Amazon (AMZN, Financial) is advancing a groundbreaking initiative within its devices division by forming a new team, "ZeroOne", led by Microsoft's former executive J Allard. This team will focus on developing next-generation consumer products across Seattle, San Francisco, and Sunnyvale. The initiative aims to take projects from concept to market with an emphasis on both hardware and software integration.
J Allard, who joined Amazon in September 2023, was pivotal in developing the Xbox console during his 19-year tenure at Microsoft (MSFT). The new team seeks individuals for roles involving computer vision technology for smart home devices and designing methods for concept testing and user feedback. Known for ambitious hardware projects, Amazon has had successes with products like the Kindle and Echo, but also faced setbacks with others, such as the Fire Phone.
Despite recent layoffs in the devices and services department, including job cuts at Lab126, Amazon's commitment to innovation remains strong through ZeroOne. The team includes members from Alexa, Luna, and Halo projects, alongside leaders from acquired startups, showing Amazon's continued focus on future technology.
