Amazon introduces a programmable IoT Dash button for developers

The AWS IoT Button is a programmable button based on the Amazon Dash Button hardware. This simple Wi-Fi device is easy to configure and designed for developers to get started with AWS IoT, AWS Lambda, Amazon DynamoDB, Amazon SNS, and many other Amazon Web Services without writing device-specific code.

The Dash buttons take the company’s “one-click” ordering quasi-offline by letting you order products such as pet food, toilet paper, or caffeinated beverages by pressing an internet-connected physical button. Amazon pitches the new AWS IoT buttons, which cost around $19.95 . It offers a way for developers to learn how to use the company’s various cloud services, including its “IoT” offering for powering Internet of Things devices.

With this device, you can code the button's logic in the cloud to configure button clicks to count or track items, call or alert someone, start or stop something, order services, or even provide feedback. For example, you can click the button to unlock or start a car, open your garage door, call a cab, call your spouse or a customer service representative, track the use of common household chores, medications or products, or remotely control your home appliances.

The button can be used as a remote control for Netflix, a switch for your Philips Hue light bulb, a check-in/check-out device for Airbnb guests, or a way to order your favorite pizza for delivery. You can integrate it with third-party APIs like Twitter, Facebook, Twilio, Slack or even your own company's applications. Connect it to things we haven’t even thought of yet.