongoing innovation and evolution of products and services. From new product releases to groundbreaking investigative journalism, the tech industry continues to push boundaries and surprise consumers with exciting advancements.