Walmart vs. Amazon: The Gladiators of E-commerce
When it comes to e-commerce, Walmart and Amazon have been clashing swords for quite some time. With the Internet of Things (IoT) at the forefront of technological advancement, these giants are now exploring ways to revolutionize customer experience with smart products.
Smart Home Products and Home Automation
Amazon's Echo, Alexa-powered device, owned the market for the longest time. However, Walmart decided to challenge Amazon with Google Assistant-powered devices, like the Google Nest Hub. The challenge didn't end there, though. Walmart is making strides and integrating the Google Express service within the Google Assistant platform, providing a seamless experience for customers.
Amazon, on the other hand, has been surpassing Walmart in the home automation department, with its Alexa devices integrating with an ever-increasing number of smart home devices. No doubt, Walmart may catch up soon, but as of now, Amazon holds the lead.
Smart Grocery Shopping Experience
In 2019, Walmart and Amazon both launched smart carts, which add items to a customer's shopping list as they pick them up in-store. However, Walmart one-upped Amazon with the introduction of their "Scan & Go" system in 2012, enabling customers to scan their products with their phones and go.
Though Walmart's Scan & Go system is admirable and simple, Amazon's product recognition-based checkout system, Amazon Go, takes the game a step further.
Smart Delivery
When it comes to smart delivery, Amazon is the lion, and Walmart is but a lamb. Amazon has been testing delivery drones since 2013, and the company is making progress toward drone-based delivery as well as driverless cars for deliveries. Walmart, on the other hand, has just started testing deliveries with drones, and its self-driving cars are still in the prototype phase.
Price Comparison
When comparing prices, Walmart reigns supreme. With Amazon's continuous expansion, it cannot compete with Walmart's prices on products like groceries or everyday essentials.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Amazon has an edge in the realm of home automation, but Walmart is working to catch up. Walmart's Scan & Go system is fantastic, but Amazon Go is better in terms of checkout experience. When it comes to smart delivery, Amazon is light-years ahead of Walmart. Nonetheless, Walmart takes the lead when it comes to pricing.
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