What Is Amazon.com: All About The E-commerce Giant

Brittany Zemlak DDS 03 Jul 2025

What is Amazon.com?

Amazon.com, Inc. is an American multinational technology company based in Seattle, Washington. It focuses on e-commerce, cloud computing, digital streaming, and artificial intelligence. It is considered one of the Big Five companies in the U.S. information technology industry, along with Google, Apple, Microsoft, and Meta.

Amazon.com was founded by Jeff Bezos in Bellevue, Washington, on July 5, 1994. The company began as an online bookstore but has since expanded into a wide range of products and services, including consumer electronics, apparel, furniture, food, toys, and jewelry. Amazon also offers a variety of digital services, such as Amazon Prime Video, Amazon Music, and Amazon Web Services.

Amazon.com has become one of the most successful companies in the world. In 2021, the company reported revenue of $469.82 billion and net income of $33.36 billion. Amazon is also one of the largest employers in the United States, with over 1.6 million employees worldwide.

Amazon.com has had a major impact on the retail industry. The company's low prices and convenient shipping options have made it a popular choice for consumers. Amazon has also been a major force in the development of e-commerce, and its success has led to the growth of other online retailers.

Amazon.com is a global company with operations in over 200 countries. The company has been praised for its customer service and innovation. However, Amazon has also been criticized for its labor practices and its impact on the environment.

About Amazon.com

Amazon.com is a global e-commerce company that has revolutionized the way we shop. Here are eight key aspects of Amazon.com:

E-commerce giant: Amazon is the largest online retailer in the world, with a vast selection of products and services.
Cloud computing leader: Amazon Web Services (AWS) is the world's leading cloud computing platform.
Digital streaming pioneer: Amazon Prime Video is a major player in the streaming video market.
Artificial intelligence innovator: Amazon is a leader in the development of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies.
Customer-centric: Amazon is known for its customer-centric approach, with features like free shipping and easy returns.
Global reach: Amazon operates in over 200 countries and territories.
Major employer: Amazon is one of the largest employers in the United States, with over 1.6 million employees worldwide.
Controversial: Amazon has been criticized for its labor practices and its impact on the environment.

These key aspects highlight the diverse nature of Amazon.com and its impact on the world. Amazon is a major force in e-commerce, cloud computing, digital streaming, and AI. The company is also a major employer and has a global reach. However, Amazon has also been criticized for its labor practices and its impact on the environment. As Amazon continues to grow and evolve, it will be important to monitor its impact on society and the environment.

1. E-commerce giant

Amazon's dominance in e-commerce is a key aspect of "about amazon.com." As the largest online retailer in the world, Amazon offers a vast selection of products and services, making it a one-stop shop for consumers. This has revolutionized the way people shop, providing them with convenience, choice, and affordability.

The growth of Amazon's e-commerce business has had a ripple effect on the retail industry. Traditional brick-and-mortar stores have been forced to adapt to the changing landscape, and many have struggled to compete with Amazon's low prices and convenient shipping options. Amazon has also been a major force in the development of e-commerce, and its success has led to the growth of other online retailers.

The practical significance of understanding the connection between Amazon's e-commerce business and "about amazon.com" is that it highlights the company's core business and its impact on the retail industry. Amazon's e-commerce business is a major driver of its overall success, and it is a key factor in the company's dominance in the online retail market.

2. Cloud computing leader

Amazon Web Services (AWS) is a comprehensive, on-demand cloud computing platform that provides a broad set of global compute, storage, database, analytics, application, and deployment services. It is a key aspect of "about amazon.com" because it highlights Amazon's leadership in the cloud computing industry and its impact on businesses worldwide.

Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS): AWS provides IaaS, which offers fundamental computing resources such as servers, storage, and networking on a pay-as-you-go basis. This allows businesses to scale their IT infrastructure up or down as needed, without the need for upfront capital investment.
Platform as a Service (PaaS): AWS also provides PaaS, which offers a range of developer tools and services that make it easier to build, deploy, and manage applications in the cloud. This includes services such as database management, application hosting, and content delivery networks.
Software as a Service (SaaS): AWS offers a range of SaaS applications, which are pre-built and ready to use. This includes applications such as customer relationship management (CRM), enterprise resource planning (ERP), and data analytics.
Global reach: AWS has a global reach, with data centers in over 25 regions around the world. This allows businesses to deploy their applications and data in the regions that best suit their needs.

