By Alex Ribera

Amazon has recently implemented a new policy requiring employees in its smart home division—including teams behind Ring, Blink, Key, and Sidewalk products—to demonstrate the use of artificial intelligence (AI) tools as a condition for promotion. This initiative aims to foster innovation and improve operational efficiency within the company’s smart home units.

The policy was announced following the return of Jamie Siminoff, the founder of Ring, who rejoined Amazon earlier this year to lead the division. Under the new guidelines, employees must provide evidence of how they have integrated AI technologies into their daily workflows to enhance customer experiences or optimize processes.

This development is in line with an industry-wide trend where companies increasingly prioritize AI skills and application in employee performance evaluations. Experts suggest Amazon’s move reflects its broader commitment to embedding AI in its smart home offerings to maintain competitiveness.

Currently, the AI requirement applies solely to Amazon’s smart home units and has not been extended company-wide. There is no public indication that Amazon plans to enforce similar policies in other divisions.

This new policy highlights the growing significance of AI in driving innovation and operational improvements within Amazon’s smart home ecosystem.

Sources:

• Business Insider: Amazon requires staff to show AI use to get promoted in Ring smart home division

• The Verge: Amazon’s smart home division tightens AI integration policies

• CNBC: Amazon mandates AI skills for career advancement in smart home teams

• TechCrunch: Amazon makes AI use mandatory for promotions in Ring and Blink units