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Amazon.com to Webcast Fourth Quarter 2004 Financial Results Conference Call

/news/news-details/2005/Amazon.com-to-Webcast-Fourth-Quarter-2004-Financial-Results-Conference-Call/default.aspx

Amazon.com-to-Webcast-Fourth-Quarter-2004-Financial-Results-Conference-Call

01/21/2005 16:01:00

Amazon.com to Webcast Fourth Quarter 2004 Financial Results Conference Call

01/21/2005

2005

SEATTLE, Jan 21, 2005 -- Amazon.com, Inc. (Nasdaq:AMZN) announced today that it will hold a conference call to discuss its fourth quarter 2004 financial results on February 2, 2005, at 2:00 p.m. PT/5:00 p.m. ET. The event will be webcast live, and the audio and associated slides will be available for at least three months thereafter, at www.amazon.com/ir. SOURCE: Amazon.com, Inc.

<p>SEATTLE, Jan 21, 2005 -- Amazon.com, Inc. (Nasdaq:AMZN) announced today that it will hold a conference call to discuss its fourth quarter 2004 financial results on February 2, 2005, at 2:00 p.m. PT/5:00 p.m. ET.</p><p>The event will be webcast live, and the audio and associated slides will be available for at least three months thereafter, at www.amazon.com/ir.</p><p>SOURCE: Amazon.com, Inc.</p>

Amazon Web Services Gives Software Developers First-Ever Access to Data and Technology from Amazon.ca and Amazon.fr

/news/news-details/2005/Amazon-Web-Services-Gives-Software-Developers-First-Ever-Access-to-Data-and-Technology-from-Amazon.ca-and-Amazon.fr/default.aspx

Amazon-Web-Services-Gives-Software-Developers-First-Ever-Access-to-Data-and-Technology-from-Amazon.ca-and-Amazon.fr

01/21/2005 00:00:00

Amazon Web Services Gives Software Developers First-Ever Access to Data and Technology from Amazon.ca and Amazon.fr

01/21/2005

2005

SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Jan. 21, 2005-- Developers Can Now Build Web Sites and Applications Using All Six Amazon-Branded Sites Worldwide A new offering released today by Amazon Web Services (AWS) gives software developers first-ever access to data and technology from Amazon's Web sites for Canada (Amazon.ca) and France (Amazon.fr). Available at no charge, E-Commerce Service (ECS) now lets developers innovate and generate revenue from Web sites and applications that serve customers and sellers on all six Amazon-branded sites worldwide (Amazon.ca, Amazon.com, Amazon.co.jp, Amazon.co.uk, Amazon.de, Amazon.fr). All the documentation, code samples, and sample applications developers need to begin using ECS for Amazon.ca and Amazon.fr or any other Amazon-branded site is available at www.amazon.com/webservices. Amazon.ca and Amazon.fr accept the currencies of their countries, offer free shipping on orders over $39 CDN and 20 EUR respectively, offer shipping from locations that provide faster delivery times, use the countries' languages, and feature English and French-language media products. The release of ECS for Amazon.ca and Amazon.fr means that developers can innovate and make money by building applications specifically for these sites or broader applications that integrate all Amazon-branded sites worldwide. For example, developers can: -- Earn a referral fee as an Amazon Associate when users of their sites make purchases on any Amazon site -- More effectively price their products for sale on any Amazon Marketplace -- Build and sell applications that help other Associates or Marketplace sellers take advantage of AWS "The chance to open up Inside Messenger (www.insidemessenger.com) to all of Amazon's sites and customers around the world is a big opportunity for my business," said independent software developer Riaan van Schoor who participated in the ECS beta for Canada and France. "Anyone can now use Inside Messenger to shop any Amazon site with the major instant messaging networks, and I receive a referral fee when they make their purchase with Amazon." ECS 4.0 was released last October for Amazon.com, Amazon.co.jp, Amazon.de, and Amazon.co.uk. With today's release of ECS for Amazon.ca and Amazon.fr, the following features are now available for all six Amazon-branded sites: -- Detailed attributes and pricing on tens of millions of products in all categories. -- Overwhelming majority of images from Amazon's massive image collection. -- Customer reviews for each product. -- Advanced search functionality, which allows users to search by numerous attributes, including brand, price, and category. -- Amazon.com Shopping Cart functionality, which allows shoppers on developers' sites or other applications to add multiple items to their carts before proceeding to Amazon.com for final checkout processing. "This release is a direct response to feedback from our growing developer community," said Andy Jassy, Amazon Vice President of Web Services. "Some developers already have applications that they want to extend to include Canada and France, while others have creative ideas that target customers from those countries. This release addresses those needs and will hopefully enable even more success and innovation by developers." About Amazon.com Amazon.com (Nasdaq:AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden. Amazon.com and its affiliates operate seven Web sites: www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com. As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise. About Amazon.ca Amazon.ca (www.amazon.ca) is part of the global family of Amazon Web sites that have become known for great prices, selection and convenience. Amazon.ca customers can find and discover millions of English and French books, CDs, videos and DVDs as well as a vast array of software, video games and consoles -- all at everyday low prices. Amazon.ca also offers FREE Super Saver Shipping, available on orders of $39 or more delivered to the same Canadian address. Amazon.ca sources products directly from Canadian publishers and distributors, ensuring a rich offering of Canadian titles and content. Features such as original editorial reviews in English and French and product recommendations help Amazon.ca customers find the right products for them among the site's broad selection. Through Amazon Marketplace, Amazon.ca customers can conveniently buy and sell used, new and collectible merchandise on the same pages where Amazon.ca sells those items new. To ensure all orders are delivered to customers quickly and efficiently, Amazon.ca works with Canada Post, one of the world's most progressive postal companies. Orders placed at Amazon.ca are fulfilled and shipped from within Canada by Assured Logistics, a part of the Canada Post Group of Companies. Amazon.ca is the trading name of Amazon.com.ca Inc., an affiliate of Amazon.com Inc. Amazon.fr The Internet site Amazon.fr opened in cyberspace in August 2000. About Amazon Services, Inc. Amazon Services is a subsidiary of Amazon.com, Inc. that makes the technology and services that power Amazon.com available to third-parties. Amazon Web Services is a division of Amazon Services. Forward Looking Statement This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to potential future losses, significant amount of indebtedness, competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions, and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, international expansion, consumer trends, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, fraud, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2003, and all subsequent filings. CONTACT: Amazon.com Media Line, 206-266-7180 SOURCE: Amazon.com

<pre>SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Jan. 21, 2005-- Developers Can Now Build Web Sites and Applications Using All Six Amazon-Branded Sites Worldwide</pre><p>A new offering released today by Amazon Web Services (AWS) gives software developers first-ever access to data and technology from Amazon's Web sites for Canada (Amazon.ca) and France (Amazon.fr). Available at no charge, E-Commerce Service (ECS) now lets developers innovate and generate revenue from Web sites and applications that serve customers and sellers on all six Amazon-branded sites worldwide (Amazon.ca, Amazon.com, Amazon.co.jp, Amazon.co.uk, Amazon.de, Amazon.fr). All the documentation, code samples, and sample applications developers need to begin using ECS for Amazon.ca and Amazon.fr or any other Amazon-branded site is available at www.amazon.com/webservices.</p><p>Amazon.ca and Amazon.fr accept the currencies of their countries, offer free shipping on orders over $39 CDN and 20 EUR respectively, offer shipping from locations that provide faster delivery times, use the countries' languages, and feature English and French-language media products. The release of ECS for Amazon.ca and Amazon.fr means that developers can innovate and make money by building applications specifically for these sites or broader applications that integrate all Amazon-branded sites worldwide. For example, developers can:</p><pre> -- Earn a referral fee as an Amazon Associate when users of their sites make purchases on any Amazon site -- More effectively price their products for sale on any Amazon Marketplace -- Build and sell applications that help other Associates or Marketplace sellers take advantage of AWS</pre><p>"The chance to open up Inside Messenger (www.insidemessenger.com) to all of Amazon's sites and customers around the world is a big opportunity for my business," said independent software developer Riaan van Schoor who participated in the ECS beta for Canada and France. "Anyone can now use Inside Messenger to shop any Amazon site with the major instant messaging networks, and I receive a referral fee when they make their purchase with Amazon."</p><p>ECS 4.0 was released last October for Amazon.com, Amazon.co.jp, Amazon.de, and Amazon.co.uk. With today's release of ECS for Amazon.ca and Amazon.fr, the following features are now available for all six Amazon-branded sites:</p><pre> -- Detailed attributes and pricing on tens of millions of products in all categories. -- Overwhelming majority of images from Amazon's massive image collection. -- Customer reviews for each product. -- Advanced search functionality, which allows users to search by numerous attributes, including brand, price, and category. -- Amazon.com Shopping Cart functionality, which allows shoppers on developers' sites or other applications to add multiple items to their carts before proceeding to Amazon.com for final checkout processing.</pre><p>"This release is a direct response to feedback from our growing developer community," said Andy Jassy, Amazon Vice President of Web Services. "Some developers already have applications that they want to extend to include Canada and France, while others have creative ideas that target customers from those countries. This release addresses those needs and will hopefully enable even more success and innovation by developers."</p><p>About Amazon.com</p><p>Amazon.com (Nasdaq:AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden.</p><p>Amazon.com and its affiliates operate seven Web sites: www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com.</p><p>As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise.</p><p>About Amazon.ca</p><p>Amazon.ca (www.amazon.ca) is part of the global family of Amazon Web sites that have become known for great prices, selection and convenience. Amazon.ca customers can find and discover millions of English and French books, CDs, videos and DVDs as well as a vast array of software, video games and consoles -- all at everyday low prices. Amazon.ca also offers FREE Super Saver Shipping, available on orders of $39 or more delivered to the same Canadian address. Amazon.ca sources products directly from Canadian publishers and distributors, ensuring a rich offering of Canadian titles and content. Features such as original editorial reviews in English and French and product recommendations help Amazon.ca customers find the right products for them among the site's broad selection. Through Amazon Marketplace, Amazon.ca customers can conveniently buy and sell used, new and collectible merchandise on the same pages where Amazon.ca sells those items new.</p><p>To ensure all orders are delivered to customers quickly and efficiently, Amazon.ca works with Canada Post, one of the world's most progressive postal companies. Orders placed at Amazon.ca are fulfilled and shipped from within Canada by Assured Logistics, a part of the Canada Post Group of Companies.</p><p>Amazon.ca is the trading name of Amazon.com.ca Inc., an affiliate of Amazon.com Inc.</p><pre> Amazon.fr The Internet site Amazon.fr opened in cyberspace in August 2000. About Amazon Services, Inc.</pre><p>Amazon Services is a subsidiary of Amazon.com, Inc. that makes the technology and services that power Amazon.com available to third-parties. Amazon Web Services is a division of Amazon Services.</p><p>Forward Looking Statement</p><p>This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to potential future losses, significant amount of indebtedness, competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions, and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, international expansion, consumer trends, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, fraud, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2003, and all subsequent filings.</p><pre> CONTACT: Amazon.com Media Line, 206-266-7180 SOURCE: Amazon.com</pre>

Amazon Services and Diane Von Furstenberg Studio Announce E-Commerce Alliance for Online Apparel Offering

/news/news-details/2005/Amazon-Services-and-Diane-Von-Furstenberg-Studio-Announce-E-Commerce-Alliance-for-Online-Apparel-Offering/default.aspx

Amazon-Services-and-Diane-Von-Furstenberg-Studio-Announce-E-Commerce-Alliance-for-Online-Apparel-Offering

01/17/2005 20:38:00

Amazon Services and Diane Von Furstenberg Studio Announce E-Commerce Alliance for Online Apparel Offering

01/17/2005

2005

SEATTLE & NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Jan. 17, 2005--Amazon Services, Inc. and Diane von Furstenberg (DVF) today announced that DVF Studio has chosen Amazon Services to operate www.dvf.com. Under this multi-year agreement, DVF plans to launch at www.dvf.com a new website and online magazine powered by Amazon Services e-commerce technology. The launch date for the new DVF.com website will follow DVF's Fall fashion show on February 6. Amazon Services, Inc. is a subsidiary of Amazon.com, Inc. (Nasdaq:AMZN). "I am very excited to be able to apply Amazon's technology to my DVF.com shopping Web site and online magazine," said Diane von Furstenberg, designer and founder of DVF studio. "I am the biggest Amazon user. I love it for its excellent customer service and speedy navigation. I'm truly excited by the prospect of having complete control over the site content with the confidence of knowing that we are backed by the legendary online expertise of Amazon." According to the agreement, Amazon Services will build and maintain the DVF Studio website. DVF Studio will have complete day in and day out control over the content of the site including all images, product offerings, product descriptions and other content that will enhance the shopping experience. Other features include: Purchase from the Runway -- The new DVF.com website will feature photos from live runway shows and allow customers to mouse over the photos (where they will receive information such as the name of the product and its availability) and with a simple click, add items showcased in the photos to their shopping cart. Map-based store finder -- Customers can easily find a retail location close to them by utilizing a new interactive, map-based store finder feature. Online Magazine -- "DVF Journal," written in online magazine format, will feature a monthly diary written personally by Diane von Furstenberg who will share her travels, recommendations and tips, and weekly horoscopes by Shelley von Strunckel. "We are pleased that Diane von Furstenberg Studio has chosen Amazon Services for its e-commerce enterprise solution," said Amazon Services Senior Vice President Mark Stabingas. "We look forward to putting Amazon's innovative technology and e-commerce experience to work in presenting DVF.com's unique brand and product selection and helping them succeed in this rapidly growing retail channel." About Amazon Services, Inc. Amazon Services, Inc. is a subsidiary of Amazon.com, Inc. (Nasdaq:AMZN) which offers the technology and services that power Amazon.com to retailers seeking a world-class, cost effective e-commerce offering for their customers. Amazon Services offers its retail partners use of Amazon's leading e-commerce website technology, best-in-class fulfillment and customer service, and access to tens of millions of active customer accounts. About Diane von Fursternberg Studio DVF Studio was founded by Diane von Furstenberg in 1997 in New York City. Initiated with the re-launch of Ms. von Furstenberg's famous vintage wrap dresses, the company now offers a comprehensive luxury, lifestyle brand. The complete DVF collection currently includes ready-to-wear, cosmetics and fragrances and also maintains licenses in several brand categories such as DVF fine jewelry and swimwear. DVF Studio currently distributes products to luxury retailers in over 50 countries worldwide. Forward looking statement This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to potential future losses, significant amount of indebtedness, competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions, and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, international expansion, consumer trends, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, fraud, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2003, and all subsequent filings. CONTACT:Amazon ServicesAmazon Media Hotline, 206-266-7180SOURCE: Amazon Services

<p>SEATTLE &amp; NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Jan. 17, 2005--Amazon Services, Inc. and Diane von Furstenberg (DVF) today announced that DVF Studio has chosen Amazon Services to operate www.dvf.com. Under this multi-year agreement, DVF plans to launch at www.dvf.com a new website and online magazine powered by Amazon Services e-commerce technology. The launch date for the new DVF.com website will follow DVF's Fall fashion show on February 6. Amazon Services, Inc. is a subsidiary of Amazon.com, Inc. (Nasdaq:AMZN).</p><p>"I am very excited to be able to apply Amazon's technology to my DVF.com shopping Web site and online magazine," said Diane von Furstenberg, designer and founder of DVF studio. "I am the biggest Amazon user. I love it for its excellent customer service and speedy navigation. I'm truly excited by the prospect of having complete control over the site content with the confidence of knowing that we are backed by the legendary online expertise of Amazon."</p><p>According to the agreement, Amazon Services will build and maintain the DVF Studio website. DVF Studio will have complete day in and day out control over the content of the site including all images, product offerings, product descriptions and other content that will enhance the shopping experience. Other features include:</p><ul><li>Purchase from the Runway -- The new DVF.com website will feature photos from live runway shows and allow customers to mouse over the photos (where they will receive information such as the name of the product and its availability) and with a simple click, add items showcased in the photos to their shopping cart.</li><li>Map-based store finder -- Customers can easily find a retail location close to them by utilizing a new interactive, map-based store finder feature.</li><li>Online Magazine -- "DVF Journal," written in online magazine format, will feature a monthly diary written personally by Diane von Furstenberg who will share her travels, recommendations and tips, and weekly horoscopes by Shelley von Strunckel.</li></ul><p>"We are pleased that Diane von Furstenberg Studio has chosen Amazon Services for its e-commerce enterprise solution," said Amazon Services Senior Vice President Mark Stabingas. "We look forward to putting Amazon's innovative technology and e-commerce experience to work in presenting DVF.com's unique brand and product selection and helping them succeed in this rapidly growing retail channel."</p><p>About Amazon Services, Inc.</p><p>Amazon Services, Inc. is a subsidiary of Amazon.com, Inc. (Nasdaq:AMZN) which offers the technology and services that power Amazon.com to retailers seeking a world-class, cost effective e-commerce offering for their customers. Amazon Services offers its retail partners use of Amazon's leading e-commerce website technology, best-in-class fulfillment and customer service, and access to tens of millions of active customer accounts.</p><p>About Diane von Fursternberg Studio</p><p>DVF Studio was founded by Diane von Furstenberg in 1997 in New York City. Initiated with the re-launch of Ms. von Furstenberg's famous vintage wrap dresses, the company now offers a comprehensive luxury, lifestyle brand. The complete DVF collection currently includes ready-to-wear, cosmetics and fragrances and also maintains licenses in several brand categories such as DVF fine jewelry and swimwear. DVF Studio currently distributes products to luxury retailers in over 50 countries worldwide.</p><p>Forward looking statement</p><p>This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to potential future losses, significant amount of indebtedness, competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions, and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, international expansion, consumer trends, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, fraud, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2003, and all subsequent filings.</p><p>CONTACT:Amazon ServicesAmazon Media Hotline, 206-266-7180SOURCE: Amazon Services</p>

Amazon.com Announces ''Best of 2006 List''

/news/news-details/2006/Amazon.com-Announces-Best-of-2006-List/default.aspx

Amazon.com-Announces-Best-of-2006-List

12/28/2006 09:01:00

Amazon.com Announces ''Best of 2006 List''

12/28/2006

2006

SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Dec. 28, 2006--Amazon.com (NASDAQ: AMZN) today released its "Best Of 2006 List" which includes the bestselling, most positively reviewed, most wished-for and favorite gift products as determined by Amazon.com customers in 2006. Bestselling Products The following is a list of the bestselling products on Amazon.com in 2006 by total units sold: Books: Good to Great: Why Some Companies Make the Leap ... and Others Don't by Jim Collins Music: Taking The Long Way by Dixie Chicks DVD: Pirates of the Caribbean - Dead Man's Chest (Two-Disc Collector's Edition) Software: World of Warcraft Electronics: Apple iPods (various) Home & Garden: Calphalon Commercial Hard-Anodized 12-Inch Everyday Pan with Lid Health & Personal Care: Pampers Cruisers (various sizes) Grocery: Senseo Douwe Egberts Dark Roast Coffee Pods Computer & Video Games: Nintendo DS Lite - Polar White Automotive: Sylvania DOT-it Self-Adhesive Bright White LED Light Apparel & Accessories: Levi's(R) 501(R) Button Fly Jeans Shoes: Rockport Men's Clarksdale Oxford Sports & Outdoors: Razor A Kick Scooter Jewelry: 14k White Gold, Round, Diamond Stud Earrings Watches: Bulova Women's Diamond Bezel Chronograph Watch Beauty: Bare Escentuals Get Started Kit Baby: Contoured Changing Pad Toys: Radica 20 Questions Most-Loved Products The following is a list of products that were reviewed most positively by Amazon.com customers in 2006: Books: Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone (Book 1) by J.K. Rowling Music: Josh Groban by Josh Groban DVD: Mean Girls (Full Screen Edition) Electronics: Sony DSCF707 Cyber-shot 5MP Digital Still Camera w/ 5x Optical Zoom Home & Garden: Microplane Grater/Zester Health & Personal Care: Omron HJ-112 Digital Premium Pedometer Computer & Video Games: Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time (N64) Apparel & Accessories: Lee Jeans Women's Missy One True Fit Basic Flare Automotive: Actron CP9125 PocketScan Diagnostic Code Scanner for OBDII (Post-1996) Vehicles Watches: Invicta Men's Automatic Pro Diver S2 Watch #8926 Beauty: Aquolina Pink Sugar Toys: Fisher Price Learning Home Baby: Healthy Care Booster Seat Grocery: Senseo Douwe Egberts Dark Roast Coffee Pods Most Wished-For Products The following is a list of products that appeared most often on the Wish Lists of Amazon.com customers in 2006: Books: Freakonomics: A Rogue Economist Explores the Hidden Side of Everything by Steven D. Levitt Music: Taking The Long Way by Dixie Chicks DVD: Pirates of the Caribbean - Dead Man's Chest (Two-Disc Collector's Edition) Electronics: Apple 30 GB iPod with Video Playback Black (5th Generation) Home & Garden: AeroGrow AeroGarden Garden Kit, Black Health & Personal Care: Philips Norelco BG2020 Men's Bodygroom Computer & Video Games: Nintendo Wii Software: The Sims 2: Open for Business expansion pack Tools & Hardware: Black & Decker AAW100 8-Inch Auto Wrench Apparel & Accessories: cashmere pashmina shawls Sports & Outdoors: Baby Einstein Discover & Play Activity Gym Jewelry & Watches: Sterling Silver Open Double Flower Pendant, 18" Beauty: Bare Escentuals Get Started Kit - Fairly Light/Light Most Popular Gift Products The following is a list of products most frequently purchased as gifts by Amazon.com customers in 2006: Books: The Audacity of Hope: Thoughts on Reclaiming the American Dream by Barack Obama Music: Duets: An American Classic by Tony Bennett DVD: Pirates of the Caribbean - Dead Man's Chest (Two-Disc Collector's Edition) Electronics: Apple 30 GB iPod with Video Playback Home & Garden: Weber 87886 Chimney Starter Health & Personal Care: Omron HJ-112 Digital Premium Pedometer Computer & Video Games: Xbox 360 Console (20GB) Tools & Hardware: Black & Decker AAW100 8-Inch Auto Wrench Software: Microsoft Flight Simulator X Deluxe DVD (CD) Apparel & Accessories: MIR Women's Kimo Cashmere 12x60 Woven Scarf Sports & Outdoors: Razor A Kick Scooter Jewelry: Sterling Silver Open Double Flower Pendant, 18" Watches: Invicta Men's Automatic Pro Diver S2 Watch #8926 Automotive: LifeHammer Original Emergency Hammer Beauty: Burt's Bees Head To Toe Starter Kit Shoes: Disney Cars Toddler Boys' McQueen Slipper Toys: IlluStory: Write and Illustrate Your Own Book! Baby: Ocean Wonders Aquarium Bouncer Grocery: Senseo Douwe Egberts Dark Roast Coffee Pods About Amazon.com Amazon.com, Inc., (Nasdaq: AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com, Inc. seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden. Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com. As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise. Forward Looking Statement This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings. CONTACT: Amazon.comMedia Relations, 206-266-7180SOURCE: Amazon.com