AWS has been a major driver of Amazon's growth in recent years. In 2021, AWS accounted for over 60% of Amazon's total revenue. AWS is also a major player in the cloud computing industry, with a market share of over 30%. AWS's success is due to its broad range of services, its global reach, and its pay-as-you-go pricing model.

The connection between "Cloud computing leader: Amazon Web Services (AWS) is the world's leading cloud computing platform." and "about amazon.com" is significant because it highlights Amazon's leadership in the cloud computing industry and its impact on businesses worldwide. AWS is a key driver of Amazon's growth and profitability, and it is a major player in the cloud computing market. As AWS continues to grow, it will be important to monitor its impact on the cloud computing industry and on the broader economy.

3. Digital streaming pioneer

Amazon's entry into the streaming video market with Amazon Prime Video has revolutionized the way people consume entertainment. Prime Video offers a vast library of movies, TV shows, and original content, making it a major player in the streaming video market. This has had a significant impact on the entertainment industry and has changed the way people watch movies and TV shows.

Original content: Amazon Prime Video has invested heavily in original content, producing critically acclaimed shows such as "The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel" and "Fleabag." This original content has helped Prime Video differentiate itself from other streaming services and has attracted a loyal following.
Exclusive streaming rights: Amazon Prime Video has also secured exclusive streaming rights to popular movies and TV shows, such as "The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power" and "Thursday Night Football." This exclusive content has further strengthened Prime Video's position in the streaming video market.
Bundling with Amazon Prime: Amazon Prime Video is included with an Amazon Prime membership, which offers a range of benefits such as free shipping, exclusive deals, and access to Amazon Music. This bundling has made Prime Video more attractive to consumers who are already Amazon Prime members.
Global reach: Amazon Prime Video is available in over 200 countries and territories around the world. This global reach has made Prime Video a truly global streaming service.

The connection between "Digital streaming pioneer: Amazon Prime Video is a major player in the streaming video market." and "about amazon.com" is significant because it highlights Amazon's dominance in the entertainment industry. Prime Video is a key part of Amazon's overall strategy to provide a wide range of products and services to its customers. As Prime Video continues to grow, it will be important to monitor its impact on the streaming video market and on the broader entertainment industry.

4. Artificial intelligence innovator

Amazon's leadership in AI is a key aspect of "about amazon.com" because it highlights the company's commitment to innovation and its impact on a wide range of industries. Amazon has invested heavily in AI research and development, and it has developed a number of cutting-edge AI technologies that are used in its products and services.

Alexa: Alexa is Amazon's virtual assistant, which uses AI to understand natural language and perform a variety of tasks, such as playing music, setting alarms, and answering questions. Alexa is a key part of Amazon's smart home strategy, and it is used in a variety of Amazon devices, such as the Echo and the Fire TV.
Amazon Rekognition: Amazon Rekognition is an AI-powered image and video analysis service that can identify objects, faces, and scenes. Amazon Rekognition is used in a variety of applications, such as security and surveillance, fraud detection, and customer service.
Amazon Translate: Amazon Translate is an AI-powered translation service that can translate text and speech into over 100 languages. Amazon Translate is used in a variety of applications, such as website localization, customer support, and language learning.
Amazon SageMaker: Amazon SageMaker is an AI-powered machine learning platform that makes it easy to build, train, and deploy machine learning models. Amazon SageMaker is used in a variety of applications, such as predictive analytics, fraud detection, and personalized recommendations.

These are just a few examples of Amazon's leadership in AI. Amazon is constantly investing in new AI technologies, and it is likely that AI will play an increasingly important role in Amazon's products and services in the years to come. The connection between "Artificial intelligence innovator: Amazon is a leader in the development of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies." and "about amazon.com" is significant because it highlights Amazon's commitment to innovation and its impact on a wide range of industries. As AI continues to develop, it is likely that Amazon will continue to be a leader in the field.

