Amazon $AMZN is an American technology and commerce company headquartered in Seattle, Washington. Founded by Jeff Bezos in 1994, it launched as an online bookstore before expanding into one of the broadest commercial enterprises in the world, spanning retail, cloud computing, digital advertising, consumer electronics, streaming entertainment, and artificial intelligence.
Amazon's e-commerce marketplace is its most visible operation. It sells goods directly to consumers and hosts millions of third-party sellers on a platform that functions as both a storefront and a logistics network. The company operates its own fulfillment centers, delivery fleet, and supply chain infrastructure across dozens of countries, making it one of the largest private employers in the world.
Amazon Web Services, known as AWS, is the company's cloud computing division and its most profitable segment. AWS provides computing power, data storage, and software tools to businesses, governments, and developers on a pay-as-you-go basis. It competes with Microsoft $MSFT Azure and Google $GOOGL Cloud and has been central to the broader adoption of cloud infrastructure across industries.
The company's consumer electronics line includes Kindle e-readers, Echo smart speakers powered by its Alexa voice assistant, Fire TV streaming devices, and Ring home security products. Amazon has also developed custom AI chips for its devices, reducing reliance on third-party semiconductor suppliers.
Amazon Prime is a subscription membership program that bundles fast shipping, video and music streaming, and other benefits. It has tens of millions of members globally and serves as a key driver of customer loyalty and repeat purchasing.