<p>SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Dec. 28, 2006--Amazon.com (NASDAQ: AMZN) today released its "Best Of 2006 List" which includes the bestselling, most positively reviewed, most wished-for and favorite gift products as determined by Amazon.com customers in 2006.</p><p>Bestselling Products</p><p>The following is a list of the bestselling products on Amazon.com in 2006 by total units sold:</p><ul><li>Books: Good to Great: Why Some Companies Make the Leap ... and Others Don't by Jim Collins</li><li>Music: Taking The Long Way by Dixie Chicks</li><li>DVD: Pirates of the Caribbean - Dead Man's Chest (Two-Disc Collector's Edition)</li><li>Software: World of Warcraft</li><li>Electronics: Apple iPods (various)</li><li>Home &amp; Garden: Calphalon Commercial Hard-Anodized 12-Inch Everyday Pan with Lid</li><li>Health &amp; Personal Care: Pampers Cruisers (various sizes)</li><li>Grocery: Senseo Douwe Egberts Dark Roast Coffee Pods</li><li>Computer &amp; Video Games: Nintendo DS Lite - Polar White</li><li>Automotive: Sylvania DOT-it Self-Adhesive Bright White LED Light</li><li>Apparel &amp; Accessories: Levi's(R) 501(R) Button Fly Jeans</li><li>Shoes: Rockport Men's Clarksdale Oxford</li><li>Sports &amp; Outdoors: Razor A Kick Scooter</li><li>Jewelry: 14k White Gold, Round, Diamond Stud Earrings</li><li>Watches: Bulova Women's Diamond Bezel Chronograph Watch</li><li>Beauty: Bare Escentuals Get Started Kit</li><li>Baby: Contoured Changing Pad</li><li>Toys: Radica 20 Questions</li></ul><p>Most-Loved Products</p><p>The following is a list of products that were reviewed most positively by Amazon.com customers in 2006:</p><ul><li>Books: Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone (Book 1) by J.K. Rowling</li><li>Music: Josh Groban by Josh Groban</li><li>DVD: Mean Girls (Full Screen Edition)</li><li>Electronics: Sony DSCF707 Cyber-shot 5MP Digital Still Camera w/ 5x Optical Zoom</li><li>Home &amp; Garden: Microplane Grater/Zester</li><li>Health &amp; Personal Care: Omron HJ-112 Digital Premium Pedometer</li><li>Computer &amp; Video Games: Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time (N64)</li><li>Apparel &amp; Accessories: Lee Jeans Women's Missy One True Fit Basic Flare</li><li>Automotive: Actron CP9125 PocketScan Diagnostic Code Scanner for OBDII (Post-1996) Vehicles</li><li>Watches: Invicta Men's Automatic Pro Diver S2 Watch #8926</li><li>Beauty: Aquolina Pink Sugar</li><li>Toys: Fisher Price Learning Home</li><li>Baby: Healthy Care Booster Seat</li><li>Grocery: Senseo Douwe Egberts Dark Roast Coffee Pods</li></ul><p>Most Wished-For Products</p><p>The following is a list of products that appeared most often on the Wish Lists of Amazon.com customers in 2006:</p><ul><li>Books: Freakonomics: A Rogue Economist Explores the Hidden Side of Everything by Steven D. Levitt</li><li>Music: Taking The Long Way by Dixie Chicks</li><li>DVD: Pirates of the Caribbean - Dead Man's Chest (Two-Disc Collector's Edition)</li><li>Electronics: Apple 30 GB iPod with Video Playback Black (5th Generation)</li><li>Home &amp; Garden: AeroGrow AeroGarden Garden Kit, Black</li><li>Health &amp; Personal Care: Philips Norelco BG2020 Men's Bodygroom</li><li>Computer &amp; Video Games: Nintendo Wii</li><li>Software: The Sims 2: Open for Business expansion pack</li><li>Tools &amp; Hardware: Black &amp; Decker AAW100 8-Inch Auto Wrench</li><li>Apparel &amp; Accessories: cashmere pashmina shawls</li><li>Sports &amp; Outdoors: Baby Einstein Discover &amp; Play Activity Gym</li><li>Jewelry &amp; Watches: Sterling Silver Open Double Flower Pendant, 18"</li><li>Beauty: Bare Escentuals Get Started Kit - Fairly Light/Light</li></ul><p>Most Popular Gift Products</p><p>The following is a list of products most frequently purchased as gifts by Amazon.com customers in 2006:</p><ul><li>Books: The Audacity of Hope: Thoughts on Reclaiming the American Dream by Barack Obama</li><li>Music: Duets: An American Classic by Tony Bennett</li><li>DVD: Pirates of the Caribbean - Dead Man's Chest (Two-Disc Collector's Edition)</li><li>Electronics: Apple 30 GB iPod with Video Playback</li><li>Home &amp; Garden: Weber 87886 Chimney Starter</li><li>Health &amp; Personal Care: Omron HJ-112 Digital Premium Pedometer</li><li>Computer &amp; Video Games: Xbox 360 Console (20GB)</li><li>Tools &amp; Hardware: Black &amp; Decker AAW100 8-Inch Auto Wrench</li><li>Software: Microsoft Flight Simulator X Deluxe DVD (CD)</li><li>Apparel &amp; Accessories: MIR Women's Kimo Cashmere 12x60 Woven Scarf</li><li>Sports &amp; Outdoors: Razor A Kick Scooter</li><li>Jewelry: Sterling Silver Open Double Flower Pendant, 18"</li><li>Watches: Invicta Men's Automatic Pro Diver S2 Watch #8926</li><li>Automotive: LifeHammer Original Emergency Hammer</li><li>Beauty: Burt's Bees Head To Toe Starter Kit</li><li>Shoes: Disney Cars Toddler Boys' McQueen Slipper</li><li>Toys: IlluStory: Write and Illustrate Your Own Book!</li><li>Baby: Ocean Wonders Aquarium Bouncer</li><li>Grocery: Senseo Douwe Egberts Dark Roast Coffee Pods</li></ul><p>About Amazon.com</p><p>Amazon.com, Inc., (Nasdaq: AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com, Inc. seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden.</p><p>Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com.</p><p>As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise.</p><p>Forward Looking Statement</p><p>This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings.</p><p>CONTACT: Amazon.comMedia Relations, 206-266-7180SOURCE: Amazon.com</p>

Amazon.com's 12th Holiday Season is Best Ever

/news/news-details/2006/Amazon.coms-12th-Holiday-Season-is-Best-Ever/default.aspx

Amazon.coms-12th-Holiday-Season-is-Best-Ever

12/26/2006 09:01:00

Amazon.com's 12th Holiday Season is Best Ever

12/26/2006

2006

SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Dec. 26, 2006--Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ: AMZN) today announced that the 2006 holiday season finished as its best ever, with its busiest day being December 11th. On this day Amazon customer orders exceeded 4 million items. Additionally, the company wrapped up its first ever Amazon Customers Vote promotion, where 1,000 Xbox 360s were sold in 29 seconds, and 1,000 Axion portable DVD players were sold in 34 seconds. "We are truly grateful to our customers," said Jeff Bezos, founder and CEO of Amazon.com. "Happy holidays and happy new year to all from Amazon.com employees around the globe." Amazon Worldwide 2006 Holiday Facts (Includes www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.ca) Amazon.com shipped more than 99 percent of orders in time to meet holiday deadlines worldwide. On the peak day this season, Amazon's worldwide fulfillment network shipped over 3.4 million units. Amazon.com shipped to over 200 countries. One of Amazon.com's most remote shipments was Mission Impossible - The Complete First Season (1966) shipped to Wainwright, Alaska. Amazon.com shipped over 100,000 shipments to APO/FPO addresses. Amazon.com 2006 Holiday Facts (www.amazon.com only) Amazon's Free Super Saver Shipping was extended two extra days through December 17th this holiday season. Amazon sold enough orange flavored Airborne health supplements to supply every passenger on 192 Boeing 747s. Enough coffee pods were sold to make coffee for everyone in Austin, Texas. Amazon's Electronics store sold its most expensive MP3 player to date in 2006, the $19,999 Trekstor i.Beat Organix Gold 1GB MP3 player. The last Prime order placed on December 22nd in time for Christmas delivery contained a Bogen-Manfrotto Classic Tripod (Silver) delivered to Norman, Oklahoma on December 23rd. Amazon.com's hot holiday sellers (Nov. 16 through Dec. 19 based on units ordered) In Toys, our top sellers included Radica 20 Questions, Laugh & Learn Cuddly Learning Puppy and Princess Genevieve Doll - Barbie In the 12 Dancing Princesses. Tops in video game hardware were the Nintendo DS Lite available in white, pink and black as well as Play Station 2 and the Xbox 360. Video games were a customer favorite again this year with New Super Mario Bros., Brain Age and Madden Football topping the list. In DVDs, top sellers included Pirates of the Caribbean - Dead Man's Chest (Two-Disc Collectors Edition), Cars (Widescreen Edition) and An Inconvenient Truth. In music, the top sellers included Awake by Josh Groban, Love by the Beatles and Wintersong by Sarah McLachlan. The top selling books were You: On a Diet: The Owner's Manual for Waist Management by Mehmet C. Oz and Michael F. Roizen, The Audacity of Hope: Thoughts on Reclaiming the American Dream by Barack Obama and Living Divine Relationships by Zhi Gang Sha. Top sellers in Consumer Electronics include Apple iPods (various), Canon Powershot Digital Elph Cameras and Garmin GPS Systems. Top Software titles include World of Warcraft Expansion: Burning Crusade (not yet released), The Sims 2 Pet Expansion Pack (Windows Me, 98, XP, 2000) and Adobe Photoshop Elements 5 (Windows XP). Top sellers in the Beauty store were Bare Escentuals Get Started Kit, Bare Escentuals Mineral Veil and Philosophy Hope in a Jar Daily Moisturizer. In PCs, the top sellers were the Apple MacBook 13.3" Notebook PC in white and black and the Sony VAIO 15.4" Notebook PC. Headsets let the Wireless Accessories top sellers including the Logitech Mobile Express Bluetooth Headset, Plantronics Voyager 510 Bluetooth Headset and the Motorola H700 Bluetooth Headset. In Apparel and Accessories, popular items included Columbia Sportswear Men's 3 in 1 Kestrel Parka, Reggie Bush Black New Orleans Saints Youth Replica Jersey and Kenneth Cole Reaction Men's Hadley Poly Bonded Hipster Jacket. Top-selling shoes included the Nine West Women's Ealene Boot, Kenneth Cole Reaction Men's Team Circle Boot and BCBG Girls Women's Kayo Mid Shaft Boot. The top-selling products in Amazon's Automotive Parts & Accessories store include the Sylvania DOT-it Self-Adhesive LED light, LifeHammer Original Emergency Hammer (Orange) and Accutire Digital Key Chain Tire Gauge. The top-selling Sports & Outdoors items were the Razor A Kick Scooter, Schwinn 418 Elliptical Trainer and the Bowflex Series 7 Treadmill. In the Baby Store, the top-selling products were Cloud b Twilight Turtle - Constellation Night Light, Healthy Care Booster Seat and Mozart Magic Cube. Jewelry top sellers included 14k White Gold, Round, Diamond Stud Earrings, Platinum, Round, Diamond 4-Prong Stud Earrings and Sterling Silver Open Double Flower Pendant. Watches were also popular with the Bulova Women's Diamond Bezel Chronograph Watch, Invicta Men's Automatic Pro Diver S2 Watch and Movado Women's Amarosa Watch topping the list. The top-selling Kitchen items included the Matfer Exopat Nonstick Baking/Roasting Sheet, Santa Fe Quesadilla Maker and Calphalon's Commercial Hard-Anodized 12-in Everyday Pan. Top selling items in Amazon's Grocery store were Senseo coffee pods, Numi's Bouquet Bamboo Gift Set and Gevalia Signature Blend T-Discs. In Health and Personal Care, Airborne Effervescent Dietary Supplement as well as diapers from Pampers and Huggies were top sellers. About Amazon.com Amazon.com, Inc., (Nasdaq:AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com, Inc. seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden. Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com. As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise. Forward Looking Statements This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings. CONTACT: Amazon Media Hotline206-266-7180www.amazon.com/prSOURCE: Amazon.com

<p>SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Dec. 26, 2006--Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ: AMZN) today announced that the 2006 holiday season finished as its best ever, with its busiest day being December 11th. On this day Amazon customer orders exceeded 4 million items. Additionally, the company wrapped up its first ever Amazon Customers Vote promotion, where 1,000 Xbox 360s were sold in 29 seconds, and 1,000 Axion portable DVD players were sold in 34 seconds.</p><p>"We are truly grateful to our customers," said Jeff Bezos, founder and CEO of Amazon.com. "Happy holidays and happy new year to all from Amazon.com employees around the globe."</p><p>Amazon Worldwide 2006 Holiday Facts</p><p>(Includes www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.ca)</p><ul><li>Amazon.com shipped more than 99 percent of orders in time to meet holiday deadlines worldwide.</li><li>On the peak day this season, Amazon's worldwide fulfillment network shipped over 3.4 million units.</li><li>Amazon.com shipped to over 200 countries.</li><li>One of Amazon.com's most remote shipments was Mission Impossible - The Complete First Season (1966) shipped to Wainwright, Alaska.</li><li>Amazon.com shipped over 100,000 shipments to APO/FPO addresses.</li></ul><p>Amazon.com 2006 Holiday Facts (www.amazon.com only)</p><ul><li>Amazon's Free Super Saver Shipping was extended two extra days through December 17th this holiday season.</li><li>Amazon sold enough orange flavored Airborne health supplements to supply every passenger on 192 Boeing 747s.</li><li>Enough coffee pods were sold to make coffee for everyone in Austin, Texas.</li><li>Amazon's Electronics store sold its most expensive MP3 player to date in 2006, the $19,999 Trekstor i.Beat Organix Gold 1GB MP3 player.</li><li>The last Prime order placed on December 22nd in time for Christmas delivery contained a Bogen-Manfrotto Classic Tripod (Silver) delivered to Norman, Oklahoma on December 23rd.</li></ul><p>Amazon.com's hot holiday sellers (Nov. 16 through Dec. 19 based on units ordered)</p><ul><li>In Toys, our top sellers included Radica 20 Questions, Laugh &amp; Learn Cuddly Learning Puppy and Princess Genevieve Doll - Barbie In the 12 Dancing Princesses.</li><li>Tops in video game hardware were the Nintendo DS Lite available in white, pink and black as well as Play Station 2 and the Xbox 360.</li><li>Video games were a customer favorite again this year with New Super Mario Bros., Brain Age and Madden Football topping the list.</li><li>In DVDs, top sellers included Pirates of the Caribbean - Dead Man's Chest (Two-Disc Collectors Edition), Cars (Widescreen Edition) and An Inconvenient Truth.</li><li>In music, the top sellers included Awake by Josh Groban, Love by the Beatles and Wintersong by Sarah McLachlan.</li><li>The top selling books were You: On a Diet: The Owner's Manual for Waist Management by Mehmet C. Oz and Michael F. Roizen, The Audacity of Hope: Thoughts on Reclaiming the American Dream by Barack Obama and Living Divine Relationships by Zhi Gang Sha.</li><li>Top sellers in Consumer Electronics include Apple iPods (various), Canon Powershot Digital Elph Cameras and Garmin GPS Systems.</li><li>Top Software titles include World of Warcraft Expansion: Burning Crusade (not yet released), The Sims 2 Pet Expansion Pack (Windows Me, 98, XP, 2000) and Adobe Photoshop Elements 5 (Windows XP).</li><li>Top sellers in the Beauty store were Bare Escentuals Get Started Kit, Bare Escentuals Mineral Veil and Philosophy Hope in a Jar Daily Moisturizer.</li><li>In PCs, the top sellers were the Apple MacBook 13.3" Notebook PC in white and black and the Sony VAIO 15.4" Notebook PC.</li><li>Headsets let the Wireless Accessories top sellers including the Logitech Mobile Express Bluetooth Headset, Plantronics Voyager 510 Bluetooth Headset and the Motorola H700 Bluetooth Headset.</li><li>In Apparel and Accessories, popular items included Columbia Sportswear Men's 3 in 1 Kestrel Parka, Reggie Bush Black New Orleans Saints Youth Replica Jersey and Kenneth Cole Reaction Men's Hadley Poly Bonded Hipster Jacket.</li><li>Top-selling shoes included the Nine West Women's Ealene Boot, Kenneth Cole Reaction Men's Team Circle Boot and BCBG Girls Women's Kayo Mid Shaft Boot.</li><li>The top-selling products in Amazon's Automotive Parts &amp; Accessories store include the Sylvania DOT-it Self-Adhesive LED light, LifeHammer Original Emergency Hammer (Orange) and Accutire Digital Key Chain Tire Gauge.</li><li>The top-selling Sports &amp; Outdoors items were the Razor A Kick Scooter, Schwinn 418 Elliptical Trainer and the Bowflex Series 7 Treadmill.</li><li>In the Baby Store, the top-selling products were Cloud b Twilight Turtle - Constellation Night Light, Healthy Care Booster Seat and Mozart Magic Cube.</li><li>Jewelry top sellers included 14k White Gold, Round, Diamond Stud Earrings, Platinum, Round, Diamond 4-Prong Stud Earrings and Sterling Silver Open Double Flower Pendant.</li><li>Watches were also popular with the Bulova Women's Diamond Bezel Chronograph Watch, Invicta Men's Automatic Pro Diver S2 Watch and Movado Women's Amarosa Watch topping the list.</li><li>The top-selling Kitchen items included the Matfer Exopat Nonstick Baking/Roasting Sheet, Santa Fe Quesadilla Maker and Calphalon's Commercial Hard-Anodized 12-in Everyday Pan.</li><li>Top selling items in Amazon's Grocery store were Senseo coffee pods, Numi's Bouquet Bamboo Gift Set and Gevalia Signature Blend T-Discs.</li><li>In Health and Personal Care, Airborne Effervescent Dietary Supplement as well as diapers from Pampers and Huggies were top sellers.</li></ul><p>About Amazon.com</p><p>Amazon.com, Inc., (Nasdaq:AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com, Inc. seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden.</p><p>Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com.</p><p>As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise.</p><p>Forward Looking Statements</p><p>This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings.</p><p>CONTACT: Amazon Media Hotline206-266-7180www.amazon.com/prSOURCE: Amazon.com</p>

GOLF CHANNEL Selects CustomFlix to Bring DVD Programming to Online Customers

/news/news-details/2006/GOLF-CHANNEL-Selects-CustomFlix-to-Bring-DVD-Programming-to-Online-Customers/default.aspx

GOLF-CHANNEL-Selects-CustomFlix-to-Bring-DVD-Programming-to-Online-Customers

12/20/2006 06:01:00

GOLF CHANNEL Selects CustomFlix to Bring DVD Programming to Online Customers

12/20/2006

2006

ORLANDO, Fla. & SANTA CRUZ, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Dec. 20, 2006--The GOLF CHANNEL has teamed with CustomFlix Labs, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ: AMZN), to offer GOLF CHANNEL customers one of the most complete video golf libraries available online. This is CustomFlix's largest agreement with a sports cable network and will bring the highest quality of golf programming to consumers via CustomFlix DVD on Demand. Close to 100 titles will be available, ranging from instructional and biographical material to original programming such as GOLF CHANNEL's popular The Big Break series. Customers will now be able to shop with ease by accessing one of golf's largest libraries online at www.amazon.com/golfchannel. "GOLF CHANNEL has been giving golf enthusiasts the very best in golf programming for over a decade," said Gene Pizzolato, executive vice president, Advertising Sales & New Media. "Now, by teaming with CustomFlix, we are making nearly 100 DVDs of the very best instructional, entertainment, and biographies available to fans." "CustomFlix is pleased to bring GOLF CHANNEL's vast library of programming to GOLF CHANNEL viewers and online retailers such as Amazon.com," said Dana LoPiccolo-Giles, co-founder and managing director of CustomFlix. "Our DVD on Demand service gives content providers like the GOLF CHANNEL access to millions of potential customers." GOLF CHANNEL (www.GolfChannel.com), co-founded by Arnold Palmer, is available in more than 100 million homes worldwide through cable, satellite, and wireless companies. It features a programming schedule that includes more live golf coverage than any other network - an extensive blend of golf competition from around the world - as well as news, instruction and original productions, such as the popular The Big Break. In addition to being the exclusive television home of the Nationwide Tour, European Tour, and Canadian Tour, GOLF CHANNEL is the exclusive cable home of the Champions Tour, and televises other competition from the PGA TOUR, LPGA Tour, USGA, PGA of America, PGA Tour of America, Australasia, and Sunshine Tour of Southern Africa. Beginning in January, GOLF CHANNEL will embark on its 15-year agreement as the exclusive cable television home for the PGA TOUR. The network's annual coverage will feature early-round coverage of the entire FedEx Cup season, including the World Golf Championships, THE TOUR Championship and THE PLAYERS Championship, the PGA TOUR's crown jewel. In total, early-round coverage of 33 events will air on GOLF CHANNEL. Also included in the package will be 13 full four-round events beginning with the season's first three tournaments - Mercedes-Benz Championships, Sony Open in Hawaii, and the Bob Hope Chrysler Classic hosted by George Lopez - and the seven official money events following THE TOUR Championship. The network also will provide full coverage of three tournaments played opposite golf's majors and World Golf Championships. About CustomFlix CustomFlix Labs, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Amazon.com, Inc., is the leader in manufacture on demand services for independent and enterprise media content owners. CustomFlix was founded in 2002 with the mission of profitably connecting content owners to a worldwide audience. Today, CustomFlix offers professional digitization into the Future-Proof Archive service, as well as inventory-free physical media distribution via both CD and DVD on Demand, adding thousands of hours of media content to Earth's Biggest Selection on Amazon.com. Forward-Looking Statement This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings. CONTACT: CustomFlix Labs, Inc.Stacey Hurwitz, 831-430-4026Stacey@customflix.comorGOLF CHANNELMark Mitchell, 407-355-4063mmitchell@golfchannel.com SOURCE: Amazon.com, Inc.

<p>ORLANDO, Fla. &amp; SANTA CRUZ, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Dec. 20, 2006--The GOLF CHANNEL has teamed with CustomFlix Labs, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ: AMZN), to offer GOLF CHANNEL customers one of the most complete video golf libraries available online. This is CustomFlix's largest agreement with a sports cable network and will bring the highest quality of golf programming to consumers via CustomFlix DVD on Demand. Close to 100 titles will be available, ranging from instructional and biographical material to original programming such as GOLF CHANNEL's popular The Big Break series. Customers will now be able to shop with ease by accessing one of golf's largest libraries online at www.amazon.com/golfchannel.</p><p>"GOLF CHANNEL has been giving golf enthusiasts the very best in golf programming for over a decade," said Gene Pizzolato, executive vice president, Advertising Sales &amp; New Media. "Now, by teaming with CustomFlix, we are making nearly 100 DVDs of the very best instructional, entertainment, and biographies available to fans."</p><p>"CustomFlix is pleased to bring GOLF CHANNEL's vast library of programming to GOLF CHANNEL viewers and online retailers such as Amazon.com," said Dana LoPiccolo-Giles, co-founder and managing director of CustomFlix. "Our DVD on Demand service gives content providers like the GOLF CHANNEL access to millions of potential customers."</p><p>GOLF CHANNEL (www.GolfChannel.com), co-founded by Arnold Palmer, is available in more than 100 million homes worldwide through cable, satellite, and wireless companies. It features a programming schedule that includes more live golf coverage than any other network - an extensive blend of golf competition from around the world - as well as news, instruction and original productions, such as the popular The Big Break. In addition to being the exclusive television home of the Nationwide Tour, European Tour, and Canadian Tour, GOLF CHANNEL is the exclusive cable home of the Champions Tour, and televises other competition from the PGA TOUR, LPGA Tour, USGA, PGA of America, PGA Tour of America, Australasia, and Sunshine Tour of Southern Africa.</p><p>Beginning in January, GOLF CHANNEL will embark on its 15-year agreement as the exclusive cable television home for the PGA TOUR. The network's annual coverage will feature early-round coverage of the entire FedEx Cup season, including the World Golf Championships, THE TOUR Championship and THE PLAYERS Championship, the PGA TOUR's crown jewel. In total, early-round coverage of 33 events will air on GOLF CHANNEL. Also included in the package will be 13 full four-round events beginning with the season's first three tournaments - Mercedes-Benz Championships, Sony Open in Hawaii, and the Bob Hope Chrysler Classic hosted by George Lopez - and the seven official money events following THE TOUR Championship. The network also will provide full coverage of three tournaments played opposite golf's majors and World Golf Championships.</p><p>About CustomFlix</p><p>CustomFlix Labs, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Amazon.com, Inc., is the leader in manufacture on demand services for independent and enterprise media content owners. CustomFlix was founded in 2002 with the mission of profitably connecting content owners to a worldwide audience. Today, CustomFlix offers professional digitization into the Future-Proof Archive service, as well as inventory-free physical media distribution via both CD and DVD on Demand, adding thousands of hours of media content to Earth's Biggest Selection on Amazon.com.</p><p>Forward-Looking Statement</p><p>This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings.</p><p>CONTACT: CustomFlix Labs, Inc.Stacey Hurwitz, 831-430-4026Stacey@customflix.comorGOLF CHANNELMark Mitchell, 407-355-4063mmitchell@golfchannel.com</p><p>SOURCE: Amazon.com, Inc.</p>

CustomFlix Announces Support for Amazon Unbox

/news/news-details/2006/CustomFlix-Announces-Support-for-Amazon-Unbox/default.aspx

CustomFlix-Announces-Support-for-Amazon-Unbox

12/19/2006 06:01:00

CustomFlix Announces Support for Amazon Unbox

12/19/2006

2006

Amazon.com Subsidiary Delivers Unbox Self-Service Capabilities for Independent Filmmakers and Content Owners SANTA CRUZ, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Dec. 19, 2006--CustomFlix Labs, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Amazon.com, Inc., (NASDAQ: AMZN) today announced its support for Amazon.com's video download service, Amazon Unbox, by adding video downloads to its current DVD and CD on Demand services. This new CustomFlix service now enables independent filmmakers and other DVD content owners to make their content available as video downloads to tens of millions of Amazon.com customers through Unbox. "Filmmakers and content owners are always looking for new ways to make their titles available in different formats and to a broader audience," said Dana LoPiccolo-Giles, co-founder and managing director of CustomFlix. "Adding the Unbox video download service to our current Disc on Demand physical delivery option gives independent filmmakers the choice to offer their works whether on DVD, as a video download, or both." For no additional cost, new and current CustomFlix members can now add a digital download option to DVD titles available for sale on Amazon.com. CustomFlix content will first become available to Unbox customers early next year. "We're excited to be the first CustomFlix Member to offer our independent film through the Unbox video download service," said Linda Nelson, Producer of Shifted from Nelson Madison Films. "With the introduction of video download services like Unbox, audiences have grown to expect a variety of viewing options, and we're excited to be at the forefront of this new distribution channel." "Amazon Unbox continues to be a popular destination for movie and television lovers to download and watch their favorite videos and the video download service offered by CustomFlix greatly expands the selection of Unbox content to our customers to now include thousands of DVD-quality movies," said Bill Carr, vice president of digital media at Amazon.com. For more information on this CustomFlix service, please visit www.customflix.com/Unbox. To learn more about Amazon Unbox, visit www.amazon.com/unbox. About CustomFlix CustomFlix Labs, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Amazon.com, Inc., is the leader in manufacture on demand services for independent and enterprise media content owners. CustomFlix was founded in 2002 with the mission of profitably connecting content owners to a worldwide audience. Today, CustomFlix offers professional digitization into the Future-Proof Archive service, as well as inventory-free physical media distribution via both CD and DVD on Demand. About Amazon.com Amazon.com, Inc., (Nasdaq: AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden. Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com. As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise. Forward Looking Statements This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings. CONTACT: For CustomFlixStacey Hurwitz, 831-430-4026Stacey@customflix.comorFor Amazon.comSean Sundwall, 206-266-4322Sundwall@amazon.comSOURCE: Amazon.com, Inc.

