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Amazon

Company

Fact-checked Aug 5, 2026

Also called: amazon.com, AWS, Amazon Web Services

Amazon is a global technology company known for its e-commerce platform, cloud computing services (Amazon Web Services or AWS), and artificial intelligence products like the Alexa voice assistant. It plays a significant role in the AI landscape through its research, tools, and infrastructure.

What is Amazon?

Amazon, founded by Jeff Bezos in 1994, started as an online bookstore and quickly grew into the world's largest e-commerce retailer. Headquartered in Seattle, Washington, it has since expanded far beyond retail, becoming a dominant force in cloud computing, digital streaming, and artificial intelligence.

A major player in the AI world, Amazon's influence often comes through its cloud computing division, Amazon Web Services (AWS). AWS provides a vast array of services, including computing power, storage, and specialized AI and machine learning tools, to businesses and developers worldwide. Many AI companies and startups rely on AWS infrastructure to train and run their own AI models, making it a foundational component of the modern AI industry.

Beyond its foundational services, Amazon is also well-known for its consumer-facing AI products. The most prominent example is Alexa, its intelligent virtual assistant found in Echo smart speakers and other devices. Alexa uses natural language processing to understand voice commands, answer questions, play music, control smart home devices, and much more, becoming a staple in many households.

Amazon's investment in AI extends to its internal operations, where machine learning algorithms optimize everything from warehouse logistics and supply chains to personalized product recommendations on its e-commerce site. The company also develops its own large language models (LLMs) and foundation models, such as those accessible through the Amazon Bedrock service. This service offers access to models like Amazon Titan for various applications, further solidifying Amazon's position as a comprehensive provider in the AI ecosystem.

Common questions

What does the company Amazon do?

Amazon, founded by Jeff Bezos in 1994, started as an online bookstore and quickly grew into the world's largest e-commerce retailer. Headquartered in Seattle, Washington, it has since expanded far beyond retail, becoming a dominant force in cloud computing, digital streaming, and artificial intelligence.

What else is Amazon called?

Amazon is also referred to as amazon.com, AWS, Amazon Web Services.

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