Amazon has opened up its Dash Buttons to developers, letting program their own functions into the Internet of Things device. Previously, consumers had to buy new buttons for each product, and users could only use them to buy those products. The new ‘AWS IoT Button’ is a customisable version blows that limitation wide open. Developers […]
Amazon has opened up its Dash Buttons to developers, letting program their own functions into the Internet of Things device.
Previously, consumers had to buy new buttons for each product, and users could only use them to buy those products. The new ‘AWS IoT Button’ is a customisable version blows that limitation wide open.
Developers can now write code to have the button do whatever it is they want the button to do, whether that’s ordering an Uber ride, sending a text message to someone, opening a garage door, switching on lights, or as a check-in button for Airbnb guests.
One button can have multiple functions, too, with support for single-click, double-click, and long-click gestures.
The new programmable buttons cost $20 each, too, compared to the $5 that regular Amazon Dash Buttons.
The button isn’t quite ready for non-techie users however. Amazon is marketing the device to developers looking to experiment with Amazon Web Services (AWS), and as a result the set up side of things might be tough for the average consumer to get their head around.
Additionally, Node.js, Python, or Java coding ability is required to connect the button to third party devices.
Amazon also says users can get around 1,000 presses out of a button, but once it’s gone, it’s gone, as the battery isn’t replaceable or rechargeable.
https://aws.amazon.com/iot/button/