<p>Amazon.com Subsidiary Delivers Unbox Self-Service Capabilities for Independent Filmmakers and Content Owners</p><p>SANTA CRUZ, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Dec. 19, 2006--CustomFlix Labs, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Amazon.com, Inc., (NASDAQ: AMZN) today announced its support for Amazon.com's video download service, Amazon Unbox, by adding video downloads to its current DVD and CD on Demand services. This new CustomFlix service now enables independent filmmakers and other DVD content owners to make their content available as video downloads to tens of millions of Amazon.com customers through Unbox.</p><p>"Filmmakers and content owners are always looking for new ways to make their titles available in different formats and to a broader audience," said Dana LoPiccolo-Giles, co-founder and managing director of CustomFlix. "Adding the Unbox video download service to our current Disc on Demand physical delivery option gives independent filmmakers the choice to offer their works whether on DVD, as a video download, or both."</p><p>For no additional cost, new and current CustomFlix members can now add a digital download option to DVD titles available for sale on Amazon.com. CustomFlix content will first become available to Unbox customers early next year. "We're excited to be the first CustomFlix Member to offer our independent film through the Unbox video download service," said Linda Nelson, Producer of Shifted from Nelson Madison Films. "With the introduction of video download services like Unbox, audiences have grown to expect a variety of viewing options, and we're excited to be at the forefront of this new distribution channel."</p><p>"Amazon Unbox continues to be a popular destination for movie and television lovers to download and watch their favorite videos and the video download service offered by CustomFlix greatly expands the selection of Unbox content to our customers to now include thousands of DVD-quality movies," said Bill Carr, vice president of digital media at Amazon.com.</p><p>For more information on this CustomFlix service, please visit www.customflix.com/Unbox. To learn more about Amazon Unbox, visit www.amazon.com/unbox.</p><p>About CustomFlix</p><p>CustomFlix Labs, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Amazon.com, Inc., is the leader in manufacture on demand services for independent and enterprise media content owners. CustomFlix was founded in 2002 with the mission of profitably connecting content owners to a worldwide audience. Today, CustomFlix offers professional digitization into the Future-Proof Archive service, as well as inventory-free physical media distribution via both CD and DVD on Demand.</p><p>About Amazon.com</p><p>Amazon.com, Inc., (Nasdaq: AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden.</p><p>Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com.</p><p>As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise.</p><p>Forward Looking Statements</p><p>This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings.</p><p>CONTACT: For CustomFlixStacey Hurwitz, 831-430-4026Stacey@customflix.comorFor Amazon.comSean Sundwall, 206-266-4322Sundwall@amazon.comSOURCE: Amazon.com, Inc.</p>

Amazon.com Unveils an Exclusive First Performance from Norah Jones' Latest Album Not Too Late

/news/news-details/2006/Amazon.com-Unveils-an-Exclusive-First-Performance-from-Norah-Jones-Latest-Album-Not-Too-Late/default.aspx

Amazon.com-Unveils-an-Exclusive-First-Performance-from-Norah-Jones-Latest-Album-Not-Too-Late

12/12/2006 08:31:00

Amazon.com Unveils an Exclusive First Performance from Norah Jones' Latest Album Not Too Late

12/12/2006

2006

Exclusive Live Performance of ''Rosie's Lullaby'' Premieres on Amazon.com SEATTLE, Dec 12, 2006 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- Amazon.com (NASDAQ:AMZN), Norah Jones and Blue Note Records have teamed up to offer the eight-time Grammy-winning singer's many fans a first listen to her third studio album Not Too Late, with a performance of "Rosie's Lullaby." Premiering on Amazon.com today is an exclusive performance of "Rosie's Lullaby," one of the thirteen deeply personal songs on Not Too Late, all of which were written or co-written by Norah Jones herself. Fans can watch this video by visiting http://www.amazon.com/norah. "Norah Jones is among the top three best-selling musical artists of all time on Amazon.com," said Peter Faricy, vice president of music at Amazon.com. "Our customers love her music, and we're delighted to offer them this exclusive first listen from her latest album." Many familiar faces from Norah Jones' previous albums return for Not Too Late, including Norah's longtime songwriting partner Lee Alexander as producer, guitarist Adam Levy, vocalist Daru Oda and drummer Andy Borger. Yet, Not Too Late also contains some surprises, including collaborations with vocalists M. Ward and Richard Julian, guitarists Jesse Harris, Tony Scherr, Kevin Breit and Robbie McIntosh, organist Larry Goldings, saxophonist Bill McHenry, cellist Julia Kent and cellist Jeffrey Zeigler of the Kronos Quartet. "We are thrilled to partner with Amazon.com and offer their customers the first look at Norah performing a track from her new album," said Saul Shapiro Senior Vice President Sales Blue Note Label Group. Not Too Late will be released on January 30, 2007. The album is currently available for pre-order on Amazon.com (www.amazon.com) for $9.99 -- a savings of 47 percent. About Amazon.com Amazon.com, Inc., (Nasdaq: AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com, Inc. seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden. Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com. As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise. Forward Looking Statements This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings. SOURCE: Amazon.com Amazon.comMedia Line, 206-266-7180

<center>Exclusive Live Performance of ''Rosie's Lullaby'' Premieres on Amazon.com</center><p>SEATTLE, Dec 12, 2006 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- Amazon.com (NASDAQ:AMZN), Norah Jones and Blue Note Records have teamed up to offer the eight-time Grammy-winning singer's many fans a first listen to her third studio album Not Too Late, with a performance of "Rosie's Lullaby." Premiering on Amazon.com today is an exclusive performance of "Rosie's Lullaby," one of the thirteen deeply personal songs on Not Too Late, all of which were written or co-written by Norah Jones herself. Fans can watch this video by visiting http://www.amazon.com/norah.</p><p>"Norah Jones is among the top three best-selling musical artists of all time on Amazon.com," said Peter Faricy, vice president of music at Amazon.com. "Our customers love her music, and we're delighted to offer them this exclusive first listen from her latest album."</p><p>Many familiar faces from Norah Jones' previous albums return for Not Too Late, including Norah's longtime songwriting partner Lee Alexander as producer, guitarist Adam Levy, vocalist Daru Oda and drummer Andy Borger. Yet, Not Too Late also contains some surprises, including collaborations with vocalists M. Ward and Richard Julian, guitarists Jesse Harris, Tony Scherr, Kevin Breit and Robbie McIntosh, organist Larry Goldings, saxophonist Bill McHenry, cellist Julia Kent and cellist Jeffrey Zeigler of the Kronos Quartet.</p><p>"We are thrilled to partner with Amazon.com and offer their customers the first look at Norah performing a track from her new album," said Saul Shapiro Senior Vice President Sales Blue Note Label Group.</p><p>Not Too Late will be released on January 30, 2007. The album is currently available for pre-order on Amazon.com (www.amazon.com) for $9.99 -- a savings of 47 percent.</p><p>About Amazon.com</p><p>Amazon.com, Inc., (Nasdaq: AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com, Inc. seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden.</p><p>Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com.</p><p>As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise.</p><p>Forward Looking Statements</p><p>This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings.</p><p>SOURCE: Amazon.com</p><p>Amazon.comMedia Line, 206-266-7180</p>

T.M.X. Elmo, Zune, George Foreman Grill, and Roboreptile Now on the Ballot as Round 4 of ''Amazon Customers Vote'' Starts Today

/news/news-details/2006/T.M.X.-Elmo-Zune-George-Foreman-Grill-and-Roboreptile-Now-on-the-Ballot-as-Round-4-of-Amazon-Customers-Vote-Starts-Today/default.aspx

T.M.X.-Elmo-Zune-George-Foreman-Grill-and-Roboreptile-Now-on-the-Ballot-as-Round-4-of-Amazon-Customers-Vote-Starts-Today

12/08/2006 05:01:00

T.M.X. Elmo, Zune, George Foreman Grill, and Roboreptile Now on the Ballot as Round 4 of ''Amazon Customers Vote'' Starts Today

12/08/2006

2006

SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Dec. 8, 2006--Amazon.com (Nasdaq:AMZN) today announced that Round 4 of Amazon Customers Vote began this morning with a new ballot featuring some of this holiday's most sought-after products. Customers can vote for one of the following deals, only one of which will be offered at this price: 1,000 Microsoft Zune 30 GB Digital Media Players, each for $90 (normally $229.95) 2,000 George Foreman 10th Anniversary Grills, each for $5 (normally $49.99) 2,000 T.M.X. 10th Anniversary Tickle Me Elmos, each for $30 (normally $39.99) 2,000 WowWee Roboreptile Robotic Reptiles, each for $20 (normally $69.99) Voting runs through next Sunday, December 10. Just like in Round 3, claim codes will be distributed to randomly selected customers who voted for the winning Amazon Customers Vote deal. Customers who voted for deals that did not win will also be randomly selected to be able to purchase their chosen items at deeply discounted prices. Customers will know if they are selected via an e-mail notification with directions on how to get their deal. Alternatively, customers can visit the Amazon Customers Vote Page (www.amazon.com/customersvote) to find out whether they have been randomly selected to have the opportunity to purchase the deal for which they voted. Selected customers can purchase the deals during a 24-hour buying window that begins next Tuesday, December 12 at 3 a.m. ET/12 a.m. PT. Journalists interested in receiving more information on Amazon Customers Vote can submit an inquiry via http://www.amazon.com/pr or the Amazon.com Media Hotline at 206-266-7180. About Amazon.com Amazon.com, Inc., (Nasdaq:AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com, Inc. seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden. Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com. As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise. Forward Looking Statements This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings. CONTACT: Amazon.comMedia ContactMedia Line, 206-266-7180www.amazon.com/prSOURCE: Amazon.com

<p>SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Dec. 8, 2006--Amazon.com (Nasdaq:AMZN) today announced that Round 4 of Amazon Customers Vote began this morning with a new ballot featuring some of this holiday's most sought-after products. Customers can vote for one of the following deals, only one of which will be offered at this price:</p><ul><li>1,000 Microsoft Zune 30 GB Digital Media Players, each for $90 (normally $229.95)</li><li>2,000 George Foreman 10th Anniversary Grills, each for $5 (normally $49.99)</li><li>2,000 T.M.X. 10th Anniversary Tickle Me Elmos, each for $30 (normally $39.99)</li><li>2,000 WowWee Roboreptile Robotic Reptiles, each for $20 (normally $69.99)</li></ul><p>Voting runs through next Sunday, December 10. Just like in Round 3, claim codes will be distributed to randomly selected customers who voted for the winning Amazon Customers Vote deal. Customers who voted for deals that did not win will also be randomly selected to be able to purchase their chosen items at deeply discounted prices.</p><p>Customers will know if they are selected via an e-mail notification with directions on how to get their deal. Alternatively, customers can visit the Amazon Customers Vote Page (www.amazon.com/customersvote) to find out whether they have been randomly selected to have the opportunity to purchase the deal for which they voted. Selected customers can purchase the deals during a 24-hour buying window that begins next Tuesday, December 12 at 3 a.m. ET/12 a.m. PT.</p><p>Journalists interested in receiving more information on Amazon Customers Vote can submit an inquiry via http://www.amazon.com/pr or the Amazon.com Media Hotline at 206-266-7180.</p><p>About Amazon.com</p><p>Amazon.com, Inc., (Nasdaq:AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com, Inc. seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden.</p><p>Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com.</p><p>As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise.</p><p>Forward Looking Statements</p><p>This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings.</p><p>CONTACT: Amazon.comMedia ContactMedia Line, 206-266-7180www.amazon.com/prSOURCE: Amazon.com</p>

Amazon Invests in Wikia Series B Financing: Amazon's Value-Added Capital Key to Wikia's Expanding Product

/news/news-details/2006/Amazon-Invests-in-Wikia-Series-B-Financing-Amazons-Value-Added-Capital-Key-to-Wikias-Expanding-Product/default.aspx

Amazon-Invests-in-Wikia-Series-B-Financing-Amazons-Value-Added-Capital-Key-to-Wikias-Expanding-Product

12/06/2006 00:00:00

Amazon Invests in Wikia Series B Financing: Amazon's Value-Added Capital Key to Wikia's Expanding Product

12/06/2006

2006

SAN MATEO, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Dec. 6, 2006--Wikia, Inc., the leading wiki site for information on thousands of topics written by a community of contributors, today announced it has completed Series B financing with a strategic investment from Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ: AMZN). Amazon.com is the sole investor in Wikia's second round of funding and is Wikia's first corporate investor. The amount of Amazon's investment has not been disclosed. Wikia received $4 million in Series A funding earlier this year from a prominent group of investors -- Bessemer Venture Partners, Omidyar Network and a select group of angel investors including Marc Andreessen, Josh Kopelman, Joichi Ito, Mitch Kapor, and Ron Conway. "Amazon has always believed in giving the customer as much information as possible so that they can make the purchase that's best for them," said Jeff Bezos, founder and CEO of Amazon.com. "Over the years, we've enabled customers to post a wealth of information on our sites through features such as Customer Reviews, Customer Image Uploads, Wish Lists, Listmania and Discussion Boards. We want to support the continued growth of sites like Wikia, which has cracked the code for user-generated content." Wikia founder and Chairman Jimmy Wales said, "Amazon is a leader in offering customer generated content, and we are delighted to have them as a strategic investor in Wikia. With Amazon's support, Wikia will be able to expand and serve new communities around the globe on an even greater range of topics." Wikia supports the development of the open source software that runs both Wikipedia and Wikia, as well as thousands of other wiki sites. Among other contributions, Wikia plans to enhance the software with improved usability, spam prevention, and community management. About Wikia, Inc. Since the site's launch in November 2004, over 400,000 articles on 2,000 topics have been created and edited by over 30,000 registered users in 45 languages. Wikia hosts a broad selection of topics including: Politics at http://campaigns.wikia.com , Psychology at http://psychology.wikia.com , the Lost TV Show at http://lost.wikia.com , the iPod wiki at http://ipod.wikia.com , and Travel Guides at http://world.wikia.com . Wikia enables groups to share information, news, stories, media and opinions that fall outside the scope of an encyclopedia. Jimmy Wales and Angela Beesley launched Wikia in 2004 to provide community-based wikis inspired by the model of Wikipedia -- the free, open source encyclopedia founded by Jimmy Wales. Wikia is committed to openness, inviting anyone to contribute web content. Authors retain their own copyrights and allow others to freely reuse their content under the GNU Free Documentation License, allowing widespread distribution of knowledge and ideas. For additional information, visit: http://www.wikia.com About Amazon.com Amazon.com, Inc., (Nasdaq: AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com, Inc. seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden. Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com. As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise. Forward Looking Statement This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings. CONTACT: for Wikia:Carol Wentworth, 650-326-7172carol.wentworth@bitepr.comorfor AmazonPatty Smith, 206-266-7180psmith@amazon.comSOURCE: Wikia, Inc.

<p>SAN MATEO, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Dec. 6, 2006--Wikia, Inc., the leading wiki site for information on thousands of topics written by a community of contributors, today announced it has completed Series B financing with a strategic investment from Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ: AMZN). Amazon.com is the sole investor in Wikia's second round of funding and is Wikia's first corporate investor. The amount of Amazon's investment has not been disclosed.</p><p>Wikia received $4 million in Series A funding earlier this year from a prominent group of investors -- Bessemer Venture Partners, Omidyar Network and a select group of angel investors including Marc Andreessen, Josh Kopelman, Joichi Ito, Mitch Kapor, and Ron Conway.</p><p>"Amazon has always believed in giving the customer as much information as possible so that they can make the purchase that's best for them," said Jeff Bezos, founder and CEO of Amazon.com. "Over the years, we've enabled customers to post a wealth of information on our sites through features such as Customer Reviews, Customer Image Uploads, Wish Lists, Listmania and Discussion Boards. We want to support the continued growth of sites like Wikia, which has cracked the code for user-generated content."</p><p>Wikia founder and Chairman Jimmy Wales said, "Amazon is a leader in offering customer generated content, and we are delighted to have them as a strategic investor in Wikia. With Amazon's support, Wikia will be able to expand and serve new communities around the globe on an even greater range of topics."</p><p>Wikia supports the development of the open source software that runs both Wikipedia and Wikia, as well as thousands of other wiki sites. Among other contributions, Wikia plans to enhance the software with improved usability, spam prevention, and community management.</p><p>About Wikia, Inc.</p><p>Since the site's launch in November 2004, over 400,000 articles on 2,000 topics have been created and edited by over 30,000 registered users in 45 languages. Wikia hosts a broad selection of topics including: Politics at http://campaigns.wikia.com , Psychology at http://psychology.wikia.com , the Lost TV Show at http://lost.wikia.com , the iPod wiki at http://ipod.wikia.com , and Travel Guides at http://world.wikia.com .</p><p>Wikia enables groups to share information, news, stories, media and opinions that fall outside the scope of an encyclopedia. Jimmy Wales and Angela Beesley launched Wikia in 2004 to provide community-based wikis inspired by the model of Wikipedia -- the free, open source encyclopedia founded by Jimmy Wales.</p><p>Wikia is committed to openness, inviting anyone to contribute web content. Authors retain their own copyrights and allow others to freely reuse their content under the GNU Free Documentation License, allowing widespread distribution of knowledge and ideas. For additional information, visit: http://www.wikia.com</p><p>About Amazon.com</p><p>Amazon.com, Inc., (Nasdaq: AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com, Inc. seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden.</p><p>Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com.</p><p>As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise.</p><p>Forward Looking Statement</p><p>This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings.</p><p>CONTACT: for Wikia:Carol Wentworth, 650-326-7172carol.wentworth@bitepr.comorfor AmazonPatty Smith, 206-266-7180psmith@amazon.comSOURCE: Wikia, Inc.</p>

Amazon.com Holiday Special - One Million Dollar Diamond Watch for Only $499,000

/news/news-details/2006/Amazon.com-Holiday-Special---One-Million-Dollar-Diamond-Watch-for-Only-499000/default.aspx

Amazon.com-Holiday-Special---One-Million-Dollar-Diamond-Watch-for-Only-499000

12/05/2006 09:01:00

Amazon.com Holiday Special - One Million Dollar Diamond Watch for Only $499,000

12/05/2006

2006

SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Dec. 5, 2006--Just in time for the holidays, Amazon.com, Inc. (Nasdaq:AMZN) today announced the availability of an 18K white gold and diamond watch, valued at one million dollars, available to Amazon customers for the relatively great price of $499,000. This unique and hard-to-find diamond watch from Audemars Piguet contains a total weight of 53 carats of diamonds held in 18K white gold and arranged in rows of eight to form a supple 20 millimeter band. Additional round brilliant diamonds line the top cover of the watch case capped with a virtually scratch-proof sapphire crystal. "The Jewelry & Watches store at Amazon.com offers a fantastic shopping experience, tremendous selection, and of course great prices," said Steven Goldsmith, vice president, Amazon.com Jewelry & Watches store. "We're thrilled to be able to offer this gorgeous, hard-to-find watch with such a terrific savings. The lucky recipient of this special gift will truly have a happy holiday." Amazon customers will also find additional jewelry and watch items offered at significantly reduced prices, such as the Jaeger-LeCoultre Women's Reverso Cabochons diamond-encrusted watch, valued at $18,700 and available for $9,724; a one-of-a-kind GIA-certified 5-carat princess-cut diamond center ring with 142 round diamonds in 18k white gold, valued at $189,999 and available for $109,999; 4-carat diamond stud earrings, valued at $57,000 and available for $35,000; a 5-carat emerald-cut diamond-center ring with two 1-carat half-moon side diamonds, valued at $129,999 and available for $74,999. Amazon.com's Jewelry & Watches Store currently offers over 100,000 diamond jewelry and watch items, including 5,000 diamond watches, 16,000 diamond earrings, 22,000 diamond necklaces and 7,000 bracelets, to name a few. Customers can also expect to find a large luxury watch selection -- including brand names such as Cartier, Chase-Durer, TAG Heuer, Breitling, Bedat, Geneve and Ebel -- ranging in cost from $225,000 to $5,000. About Amazon.com Amazon.com (Nasdaq:AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened its virtual doors on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and third-party sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished, and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden. Amazon.com and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com. As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc. and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise. Forward Looking Statement This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings. CONTACT: Amazon.com, SeattleMedia RelationsTracy Ogden, 206-266-1379SOURCE: Amazon.com, Inc.

