Message from CEO Andy Jassy: Generative AI as the Catalyst for Intelligent Automation

Today, across every facet of our operations—from the precision of our industrial automation systems to the agility of our intelligent automation tools—Generative AI is reshaping how we serve customers. What began as a vision to reinvent experiences through AI has evolved into a reality where automation equipment, powered by generative models, optimizes workflows and unlocks new possibilities. This technology isn’t just a tool; it’s a once-in-a-lifetime shift that’s merging industrial and intelligent automation to redefine what’s possible for businesses and consumers alike. Our investments in this space are expansive, and the momentum is undeniable.

You can see this momentum in Alexa+, our next-gen assistant that combines intelligent answers with actionable tasks—marking a leap in how AI enhances daily life. Our AI shopping assistant, used by tens of millions, leverages generative capabilities to refine product discovery, while features like “Lens” and “Buy for Me” bridge the gap between consumer intent and action. For independent sellers, Generative AI streamlines product listings, with nearly half a million partners using these tools to create more effective content.

In advertising, we’ve developed an AI toolkit that simplifies campaign management, with over 50K advertisers using these capabilities in Q1 alone. AWS is at the forefront of AI infrastructure, offering custom silicon (Trainium2), foundation model services (SageMaker), and inference solutions (Bedrock and Nova)—all designed to empower builders in the AI space.

Our internal operations exemplify the power of intelligent automation. In fulfillment centers, Generative AI optimizes inventory placement and robot efficiency, while our revamped customer service chatbot delivers smarter support. Even product detail pages are now more compelling, thanks to AI-driven content creation.

The Agentic Future: Where AI Meets Automation

While we’ve made significant strides, we’re just getting started. We believe AI agents—software systems that perform tasks on behalf of users—will revolutionize work and life. These agents will scour data, write code, automate tasks, and even handle daily chores, operating across every industry and field. For Amazon, this means a faster pace of innovation: Agents will reduce rote work, freeing us to focus on strategic customer solutions. They’ll be invaluable teammates, learning and improving with experience to accelerate our ability to deliver value.

To thrive in this era, we’ll operate like a large-scale startup—customer-obsessed, fast-moving, and inventive. AI will be our catalyst, helping us move faster and own our initiatives. With over 1,000 Generative AI services in progress, we’re doubling down: We’ll simplify agent-building and deploy new agents across all business units, from retail to G&A.

The Automation-Driven Workforce Evolution

As Generative AI and intelligent automation become integral, our workforce will evolve. We expect to reduce our corporate headcount in the coming years as AI drives efficiency, while simultaneously creating new roles focused on AI innovation. To navigate this shift, I encourage everyone to embrace curiosity: Educate yourselves, attend trainings, experiment with AI, and participate in brainstorming sessions.

When I joined Amazon in 1997, we thrived on lean teams and bold ambition—now, Generative AI offers us the most transformative tool since the Internet. Those who master this technology, integrate it into industrial automation processes, and use it to invent for customers will be the ones to lead our next phase of growth.

Conclusion: AI as the Bridge Between Human and Machine Automation

Generative AI isn’t just changing what we do; it’s redefining how we do it. By merging the precision of industrial automation with the creativity of intelligent automation, we’re creating a future where automation equipment and AI agents augment human potential, not replace it. The journey ahead is about more than technology—it’s about using AI to enhance every customer interaction, optimize every workflow, and reimagine every aspect of our business.

I’m energized by our progress and the plans ahead. Together, we’ll harness Generative AI to shape a future where intelligent and industrial automation work in harmony—driving innovation, efficiency, and unparalleled value for our customers, partners, and each other. The future of automation is here, and we’re leading the way.