Amazon Dash Replenishment Goes Live With Printers That Can Order Their Own Ink

Amazon has switched on a new service that could revolutionize grocery shopping with a new automated process. Amazon Dash Replenishment, which went live on Tuesday in select devices, will automatically order supplies when a gadget detects it is running low on consumables.

One of the best examples of Dash Replenishment is the "Brother" printer. On select models, the printer will understand that it is running out of ink and order more from Amazon. The user can choose at what level the printer should place an order, avoiding any "out of ink" messages while cutting down unnecessary cost. More than 45 models are compatible with the service.

The service is an expansion of the Amazon Dash concept, a range of products designed to make ordering supplies from Amazon simpler. The company previously supplied a barcode-reading Dash Stick to AmazonFresh customers, but the gadget was somewhat tricky to use. The Dash Button, a refinement of the concept, attaches to household appliances and orders one specific item at the push of a button.

Dash Replenishment is different. Instead of requiring a separate gadget to work, the service embeds itself into smart appliances. Manufacturers can build the technology into their products with an open application programming interface (API). The company claims that any device that connects to the internet can use the API, with Amazon handling all the shipping and payment details.

“With Amazon Dash Replenishment, we want to make customers’ lives even easier so they won’t run out of items like laundry detergent, pet food or printer ink again,” said Daniel Rausch, director of Amazon's devices division.

Other products that use the service include a GE washer, which orders more detergent for loading into its smart dispenser and the Gmate Smart Blood Glucose Meter, which can order more testing strips. Whirlpool plans to use the service with its washer, dryer and dishwasher.

"For Whirlpool, this collaboration is all about taking steps out and keeping life simple,” said Brett Dibkey, vice president of integrated business units at Whirlpool.