<p>SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Dec. 5, 2006--Just in time for the holidays, Amazon.com, Inc. (Nasdaq:AMZN) today announced the availability of an 18K white gold and diamond watch, valued at one million dollars, available to Amazon customers for the relatively great price of $499,000. This unique and hard-to-find diamond watch from Audemars Piguet contains a total weight of 53 carats of diamonds held in 18K white gold and arranged in rows of eight to form a supple 20 millimeter band. Additional round brilliant diamonds line the top cover of the watch case capped with a virtually scratch-proof sapphire crystal.</p><p>"The Jewelry &amp; Watches store at Amazon.com offers a fantastic shopping experience, tremendous selection, and of course great prices," said Steven Goldsmith, vice president, Amazon.com Jewelry &amp; Watches store. "We're thrilled to be able to offer this gorgeous, hard-to-find watch with such a terrific savings. The lucky recipient of this special gift will truly have a happy holiday."</p><p>Amazon customers will also find additional jewelry and watch items offered at significantly reduced prices, such as the Jaeger-LeCoultre Women's Reverso Cabochons diamond-encrusted watch, valued at $18,700 and available for $9,724; a one-of-a-kind GIA-certified 5-carat princess-cut diamond center ring with 142 round diamonds in 18k white gold, valued at $189,999 and available for $109,999; 4-carat diamond stud earrings, valued at $57,000 and available for $35,000; a 5-carat emerald-cut diamond-center ring with two 1-carat half-moon side diamonds, valued at $129,999 and available for $74,999.</p><p>Amazon.com's Jewelry &amp; Watches Store currently offers over 100,000 diamond jewelry and watch items, including 5,000 diamond watches, 16,000 diamond earrings, 22,000 diamond necklaces and 7,000 bracelets, to name a few. Customers can also expect to find a large luxury watch selection -- including brand names such as Cartier, Chase-Durer, TAG Heuer, Breitling, Bedat, Geneve and Ebel -- ranging in cost from $225,000 to $5,000.</p><p>About Amazon.com</p><p>Amazon.com (Nasdaq:AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened its virtual doors on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and third-party sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished, and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden.</p><p>Amazon.com and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com.</p><p>As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc. and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise.</p><p>Forward Looking Statement</p><p>This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings.</p><p>CONTACT: Amazon.com, SeattleMedia RelationsTracy Ogden, 206-266-1379SOURCE: Amazon.com, Inc.</p>

Mothercare PLC Launches New Multi-Channel E-commerce Platform

/news/news-details/2006/Mothercare-PLC-Launches-New-Multi-Channel-E-commerce-Platform/default.aspx

Mothercare-PLC-Launches-New-Multi-Channel-E-commerce-Platform

12/05/2006 01:01:00

Mothercare PLC Launches New Multi-Channel E-commerce Platform

12/05/2006

2006

Powered by Amazon Enterprise Solutions Europe SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Dec. 5, 2006--Mothercare PLC, the leading parenting brand, and Amazon Enterprise Solutions Europe, part of the Amazon.com Inc. group of companies, today announced that Amazon Enterprise Solutions Europe has built and launched a new state-of-the-art multi-channel e-commerce platform for Mothercare, using the proven technology and expertise of Amazon. The new www.mothercare.com website is solely branded as Mothercare. It promotes and sells the existing Mothercare Direct (online and catalogue) range of products. The role of Amazon Enterprise Solutions Europe is to provide the e-commerce engine behind the website, in-store and call centre applications. Fulfilment and logistics will continue to be provided by Mothercare's existing suppliers. This new platform provides significantly improved functionality, speed and reliability, and will help underpin Mothercare's growth ambitions, built around establishing itself as a truly multi-channel retailer. Mothercare's Direct business, comprising web in home, telephone catalogue ordering and web-in-store ordering system, is a GBP 40m business which has grown by 26% since last year. The new site increases the range of products, services and information offered to customers and enables them to move around the site much more intuitively, search for products more effectively and compare products more easily. It is also fully integrated with the Mothercare call centre and web-in-store ordering system. In the future, the site will offer additional enhanced capabilities, such as a multi-channel gift registry service. Ben Gordon, Mothercare Chief Executive, said: "Our Direct business is growing rapidly and this project will not only cater for that growth, but will strengthen Mothercare's position as a true multi-channel retailer. Amazon is helping us transform the capability of Mothercare online by providing us with the best e-commerce technology in the world. The upgraded platform and redesign will enhance the marketing and shop-ability of our website to the benefit of our customers, allowing us to improve and extend the ranges we have available online and ultimately drive sales." Eric Broussard, Vice President, Amazon Enterprise Solutions Europe, said: "Amazon Enterprise Solutions is thrilled to be teaming with Mothercare. Amazon and Mothercare are two brands with a passion for developing the best possible experiences for our customers. Mothercare can focus on its core business while we focus on making sure Mothercare's customers enjoy a much-enhanced, intuitive and reliable multi-channel shopping experience." About Mothercare Direct Mothercare Direct is made up of two businesses -- Direct-in-Home, which is the catalogue and web-in-home business, and the Direct-in-Store business, with all UK stores being web enabled. Mothercare.com is now the number one parenting site for content and e-commerce in the UK. Mothercare.com receives one million site visits per month. Many Mothercare customers take a multi-channel approach to shopping, using a number of channels before deciding where and when to make a purchase. For example, Mothercare sends out four million catalogues a year and more than 30 percent of people who visit the site are researching purchases they will actually make in store. About Amazon Enterprise Solutions Europe Amazon Enterprise Solutions Europe works with retailers to help grow their online and multi-channel businesses. By working with Amazon Enterprise Solutions Europe, retailers can combine their own brands with the e-commerce expertise, proven technology, and operational infrastructure of Amazon to create a world-class online shopping experience for their customers. Amazon Enterprise Solutions is part of the Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ:AMZN) group of companies. Amazon Forward-Looking Statements This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment centre optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings. CONTACT: Brunswick Group LLP on behalf of Mothercare:Anna Jones tel: +44 20 7404 5959orAmazonDamian Peachey tel: +44 (0)7966116752dpeachey@amazon.co.ukSOURCE: Amazon

<p>Powered by Amazon Enterprise Solutions Europe</p><p>SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Dec. 5, 2006--Mothercare PLC, the leading parenting brand, and Amazon Enterprise Solutions Europe, part of the Amazon.com Inc. group of companies, today announced that Amazon Enterprise Solutions Europe has built and launched a new state-of-the-art multi-channel e-commerce platform for Mothercare, using the proven technology and expertise of Amazon.</p><p>The new www.mothercare.com website is solely branded as Mothercare. It promotes and sells the existing Mothercare Direct (online and catalogue) range of products. The role of Amazon Enterprise Solutions Europe is to provide the e-commerce engine behind the website, in-store and call centre applications. Fulfilment and logistics will continue to be provided by Mothercare's existing suppliers.</p><p>This new platform provides significantly improved functionality, speed and reliability, and will help underpin Mothercare's growth ambitions, built around establishing itself as a truly multi-channel retailer. Mothercare's Direct business, comprising web in home, telephone catalogue ordering and web-in-store ordering system, is a GBP 40m business which has grown by 26% since last year.</p><p>The new site increases the range of products, services and information offered to customers and enables them to move around the site much more intuitively, search for products more effectively and compare products more easily. It is also fully integrated with the Mothercare call centre and web-in-store ordering system. In the future, the site will offer additional enhanced capabilities, such as a multi-channel gift registry service.</p><p>Ben Gordon, Mothercare Chief Executive, said: "Our Direct business is growing rapidly and this project will not only cater for that growth, but will strengthen Mothercare's position as a true multi-channel retailer. Amazon is helping us transform the capability of Mothercare online by providing us with the best e-commerce technology in the world. The upgraded platform and redesign will enhance the marketing and shop-ability of our website to the benefit of our customers, allowing us to improve and extend the ranges we have available online and ultimately drive sales."</p><p>Eric Broussard, Vice President, Amazon Enterprise Solutions Europe, said: "Amazon Enterprise Solutions is thrilled to be teaming with Mothercare. Amazon and Mothercare are two brands with a passion for developing the best possible experiences for our customers. Mothercare can focus on its core business while we focus on making sure Mothercare's customers enjoy a much-enhanced, intuitive and reliable multi-channel shopping experience."</p><p>About Mothercare Direct</p><ul><li>Mothercare Direct is made up of two businesses -- Direct-in-Home, which is the catalogue and web-in-home business, and the Direct-in-Store business, with all UK stores being web enabled.</li><li>Mothercare.com is now the number one parenting site for content and e-commerce in the UK.</li><li>Mothercare.com receives one million site visits per month.</li><li>Many Mothercare customers take a multi-channel approach to shopping, using a number of channels before deciding where and when to make a purchase.</li><li>For example, Mothercare sends out four million catalogues a year and more than 30 percent of people who visit the site are researching purchases they will actually make in store.</li></ul><p>About Amazon Enterprise Solutions Europe</p><p>Amazon Enterprise Solutions Europe works with retailers to help grow their online and multi-channel businesses. By working with Amazon Enterprise Solutions Europe, retailers can combine their own brands with the e-commerce expertise, proven technology, and operational infrastructure of Amazon to create a world-class online shopping experience for their customers. Amazon Enterprise Solutions is part of the Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ:AMZN) group of companies.</p><p>Amazon Forward-Looking Statements This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment centre optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings.</p><p>CONTACT: Brunswick Group LLP on behalf of Mothercare:Anna Jones tel: +44 20 7404 5959orAmazonDamian Peachey tel: +44 (0)7966116752dpeachey@amazon.co.ukSOURCE: Amazon</p>

Amazon.fr innove encore en lançant son nouvel outil aStore à destination de ses affiliés

/news/news-details/2006/Amazon.fr-innove-encore-en-lanant-son-nouvel-outil-aStore--destination-de-ses-affilis/default.aspx

Amazon.fr-innove-encore-en-lanant-son-nouvel-outil-aStore--destination-de-ses-affilis

11/30/2006 00:00:00

Amazon.fr innove encore en lançant son nouvel outil aStore à destination de ses affiliés

11/30/2006

2006

Le pionnier du e-business offre aux possesseurs de sites web la possibilité de créer des boutiques " Amazon " parfaitement intégrées au site, en correspondance parfaite avec le design du site Paris, le 30 novembre 2006 - Amazon.fr présente aujourd'hui aStore, sa nouvelle innovation permettant à tout possesseur de site web d'intégrer gratuitement sur son propre espace une boutique Amazon.fr complète en quelques minutes. Les possesseurs de sites, signant le programme d'affiliation avec Amazon.fr et optant pour ce nouvel outil, seront ainsi rémunérés à hauteur de 10% sur tout achat effectué par un internaute, redirigé sur Amazon.Fr depuis leur site. Xavier Garambois, directeur général d'Amazon.fr, précise : " Avec la multiplication des sites web personnels, il est important pour Amazon.fr de toujours innover pour proposer à ses affiliés de nouveaux outils technologiques, visant à les aider à rendre leurs sites plus intéressants et plus rentables. aStore offrira ainsi aux possesseurs de sites web tout le nécessaire pour rendre les informations déposées parfaitement ciblées et complètement intégrées aux sites " Jusqu'au 31 Décembre les Partenaires d'Amazon.fr percevront 5% en commissions supplémentaires pour chaque vente générée via une boutique aStore. Un grand nombre d'utilisateurs de la boutique aStore ont déjà intégré leur boutique en utilisant un iFrame ou un Frameset, comme Mackoo (http://www.mackoo.com/boutique.htm), Lusomarket (http://www.lusomarket.com/PBCPPlayer.asp?ID=129559) ou Novasta (http://www.novasta.com/fr/boutique.aspx). Ces solutions permettent une intégration parfaite dans le design d'un site web existant. aStore, le principe (http://astore.amazon.fr) Disponible pour tout possesseur de site web participant au programme d'affiliation d'Amazon.fr, aStore est une nouvelle application permettant aux partenaires d'Amazon de créer facilement une boutique en ligne. Elle leur permet de proposer tous les produits disponibles sur Amazon.fr via leur site, en les intégrant en correspondance parfaite avec le design existant. En outre, aStore peut être intégré avec une seule ligne de code sur un site existant. Comment faire ? Pour configurer une boutique aStore sur son site, l'internaute passe par le Club Partenaires (le site des Partenaires Amazon - http://partenaires.amazon.fr/join) en suivant les étapes indiquées pour faciliter la création de la boutique. En quelques minutes la boutique est créée car il suffit simplement de copier quelques lignes de code Html sur la page de son site. Toutes les données seront ensuite servies par les Amazon WebServices, ce qui assure l'actualisation permanente des données. Une fois créée il n'est plus nécessaire de faire de la maintenance. Les avantages clés proposés au webmestre Intégrer un top des meilleures ventes amazon.fr Avec aStore, les visiteurs restent plus longtemps sur le site visité. La sélection choisie des meilleures ventes se fait simplement grâce à un moteur de recherche (telle catégorie de livres, de CD, de DVD, produits d'électronique grand public…) Il est possible d'intégrer le catalogue complet de produits d'Amazon.fr, ou seulement quelques catégories de produits qui correspondent le mieux au contenu du site La boutique peut être personnalisée pour qu'elle s'adapte le mieux au design du site. Une boutique avec propre panier d'achats Un panier d'achats dans la boutique nouvellement créée, que les visiteurs peuvent remplir lors de leurs achats. Le possesseur de tout site web peut ainsi profiter de l'image de sécurité et de confiance d'Amazon.fr. Le paiement sera traité entièrement par le site d'Amazon.fr Données de produits détaillées Données de produits détaillées Commentaires de clients Propositions de produits similaires Données de produits mis à jour automatiquement Listes de produits préférés d'autres clients Amazon.fr À propos du site Amazon.fr Le site Amazon.fr a ouvert ses portes virtuelles en août 2000. Amazon met tout en œuvre pour remplir la mission qu'elle s'est fixée : mettre ses clients au cœur de ses préoccupations. Ils peuvent ainsi à tout moment trouver en ligne ce qu'ils ont envie d'acheter, et y faire de nombreuses découvertes. Amazon.fr et les vendeurs tiers proposent aujourd'hui des millions de produits neufs, d'occasion et de collection en livres en français et en anglais, en CD, vidéos, DVD, logiciels, CD-Rom, en jeux vidéo et récemment des produits d'électronique grand public. Chez Amazon.fr, les clients bénéficient de la technologie d'achat en ligne et du savoir-faire du numéro un de cette industrie, tels le paiement sécurisé, les recommandations personnalisées, l'ergonomie et les outils très poussés de recherche ainsi que l'achat rapide et facile grâce à la commande 1-Click . Amazon.com & ses affiliés proposent 7 sites web : www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.ca, et www.joyo.com. Comme mentionné ci-dessus, " Amazon.com ", " nous ", " notre " et les termes similaires incluent Amazon.com, Inc. et ses filiales sauf utilisation différente suivant le contexte. Pour toute demande d'information relative à cette information ou pour être mis en contact avec le porte-parole d'Amazon.fr, merci de contacter le service de presse d'Amazon.fr : Rouge le BureauBruno Sanvoisin / Isabelle LebaupainTél. : 01 42 26 99 00 / Fax : 01 42 26 99 01E-mail : bruno@rouge.fr - isabelle@rouge.fr

<p>Le pionnier du e-business offre aux possesseurs de sites web la possibilité de créer des boutiques " Amazon " parfaitement intégrées au site, en correspondance parfaite avec le design du site</p><p>Paris, le 30 novembre 2006 - Amazon.fr présente aujourd'hui aStore, sa nouvelle innovation permettant à tout possesseur de site web d'intégrer gratuitement sur son propre espace une boutique Amazon.fr complète en quelques minutes. Les possesseurs de sites, signant le programme d'affiliation avec Amazon.fr et optant pour ce nouvel outil, seront ainsi rémunérés à hauteur de 10% sur tout achat effectué par un internaute, redirigé sur Amazon.Fr depuis leur site.</p><p>Xavier Garambois, directeur général d'Amazon.fr, précise : " Avec la multiplication des sites web personnels, il est important pour Amazon.fr de toujours innover pour proposer à ses affiliés de nouveaux outils technologiques, visant à les aider à rendre leurs sites plus intéressants et plus rentables. aStore offrira ainsi aux possesseurs de sites web tout le nécessaire pour rendre les informations déposées parfaitement ciblées et complètement intégrées aux sites "</p><p>Jusqu'au 31 Décembre les Partenaires d'Amazon.fr percevront 5% en commissions supplémentaires pour chaque vente générée via une boutique aStore.</p><p>Un grand nombre d'utilisateurs de la boutique aStore ont déjà intégré leur boutique en utilisant un iFrame ou un Frameset, comme Mackoo (http://www.mackoo.com/boutique.htm), Lusomarket (http://www.lusomarket.com/PBCPPlayer.asp?ID=129559) ou Novasta (http://www.novasta.com/fr/boutique.aspx). Ces solutions permettent une intégration parfaite dans le design d'un site web existant.</p><p>aStore, le principe (http://astore.amazon.fr)</p><p>Disponible pour tout possesseur de site web participant au programme d'affiliation d'Amazon.fr, aStore est une nouvelle application permettant aux partenaires d'Amazon de créer facilement une boutique en ligne. Elle leur permet de proposer tous les produits disponibles sur Amazon.fr via leur site, en les intégrant en correspondance parfaite avec le design existant. En outre, aStore peut être intégré avec une seule ligne de code sur un site existant.</p><p>Comment faire ?</p><p>Pour configurer une boutique aStore sur son site, l'internaute passe par le Club Partenaires (le site des Partenaires Amazon - http://partenaires.amazon.fr/join) en suivant les étapes indiquées pour faciliter la création de la boutique. En quelques minutes la boutique est créée car il suffit simplement de copier quelques lignes de code Html sur la page de son site. Toutes les données seront ensuite servies par les Amazon WebServices, ce qui assure l'actualisation permanente des données. Une fois créée il n'est plus nécessaire de faire de la maintenance.</p><p>Les avantages clés proposés au webmestre</p><p>Intégrer un top des meilleures ventes amazon.fr</p><ul>Avec aStore, les visiteurs restent plus longtemps sur le site visité.La sélection choisie des meilleures ventes se fait simplement grâce à un moteur de recherche (telle catégorie de livres, de CD, de DVD, produits d'électronique grand public…)Il est possible d'intégrer le catalogue complet de produits d'Amazon.fr, ou seulement quelques catégories de produits qui correspondent le mieux au contenu du siteLa boutique peut être personnalisée pour qu'elle s'adapte le mieux au design du site.</ul><p>Une boutique avec propre panier d'achats</p><ul><ul>Un panier d'achats dans la boutique nouvellement créée, que les visiteurs peuvent remplir lors de leurs achats.Le possesseur de tout site web peut ainsi profiter de l'image de sécurité et de confiance d'Amazon.fr. Le paiement sera traité entièrement par le site d'Amazon.fr</ul></ul><p>Données de produits détaillées</p><ul><ul>Données de produits détailléesCommentaires de clientsPropositions de produits similairesDonnées de produits mis à jour automatiquementListes de produits préférés d'autres clients Amazon.fr</ul></ul><p>À propos du site Amazon.fr</p><p>Le site Amazon.fr a ouvert ses portes virtuelles en août 2000. Amazon met tout en œuvre pour remplir la mission qu'elle s'est fixée : mettre ses clients au cœur de ses préoccupations. Ils peuvent ainsi à tout moment trouver en ligne ce qu'ils ont envie d'acheter, et y faire de nombreuses découvertes. Amazon.fr et les vendeurs tiers proposent aujourd'hui des millions de produits neufs, d'occasion et de collection en livres en français et en anglais, en CD, vidéos, DVD, logiciels, CD-Rom, en jeux vidéo et récemment des produits d'électronique grand public. Chez Amazon.fr, les clients bénéficient de la technologie d'achat en ligne et du savoir-faire du numéro un de cette industrie, tels le paiement sécurisé, les recommandations personnalisées, l'ergonomie et les outils très poussés de recherche ainsi que l'achat rapide et facile grâce à la commande 1-Click .</p><p>Amazon.com &amp; ses affiliés proposent 7 sites web : www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.ca, et www.joyo.com. Comme mentionné ci-dessus, " Amazon.com ", " nous ", " notre " et les termes similaires incluent Amazon.com, Inc. et ses filiales sauf utilisation différente suivant le contexte.</p><p>Pour toute demande d'information relative à cette information ou pour être mis en contact avec le porte-parole d'Amazon.fr, merci de contacter le service de presse d'Amazon.fr :</p><p>Rouge le BureauBruno Sanvoisin / Isabelle LebaupainTél. : 01 42 26 99 00 / Fax : 01 42 26 99 01E-mail : bruno@rouge.fr - isabelle@rouge.fr</p>

Amazon's Delaware Fulfillment Center Offers Holiday Gift Wrapping Program for Local Nonprofits

/news/news-details/2006/Amazons-Delaware-Fulfillment-Center-Offers-Holiday-Gift-Wrapping-Program-for-Local-Nonprofits/default.aspx

Amazons-Delaware-Fulfillment-Center-Offers-Holiday-Gift-Wrapping-Program-for-Local-Nonprofits

11/27/2006 08:06:00

Amazon's Delaware Fulfillment Center Offers Holiday Gift Wrapping Program for Local Nonprofits

11/27/2006

2006

By Wrapping Amazon Holiday Gifts, Groups Can Earn $$ NEW CASTLE, Del.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Nov. 27, 2006--As Amazon.com (Nasdaq:AMZN) gets ready to delight millions of customers this holiday season, the company's New Castle fulfillment center is offering nonprofit organizations the opportunity to earn extra money by having its volunteers gift wrap products for Amazon customers. The "Gift Wrap Your Holidays with a Smile" program will earn the nonprofit organization between $.60 and $.75 for each item gift-wrapped by a volunteer. The program, which is open to 501(c)3 agencies, will run from November 26 through December 23, 2006, and organizations can send anywhere from 5 - 20 volunteers for each shift. Shifts range from a minimum of four hours to a maximum of ten. "We're thrilled to again offer 'Gift Wrap Your Holiday Programs with a Smile' this year," said Sam O'Neill, Sr., HR manager for Amazon.com. "Last year many charitable organizations from the region participated in this fundraiser, and our New Castle facility donated more than $11,000 to these causes. It's a great way to put yourself in the holiday spirit and earn money for your nonprofit at the same time." Amazon.com will train volunteers in Amazon's gift-wrapping procedures. Individuals wrapping gifts often average 20 or more packages per hour, which can add up fast for the participating nonprofit. Gift-wrapping tables are designed for wrapping while standing, so volunteers must be physically able to stand throughout their shift. All volunteers must be at least 18 years of age. Sign-up is on a first-come, first-served basis, so interested organizations should contact Tomika Giles-Rogers (302-395-4007 or togi@amazon.com) or Ashantia Pawluk (302-395-7956 or ashantia@amazon.com) for more information. About Amazon.com Amazon.com, Inc., (Nasdaq: AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com, Inc. seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden. Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com. As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise. Forward Looking Statement This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings. CONTACT: Amazon.comPatty Smith, 206-266-7180SOURCE: Amazon.com

<p>By Wrapping Amazon Holiday Gifts, Groups Can Earn $$</p><p>NEW CASTLE, Del.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Nov. 27, 2006--As Amazon.com (Nasdaq:AMZN) gets ready to delight millions of customers this holiday season, the company's New Castle fulfillment center is offering nonprofit organizations the opportunity to earn extra money by having its volunteers gift wrap products for Amazon customers.</p><p>The "Gift Wrap Your Holidays with a Smile" program will earn the nonprofit organization between $.60 and $.75 for each item gift-wrapped by a volunteer.</p><p>The program, which is open to 501(c)3 agencies, will run from November 26 through December 23, 2006, and organizations can send anywhere from 5 - 20 volunteers for each shift. Shifts range from a minimum of four hours to a maximum of ten.</p><p>"We're thrilled to again offer 'Gift Wrap Your Holiday Programs with a Smile' this year," said Sam O'Neill, Sr., HR manager for Amazon.com. "Last year many charitable organizations from the region participated in this fundraiser, and our New Castle facility donated more than $11,000 to these causes. It's a great way to put yourself in the holiday spirit and earn money for your nonprofit at the same time."</p><p>Amazon.com will train volunteers in Amazon's gift-wrapping procedures. Individuals wrapping gifts often average 20 or more packages per hour, which can add up fast for the participating nonprofit. Gift-wrapping tables are designed for wrapping while standing, so volunteers must be physically able to stand throughout their shift. All volunteers must be at least 18 years of age.</p><p>Sign-up is on a first-come, first-served basis, so interested organizations should contact Tomika Giles-Rogers (302-395-4007 or togi@amazon.com) or Ashantia Pawluk (302-395-7956 or ashantia@amazon.com) for more information.</p><p>About Amazon.com</p><p>Amazon.com, Inc., (Nasdaq: AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com, Inc. seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden.</p><p>Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com.</p><p>As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise.</p><p>Forward Looking Statement</p><p>This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings.</p><p>CONTACT: Amazon.comPatty Smith, 206-266-7180SOURCE: Amazon.com</p>

Amazon.com Offers Holiday Gift Wrapping Program for Local Nonprofits

/news/news-details/2006/Amazon.com-Offers-Holiday-Gift-Wrapping-Program-for-Local-Nonprofits/default.aspx

Amazon.com-Offers-Holiday-Gift-Wrapping-Program-for-Local-Nonprofits

11/27/2006 08:01:00

Amazon.com Offers Holiday Gift Wrapping Program for Local Nonprofits

11/27/2006

2006

By Wrapping Amazon Holiday Gifts, Groups Can Earn $$ LEXINGTON, Ky.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Nov. 27, 2006--As Amazon.com (Nasdaq:AMZN) gets ready to delight millions of customers this holiday season, the company's Lexington fulfillment center is offering nonprofit organizations the opportunity to earn extra money by having its volunteers gift wrap products for Amazon customers. The "Gift Wrap Your Holidays with a Smile" program will earn the nonprofit organization between $.60 and $.75 for each item gift-wrapped by a volunteer. The program, which is open to 501(c)3 agencies, will run from November 20 through December 23, 2006, and organizations can send anywhere from 5-20 volunteers for each shift. Shifts range from a minimum of four hours to a maximum of ten. "We're thrilled to be able to offer 'Gift Wrap Your Holiday Programs with a Smile' this year," said Linda Wells, Operations Manager. "Last year many charitable organizations participated and the Lexington site for Amazon.com donated more than $28,000. It's a great way to put yourself in the holiday spirit and earn money for your nonprofit at the same time." Amazon will train volunteers in Amazon's gift-wrapping procedures. Individuals wrapping gifts often average 20 or more packages per hour, which can add up fast for the participating nonprofit. Gift-wrapping tables are designed for wrapping while standing, so volunteers must be physically able to stand throughout their shift. All volunteers must be at least 18 years of age. Sign-up is on a first-come, first-served basis, so interested organizations should contact Linda Wells (lwells@amazon.com) for more information. About Amazon.com Amazon.com, Inc. (Nasdaq:AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com, Inc. seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden. Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com. As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise. Forward-Looking Statement This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings. CONTACT: Amazon.com, Inc.Patty Smith, 206-266-7180SOURCE: Amazon.com, Inc.

