Amazon launched a new feature allowing members to sync their accounts to popular mobile apps, virtual worlds, and video games to buy physical products. Amazon Anywhere provides an “immersive shopping experience” so gamers can buy clothing, decor, and other merchandise related to their favorite games.
Amazon Anywhere is rolling out its first launch of “shoppable entertainment” in Peridot created by the makers of Pokémon Go, Niantic. Peridot is a real-world augmented reality game where players “care for one-of-a-kind creatures and explore the world together” powered by artificial intelligence. It’s currently available in the app store on iOS and Android.
And alongside hanging with their mystical creatures, they can now buy anything from t-shirts to throw pillows and even phone accessories featuring their favorite magical creatures without leaving the app.
“Most shopping in virtual worlds is currently limited to purchases of virtual currency and in-game digital items, with no easy path to purchase physical products. We want to change that,” says a recent announcement from Amazon. “With Amazon Anywhere, we’re bringing the convenience and ease of shopping in Amazon stores to Peridot. There’s a sense of excitement in discovering unique and relevant items within the game that you can get delivered right to your door.”
To use this feature, you must have an Amazon account and link it to Amazon Anywhere games. Ordering is simple. See a hoodie that catches your fancy? Just tap “buy” and check out.
Developers are welcome to sign up to add Amazon Anywhere to their games and virtual worlds, giving their merchandise more exposure to their target audiences. Product descriptions, prices, estimated delivery dates, and Prime eligibility will be prominently displayed, just like buying from the Amazon website itself.
“Developers and creators are able to broaden in-game or in-app environments to offer more than digital products, opening up a new way to engage their audiences without worrying about selection, shipping, or fulfillment. Instead, they can focus on creating incredible experiences.”
Parents have previously reported issues with their young children being able to make in-game purchases through apps or completing orders elsewhere via mobile devices. It’ll be interesting to see how the Amazon Anywhere feature will contribute to these unplanned buys and if the company will be forgiving toward issuing refunds.