5. Customer-centric

Amazon's customer-centric approach is a key aspect of "about amazon.com" because it highlights the company's focus on providing a positive customer experience. Amazon has implemented a number of features and policies that make it easy for customers to shop on Amazon.com, including:

Free shipping: Amazon offers free shipping on millions of items, making it more convenient and affordable for customers to shop on Amazon.com.
Easy returns: Amazon has a generous return policy that makes it easy for customers to return items that they are not satisfied with. This gives customers peace of mind when shopping on Amazon.com.
Excellent customer service: Amazon's customer service is known for being helpful and responsive. This makes it easy for customers to get the help they need when they are shopping on Amazon.com.
Personalized recommendations: Amazon uses AI to personalize the shopping experience for each customer. This makes it easier for customers to find the products that they are looking for.

Amazon's customer-centric approach has been a major factor in the company's success. By focusing on providing a positive customer experience, Amazon has attracted a loyal customer base that is willing to spend money on Amazon.com. This has helped Amazon to become one of the most successful companies in the world.

6. Global reach

Amazon's global reach is a key aspect of "about amazon.com" because it highlights the company's international presence and its impact on a global scale. Amazon has invested heavily in expanding its operations around the world, and it now has a presence in over 200 countries and territories.

E-commerce: Amazon is the largest online retailer in the world, and it offers its products and services to customers in over 200 countries and territories. This global reach has made Amazon a household name and has helped to fuel the growth of e-commerce around the world.
Cloud computing: Amazon Web Services (AWS) is the world's leading cloud computing platform, and it is used by businesses and organizations in over 200 countries and territories. This global reach has made AWS an essential part of the global digital infrastructure.
Digital streaming: Amazon Prime Video is a major player in the streaming video market, and it is available in over 200 countries and territories. This global reach has made Prime Video a popular choice for consumers around the world.
Artificial intelligence: Amazon is a leader in the development of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies, and its AI-powered products and services are used by businesses and organizations in over 200 countries and territories. This global reach has made Amazon a major player in the global AI market.

Amazon's global reach has had a significant impact on the company's growth and profitability. By expanding into new markets, Amazon has been able to increase its customer base and its revenue. Amazon's global reach has also helped to spread the benefits of e-commerce, cloud computing, digital streaming, and AI to businesses and consumers around the world.

7. Major employer

Amazon's status as a major employer is a key aspect of "about amazon.com" because it highlights the company's significant impact on the labor market and the economy. Amazon is one of the largest employers in the world, and its operations have a ripple effect on communities and economies around the globe.

Job creation: Amazon is a major creator of jobs, both directly and indirectly. The company's direct employees include warehouse workers, delivery drivers, customer service representatives, and corporate employees. Amazon also creates indirect jobs through its partnerships with suppliers, vendors, and other businesses.
Economic impact: Amazon's operations have a significant economic impact on the communities where it operates. The company's warehouses, distribution centers, and other facilities generate tax revenue and create jobs. Amazon also supports local businesses by purchasing goods and services from them.
Workforce diversity: Amazon has a diverse workforce that reflects the communities it serves. The company has made a commitment to diversity and inclusion, and it has implemented a number of programs to promote a more inclusive workplace.
Employee benefits: Amazon offers a competitive benefits package to its employees, including health insurance, paid time off, and retirement savings plans. The company also provides opportunities for professional development and career advancement.

Amazon's status as a major employer has a number of implications. First, it highlights the company's economic power and its impact on the labor market. Second, it demonstrates Amazon's commitment to diversity and inclusion. Third, it shows that Amazon is a company that is invested in the communities where it operates. Overall, Amazon's status as a major employer is a positive reflection on the company and its commitment to its employees and the communities it serves.

8. Controversial

Amazon's status as a controversial company is a key aspect of "about amazon.com" because it highlights the company's complex relationship with its stakeholders. Amazon has been criticized for a number of issues, including its labor practices and its impact on the environment. These criticisms have raised questions about the company's values and its commitment to social responsibility.

Labor practices: Amazon has been criticized for its labor practices, including its use of low-wage workers, its high injury rates, and its anti-union stance. These criticisms have led to protests and strikes by Amazon workers, and they have also prompted government investigations.
Impact on the environment: Amazon has also been criticized for its impact on the environment. The company's vast network of warehouses and distribution centers has been linked to air pollution, water pollution, and deforestation. Amazon has also been criticized for its use of packaging, which often ends up in landfills.

These criticisms have had a significant impact on Amazon's reputation. The company has been ranked as one of the worst companies to work for by Glassdoor, and it has been the target of protests and boycotts by environmental groups. Amazon has also faced pressure from investors to improve its labor practices and its environmental record.