<p>By Wrapping Amazon Holiday Gifts, Groups Can Earn $$</p><p>LEXINGTON, Ky.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Nov. 27, 2006--As Amazon.com (Nasdaq:AMZN) gets ready to delight millions of customers this holiday season, the company's Lexington fulfillment center is offering nonprofit organizations the opportunity to earn extra money by having its volunteers gift wrap products for Amazon customers.</p><p>The "Gift Wrap Your Holidays with a Smile" program will earn the nonprofit organization between $.60 and $.75 for each item gift-wrapped by a volunteer.</p><p>The program, which is open to 501(c)3 agencies, will run from November 20 through December 23, 2006, and organizations can send anywhere from 5-20 volunteers for each shift. Shifts range from a minimum of four hours to a maximum of ten.</p><p>"We're thrilled to be able to offer 'Gift Wrap Your Holiday Programs with a Smile' this year," said Linda Wells, Operations Manager. "Last year many charitable organizations participated and the Lexington site for Amazon.com donated more than $28,000. It's a great way to put yourself in the holiday spirit and earn money for your nonprofit at the same time."</p><p>Amazon will train volunteers in Amazon's gift-wrapping procedures. Individuals wrapping gifts often average 20 or more packages per hour, which can add up fast for the participating nonprofit. Gift-wrapping tables are designed for wrapping while standing, so volunteers must be physically able to stand throughout their shift. All volunteers must be at least 18 years of age.</p><p>Sign-up is on a first-come, first-served basis, so interested organizations should contact Linda Wells (lwells@amazon.com) for more information.</p><p>About Amazon.com</p><p>Amazon.com, Inc. (Nasdaq:AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com, Inc. seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden.</p><p>Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com.</p><p>As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise.</p><p>Forward-Looking Statement</p><p>This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings.</p><p>CONTACT: Amazon.com, Inc.Patty Smith, 206-266-7180SOURCE: Amazon.com, Inc.</p>

Amazon.com to Webcast Investor Conference Presentation

/news/news-details/2006/Amazon.com-to-Webcast-Investor-Conference-Presentation/default.aspx

Amazon.com-to-Webcast-Investor-Conference-Presentation

11/24/2006 16:02:00

Amazon.com to Webcast Investor Conference Presentation

11/24/2006

2006

SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Nov. 24, 2006--Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ:AMZN) announced today that the Company will be speaking at Credit Suisse First Boston's Technology Conference on November 30, 2006. The presentation will be webcast live at 10:00 a.m. PT/1:00 p.m. ET and the Q&A will be webcast live at 10:30 a.m. PT/1:30 p.m. ET. The audio and associated slides will be available for at least three months thereafter at www.amazon.com/ir. CONTACT: Amazon.com, Inc.Patty Smith, 206-266-7180 SOURCE: Amazon.com, Inc.

<p>SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Nov. 24, 2006--Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ:AMZN) announced today that the Company will be speaking at Credit Suisse First Boston's Technology Conference on November 30, 2006.</p><p>The presentation will be webcast live at 10:00 a.m. PT/1:00 p.m. ET and the Q&amp;A will be webcast live at 10:30 a.m. PT/1:30 p.m. ET. The audio and associated slides will be available for at least three months thereafter at www.amazon.com/ir.</p><p>CONTACT: Amazon.com, Inc.Patty Smith, 206-266-7180</p><p>SOURCE: Amazon.com, Inc.</p>

Amazon.com Editor's Picks for Hot Gifts This Holiday Season; Great Selection of Toys Eligible for Amazon Prime and Free Super Saver Shipping

/news/news-details/2006/Amazon.com-Editors-Picks-for-Hot-Gifts-This-Holiday-Season-Great-Selection-of-Toys-Eligible-for-Amazon-Prime-and-Free-Super-Saver-Shipping/default.aspx

Amazon.com-Editors-Picks-for-Hot-Gifts-This-Holiday-Season-Great-Selection-of-Toys-Eligible-for-Amazon-Prime-and-Free-Super-Saver-Shipping

11/24/2006 08:01:00

Amazon.com Editor's Picks for Hot Gifts This Holiday Season; Great Selection of Toys Eligible for Amazon Prime and Free Super Saver Shipping

11/24/2006

2006

SEATTLE, Nov 24, 2006 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- Amazon.com (Nasdaq:AMZN) today announced editor's top picks for the holiday season including top toy products that for the first time are eligible for Free Super Saver Shipping and Amazon Prime. The announcement comes as Amazon's Toy Store brings the hottest toys from top manufacturers to customers during the holidays. "Amazon and our trusted marketplace sellers have a huge selection of over 150,000 toys for kids of all ages," noted Mark Randall, vice president of Toy and Baby Stores at Amazon.com. "When you combine our great selection of products from leading toy vendors like Hasbro, LEGO, Mattel/Fisher Price, Leapfrog, VTech, MGA Entertainment and Radio Flyer with low prices and Free Super Saver Shipping, customers will find great value and convenience in shopping at Amazon.com this holiday season." Amazon.com's Toy Store offers both mainstream and hard-to-find, niche products in over 20 categories for kids of all ages with a great selection from leading toy manufacturers like Fisher Price, Hasbro, LEGO and Mattel. "We want to make shopping for Hasbro's toys and games convenient for our consumers and Amazon.com offers a great online shopping experience," said Duncan Billing, chief marketing officer for Hasbro, Inc. "Hasbro is well-known for the depth of its brand portfolio of toys and games. Hasbro truly has something for everyone's wish list." "We are thrilled to partner with Amazon to offer a wide variety of the hottest LEGO items through their new toy shop this holiday season, and have already seen strong consumer response," said Colin Gillespie, senior director, customer development, LEGO Systems. "The rising trend in online shopping, combined with Amazon's strength in offering one-stop shopping for anything a consumer wants in a way that is convenient and quick, makes a LEGO feature shop on Amazon a win for anyone looking for the high-quality, fun construction sets." In what is expected to be its biggest holiday season ever, Amazon also announces its annual top gift picks for 2006. The following are great gift ideas from Amazon editors: Toys & Games (amazon.com/toys) -- Disney Channel's High School Musical DVD Board Game, $19.99 -- WowWee Roboreptile Robotic Reptile, $89.99 -- LEGO Mindstorms NXT, $249.99 Apparel & Accessories (amazon.com/apparel) -- Latico Women's Python Collection Weekender Bag, $250.00 -- Kenneth Cole Reaction Men's Double Breasted Wool Peacoat, $109.99 -- Cinzia Clara 3-Piece Cashmere Hat, Glove and Scarf Set, $49.99 -- Robeez Kids' Reindeer Slip On Shoe, $29.95 Automotive (amazon.com/auto) -- LifeHammer Orange The Original Emergency Hammer, $14.99 -- Larin 15 pc. Emergency Kit, $22.95 -- Schumacher Mity-Mite JumpStarter With 12 Amp Hour Internal Battery, $42.99 Beauty (amazon.com/beauty) -- Laura Mercier Beauty Library Set, $120.00 -- Philosophy The Ski House, $35.00 -- Bare Escentuals Shake Your Tail Feather, $55.00 Books (amazon.com/books) -- "Barefoot Contessa at Home: Everyday Recipes You'll Make Over and Over Again," $20.22 -- "The Yale Book of Quotations," $31.50 -- "The End (A Series of Unfortunate Events)" Book 13, $6.53 Electronics (amazon.com/electronics) -- Canon Powershot 7.1MP Digital Elph Camera, $229.94 -- Apple 80 GB iPod Video 5.5 Generation, $332.49 -- Bushnell Yardage Pro Golf Pinseeker 1500 Laser Rangefinder, $449.99 DVD (amazon.com/dvd) -- "Pirates of the Caribbean - Dead Man's Chest" (Two-Disc Collector's Edition), $19.99 -- "Da Ali G Show: Da Compleet Seereez," $34.99 -- "The Sopranos" Season 6, $63.27 Gourmet Food (amazon.com/gourmet) -- Leonidas Belgian Chocolate Santas (Set of Two), $25.50 -- Geoff & Drew's Christmas S'MORES Kit, $24.00 -- Dean & Deluca Penguin Cookies, $55.00 Health & Personal Care (amazon.com/hpc) -- Braun 8995 360 Complete Men's Shaver, $169.99 -- The Art of Shaving kit, $35.00 -- Philips Norelco Men's Bodygroom, $34.99 Home & Garden (amazon.com/home) -- KitchenAid Artisan Series 5-Quart Mixer, Metallic Chrome, $299.00 -- Rachael Ray 'Gusto-Grip' 8-piece Birch Wood Block Set, $149.99 -- iRobot 5800 Scooba(R) Floor Washing Robotic Hard Surface Cleaner, $299.99 Jewelry (amazon.com/jewelry) -- 14k White Gold Journey Circle Pendant, $319.00 -- 10k White Gold Blue Topaz & Diamond Circle Pendant, $79.00 -- 14k Yellow Gold Beaded Mesh Necklace, $129.00 Music (amazon.com/music) -- Tony Bennett's "Duets: An American Classic," $12.99 -- Rolling Stones "Singles 1963-1965" Box Set, $59.98 -- Andrea Bocelli's "Under the Desert Sky," $19.97 Shoes (amazon.com/shoes) -- Rebels Judy Ballet Flat, $68.95 -- Jessica Simpson Women's Leve Ballet Flat, $58.95 -- Kenneth Cole Women's Knot Tonight Mid Shaft Dress Boot, $449.95 Sports & Outdoor (amazon.com/sports) -- NBA League Gear Spalding NBA Official Game Basketball, $99.99 -- Razor Electric Scooter, $94.99 -- Paha Que Aluminum Pole Tepee Shower and Outhouse Tent, $159.99 Tools & Hardware (amazon.com/tools) -- Denali 3.6V Lithium Ion Cordless Screwdriver Kit, $24.99 -- Toro Power Shovel 7.5 Amp, $75.00 -- Black & Decker BDL220S Laser Level, $12.50 Watches (amazon.com/watches) -- Bulova Women's Diamond Bezel Chronograph Watch, $241.00 -- Tag Heuer 2000 Series Aquaracer Men's Watch, $725.00 -- Betsey Johnson Women's Leopard Pony Black Leather Watch, $67.99 Holiday Shipping Amazon.com is the home of great shipping options. For convenient and effortless shopping customers can take advantage of a popular program called Amazon Prime. For $79 a year, customers receive free two-day express shipping on qualifying items. Amazon Prime benefits can be extended to up to four family members living in the same household and there is no minimum purchase required and no need to consolidate orders. Additionally, customers can save money and be assured that their packages will arrive on time for the holidays by using Amazon.com's convenient Free Super Saver Shipping. For delivery by December 24, the following guidelines apply (for items with 24-hour availability): -- Dec. 15: Last day to order items using Free Super Saver Shipping on qualifying orders over $25 -- Dec. 18: Last day to order items using Guaranteed Standard Shipping -- Dec. 19: Last day to order items using Two-Day Shipping -- Dec. 20: Last day to order items using One-Day Shipping -- Dec. 21: Last day to order items using One-Day Shipping, as late as 3PM PST (varies by item) About Amazon.com Amazon.com (Nasdaq:AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened its virtual doors on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and third-party sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished, and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden. Amazon.com and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com. As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc. and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise. Forward-Looking Statement This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings. SOURCE: Amazon.com, Inc. Amazon.com, Inc., Seattle Media Relations, 206-266-7180

<p>SEATTLE, Nov 24, 2006 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- Amazon.com (Nasdaq:AMZN) today announced editor's top picks for the holiday season including top toy products that for the first time are eligible for Free Super Saver Shipping and Amazon Prime. The announcement comes as Amazon's Toy Store brings the hottest toys from top manufacturers to customers during the holidays.</p><p>"Amazon and our trusted marketplace sellers have a huge selection of over 150,000 toys for kids of all ages," noted Mark Randall, vice president of Toy and Baby Stores at Amazon.com. "When you combine our great selection of products from leading toy vendors like Hasbro, LEGO, Mattel/Fisher Price, Leapfrog, VTech, MGA Entertainment and Radio Flyer with low prices and Free Super Saver Shipping, customers will find great value and convenience in shopping at Amazon.com this holiday season."</p><p>Amazon.com's Toy Store offers both mainstream and hard-to-find, niche products in over 20 categories for kids of all ages with a great selection from leading toy manufacturers like Fisher Price, Hasbro, LEGO and Mattel.</p><p>"We want to make shopping for Hasbro's toys and games convenient for our consumers and Amazon.com offers a great online shopping experience," said Duncan Billing, chief marketing officer for Hasbro, Inc. "Hasbro is well-known for the depth of its brand portfolio of toys and games. Hasbro truly has something for everyone's wish list."</p><p>"We are thrilled to partner with Amazon to offer a wide variety of the hottest LEGO items through their new toy shop this holiday season, and have already seen strong consumer response," said Colin Gillespie, senior director, customer development, LEGO Systems. "The rising trend in online shopping, combined with Amazon's strength in offering one-stop shopping for anything a consumer wants in a way that is convenient and quick, makes a LEGO feature shop on Amazon a win for anyone looking for the high-quality, fun construction sets."</p><p>In what is expected to be its biggest holiday season ever, Amazon also announces its annual top gift picks for 2006. The following are great gift ideas from Amazon editors:</p><p>Toys &amp; Games (amazon.com/toys)</p><p>-- Disney Channel's High School Musical DVD Board Game, $19.99</p><p>-- WowWee Roboreptile Robotic Reptile, $89.99</p><p>-- LEGO Mindstorms NXT, $249.99</p><p>Apparel &amp; Accessories (amazon.com/apparel)</p><p>-- Latico Women's Python Collection Weekender Bag, $250.00</p><p>-- Kenneth Cole Reaction Men's Double Breasted Wool Peacoat, $109.99</p><p>-- Cinzia Clara 3-Piece Cashmere Hat, Glove and Scarf Set, $49.99</p><p>-- Robeez Kids' Reindeer Slip On Shoe, $29.95</p><p>Automotive (amazon.com/auto)</p><p>-- LifeHammer Orange The Original Emergency Hammer, $14.99</p><p>-- Larin 15 pc. Emergency Kit, $22.95</p><p>-- Schumacher Mity-Mite JumpStarter With 12 Amp Hour Internal Battery, $42.99</p><p>Beauty (amazon.com/beauty)</p><p>-- Laura Mercier Beauty Library Set, $120.00</p><p>-- Philosophy The Ski House, $35.00</p><p>-- Bare Escentuals Shake Your Tail Feather, $55.00</p><p>Books (amazon.com/books)</p><p>-- "Barefoot Contessa at Home: Everyday Recipes You'll Make Over and Over Again," $20.22</p><p>-- "The Yale Book of Quotations," $31.50</p><p>-- "The End (A Series of Unfortunate Events)" Book 13, $6.53</p><p>Electronics (amazon.com/electronics)</p><p>-- Canon Powershot 7.1MP Digital Elph Camera, $229.94</p><p>-- Apple 80 GB iPod Video 5.5 Generation, $332.49</p><p>-- Bushnell Yardage Pro Golf Pinseeker 1500 Laser Rangefinder, $449.99</p><p>DVD (amazon.com/dvd)</p><p>-- "Pirates of the Caribbean - Dead Man's Chest" (Two-Disc Collector's Edition), $19.99</p><p>-- "Da Ali G Show: Da Compleet Seereez," $34.99</p><p>-- "The Sopranos" Season 6, $63.27</p><p>Gourmet Food (amazon.com/gourmet)</p><p>-- Leonidas Belgian Chocolate Santas (Set of Two), $25.50</p><p>-- Geoff &amp; Drew's Christmas S'MORES Kit, $24.00</p><p>-- Dean &amp; Deluca Penguin Cookies, $55.00</p><p>Health &amp; Personal Care (amazon.com/hpc)</p><p>-- Braun 8995 360 Complete Men's Shaver, $169.99</p><p>-- The Art of Shaving kit, $35.00</p><p>-- Philips Norelco Men's Bodygroom, $34.99</p><p>Home &amp; Garden (amazon.com/home)</p><p>-- KitchenAid Artisan Series 5-Quart Mixer, Metallic Chrome, $299.00</p><p>-- Rachael Ray 'Gusto-Grip' 8-piece Birch Wood Block Set, $149.99</p><p>-- iRobot 5800 Scooba(R) Floor Washing Robotic Hard Surface Cleaner, $299.99</p><p>Jewelry (amazon.com/jewelry)</p><p>-- 14k White Gold Journey Circle Pendant, $319.00</p><p>-- 10k White Gold Blue Topaz &amp; Diamond Circle Pendant, $79.00</p><p>-- 14k Yellow Gold Beaded Mesh Necklace, $129.00</p><p>Music (amazon.com/music)</p><p>-- Tony Bennett's "Duets: An American Classic," $12.99</p><p>-- Rolling Stones "Singles 1963-1965" Box Set, $59.98</p><p>-- Andrea Bocelli's "Under the Desert Sky," $19.97</p><p>Shoes (amazon.com/shoes)</p><p>-- Rebels Judy Ballet Flat, $68.95</p><p>-- Jessica Simpson Women's Leve Ballet Flat, $58.95</p><p>-- Kenneth Cole Women's Knot Tonight Mid Shaft Dress Boot, $449.95</p><p>Sports &amp; Outdoor (amazon.com/sports)</p><p>-- NBA League Gear Spalding NBA Official Game Basketball, $99.99</p><p>-- Razor Electric Scooter, $94.99</p><p>-- Paha Que Aluminum Pole Tepee Shower and Outhouse Tent, $159.99</p><p>Tools &amp; Hardware (amazon.com/tools)</p><p>-- Denali 3.6V Lithium Ion Cordless Screwdriver Kit, $24.99</p><p>-- Toro Power Shovel 7.5 Amp, $75.00</p><p>-- Black &amp; Decker BDL220S Laser Level, $12.50</p><p>Watches (amazon.com/watches)</p><p>-- Bulova Women's Diamond Bezel Chronograph Watch, $241.00</p><p>-- Tag Heuer 2000 Series Aquaracer Men's Watch, $725.00</p><p>-- Betsey Johnson Women's Leopard Pony Black Leather Watch, $67.99</p><p>Holiday Shipping</p><p>Amazon.com is the home of great shipping options. For convenient and effortless shopping customers can take advantage of a popular program called Amazon Prime. For $79 a year, customers receive free two-day express shipping on qualifying items. Amazon Prime benefits can be extended to up to four family members living in the same household and there is no minimum purchase required and no need to consolidate orders.</p><p>Additionally, customers can save money and be assured that their packages will arrive on time for the holidays by using Amazon.com's convenient Free Super Saver Shipping.</p><p>For delivery by December 24, the following guidelines apply (for items with 24-hour availability):</p><p>-- Dec. 15: Last day to order items using Free Super Saver Shipping on qualifying orders over $25</p><p>-- Dec. 18: Last day to order items using Guaranteed Standard Shipping</p><p>-- Dec. 19: Last day to order items using Two-Day Shipping</p><p>-- Dec. 20: Last day to order items using One-Day Shipping</p><p>-- Dec. 21: Last day to order items using One-Day Shipping, as late as 3PM PST (varies by item)</p><p>About Amazon.com</p><p>Amazon.com (Nasdaq:AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened its virtual doors on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and third-party sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished, and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden.</p><p>Amazon.com and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com.</p><p>As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc. and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise.</p><p>Forward-Looking Statement</p><p>This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings.</p><p>SOURCE: Amazon.com, Inc.</p><p>Amazon.com, Inc., Seattle Media Relations, 206-266-7180</p>

''Amazon Customers Vote'' Week One Results Are In-- Xbox 360 Available for Just $100 Thanksgiving Day

/news/news-details/2006/Amazon-Customers-Vote-Week-One-Results-Are-In---Xbox-360-Available-for-Just-100-Thanksgiving-Day/default.aspx

Amazon-Customers-Vote-Week-One-Results-Are-In---Xbox-360-Available-for-Just-100-Thanksgiving-Day

11/22/2006 07:30:00

''Amazon Customers Vote'' Week One Results Are In-- Xbox 360 Available for Just $100 Thanksgiving Day

11/22/2006

2006

Week Two Deals Also Live For Voting Tomorrow--Four New Great Products, Four Ridiculous Prices SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Nov. 22, 2006--Voting for Week One of Amazon Customers Vote ended late last night with more than 84 percent of holiday shoppers voting for the Xbox 360 core system at the low price of $100. This deal will be available for purchase tomorrow, Thanksgiving Day, beginning at 2 p.m. ET/11 a.m. PT on Amazon.com (www.amazon.com). At the same time, the three Week One deals that did not win--2,500 Mongoose dual-suspension mountain bikes, 2,000 Barbie in "The 12 Dancing Princesses" interactive Genevieve dolls, and 2,000 Amazon Prime memberships paired with $100 Amazon.com Toys Store promotional certificates--will be available at discounted prices well below Amazon.com's already-low prices. Thursday afternoon, a new ballot with four new great products at four ridiculous prices will be up for voting in Week Two of Amazon Customers Vote. Voting for these deals (listed below) runs through next Tuesday, November 28; the deal with the most votes will be available for purchase beginning at 2 p.m. ET/11 a.m. PT next Thursday, November 30. 1,000 Axion 7" portable DVD players, each for $25 (normally $109.99) 2,500 Black & Decker 12-volt drills, each for $10 (normally $49.99) 190 one-carat total weight diamond stud earrings set in 14k white gold, each for $350 (normally $1,099) 2,000 Amazon Prime memberships for $40 (normally $79) paired with a $100 Amazon.com Toys Store promotional certificate (a $179 value total.) Customers are allowed one vote per week but are encouraged to campaign for their deal with friends and family by e-mailing them from the Amazon Customers Vote page. All offers are brand-new, top-quality products. More deals customers can expect to see on the Amazon Customers Vote ballot in Week Three and Week Four include: Elliptical trainer One-year subscription of diapers Two-room eight-person family tent 26-inch LCD HDTV Swiss Army pocket knife George Foreman grill Journalists interested in receiving more information on Amazon Customers Vote can submit an inquiry via http://www.amazon.com/pr or the Amazon.com Media Hotline at 206-266-7180. About Amazon Prime Amazon Prime, Amazon.com's first-ever membership program, is available to customers for a flat fee of $79 per year. Amazon Prime members receive unlimited, express two-day shipping for free, with no minimum purchase requirement on over a million eligible items sold by Amazon.com. Members can order as late as 6:30 p.m. ET and still get their order the next day for only $3.99 per item, and they can share the benefits of Amazon Prime with up to four family members living in their household. Sign up for Amazon Prime at www.amazon.com/prime. About Amazon.com Amazon.com, Inc., (Nasdaq:AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com, Inc. seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden. Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com. As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise. Forward Looking Statements This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings. CONTACT: Amazon.com Media LineMedia Contact, 206-266-7180www.amazon.com/prSOURCE: Amazon.com

<p>Week Two Deals Also Live For Voting Tomorrow--Four New Great Products, Four Ridiculous Prices</p><p>SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Nov. 22, 2006--Voting for Week One of Amazon Customers Vote ended late last night with more than 84 percent of holiday shoppers voting for the Xbox 360 core system at the low price of $100. This deal will be available for purchase tomorrow, Thanksgiving Day, beginning at 2 p.m. ET/11 a.m. PT on Amazon.com (www.amazon.com). At the same time, the three Week One deals that did not win--2,500 Mongoose dual-suspension mountain bikes, 2,000 Barbie in "The 12 Dancing Princesses" interactive Genevieve dolls, and 2,000 Amazon Prime memberships paired with $100 Amazon.com Toys Store promotional certificates--will be available at discounted prices well below Amazon.com's already-low prices.</p><p>Thursday afternoon, a new ballot with four new great products at four ridiculous prices will be up for voting in Week Two of Amazon Customers Vote. Voting for these deals (listed below) runs through next Tuesday, November 28; the deal with the most votes will be available for purchase beginning at 2 p.m. ET/11 a.m. PT next Thursday, November 30.</p><ul><li>1,000 Axion 7" portable DVD players, each for $25 (normally $109.99)</li><li>2,500 Black &amp; Decker 12-volt drills, each for $10 (normally $49.99)</li><li>190 one-carat total weight diamond stud earrings set in 14k white gold, each for $350 (normally $1,099)</li><li>2,000 Amazon Prime memberships for $40 (normally $79) paired with a $100 Amazon.com Toys Store promotional certificate (a $179 value total.)</li></ul><p>Customers are allowed one vote per week but are encouraged to campaign for their deal with friends and family by e-mailing them from the Amazon Customers Vote page. All offers are brand-new, top-quality products.</p><p>More deals customers can expect to see on the Amazon Customers Vote ballot in Week Three and Week Four include:</p><ul><li>Elliptical trainer</li><li>One-year subscription of diapers</li><li>Two-room eight-person family tent</li><li>26-inch LCD HDTV</li><li>Swiss Army pocket knife</li><li>George Foreman grill</li></ul><p>Journalists interested in receiving more information on Amazon Customers Vote can submit an inquiry via http://www.amazon.com/pr or the Amazon.com Media Hotline at 206-266-7180.</p><p>About Amazon Prime</p><p>Amazon Prime, Amazon.com's first-ever membership program, is available to customers for a flat fee of $79 per year. Amazon Prime members receive unlimited, express two-day shipping for free, with no minimum purchase requirement on over a million eligible items sold by Amazon.com. Members can order as late as 6:30 p.m. ET and still get their order the next day for only $3.99 per item, and they can share the benefits of Amazon Prime with up to four family members living in their household. Sign up for Amazon Prime at www.amazon.com/prime.</p><p>About Amazon.com</p><p>Amazon.com, Inc., (Nasdaq:AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com, Inc. seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden.</p><p>Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com.</p><p>As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise.</p><p>Forward Looking Statements</p><p>This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings.</p><p>CONTACT: Amazon.com Media LineMedia Contact, 206-266-7180www.amazon.com/prSOURCE: Amazon.com</p>

