Amazon Prime Customers Cool To Amazon Key

Amazon is all set to start delivering packages directly into U.S. shoppers’ homes next week, but customers aren’t sure if they will be using the service.

Amazon Key is a service for Amazon Prime subscribers that facilitates unattended in-home deliveries. But while it certainly seems convenient, a new survey shows that many customers don’t seem that interested in it – at least for now.

A SurveyMonkey poll done on behalf of Recode found that about 58 percent of Amazon Prime customers would definitely not buy Amazon Key – only slightly less than the 61 percent of all U.S. adults who wouldn’t buy the product.

Among Prime subscribers, only 5 percent said they would definitely buy Amazon Key, while only 4 percent of all U.S. shoppers said they would. Nearly 60 percent of the respondents have Prime subscriptions.

For those who would buy the product, convenience and novelty of the device were key factors, with some even calling it “genius.” Those who would not purchase it often mentioned privacy and security concerns.

The Amazon Key In-Home-Kit, which includes the Amazon Cloud Cam and a smart lock compatible with the service, starts at $249.99. Users will be able to monitor in-home deliveries through the Amazon Key app on their phones or through other compatible devices. The service also offers keyless access for friends and relatives of users. In the future, third-party service providers – such as cleaners or pet sitters – will be integrated directly through the application.

“Amazon Key gives customers peace of mind knowing their orders have been safely delivered to their homes and are waiting for them when they walk through their doors,” said Peter Larsen, vice president of delivery technology for Amazon. “Now, Prime members can select in-home delivery and conveniently see their packages being delivered right from their mobile phones.”