Amazon has taken some steps to address these criticisms. The company has raised wages for its workers, and it has invested in renewable energy. Amazon has also launched a number of initiatives to reduce its environmental impact. However, the company continues to face criticism from its stakeholders. It remains to be seen whether Amazon can successfully address these criticisms and improve its reputation.

Frequently Asked Questions about Amazon.com

This section provides answers to frequently asked questions about Amazon.com, covering various aspects of the company's operations and its impact on consumers, businesses, and society.

Question 1: What is Amazon.com?

Amazon.com, Inc. is an American multinational technology company focusing on e-commerce, cloud computing, digital streaming, and artificial intelligence. It is considered one of the Big Five companies in the U.S. information technology industry, along with Google, Apple, Microsoft, and Meta.

Question 2: What are some of Amazon.com's key products and services?

Amazon.com offers a wide range of products and services, including:

E-commerce: Amazon is the largest online retailer in the world, selling a vast selection of products, including books, electronics, clothing, furniture, and groceries.
Cloud computing: Amazon Web Services (AWS) is the world's leading cloud computing platform, providing infrastructure, platform, and software services to businesses and organizations.
Digital streaming: Amazon Prime Video is a major player in the streaming video market, offering a wide selection of movies, TV shows, and original content.
Artificial intelligence: Amazon is a leader in the development of AI technologies, offering a range of AI-powered products and services, such as Alexa, Amazon Rekognition, and Amazon SageMaker.

Question 3: How does Amazon.com make money?

Amazon.com generates revenue through various streams, including:

Online retail: Sales of products through its e-commerce platform.
Cloud computing: Subscription fees and usage-based charges for AWS services.
Digital streaming: Subscription fees for Amazon Prime Video and other streaming services.
Advertising: Display and sponsored advertising on its website and other platforms.
Other services: Fees for services such as Amazon Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA) and Amazon Web Services Marketplace.

Question 4: What are some of the criticisms of Amazon.com?

Amazon.com has faced criticism in several areas, including:

Labor practices: Concerns have been raised about working conditions, wages, and unionization efforts at Amazon warehouses and facilities.
Antitrust: Amazon has been investigated for potential antitrust violations related to its dominant position in e-commerce and cloud computing.
Environmental impact: Amazon has been criticized for its carbon footprint and the environmental impact of its packaging and shipping operations.
Tax avoidance: Amazon has been accused of using tax loopholes and aggressive tax planning to minimize its tax liability.

Question 5: What are some of the key trends and developments related to Amazon.com?

Amazon.com is constantly innovating and expanding its operations. Some key trends and developments to watch include:

Expansion into new markets: Amazon is expanding its e-commerce operations into new countries and regions, such as India and Southeast Asia.
Growth of AWS: AWS continues to be a major growth driver for Amazon, with increasing adoption of cloud computing services by businesses.
Development of new technologies: Amazon is investing heavily in research and development of new technologies, such as AI, machine learning, and robotics.
Sustainability initiatives: Amazon has set ambitious sustainability goals, including reducing its carbon footprint and transitioning to renewable energy.

Overall, Amazon.com is a dynamic and rapidly growing company that has transformed the e-commerce, cloud computing, and digital streaming industries. It is likely to continue to play a major role in shaping the future of these industries and the broader economy.

Conclusion

Amazon.com is a global technology giant that has revolutionized the way we live and work. From its humble beginnings as an online bookstore, Amazon has grown into a vast enterprise with operations in e-commerce, cloud computing, digital streaming, and artificial intelligence. Amazon's customer-centric approach, vast selection of products and services, and commitment to innovation have made it one of the most successful companies in the world.

However, Amazon has also faced criticism for its labor practices, environmental impact, and antitrust concerns. As Amazon continues to grow and expand, it is important to monitor its impact on society and the economy. Amazon has the potential to be a force for good, but it must also be held accountable for its actions.

The future of Amazon.com is uncertain. However, one thing is for sure: Amazon will continue to be a major player in the global economy. As new technologies emerge and consumer behavior evolves, Amazon will need to adapt and innovate to remain competitive. It will be interesting to see how Amazon shapes the future of e-commerce, cloud computing, and other industries in the years to come.

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