Amazon.com Lets ''Customers Vote'' for Extraordinary Deals This Holiday Season

/news/news-details/2006/Amazon.com-Lets-Customers-Vote-for-Extraordinary-Deals-This-Holiday-Season/default.aspx

Amazon.com-Lets-Customers-Vote-for-Extraordinary-Deals-This-Holiday-Season

11/16/2006 07:31:00

Amazon.com Lets ''Customers Vote'' for Extraordinary Deals This Holiday Season

11/16/2006

2006

Four Great Products, Four Ridiculous Prices -- Each Week Only One Can Win SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Nov. 16, 2006--During the next four weeks, Amazon.com (NASDAQ: AMZN) will let customers decide which fantastic deals are offered this holiday season. "Amazon Customers Vote" starts today and continues through the next four weeks. Every Thursday, a new set of four extraordinary deals will be announced on the Amazon.com homepage. Some are popular items this holiday season and others are unique products that customers can only find on Amazon.com. These deals go well above traditional holiday discounting, so customers must vote on the one deal they want Amazon.com to offer each week. For week one, customers can vote today through next Tuesday (November 21), the deal with the most votes will be announced next Wednesday (November 22), and that deal can be purchased beginning at 11 a.m. PT next Thursday (November 23, Thanksgiving Day) -- the same day the next four deals will be up for voting. The first week's four deals that are up for voting on the Amazon.com homepage today include: 1,000 Xbox 360 core systems, each for $100 (normally $299.99) 2,500 Mongoose dual-suspension mountain bikes, each for $30 (normally $139.99) 2,000 Barbie in the 12 Dancing Princesses interactive Genevieve dolls, each for $10 (normally $49.84) 2,000 Amazon Prime memberships for $40 (normally $79) and receive a free $100 Amazon.com Toys Store promotional certificate. Customers are allowed one vote per week but are encouraged to campaign for their deal with friends and family by e-mailing them from the Amazon Customers Vote page. All offers are brand-new, top-quality products. More deals customers can expect to see (with similar quantities) on the Customers Vote ballot during the next four weeks include: Portable DVD player Elliptical trainer One-year subscription of diapers 1-carat-weight diamond earrings 14-volt cordless drill Two-room eight-person family tent 26-inch LCD HDTV Swiss Army pocket knife George Foreman grill "Customers love great deals during the holiday season," said Craig Berman, Amazon.com spokesman. "Amazon Customers Vote is a fun way to offer four great products at four ridiculous prices and empower our customers to determine which one wins." Journalists interested in receiving more information on Amazon Customers Vote can submit an inquiry via http://www.amazon.com/pr or the Amazon.com Media Hotline at (206) 266-7180. About Amazon Prime Amazon Prime, Amazon.com's first-ever membership program, is available to customers for a flat fee of $79 per year. Amazon Prime members receive unlimited, express two-day shipping for free, with no minimum purchase requirement on over a million eligible items sold by Amazon.com. Members can order as late as 6:30 p.m. ET and still get their order the next day for only $3.99 per item, and they can share the benefits of Amazon Prime with up to four family members living in their household. Sign up for Amazon Prime at www.amazon.com/prime. About Amazon.com Amazon.com, Inc., (Nasdaq: AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com, Inc. seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden. Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com. As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise. Forward Looking Statements This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings. CONTACT: Amazon.com Media Line, 206-266-7180www.amazon.com/prSOURCE: Amazon.com

<p>Four Great Products, Four Ridiculous Prices -- Each Week Only One Can Win</p><p>SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Nov. 16, 2006--During the next four weeks, Amazon.com (NASDAQ: AMZN) will let customers decide which fantastic deals are offered this holiday season. "Amazon Customers Vote" starts today and continues through the next four weeks. Every Thursday, a new set of four extraordinary deals will be announced on the Amazon.com homepage. Some are popular items this holiday season and others are unique products that customers can only find on Amazon.com. These deals go well above traditional holiday discounting, so customers must vote on the one deal they want Amazon.com to offer each week. For week one, customers can vote today through next Tuesday (November 21), the deal with the most votes will be announced next Wednesday (November 22), and that deal can be purchased beginning at 11 a.m. PT next Thursday (November 23, Thanksgiving Day) -- the same day the next four deals will be up for voting.</p><p>The first week's four deals that are up for voting on the Amazon.com homepage today include:</p><ul><li>1,000 Xbox 360 core systems, each for $100 (normally $299.99)</li><li>2,500 Mongoose dual-suspension mountain bikes, each for $30 (normally $139.99)</li><li>2,000 Barbie in the 12 Dancing Princesses interactive Genevieve dolls, each for $10 (normally $49.84)</li><li>2,000 Amazon Prime memberships for $40 (normally $79) and receive a free $100 Amazon.com Toys Store promotional certificate.</li></ul><p>Customers are allowed one vote per week but are encouraged to campaign for their deal with friends and family by e-mailing them from the Amazon Customers Vote page. All offers are brand-new, top-quality products.</p><p>More deals customers can expect to see (with similar quantities) on the Customers Vote ballot during the next four weeks include:</p><ul><li>Portable DVD player</li><li>Elliptical trainer</li><li>One-year subscription of diapers</li><li>1-carat-weight diamond earrings</li><li>14-volt cordless drill</li><li>Two-room eight-person family tent</li><li>26-inch LCD HDTV</li><li>Swiss Army pocket knife</li><li>George Foreman grill</li></ul><p>"Customers love great deals during the holiday season," said Craig Berman, Amazon.com spokesman. "Amazon Customers Vote is a fun way to offer four great products at four ridiculous prices and empower our customers to determine which one wins."</p><p>Journalists interested in receiving more information on Amazon Customers Vote can submit an inquiry via http://www.amazon.com/pr or the Amazon.com Media Hotline at (206) 266-7180.</p><p>About Amazon Prime</p><p>Amazon Prime, Amazon.com's first-ever membership program, is available to customers for a flat fee of $79 per year. Amazon Prime members receive unlimited, express two-day shipping for free, with no minimum purchase requirement on over a million eligible items sold by Amazon.com. Members can order as late as 6:30 p.m. ET and still get their order the next day for only $3.99 per item, and they can share the benefits of Amazon Prime with up to four family members living in their household. Sign up for Amazon Prime at www.amazon.com/prime.</p><p>About Amazon.com</p><p>Amazon.com, Inc., (Nasdaq: AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com, Inc. seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden.</p><p>Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com.</p><p>As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise.</p><p>Forward Looking Statements</p><p>This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings.</p><p>CONTACT: Amazon.com Media Line, 206-266-7180www.amazon.com/prSOURCE: Amazon.com</p>

Amazon Associates Launches Three New Innovations to Help Website Owners Enhance and Monetize Their Content

/news/news-details/2006/Amazon-Associates-Launches-Three-New-Innovations-to-Help-Website-Owners-Enhance-and-Monetize-Their-Content/default.aspx

Amazon-Associates-Launches-Three-New-Innovations-to-Help-Website-Owners-Enhance-and-Monetize-Their-Content

11/14/2006 08:31:00

Amazon Associates Launches Three New Innovations to Help Website Owners Enhance and Monetize Their Content

11/14/2006

2006

Associates to earn additional 4% for items referred via aStore or Omakase through Dec. 31 SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Nov. 14, 2006--Amazon.com (Nasdaq:AMZN) today announced three new innovations that allow Amazon Associates to integrate comprehensive storefronts (aStore), personalized product links (Omakase), and convenient product windows (Product Previews) into their websites within minutes. Website owners who sign up to be Amazon Associates and take advantage of these new tools will receive referral fees of up to 8.5 percent when visitors to their sites click on Amazon.com products and complete their purchases on the Amazon.com website. The three new innovations are available today at http://affiliate-program.amazon.com/join. "The web becomes a more crowded medium every day, which is why we're constantly looking at new technologies to help Amazon Associates feature Amazon.com products in more interesting and engaging ways," said Karen Haberkorn, Senior Manager for Product Management, Amazon Associates. "As more Associates begin to take advantage of these new tools we believe their site visitors will find Amazon product placements more relevant and seamlessly integrated than ever before." Between now and Dec. 31, 2006, Associates can earn up to $1,000 in additional referral fees by using aStore and Omakase Links. During that time, Associates will earn an additional 4 percent when they refer visitors to Amazon.com using aStore or Omakase Links (up to a maximum of $500 from each feature per Associate). aStore (http://astore.amazon.com) aStore lets Associates create complete storefronts on their websites quickly and easily. Associates with virtually no technical skills can create an online store that includes products from any of Amazon's 35-plus categories and popular Amazon shopping features such as Customer Reviews, Editor Reviews, Wish Lists, and Listmania. By allowing aStore shoppers to add multiple products to their Amazon.com shopping carts before completing their purchases on Amazon.com, Associates can keep their visitors engaged and shopping. aStores are completely free for Associates. aStore beta users include NarniaWeb (http://www.narniaweb.com), which links to their aStore through the "Marketplace" option in their site navigation, and popular blogging service Typepad, which uses aStore to build the "TypePad Bookstore" into their own books blog at http://books.typepad.com. "Our mission at TypePad is to offer people powerful and cost-effective blogging tools," said Michael Sippey, TypePad's General Manager. "aStore makes it easy for us to merchandise books of interest to TypePad bloggers in a compelling and attractive store that integrates well with our site." Omakase Links Omakase Links leave one of the hardest parts of operating an e-commerce site -- personalization -- to Amazon, which has been offering personalization on its own website since 1997. That's why the technology is called "Omakase," which in Japanese means "leave it up to us." Omakase Links automatically display products personalized to visitors' purchase and browse history on Amazon, as well as the content of the Associate's sites. Associates can also customize the look of the links to match their site design. For example, Metacritic (http://www.metacritic.com) is already using Omakase Links to seamlessly blend relevant product ads on the front page of their online review site. Product Previews Product Previews let website visitors view valuable product information without having to click through to Amazon.com. When visitors hover over a Product Preview link in a body of text or a small storefront of products, a small window appears that contains the product image, new and used prices, average customer review and availability. Visitors can either add the item directly to their Amazon.com shopping carts or click through to product details on Amazon from the product window. Product Previews allow Associates to offer their visitors a convenient, seamless option for adding products to their shopping cart while enjoying the content of the sites. For example, TVparty! (http://www.tvparty.com) uses Product Preview links in the "New TV shows on DVD" section of its front page to let visitors see purchase information about the DVDs without clicking through to the product's complete webpage. BlogCritics.org includes Product Preview links at the bottom of their music reviews (http://blogcritics.org/2006/10/29/104748.php) to provide readers an option for purchasing the albums related to and discussed in the review. Journalists interested in receiving more information can submit an inquiry via http://www.amazon.com/pr or the Amazon.com Media Hotline at 206-266-7180. About Amazon Associates Launched in 1996, Amazon Associates is Amazon.com's affiliate marketing program that includes hundreds of thousands of websites. Associates link to Amazon products and services from their websites, which adds compelling content for their visitors to enjoy and creates an additional revenue stream for their business. This revenue comes in the form of a referral fee that Amazon pays the Associate when a visitor to the Associate's site clicks on an Amazon product or service and completes the purchase on Amazon.com. Current participants in the Amazon Associates program include large, well-known sites, niche content sites and blogs, comparison shopping engines, search engine marketers, and everything in between. Amazon has Associates programs for Amazon.com, Amazon.ca, Amazon.co.uk, Amazon.co.jp, Amazon.de, and Amazon.fr. For more information on the U.S. program, visit http://affiliate-program.amazon.com/join or the Associates Blog at http://affiliate-blog.amazon.com. About Amazon.com Amazon.com, Inc., (Nasdaq:AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com, Inc. seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden. Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com. As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise. Forward Looking Statements This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings. CONTACT: Amazon.com Media Hotline, 206-266-7180http://www.amazon.com/prSOURCE: Amazon.com

<p>Associates to earn additional 4% for items referred via aStore or Omakase through Dec. 31</p><p>SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Nov. 14, 2006--Amazon.com (Nasdaq:AMZN) today announced three new innovations that allow Amazon Associates to integrate comprehensive storefronts (aStore), personalized product links (Omakase), and convenient product windows (Product Previews) into their websites within minutes. Website owners who sign up to be Amazon Associates and take advantage of these new tools will receive referral fees of up to 8.5 percent when visitors to their sites click on Amazon.com products and complete their purchases on the Amazon.com website. The three new innovations are available today at http://affiliate-program.amazon.com/join.</p><p>"The web becomes a more crowded medium every day, which is why we're constantly looking at new technologies to help Amazon Associates feature Amazon.com products in more interesting and engaging ways," said Karen Haberkorn, Senior Manager for Product Management, Amazon Associates. "As more Associates begin to take advantage of these new tools we believe their site visitors will find Amazon product placements more relevant and seamlessly integrated than ever before."</p><p>Between now and Dec. 31, 2006, Associates can earn up to $1,000 in additional referral fees by using aStore and Omakase Links. During that time, Associates will earn an additional 4 percent when they refer visitors to Amazon.com using aStore or Omakase Links (up to a maximum of $500 from each feature per Associate).</p><p>aStore (http://astore.amazon.com)</p><p>aStore lets Associates create complete storefronts on their websites quickly and easily. Associates with virtually no technical skills can create an online store that includes products from any of Amazon's 35-plus categories and popular Amazon shopping features such as Customer Reviews, Editor Reviews, Wish Lists, and Listmania. By allowing aStore shoppers to add multiple products to their Amazon.com shopping carts before completing their purchases on Amazon.com, Associates can keep their visitors engaged and shopping. aStores are completely free for Associates.</p><p>aStore beta users include NarniaWeb (http://www.narniaweb.com), which links to their aStore through the "Marketplace" option in their site navigation, and popular blogging service Typepad, which uses aStore to build the "TypePad Bookstore" into their own books blog at http://books.typepad.com.</p><p>"Our mission at TypePad is to offer people powerful and cost-effective blogging tools," said Michael Sippey, TypePad's General Manager. "aStore makes it easy for us to merchandise books of interest to TypePad bloggers in a compelling and attractive store that integrates well with our site."</p><p>Omakase Links</p><p>Omakase Links leave one of the hardest parts of operating an e-commerce site -- personalization -- to Amazon, which has been offering personalization on its own website since 1997. That's why the technology is called "Omakase," which in Japanese means "leave it up to us." Omakase Links automatically display products personalized to visitors' purchase and browse history on Amazon, as well as the content of the Associate's sites. Associates can also customize the look of the links to match their site design. For example, Metacritic (http://www.metacritic.com) is already using Omakase Links to seamlessly blend relevant product ads on the front page of their online review site.</p><p>Product Previews</p><p>Product Previews let website visitors view valuable product information without having to click through to Amazon.com. When visitors hover over a Product Preview link in a body of text or a small storefront of products, a small window appears that contains the product image, new and used prices, average customer review and availability. Visitors can either add the item directly to their Amazon.com shopping carts or click through to product details on Amazon from the product window. Product Previews allow Associates to offer their visitors a convenient, seamless option for adding products to their shopping cart while enjoying the content of the sites.</p><p>For example, TVparty! (http://www.tvparty.com) uses Product Preview links in the "New TV shows on DVD" section of its front page to let visitors see purchase information about the DVDs without clicking through to the product's complete webpage. BlogCritics.org includes Product Preview links at the bottom of their music reviews (http://blogcritics.org/2006/10/29/104748.php) to provide readers an option for purchasing the albums related to and discussed in the review.</p><p>Journalists interested in receiving more information can submit an inquiry via http://www.amazon.com/pr or the Amazon.com Media Hotline at 206-266-7180.</p><p>About Amazon Associates</p><p>Launched in 1996, Amazon Associates is Amazon.com's affiliate marketing program that includes hundreds of thousands of websites. Associates link to Amazon products and services from their websites, which adds compelling content for their visitors to enjoy and creates an additional revenue stream for their business. This revenue comes in the form of a referral fee that Amazon pays the Associate when a visitor to the Associate's site clicks on an Amazon product or service and completes the purchase on Amazon.com. Current participants in the Amazon Associates program include large, well-known sites, niche content sites and blogs, comparison shopping engines, search engine marketers, and everything in between. Amazon has Associates programs for Amazon.com, Amazon.ca, Amazon.co.uk, Amazon.co.jp, Amazon.de, and Amazon.fr. For more information on the U.S. program, visit http://affiliate-program.amazon.com/join or the Associates Blog at http://affiliate-blog.amazon.com.</p><p>About Amazon.com</p><p>Amazon.com, Inc., (Nasdaq:AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com, Inc. seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden.</p><p>Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com.</p><p>As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise.</p><p>Forward Looking Statements</p><p>This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings.</p><p>CONTACT: Amazon.com Media Hotline, 206-266-7180http://www.amazon.com/prSOURCE: Amazon.com</p>

Amazon.com Consumer Electronics Store Announces New Interest-Free Financing, Click-to-Call and Premium Delivery on Select Electronics Just In Time for the Holidays

/news/news-details/2006/Amazon.com-Consumer-Electronics-Store-Announces-New-Interest-Free-Financing-Click-to-Call-and-Premium-Delivery-on-Select-Electronics-Just-In-Time-for-the-Holidays/default.aspx

Amazon.com-Consumer-Electronics-Store-Announces-New-Interest-Free-Financing-Click-to-Call-and-Premium-Delivery-on-Select-Electronics-Just-In-Time-for-the-Holidays

11/09/2006 09:02:00

Amazon.com Consumer Electronics Store Announces New Interest-Free Financing, Click-to-Call and Premium Delivery on Select Electronics Just In Time for the Holidays

11/09/2006

2006

SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Nov. 9, 2006--Amazon.com (Nasdaq:AMZN) today announced that Amazon customers can now take advantage of interest-free financing on select electronics products in Amazon.com's Electronics store (www.amazon.com/electronics) as the holiday shopping season approaches. The announcement came as the store unveiled several additional user-friendly features, all designed to make the experience of shopping online for consumer electronics products easier and more convenient than ever before. In addition to interest-free financing, Amazon's Electronics Store customers can now receive quick and easy personal assistance using the site's innovative Click-to-Call tool, which connects them to an Amazon sales associate. And to ensure that all big-screen TV orders arrive in a timely manner, ready for immediate use, the store offers Amazon's Premium Delivery Service. With Premium Delivery, the carrier personally brings the customer's big-screen TV into the home, unpacks the item and removes the packaging materials. "The new features in our Consumer Electronics store are focused on making it easier than ever for customers to make an informed buying decision about any of the hundreds of thousands of CE items we offer," noted Paul Ryder, vice president of Consumer Electronics at Amazon.com. "Our new interest-free financing, Click-to-Call and Premium Delivery options, as well as expert editorial reviews, buying guides and more, give Amazon.com shoppers the advanced tools they need to find, discover and buy virtually any type of electronics product and rest assured that they made the right decision." Amazon now offers interest-free financing on select TVs and audio products through the Amazon.com Credit Account. Most customers will receive instant online approval and can purchase a TV with no money down, no payments and no interest for one year. Certain restrictions apply; see Amazon.com for details. Amazon's Click-to-Call tool allows customers to contact a product specialist by scheduling a call. By simply clicking on the Call Me link on specific product detail pages, a representative will be alerted to call a customer back immediately or within a selected timeframe and have access to the information the customer is viewing. Amazon's Premium Delivery Service is offered on all big-screen TVs over 27" and includes delivery, unpacking and the removal of packing materials. This service, which is included for no additional charge to the standard delivery fee, is designed to ensure customers will be ready to begin enjoying their new TV as quickly as possible. In addition to these new features, Amazon.com provides Free Super Saver Shipping and Amazon Prime on tens of thousands of electronics products sold by Amazon. And, as always, the Electronics Store provides expert editorial and customer reviews, image uploading, buying recommendations, links to what other customers have purchased and easy one-cart shopping. About Amazon Prime Amazon Prime, Amazon.com's first-ever membership program, is available to customers for a flat fee of $79 per year. Amazon Prime members receive unlimited express two-day shipping for free, with no minimum purchase requirement on over a million eligible items sold by Amazon.com. Members can order as late as 6:30 p.m. ET and still get their order the next day for only $3.99 per item, and they can share the benefits of Amazon Prime with up to four family members living in their household. Sign up for Amazon Prime at www.amazon.com/prime. About Amazon.com Amazon.com, Inc., (Nasdaq:AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com, Inc. seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden. Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com. As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise. Forward-Looking Statements This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings. CONTACT: AmazonMedia Hotline, 206-266-7180www.amazon.com/prSOURCE: Amazon.com

<p>SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Nov. 9, 2006--Amazon.com (Nasdaq:AMZN) today announced that Amazon customers can now take advantage of interest-free financing on select electronics products in Amazon.com's Electronics store (www.amazon.com/electronics) as the holiday shopping season approaches. The announcement came as the store unveiled several additional user-friendly features, all designed to make the experience of shopping online for consumer electronics products easier and more convenient than ever before. In addition to interest-free financing, Amazon's Electronics Store customers can now receive quick and easy personal assistance using the site's innovative Click-to-Call tool, which connects them to an Amazon sales associate. And to ensure that all big-screen TV orders arrive in a timely manner, ready for immediate use, the store offers Amazon's Premium Delivery Service. With Premium Delivery, the carrier personally brings the customer's big-screen TV into the home, unpacks the item and removes the packaging materials.</p><p>"The new features in our Consumer Electronics store are focused on making it easier than ever for customers to make an informed buying decision about any of the hundreds of thousands of CE items we offer," noted Paul Ryder, vice president of Consumer Electronics at Amazon.com. "Our new interest-free financing, Click-to-Call and Premium Delivery options, as well as expert editorial reviews, buying guides and more, give Amazon.com shoppers the advanced tools they need to find, discover and buy virtually any type of electronics product and rest assured that they made the right decision."</p><p>Amazon now offers interest-free financing on select TVs and audio products through the Amazon.com Credit Account. Most customers will receive instant online approval and can purchase a TV with no money down, no payments and no interest for one year. Certain restrictions apply; see Amazon.com for details.</p><p>Amazon's Click-to-Call tool allows customers to contact a product specialist by scheduling a call. By simply clicking on the Call Me link on specific product detail pages, a representative will be alerted to call a customer back immediately or within a selected timeframe and have access to the information the customer is viewing.</p><p>Amazon's Premium Delivery Service is offered on all big-screen TVs over 27" and includes delivery, unpacking and the removal of packing materials. This service, which is included for no additional charge to the standard delivery fee, is designed to ensure customers will be ready to begin enjoying their new TV as quickly as possible.</p><p>In addition to these new features, Amazon.com provides Free Super Saver Shipping and Amazon Prime on tens of thousands of electronics products sold by Amazon. And, as always, the Electronics Store provides expert editorial and customer reviews, image uploading, buying recommendations, links to what other customers have purchased and easy one-cart shopping.</p><p>About Amazon Prime</p><p>Amazon Prime, Amazon.com's first-ever membership program, is available to customers for a flat fee of $79 per year. Amazon Prime members receive unlimited express two-day shipping for free, with no minimum purchase requirement on over a million eligible items sold by Amazon.com. Members can order as late as 6:30 p.m. ET and still get their order the next day for only $3.99 per item, and they can share the benefits of Amazon Prime with up to four family members living in their household. Sign up for Amazon Prime at www.amazon.com/prime.</p><p>About Amazon.com</p><p>Amazon.com, Inc., (Nasdaq:AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com, Inc. seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden.</p><p>Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com.</p><p>As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise.</p><p>Forward-Looking Statements</p><p>This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings.</p><p>CONTACT: AmazonMedia Hotline, 206-266-7180www.amazon.com/prSOURCE: Amazon.com</p>

U2 Performs ''With or Without You'' and ''Origin of the Species'' Exclusively on Amazon.com

/news/news-details/2006/U2-Performs-With-or-Without-You-and-Origin-of-the-Species-Exclusively-on-Amazon.com/default.aspx

U2-Performs-With-or-Without-You-and-Origin-of-the-Species-Exclusively-on-Amazon.com

11/08/2006 09:01:00

U2 Performs ''With or Without You'' and ''Origin of the Species'' Exclusively on Amazon.com

11/08/2006

2006

Exclusive Sneak Preview of U2's Upcoming CD/DVD "U218 Singles -- Limited Edition" Viewable Only On Amazon.com SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Nov. 8, 2006--Amazon.com (Nasdaq:AMZN) is offering U2 fans an exclusive sneak preview of two popular songs "With or Without You" and "Origin of the Species" from their forthcoming CD/DVD, U218 Singles -- Limited Edition, available for preorder now on Amazon.com. Beginning today, fans and Amazon.com customers can visit www.amazon.com/U2, where they can watch the Grammy-winning group perform these two U2 favorites at a live concert in Milan, Italy. "U2 is the No. 2 top-selling artist of all time on Amazon.com," said Peter Faricy, vice president of music at Amazon.com. "We look forward to sharing this groundbreaking exclusive performance from the world-renowned band with our customers." U218 Singles -- Limited Edition, a CD/DVD Combo, is currently available for pre-order on Amazon.com for $23.99, a discount of 20 percent. The U218 Singles CD is available for pre-order for $8.99, a discount of 36 percent. The album and CD/DVD will be released on November 21. Journalists interested in receiving more information on Amazon.com exclusive content can contact an Amazon.com spokesperson via http://www.amazon.com/pr or the Amazon.com Media Hotline at 206-266-7180. About Amazon.com Amazon.com, Inc., (Nasdaq:AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com, Inc. seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden. Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com. As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise. Forward Looking Statement This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings. CONTACT: Amazon Media Hotline, 206-266-7180www.amazon.com/prSOURCE: Amazon.com, Inc.

