Amazon has introduced a reimagined version of its smart grocery cart, known as the Dash Cart, which features significant enhancements in technology. With a 25% reduction in weight and a 40% increase in basket capacity, the updated carts also boast improved computer vision for faster barcode scanning and better sensors for tracking location within stores.
These redesigned carts will first appear in three Whole Foods Market locations, with plans for broader distribution across the U.S. by late 2026. The self-charging capability eliminates the need for employees to change batteries, and the carts now offer expanded payment solutions.
Originally launched in 2020, the Dash Cart offers an alternative to Amazon’s cashierless shopping experience, which has seen a shift away from reliance on complex technology. The company recorded over $100 billion in gross sales for groceries and household goods in 2024, not accounting for Whole Foods and Amazon Fresh.
Other companies, such as Instacart and Veeve, have developed similar smart cart technologies, reflecting a growing trend in the retail sector. Amazon's ongoing investment in the Dash Cart indicates its commitment to enhancing in-store shopping experiences.