Amazon Pulls the Plug on Kids' Interactive Gadget Glow
Launched during the pandemic, the gadget was designed to help kids keep in touch with loved ones they couldn't be with.
Amazon Glow was designed to help kids stay connected to loved ones even when they couldn't be together.
Amazon has discontinued Amazon Glow, an interactive video-chat device focused on helping kids and loved ones play together via the internet amid the pandemic.
Launched in 2021, Amazon Glow featured a video screen and projector that gave children access to a wide range of entertainment and educational content. A video screen connected the child with the remote person on the other end of the video call while projecting a gaming space onto a silicone mat both people could participate in.
But apparently, the sales didn't meet expectations, leading the Amazon to cancel the product.
"At Amazon we think big, experiment, and invest in new ideas to delight customers," said Amazon spokeswoman Kristy Schmidt, who confirmed the Glow's cancellation. "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."
The Amazon Glow included a wide range of entertainment and educational content. Games like checkers and Go Fish were built in, as well as puzzles, thousands of books, and a free drawing app that could scan objects into the artwork and do fun things like create a jigsaw puzzle from your favorite toy by smashing it on the screen.
Amazon also partnered with studios for branded experiences from Disney, Mattel, Sesame Street and Nickelodeon. Curated video content was available, but kids could only watch videos while they're calling an approved adult.
The device retailed for $300 but was listed Tuesday at $150 for members of Amazon's Prime program, 55% off the list price, before being listed as unavailable.