<p>Exclusive Sneak Preview of U2's Upcoming CD/DVD "U218 Singles -- Limited Edition" Viewable Only On Amazon.com</p><p>SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Nov. 8, 2006--Amazon.com (Nasdaq:AMZN) is offering U2 fans an exclusive sneak preview of two popular songs "With or Without You" and "Origin of the Species" from their forthcoming CD/DVD, U218 Singles -- Limited Edition, available for preorder now on Amazon.com. Beginning today, fans and Amazon.com customers can visit www.amazon.com/U2, where they can watch the Grammy-winning group perform these two U2 favorites at a live concert in Milan, Italy.</p><p>"U2 is the No. 2 top-selling artist of all time on Amazon.com," said Peter Faricy, vice president of music at Amazon.com. "We look forward to sharing this groundbreaking exclusive performance from the world-renowned band with our customers."</p><p>U218 Singles -- Limited Edition, a CD/DVD Combo, is currently available for pre-order on Amazon.com for $23.99, a discount of 20 percent. The U218 Singles CD is available for pre-order for $8.99, a discount of 36 percent. The album and CD/DVD will be released on November 21.</p><p>Journalists interested in receiving more information on Amazon.com exclusive content can contact an Amazon.com spokesperson via http://www.amazon.com/pr or the Amazon.com Media Hotline at 206-266-7180.</p><p>About Amazon.com</p><p>Amazon.com, Inc., (Nasdaq:AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com, Inc. seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden.</p><p>Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com.</p><p>As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise.</p><p>Forward Looking Statement</p><p>This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings.</p><p>CONTACT: Amazon Media Hotline, 206-266-7180www.amazon.com/prSOURCE: Amazon.com, Inc.</p>

Joyo.com Announces Opening of New Facility in Suzhou to Support Its Business in Eastern China

/news/news-details/2006/Joyo.com-Announces-Opening-of-New-Facility-in-Suzhou-to-Support-Its-Business-in-Eastern-China/default.aspx

Joyo.com-Announces-Opening-of-New-Facility-in-Suzhou-to-Support-Its-Business-in-Eastern-China

11/03/2006 08:01:00

Joyo.com Announces Opening of New Facility in Suzhou to Support Its Business in Eastern China

11/03/2006

2006

SHANGHAI, China--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Nov. 3, 2006--Joyo.com, the biggest online Chinese bookstore and leading Chinese online shopping platform, today announced that its second largest operation center has opened for business in Suzhou Industrial Park, in Eastern China. The new facility will create up to 500 jobs in the next several years. The new, ultra-modern operation center will support Joyo.com's efforts to develop its business in Eastern China, using Amazon's world-leading logistics technology and successful online retail experience to provide easy and convenient e-commerce service to customers in the region. The opening of the center has been strongly endorsed by the local government authorities in Suzhou, as well as the management of Suzhou Industrial Park. Both groups have been supportive of the creation of the operations center from the very outset of the project. Wang Hanhua, President, Joyo.com, said: "Joyo.com is committed to delivering the best online shopping experience for customers. As we have expanded Joyo's product selection to include over 400,000 books, music, video and DVD titles, as well as categories such as electronics, home appliances, mother/baby and Toys, we are dedicated to continually lowering prices and helping our customers find exactly what they need." "The new operation center is evidence of our plans to enhance the scope of our services for businesses and consumers and to enable more customers to enjoy a higher quality of online shopping experience," said Mr. Wang. Takii Satoshi, Vice President of Asia Pacific operations for Amazon.com, said: "We are delighted that our new operation center has formally opened for business in the Prologis (Suzhou) Logistics Park in the Suzhou Industrial Park. Our new location will enable us to serve Joyo's customers in Eastern China even more quickly and efficiently." Joyo.com made the strategic decision to move its online sales center in Eastern China from Shanghai to the Suzhou Industrial Park and expanded the space capacity almost 5 times from 2.3K sqm. to around 11K sqm., in order to meet the ever-growing customer needs in the eastern China market. Tens of thousands of products from categories ranging from books, audio and video, digital phones, baby products and gifts, will be delivered directly from the Suzhou warehouse, serving Joyo's customers in a range of provinces and cities in the region, such as Zhejiang, Jiangshu, Anhui, Jiangxi and Shanghai. Yang Zhiping, Vice Director, Business Invitation Department, Suzhou Industrial Park management committee, said: "Joyo.com's presence in Suzhou Industrial Park will bring a strong driving force to the construction of our brand, the optimization of our industry structures and the overall development plan of the park." "The new center, directly facing end-customers with a huge throughput of products and services, will directly bring business opportunities to many logistics and transportation companies based around the Suzhou Industrial Park. Also, Amazon's advanced logistics management experience, adopted by Joyo.com, will provide better support for the center, and will drive the development of the Suzhou logistics sector," said Mr. Yang. "In the following three years, it is estimated that the center will create tens of millions in revenues for the transportation and service industry in the region. We heartily welcome Joyo.com's decision to partner with the domestic logistics industry, using its advanced world-class technology, and to actively participate in the development of the Suzhou Industrial Park," he said. According to the latest Internet uptake report from the China Internet Network Information Center (CINIC), the volume of Internet users in the Eastern China region has grown considerably in recent years. The total number of Internet users in the region is 1.4 times greater than the number in Middle and Western China. Suzhou is situated in the heart of the Yangtze River Delta at the intersection of the coastal economic belt and the Yangtze River Delta economic belt. It is about an hour drive to Shanghai. The Shanghai-Nanjing Expressway and the Suzhou-Hangzhou Expressway intersect in Suzhou and connect it to major cities in the Yangtze River Delta such as Shanghai, Nanjing and Hangzhou. In addition, the airports and seaports of Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport, Pudong International Airport, Zhangjiagang Riverport, Changshu Riverport, Taicang Riverport, and Shanghai seaport form a convenient and highly efficient transportation network for Joyo's new Suzhou Operation Center, providing an important base for Joyo to further covering the entire Eastern China market. Joyo.com, an online store founded in 2000, has grown into a large online shopping mall with hundreds of thousands of products categorized into different product menus. Joyo.com provides COD (cash-on-delivery) service in 308 cities around the country and free delivery service for orders more than 99 YUAN. The opening of new Suzhou Operation Center will bring more opportunities to the future development of Joyo.com. About Joyo.com Joyo.com was founded in May 2000 and is now the largest retailer of Chinese books in the world. In addition, Joyo.com offers its customers a wide selection of books, music, videos and DVDs, software, wireless and digital cameras, toys and gifts, health and personal care items, among other products, as well as free shipping on qualifying purchases over RMB 99. Joyo.com is headquartered in Beijing. About Amazon.com Amazon.com, Inc., (Nasdaq:AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com, Inc. seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden. Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, and www.amazon.ca. In 2004, Amazon.com acquired Joyo.com Limited, which operates the Joyo.com Web site in cooperation with Chinese subsidiaries and affiliates. As used herein, "Amazon.com," includes Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise. Forward-Looking Statement This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings. CONTACT: Amazon.com, Inc., SeattlePR contact:Patty Smith, 206-266-7180SOURCE: Amazon.com, Inc.

<p>SHANGHAI, China--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Nov. 3, 2006--Joyo.com, the biggest online Chinese bookstore and leading Chinese online shopping platform, today announced that its second largest operation center has opened for business in Suzhou Industrial Park, in Eastern China. The new facility will create up to 500 jobs in the next several years.</p><p>The new, ultra-modern operation center will support Joyo.com's efforts to develop its business in Eastern China, using Amazon's world-leading logistics technology and successful online retail experience to provide easy and convenient e-commerce service to customers in the region.</p><p>The opening of the center has been strongly endorsed by the local government authorities in Suzhou, as well as the management of Suzhou Industrial Park. Both groups have been supportive of the creation of the operations center from the very outset of the project.</p><p>Wang Hanhua, President, Joyo.com, said: "Joyo.com is committed to delivering the best online shopping experience for customers. As we have expanded Joyo's product selection to include over 400,000 books, music, video and DVD titles, as well as categories such as electronics, home appliances, mother/baby and Toys, we are dedicated to continually lowering prices and helping our customers find exactly what they need."</p><p>"The new operation center is evidence of our plans to enhance the scope of our services for businesses and consumers and to enable more customers to enjoy a higher quality of online shopping experience," said Mr. Wang.</p><p>Takii Satoshi, Vice President of Asia Pacific operations for Amazon.com, said: "We are delighted that our new operation center has formally opened for business in the Prologis (Suzhou) Logistics Park in the Suzhou Industrial Park. Our new location will enable us to serve Joyo's customers in Eastern China even more quickly and efficiently."</p><p>Joyo.com made the strategic decision to move its online sales center in Eastern China from Shanghai to the Suzhou Industrial Park and expanded the space capacity almost 5 times from 2.3K sqm. to around 11K sqm., in order to meet the ever-growing customer needs in the eastern China market.</p><p>Tens of thousands of products from categories ranging from books, audio and video, digital phones, baby products and gifts, will be delivered directly from the Suzhou warehouse, serving Joyo's customers in a range of provinces and cities in the region, such as Zhejiang, Jiangshu, Anhui, Jiangxi and Shanghai.</p><p>Yang Zhiping, Vice Director, Business Invitation Department, Suzhou Industrial Park management committee, said: "Joyo.com's presence in Suzhou Industrial Park will bring a strong driving force to the construction of our brand, the optimization of our industry structures and the overall development plan of the park."</p><p>"The new center, directly facing end-customers with a huge throughput of products and services, will directly bring business opportunities to many logistics and transportation companies based around the Suzhou Industrial Park. Also, Amazon's advanced logistics management experience, adopted by Joyo.com, will provide better support for the center, and will drive the development of the Suzhou logistics sector," said Mr. Yang.</p><p>"In the following three years, it is estimated that the center will create tens of millions in revenues for the transportation and service industry in the region. We heartily welcome Joyo.com's decision to partner with the domestic logistics industry, using its advanced world-class technology, and to actively participate in the development of the Suzhou Industrial Park," he said.</p><p>According to the latest Internet uptake report from the China Internet Network Information Center (CINIC), the volume of Internet users in the Eastern China region has grown considerably in recent years. The total number of Internet users in the region is 1.4 times greater than the number in Middle and Western China.</p><p>Suzhou is situated in the heart of the Yangtze River Delta at the intersection of the coastal economic belt and the Yangtze River Delta economic belt. It is about an hour drive to Shanghai. The Shanghai-Nanjing Expressway and the Suzhou-Hangzhou Expressway intersect in Suzhou and connect it to major cities in the Yangtze River Delta such as Shanghai, Nanjing and Hangzhou.</p><p>In addition, the airports and seaports of Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport, Pudong International Airport, Zhangjiagang Riverport, Changshu Riverport, Taicang Riverport, and Shanghai seaport form a convenient and highly efficient transportation network for Joyo's new Suzhou Operation Center, providing an important base for Joyo to further covering the entire Eastern China market.</p><p>Joyo.com, an online store founded in 2000, has grown into a large online shopping mall with hundreds of thousands of products categorized into different product menus. Joyo.com provides COD (cash-on-delivery) service in 308 cities around the country and free delivery service for orders more than 99 YUAN. The opening of new Suzhou Operation Center will bring more opportunities to the future development of Joyo.com.</p><p>About Joyo.com</p><p>Joyo.com was founded in May 2000 and is now the largest retailer of Chinese books in the world. In addition, Joyo.com offers its customers a wide selection of books, music, videos and DVDs, software, wireless and digital cameras, toys and gifts, health and personal care items, among other products, as well as free shipping on qualifying purchases over RMB 99. Joyo.com is headquartered in Beijing.</p><p>About Amazon.com</p><p>Amazon.com, Inc., (Nasdaq:AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com, Inc. seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden.</p><p>Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, and www.amazon.ca.</p><p>In 2004, Amazon.com acquired Joyo.com Limited, which operates the Joyo.com Web site in cooperation with Chinese subsidiaries and affiliates.</p><p>As used herein, "Amazon.com," includes Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise.</p><p>Forward-Looking Statement</p><p>This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings.</p><p>CONTACT: Amazon.com, Inc., SeattlePR contact:Patty Smith, 206-266-7180SOURCE: Amazon.com, Inc.</p>

Customer Obsession and Commitment to Innovation Push Amazon.com to #1 in Customer Service According to National Retail Survey Released Today

/news/news-details/2006/Customer-Obsession-and-Commitment-to-Innovation-Push-Amazon.com-to-1-in-Customer-Service-According-to-National-Retail-Survey-Released-Today/default.aspx

Customer-Obsession-and-Commitment-to-Innovation-Push-Amazon.com-to-1-in-Customer-Service-According-to-National-Retail-Survey-Released-Today

11/02/2006 09:31:00

Customer Obsession and Commitment to Innovation Push Amazon.com to #1 in Customer Service According to National Retail Survey Released Today

11/02/2006

2006

National Retail Federation poll asks 8,001 consumers, "Which retailer delivers the best customer service?" SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Nov. 2, 2006--Results of the National Retail Federation (NRF) Foundation/American Express Customer Service Survey released today rank Amazon.com #1 among all retailers in the United States. The survey polled 8,001 consumers from September 6-13, 2006, with the question: "Which retailer delivers the best customer service?" NRF will honor Amazon.com with the "Customer's Choice" award for achieving a reputation for excellence in customer service. "This ranking is an amazing honor for all of us at Amazon.com because it comes from our customers," says Amazon.com Founder and CEO Jeff Bezos. "We are grateful for the recognition, and we'll keep working hard for customers." Amazon.com seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, groceries, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden. For the past 11 years, Amazon.com has developed features that combine to offer customers the highest possible level of customer service. Examples include: Amazon Prime offers customers free two-day shipping on their purchases for just $79/year (no minimum purchase required, upgrade to one-day/overnight shipping for just $3.99, available on over a million eligible items sold by Amazon.com). FREE Super Saver Shipping provides all customers with free shipping on orders over $25 (some restrictions apply). Customer Reviews help customers make informed purchase decisions. Instant Order Update lets customers know when they are about to purchase a product that they have already purchased--just in case they forgot. Where's My Stuff allows customers to track where their shipment is on its way to their doorstep. Personalized Recommendations give customers ideas for products tailored to their unique tastes. 1-Click Ordering lets customers place an order by clicking just one button. Journalists interested in receiving more information can submit an inquiry via http://www.amazon.com/pr or the Amazon.com Media Hotline at (206) 266-7180. About Amazon.com Amazon.com, Inc., (NASDAQ: AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com, Inc. seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden. Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com. As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise. Forward-Looking Statement This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings. CONTACT: Amazon.com, Inc.Media Hotline, 206-266-7180www.amazon.com/prSOURCE: Amazon.com, Inc.

<p>National Retail Federation poll asks 8,001 consumers, "Which retailer delivers the best customer service?"</p><p>SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Nov. 2, 2006--Results of the National Retail Federation (NRF) Foundation/American Express Customer Service Survey released today rank Amazon.com #1 among all retailers in the United States. The survey polled 8,001 consumers from September 6-13, 2006, with the question: "Which retailer delivers the best customer service?" NRF will honor Amazon.com with the "Customer's Choice" award for achieving a reputation for excellence in customer service.</p><p>"This ranking is an amazing honor for all of us at Amazon.com because it comes from our customers," says Amazon.com Founder and CEO Jeff Bezos. "We are grateful for the recognition, and we'll keep working hard for customers."</p><p>Amazon.com seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, groceries, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden.</p><p>For the past 11 years, Amazon.com has developed features that combine to offer customers the highest possible level of customer service. Examples include:</p><ul><li>Amazon Prime offers customers free two-day shipping on their purchases for just $79/year (no minimum purchase required, upgrade to one-day/overnight shipping for just $3.99, available on over a million eligible items sold by Amazon.com).</li><li>FREE Super Saver Shipping provides all customers with free shipping on orders over $25 (some restrictions apply).</li><li>Customer Reviews help customers make informed purchase decisions.</li><li>Instant Order Update lets customers know when they are about to purchase a product that they have already purchased--just in case they forgot.</li><li>Where's My Stuff allows customers to track where their shipment is on its way to their doorstep.</li><li>Personalized Recommendations give customers ideas for products tailored to their unique tastes.</li><li>1-Click Ordering lets customers place an order by clicking just one button.</li></ul><p>Journalists interested in receiving more information can submit an inquiry via http://www.amazon.com/pr or the Amazon.com Media Hotline at (206) 266-7180.</p><p>About Amazon.com</p><p>Amazon.com, Inc., (NASDAQ: AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com, Inc. seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden.</p><p>Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com.</p><p>As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise.</p><p>Forward-Looking Statement</p><p>This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings.</p><p>CONTACT: Amazon.com, Inc.Media Hotline, 206-266-7180www.amazon.com/prSOURCE: Amazon.com, Inc.</p>

Amazon.com Jewelry and Watches Sales up More Than 100% in Third Quarter 2006

/news/news-details/2006/Amazon.com-Jewelry-and-Watches-Sales-up-More-Than-100-in-Third-Quarter-2006/default.aspx

Amazon.com-Jewelry-and-Watches-Sales-up-More-Than-100-in-Third-Quarter-2006

10/30/2006 09:01:00

Amazon.com Jewelry and Watches Sales up More Than 100% in Third Quarter 2006

10/30/2006

2006

SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Oct. 30, 2006--Amazon.com, Inc. (Nasdaq:AMZN) today announced that third quarter 2006 jewelry and watch sales increased more than 100 percent year-over-year. Each quarter, an increasing number of Amazon.com's millions of customers are shopping the Amazon.com Jewelry & Watches store, especially for important gift-giving occasions, such as the upcoming holiday season. "We're very excited about the growth in our Jewelry & Watches store," said Steven Goldsmith, vice president, Amazon.com Jewelry & Watches store. "Not only are our customers choosing to purchase shoes, electronics and beauty items from Amazon.com, but they are also choosing to make, at times, very personal purchasing decisions with us and we take that very seriously." In addition to a 108% increase year-over-year in sales of engagement rings and gemstones, watch sales on Amazon.com in the third quarter increased 122% percent year-over-year. With an extensive watch selection, one of the largest online, Amazon.com's Jewelry & Watches store offers 200 brands and 6,000 styles (2,400 new watch styles were added in the third quarter alone) with prices ranging from $30 to $75,000. Customers can treat themselves to everything from a stylish Invicta watch to a diamond encrusted Cartier Tank watch or the Omega Seamaster Chronometer Watch, which is featured in the upcoming James Bond movie Casino Royale. Top-selling watches in the third quarter included the women's Movado Amarosa watch, the Citizen Calibre 2100 Titanium watch, the Tag Heuer 2000 Aquaracer watch and the women's Bulova Diamond Bezel Chronograph watch. Many watches in Amazon.com's luxury selection, which include brand names, such as Chase-Durer, TAG Heuer, Breitling, Bedat, Geneve and Ebel, also ranked amongst customer favorites throughout the third quarter. Every piece of jewelry sold by Amazon.com is inspected by jewelry professionals to verify quality attributes and ensure an excellent product. Customers will find detailed product specifications about each of the piece's components, including gemstones, settings and metal stamps. A Learning Center provides buying guides for pearls, diamonds, precious metals, and watches. Loose stones are independently certified to be a specific cut, clarity, color, shape and weight. Finally, the store provides all of the tools and helpful information that Amazon.com customers know and love, such as Customer Reviews, Top Sellers lists, So You'd Like To guides and Listmania lists. About Amazon.com Amazon.com (Nasdaq:AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened its virtual doors on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and third-party sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished, and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden. Amazon.com and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com. As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc. and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise. Forward-Looking Statement This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings. CONTACT: Amazon.com, SeattleMedia Relations, 206-266-7180SOURCE: Amazon.com, Inc.

<p>SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Oct. 30, 2006--Amazon.com, Inc. (Nasdaq:AMZN) today announced that third quarter 2006 jewelry and watch sales increased more than 100 percent year-over-year. Each quarter, an increasing number of Amazon.com's millions of customers are shopping the Amazon.com Jewelry &amp; Watches store, especially for important gift-giving occasions, such as the upcoming holiday season.</p><p>"We're very excited about the growth in our Jewelry &amp; Watches store," said Steven Goldsmith, vice president, Amazon.com Jewelry &amp; Watches store. "Not only are our customers choosing to purchase shoes, electronics and beauty items from Amazon.com, but they are also choosing to make, at times, very personal purchasing decisions with us and we take that very seriously."</p><p>In addition to a 108% increase year-over-year in sales of engagement rings and gemstones, watch sales on Amazon.com in the third quarter increased 122% percent year-over-year. With an extensive watch selection, one of the largest online, Amazon.com's Jewelry &amp; Watches store offers 200 brands and 6,000 styles (2,400 new watch styles were added in the third quarter alone) with prices ranging from $30 to $75,000. Customers can treat themselves to everything from a stylish Invicta watch to a diamond encrusted Cartier Tank watch or the Omega Seamaster Chronometer Watch, which is featured in the upcoming James Bond movie Casino Royale.</p><p>Top-selling watches in the third quarter included the women's Movado Amarosa watch, the Citizen Calibre 2100 Titanium watch, the Tag Heuer 2000 Aquaracer watch and the women's Bulova Diamond Bezel Chronograph watch. Many watches in Amazon.com's luxury selection, which include brand names, such as Chase-Durer, TAG Heuer, Breitling, Bedat, Geneve and Ebel, also ranked amongst customer favorites throughout the third quarter.</p><p>Every piece of jewelry sold by Amazon.com is inspected by jewelry professionals to verify quality attributes and ensure an excellent product. Customers will find detailed product specifications about each of the piece's components, including gemstones, settings and metal stamps. A Learning Center provides buying guides for pearls, diamonds, precious metals, and watches. Loose stones are independently certified to be a specific cut, clarity, color, shape and weight. Finally, the store provides all of the tools and helpful information that Amazon.com customers know and love, such as Customer Reviews, Top Sellers lists, So You'd Like To guides and Listmania lists.</p><p>About Amazon.com</p><p>Amazon.com (Nasdaq:AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened its virtual doors on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and third-party sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished, and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden.</p><p>Amazon.com and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com.</p><p>As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc. and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise.</p><p>Forward-Looking Statement</p><p>This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings.</p><p>CONTACT: Amazon.com, SeattleMedia Relations, 206-266-7180SOURCE: Amazon.com, Inc.</p>

Exclusive Video Footage of Yusuf/Cat Stevens Now Available for Viewing on Amazon.com

/news/news-details/2006/Exclusive-Video-Footage-of-Yusuf-Cat-Stevens-Now-Available-for-Viewing-on-Amazon.com/default.aspx

Exclusive-Video-Footage-of-Yusuf-Cat-Stevens-Now-Available-for-Viewing-on-Amazon.com

10/30/2006 08:31:00

Exclusive Video Footage of Yusuf/Cat Stevens Now Available for Viewing on Amazon.com

10/30/2006

2006

Business Editors/Entertainment Editors SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Oct. 30, 2006--Amazon.com (Nasdaq:AMZN) today premiered exclusive video footage of Yusuf (the artist formerly known as Cat Stevens) performing "Maybe There's A World" from his new album "An Other Cup," slated for release on November 14th. This footage is available only on Amazon.com at www.amazon.com/yusuf. "An Other Cup" is the singer-songwriter's first pop music album since 1978. After nearly three decades of absence from the musical limelight, this collection of new songs reflects the current tensions between Islam and the West. "An Other Cup" is being released just in time to mark the 40th anniversary of his debut album, "I Love My Dog." "Yusuf is a musical legend and an icon to many people," said Peter Faricy, vice president of music at Amazon.com. "Amazon.com is proud to be the only place in the U.S. to offer this unique and deeply personal footage of such a talented and renowned artist." This footage, which has previously aired only in the United Kingdom, also contains commentary from the artist discussing the new album and his long-awaited return to music. "An Other Cup" will be released on November 14th. The album is currently available for pre-order on Amazon.com (www.amazon.com) for $12.97 - a savings of 32 percent. About Amazon.com Amazon.com, Inc., (Nasdaq:AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com, Inc. seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden. Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com. As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise. Forward-Looking Statement This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings. CONTACT: Amazon.com Media RelationsAmazon Media Hotline, 206-266-7180www.amazon.com/prSOURCE: Amazon.com, Inc.

