Amazon has always been an eclectic company, but its latest creation seems completely out of left field. The ecommerce giant just launched a messaging and conference call service called Chime.
Developed as part of the cloud-computing suite Amazon Web Services, Chime occupies space somewhere between Slack and Skype. It offers users the ability to host online meetings, video conferencing, calls, chat and to share content with colleagues or friends.
According to Amazon, the concept behind the app is to simplify communication to increase productivity. Virtual meetings can be joined in a single click rather than requiring a call-in code, and the connection provides HD video and high-quality sound.
The service works across multiple platforms and includes mobile apps that make it easier to stay in touch while on the go. Conversations are synchronized across the devices and a user can switch from mobile to desktop—or vice versa—in the middle of a meeting without missing a beat.
Amazon also promises the conversations that take place on the platform are secure and encrypted. The conversations aren’t stored on devices so they aren’t retrievable by a third-party that comes into possession of a device with Chime on it.
While Amazon is just making Chime public, the company has been testing the app for a while. According to the ecommerce behemoth, the service has already been adopted by companies like clothing company Brooks Brothers, marketing company Connexity and LED manufacturer Soraa.
Chime will operate on a monthly subscription plan, as is commonplace for many workplace communication services today.
A basic version for up to two users will be available for free. A Pro version, which offers screen sharing and a company directory, will cost $2.50 per user per month. The Plus plan, which offers video meetings for up to 100 people and personal meeting URLs, will run $15 per user per month.
Amazon’s interest in this type of communications service may seem odd, but it makes some sense for the company. Its cloud computing product Amazon Web Services is relied upon by plenty of businesses, especially those with a large web presence.
Amazon may have also tipped its hat to hint at its interest in communications last year when it quietly acquired online meeting startup Biba.
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