Amazon’s shopping agent now takes orders by text, with Sponsored Product ads in the replies

Amazon’s shopping agent has introduced text-based ordering capabilities, with Sponsored Product advertisements appearing within the conversational threads. These ads are currently free for advertisers. The service launched today for a limited number of U.S. customers through an invite-only program. In the coming weeks, Amazon intends to expand access to a wider audience, inviting interested individuals to sign up for text updates to secure a spot.

To engage with the agent, users simply need to provide a phone number, accept the terms, and create a new contact named “Alexa Shopping.” Once connected, customers can interact with the agent as they would with a friend, requesting purchases such as repurchasing laundry detergent or sourcing ingredients for a new recipe. The agent will research options, formulate recommendations, and communicate them back via text message.

Customers can also opt for auto-buy functionality, allowing the agent to automatically place orders when prices meet their set criteria.