<p>Business Editors/Entertainment Editors</p><p>SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Oct. 30, 2006--Amazon.com (Nasdaq:AMZN) today premiered exclusive video footage of Yusuf (the artist formerly known as Cat Stevens) performing "Maybe There's A World" from his new album "An Other Cup," slated for release on November 14th. This footage is available only on Amazon.com at www.amazon.com/yusuf.</p><p>"An Other Cup" is the singer-songwriter's first pop music album since 1978. After nearly three decades of absence from the musical limelight, this collection of new songs reflects the current tensions between Islam and the West. "An Other Cup" is being released just in time to mark the 40th anniversary of his debut album, "I Love My Dog."</p><p>"Yusuf is a musical legend and an icon to many people," said Peter Faricy, vice president of music at Amazon.com. "Amazon.com is proud to be the only place in the U.S. to offer this unique and deeply personal footage of such a talented and renowned artist."</p><p>This footage, which has previously aired only in the United Kingdom, also contains commentary from the artist discussing the new album and his long-awaited return to music.</p><p>"An Other Cup" will be released on November 14th. The album is currently available for pre-order on Amazon.com (www.amazon.com) for $12.97 - a savings of 32 percent.</p><p>About Amazon.com</p><p>Amazon.com, Inc., (Nasdaq:AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com, Inc. seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden.</p><p>Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com.</p><p>As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise.</p><p>Forward-Looking Statement</p><p>This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings.</p><p>CONTACT: Amazon.com Media RelationsAmazon Media Hotline, 206-266-7180www.amazon.com/prSOURCE: Amazon.com, Inc.</p>

Amazon.com Announces Third Quarter Financial Results -- Net Sales up 24% Year over Year -- Expects Record Holiday Season

/news/news-details/2006/Amazon.com-Announces-Third-Quarter-Financial-Results----Net-Sales-up-24-Year-over-Year----Expects-Record-Holiday-Season/default.aspx

Amazon.com-Announces-Third-Quarter-Financial-Results----Net-Sales-up-24-Year-over-Year----Expects-Record-Holiday-Season

10/24/2006 16:03:00

Amazon.com Announces Third Quarter Financial Results -- Net Sales up 24% Year over Year -- Expects Record Holiday Season

10/24/2006

2006

SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Oct. 24, 2006--Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ:AMZN) today announced financial results for its third quarter ended September 30, 2006. Operating cash flow declined 11% to $587 million for the trailing twelve months, compared with $661 million for the trailing twelve months ended September 30, 2005. Free cash flow decreased 23% to $366 million for the trailing twelve months, compared with $475 million for the trailing twelve months ended September 30, 2005, driven primarily by our increased expenditure in technology and content. Common shares outstanding plus shares underlying stock-based awards outstanding totaled 435 million at September 30, 2006, compared with 438 million a year ago. During the quarter, the Company repurchased 8 million shares, or $252 million under its previously announced authorization to repurchase up to $500 million of the Company's common stock. Net sales increased 24% to $2.31 billion in the third quarter, compared with $1.86 billion in third quarter 2005. Excluding the $20 million favorable impact from year-over-year changes in foreign exchange rates throughout the quarter, net sales grew 23% compared with third quarter 2005. Operating income decreased 28% to $40 million in the third quarter, compared with $55 million in third quarter 2005. The decline in operating income was mainly due to technology and content investments. Third quarter 2005 operating income included a negative impact of $40 million relating to a patent litigation settlement. Net income was $19 million in the third quarter, or $0.05 per diluted share, compared with net income of $30 million, or $0.07 per diluted share in third quarter 2005. "We're pleased with the strong revenue growth and rapid adoption of Amazon Prime," said Jeff Bezos, founder and CEO of Amazon.com. "We look forward to seeing significant sequential improvement in operating leverage this Q4, even as we continue to invest in many initiatives including new retail categories, seller platforms, web services, and digital." Amazon Prime continues to demonstrate strong quarter-to-quarter sequential growth for new memberships. Amazon Prime, Amazon.com's first-ever membership program, was introduced in February 2005. For a flat membership fee of $79 per year, Amazon Prime members get unlimited, express two-day shipping for free, with no minimum purchase requirement on over a million eligible items sold by Amazon.com. Members can order as late as 6:30 p.m. ET and still get their order the next day for only $3.99 per item, and they can share the benefits of Amazon Prime with up to four family members living in their household. Sign up for Amazon Prime at www.amazon.com/prime. Highlights North America segment sales, representing the Company's U.S. and Canadian sites, were $1.26 billion, up 21% from third quarter 2005. International segment sales, representing the Company's U.K., German, Japanese, French and Chinese sites, were $1.05 billion, up 29% from third quarter 2005. Excluding the favorable impact from year-over-year changes in foreign exchange rates throughout the quarter, International net sales growth was 26%. Worldwide Electronics & Other General Merchandise grew 43% to $699 million in third quarter 2006, and increased to 30% of worldwide net sales compared with 26% in third quarter 2005. The Company launched Amazon Unbox, a digital video download service offering customers thousands of television shows, movies and other video content from more than 30 studio and network partners from Hollywood and around the world. Amazon Unbox continues to add selection with the addition of Showtime(R) premium programming in October. Amazon Business Solutions launched in beta WebStore by Amazon and Fulfillment by Amazon, giving small and medium-sized businesses access to Amazon's order fulfillment, customer service, customer shipping offers and underlying website technology. Amazon Web Services launched Amazon Elastic Compute Cloud (Amazon EC2) in limited public beta. Amazon EC2 is a web service that provides resizable compute capacity, making web-scale computing easier for developers. Just as Amazon Simple Storage Service (Amazon S3) enables "storage" in the cloud, Amazon EC2 enables "compute" in the cloud. Developers continue to adopt Amazon's web services -- over 200,000 have registered to date, up greater than 60% year-over-year. Amazon's Japan website -- Amazon.co.jp -- launched its Health & Beauty store, offering customers a selection of over 35,000 items in 12 categories including supplements, drinking water and soft drinks, condiments, processed foods and health foods, as well as cosmetics and products for bath care, nursing care and aroma relaxation. The Company announced its Automotive Parts & Accessories store on www.amazon.com, featuring over one million automotive products offered by Amazon and leading mass market and specialty retailers. Amazon's innovative Part Finder allows owners of approximately 10,000 different car and truck models to find the correct replacement parts, performance parts or accessories for their vehicles. Financial Guidance The following forward-looking statements reflect Amazon.com's expectations as of October 24, 2006. Results may be materially affected by many factors, such as fluctuations in foreign exchange rates, changes in global economic conditions and consumer spending, world events, the rate of growth of the Internet and online commerce, and the various factors detailed below. Fourth Quarter 2006 Guidance Net sales are expected to be between $3.625 billion and $3.950 billion, or to grow between 22% and 33% compared with fourth quarter 2005. Operating income is expected to be between $145 million and $235 million, or between (12%) decline and 43% growth, compared with fourth quarter 2005. This guidance includes $35 million for stock-based compensation and amortization of intangible assets, and it assumes, among other things, that no additional intangible assets are recorded and that there are no further revisions to stock-based compensation estimates. Full Year 2006 Guidance Net sales are expected to be between $10.350 billion and $10.675 billion, or to grow between 22% and 26% compared with 2005. Operating income is expected to be between $339 million and $429 million, or between (22%) decline and (1%) decline, compared with 2005. This guidance includes $113 million for stock-based compensation and amortization of intangible assets, and it assumes, among other things, that no additional intangible assets are recorded and that there are no further revisions to stock-based compensation estimates. A conference call will be webcast live today at 2 p.m. PT/5 p.m. ET, and will be available for at least three months at www.amazon.com/ir. This call will contain forward-looking statements and other material information regarding the Company's financial and operating results. These forward-looking statements are inherently difficult to predict. Actual results could differ materially for a variety of reasons, including, in addition to the factors discussed above, the amount that Amazon.com invests in new business opportunities and the timing of those investments, the mix of products sold to customers, the mix of net sales derived from products as compared with services, competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international growth and expansion, the outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, risks of inventory management, seasonality, the degree to which the Company enters into, maintains and develops commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, payments risks, and risks of fulfillment throughput and productivity. Other risks and uncertainties include, among others, risk of future losses, significant indebtedness, system interruptions, consumer trends, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, fraud, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings. About Amazon.com Amazon.com, Inc., (Nasdaq:AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com, Inc. seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden. Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com. As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise. AMAZON.COM, INC. Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (in millions) (unaudited) Three Months Ended Nine Months Twelve Months September Ended Ended 30, September 30, September 30, ----------- --------------- -------------- 2006 2005 2006 2005 2006 2005 ----- ----- ------- ------- ------ ------- CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, BEGINNING OF PERIOD $683 $629 $1,013 $1,303 $600 $746 OPERATING ACTIVITIES: Net income 19 30 93 160 292 507 Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash from operating activities: Depreciation of fixed assets, including internal-use software and website development, and other amortization 63 30 146 85 182 106 Stock-based compensation 30 26 71 71 87 90 Other operating expense 2 - 9 3 13 (3) Losses (gains) on sales of marketable securities, net (3) - (2) - (4) - Remeasurements and other (1) (6) (10) (38) (14) (6) Non-cash interest expense and other 1 1 3 4 4 5 Deferred income taxes 7 23 15 116 (31) (128) Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle - - - (26) - (26) Changes in operating assets and liabilities: Inventories (218) (76) (155) 10 (269) (98) Accounts receivable, net and other current assets (53) (12) 13 6 (77) 14 Accounts payable 252 147 (187) (224) 312 201 Accrued expenses and other current liabilities 27 (6) (44) (72) 87 (3) Additions to unearned revenue 39 28 131 95 192 120 Amortization of previously unearned revenue (35) (32) (125) (87) (187) (118) ----- ----- ------- ------- ------ ------- Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities 130 153 (42) 103 587 661 INVESTING ACTIVITIES: Purchases of fixed assets, including internal-use software and website development (62) (76) (166) (149) (221) (186) Acquisitions, net of cash acquired (2) (4) (30) (24) (30) (24) Sales and maturities of marketable securities and other investments 438 163 975 653 1,159 1,072 Purchases of marketable securities (227) (289) (589) (1,027) (947) (1,475) ----- ----- ------- ------- ------ ------- Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities 147 (206) 190 (547) (39) (613) FINANCING ACTIVITIES: Proceeds from exercises of stock options 4 21 17 38 36 55 Excess tax benefit on stock awards 9 2 38 4 43 4 Common stock repurchased (252) - (252) - (252) - Proceeds from long-term debt and other 13 13 81 13 81 13 Repayments of long-term debt and capital lease obligations (42) (6) (376) (272) (376) (272) ----- ----- ------- ------- ------ ------- Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities (268) 30 (492) (217) (468) (200) Foreign-currency effect on cash and cash equivalents 1 (6) 24 (42) 13 6 ----- ----- ------- ------- ------ ------- Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents 10 (29) (320) (703) 93 (146) ----- ----- ------- ------- ------ ------- CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, END OF PERIOD $693 $600 $693 $600 $693 $600 ===== ===== ======= ======= ====== ======= SUPPLEMENTAL CASH FLOW INFORMATION: Cash paid for interest $22 $21 $85 $105 $85 $105 Cash paid for income taxes 5 6 13 11 15 12 AMAZON.COM, INC. Consolidated Statements of Operations (in millions, except per share data) (unaudited) Three Months Nine Months Ended Ended September 30, September 30, ---------------- ---------------- 2006 2005 2006 2005 -------- ------- ---------------- Net sales $2,307 $1,858 $6,725 $5,513 Cost of sales 1,758 1,395 5,119 4,141 -------- ------- -------- ------- Gross profit 549 463 1,606 1,372 Operating expenses (1): Fulfillment 217 171 599 495 Marketing 64 44 171 131 Technology and content 172 121 485 319 General and administrative 54 32 150 117 Other operating expense 2 40 9 43 -------- ------- -------- ------- Total operating expenses 509 408 1,414 1,105 -------- ------- -------- ------- Income from operations 40 55 192 267 Interest income 14 12 41 30 Interest expense (21) (22) (58) (70) Other income, net 4 - 4 2 Remeasurements and other 1 6 10 38 -------- ------- -------- ------- Total non-operating expense (2) (4) (3) - -------- ------- -------- ------- Income before income taxes 38 51 189 267 Provision for income taxes 19 21 96 133 -------- ------- -------- ------- Income before cumulative effect of change in accounting principle 19 30 93 134 Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle - - - 26 -------- ------- -------- ------- Net income $19 $30 $93 $160 ======== ======= ======== ======= Basic earnings per share: Prior to cumulative effect of change in accounting principle $0.05 $0.07 $0.22 $0.33 Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle - - - 0.06 -------- ------- -------- ------- $0.05 $0.07 $0.22 $0.39 ======== ======= ======== ======= Diluted earnings per share: Prior to cumulative effect of change in accounting principle $0.05 $0.07 $0.22 $0.32 Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle - - - 0.06 -------- ------- -------- ------- $0.05 $0.07 $0.22 $0.38 ======== ======= ======== ======= Weighted average shares used in computation of earnings per share: Basic 417 413 417 411 ======== ======= ======== ======= Diluted 424 428 425 426 ======== ======= ======== ======= (1) Includes stock-based compensation as follows: Fulfillment $8 $5 $18 $13 Marketing 1 2 3 5 Technology and content 16 13 38 36 General and administrative 5 6 12 17 AMAZON.COM, INC. Segment Information (in millions) (unaudited) Three Months Nine Months Ended Ended September 30, September 30, --------------- --------------- 2006 2005 2006 2005 ------- ------- ------- ------- North America Net sales $1,257 $1,041 $3,661 $3,028 Cost of sales 914 749 2,668 2,179 ------- ------- ------- ------- Gross profit 343 292 993 849 Direct segment operating expenses (1) 321 226 885 645 ------- ------- ------- ------- Segment operating income $ 22 $ 66 $ 108 $ 204 ======= ======= ======= ======= International Net sales 1,050 817 3,064 2,485 Cost of sales 844 646 2,451 1,962 ------- ------- ------- ------- Gross profit 206 171 613 523 Direct segment operating expenses (1) 156 116 449 346 ------- ------- ------- ------- Segment operating income $ 50 $ 55 $ 164 $ 177 ======= ======= ======= ======= Consolidated Net sales 2,307 1,858 6,725 5,513 Cost of sales 1,758 1,395 5,119 4,141 ------- ------- ------- ------- Gross profit 549 463 1,606 1,372 Direct segment operating expenses 477 342 1,334 991 ------- ------- ------- ------- Segment operating income 72 121 272 381 Stock-based compensation (30) (26) (71) (71) Other operating expense (2) (40) (9) (43) ------- ------- ------- ------- Income from operations 40 55 192 267 Total non-operating expense, net (2) (4) (3) - Provision for income taxes (19) (21) (96) (133) Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle - - - 26 ------- ------- ------- ------- Net income $ 19 $ 30 $ 93 $ 160 ======= ======= ======= ======= Segment Highlights: Y/Y net sales growth: North America 21% 28% 21% 23% International 29 26 23 29 Consolidated 24 27 22 26 Y/Y gross profit growth: North America 17% 31% 17% 27% International 21 29 17 35 Consolidated 18 30 17 30 Y/Y segment operating income growth: North America (67%) 16% (47%) 3% International (8) 46 (8) 56 Consolidated (40) 28 (29) 22 Net sales mix: North America 54% 56% 54% 55% International 46 44 46 45 (1) A significant majority of our costs for "Technology and content" are incurred in the United States and most of these costs are allocated to our North America segment. AMAZON.COM, INC. Supplemental Net Sales Information (in millions) (unaudited) Three Months Nine Months Ended Ended September 30, September 30, --------------- --------------- 2006 2005 2006 2005 ------- ------- ------- ------- North America Media $ 785 $ 684 $2,330 $2,015 Electronics and other general merchandise 409 304 1,148 863 Other 63 53 183 150 ------- ------- ------- ------- Total North America $1,257 $1,041 $3,661 $3,028 ======= ======= ======= ======= International Media 757 629 2,237 1,917 Electronics and other general merchandise 290 187 815 565 Other 3 1 12 3 ------- ------- ------- ------- Total International $1,050 $ 817 $3,064 $2,485 ======= ======= ======= ======= Consolidated Media 1,542 1,313 4,567 3,932 Electronics and other general merchandise 699 491 1,963 1,428 Other 66 54 195 153 ------- ------- ------- ------- Total Consolidated $2,307 $1,858 $6,725 $5,513 ======= ======= ======= ======= Year-Over-Year Percentage Net Sales Growth: North America: Media 15% 21% 16% 18% Electronics and other general merchandise 35 33 33 27 Other 17 122 22 108 Total North America 21 28 21 23 International: Media 20% 19% 17% 20% Electronics and other general merchandise 55 62 44 76 Other 144 177 286 85 Total International 29 26 23 29 Consolidated: Media 17% 20% 16% 19% Electronics and other general merchandise 43 43 38 43 Other 20 123 27 107 Total Consolidated 24 27 22 26 Year-Over-Year Percentage Net Sales Growth Excluding Effect of Exchange Rates: International: Media 19% 20% 21% 18% Electronics and other general merchandise 51 64 48 72 Other 135 178 296 82 Total International 26 28 27 27 Consolidated: Media 17% 21% 18% 18% Electronics and other general merchandise 41 43 39 42 Other 20 123 27 107 Total Consolidated 23 28 24 25 Consolidated Net Sales Mix: Media 67% 71% 68% 71% Electronics and other general merchandise 30 26 29 26 Other 3 3 3 3 AMAZON.COM, INC. Consolidated Balance Sheets (in millions, except per share data) September December September 30, 31, 30, 2006 2005 2005 ----------- -------- ----------- ASSETS (unaudited) (unaudited) Current assets: Cash and cash equivalents $693 $1,013 $600 Marketable securities 526 987 819 Inventories 736 566 456 Deferred tax assets, current portion 79 89 58 Accounts receivable, net and other current assets 281 274 188 ----------- -------- ----------- Total current assets 2,315 2,929 2,121 Fixed assets, net 449 348 322 Deferred tax assets, long-term portion 180 223 190 Goodwill 194 159 159 Other assets 130 37 40 ----------- -------- ----------- Total assets $3,268 $3,696 $2,832 =========== ======== =========== LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY Current liabilities: Accounts payable $1,196 $1,366 $876 Accrued expenses and other current liabilities 572 563 437 ----------- -------- ----------- Total current liabilities 1,768 1,929 1,313 Long-term debt and other 1,304 1,521 1,513 Commitments and contingencies Stockholders' equity: Preferred stock, $0.01 par value: Authorized shares -- 500 Issued and outstanding shares -- none - - - Common stock, $0.01 par value: Authorized shares -- 5,000 Issued and outstanding shares: 411, 416, and 414 4 4 4 Treasury stock, at cost (252) - - Additional paid-in capital 2,377 2,263 2,215 Accumulated other comprehensive income 1 6 13 Accumulated deficit (1,934) (2,027) (2,226) ----------- -------- ----------- Total stockholders' equity 196 246 6 ----------- -------- ----------- Total liabilities and stockholders' equity $3,268 $3,696 $2,832 =========== ======== =========== AMAZON.COM, INC. Supplemental Financial Information and Business Metrics (in millions, except per share data) (unaudited) ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Y/Y % Q3 Q4 Q1 Q2 Q3 Change 2005 2005 2006 2006 2006 ----------------------------------------- Cash Flows and Shares Operating cash flow -- trailing twelve months (TTM) (1) $661 $733 $724 $610 $587 (11%) Purchase of fixed assets (incl. internal-use software & website development) -- TTM $186 $204 $223 $235 $221 19% Free cash flow (operating cash flow less purchases of fixed assets) -- TTM (1) $475 $529 $501 $375 $366 (23%) Common shares and stock-based awards outstanding 438 438 438 443 435 (1%) Common shares outstanding 414 416 417 419 411 (1%) Stock-based awards outstanding 24 22 21 24 24 (1%) Stock-based awards outstanding -- % of common shares outstanding 5.8% 5.2% 4.9% 5.8% 5.8% N/A Results of Operations Worldwide (WW) net sales $1,858 $2,977 $2,279 $2,139 $2,307 24% WW net sales -- Y/Y growth, excluding the effect of foreign exchange rates 27.6% 21.9% 24.8% 23.4% 23.1% N/A WW net sales -- TTM $8,054 $8,490 $8,867 $9,253 $9,701 20% WW net sales -- TTM Y/Y growth, excluding the effect of foreign exchange rates 25.2% 23.7% 24.3% 24.0% 23.2% N/A Gross profit $463 $667 $547 $509 $549 18% Gross margin -- % of WW net sales 24.9% 22.4% 24.0% 23.8% 23.8% N/A Gross profit -- TTM $1,917 $2,039 $2,128 $2,187 $2,273 19% Gross margin -- TTM % of WW net sales 23.8% 24.0% 24.0% 23.6% 23.4% N/A Operating income (1)(3) $55 $165 $106 $47 $40 (28%) Operating margin -- % of WW net sales (1) 3.0% 5.5% 4.6% 2.2% 1.7% N/A Operating income -- TTM (1)(3) $430 $432 $430 $372 $357 (17%) Operating margin -- TTM % of WW net sales (1) 5.3% 5.1% 4.8% 4.0% 3.7% N/A Net income (1) (2) $30 $199 $51 $22 $19 (35%) Net income per diluted share (1) (2) $0.07 $0.47 $0.12 $0.05 $0.05 (34%) Net income -- TTM (1) (2) $507 $359 $332 $302 $292 (42%) Net income per diluted share -- TTM (1) (2) $1.19 $0.84 $0.78 $0.71 $0.69 (42%) Segments North America Segment: Net sales $1,041 $1,683 $1,247 $1,157 $1,257 21% Net sales -- Y/Y growth, excluding the effect of foreign exchange rates 27.4% 20.8% 21.3% 20.4% 20.5% N/A Net sales -- TTM $4,420 $4,711 $4,931 $5,128 $5,343 21% Gross profit $292 $418 $341 $309 $343 17% Gross margin -- % of North America net sales 28.1% 24.8% 27.3% 26.7% 27.3% N/A Gross profit -- TTM $1,204 $1,267 $1,329 $1,361 $1,411 17% Gross margin -- TTM % of North America net sales 27.2% 26.9% 27.0% 26.5% 26.4% N/A Operating income (3) $66 $92 $62 $25 $22 (67%) Operating margin -- % of North America net sales 6.4% 5.5% 5.0% 2.1% 1.7% N/A Operating income -- TTM (3) $326 $296 $292 $245 $200 (39%) Operating margin -- TTM % of North America net sales 7.4% 6.3% 5.9% 4.8% 3.8% N/A International Segment: Net sales $817 $1,294 $1,032 $982 $1,050 29% Net sales -- Y/Y growth, excluding the effect of foreign exchange rates 27.8% 23.2% 28.9% 27.0% 26.3% N/A Net sales -- TTM $3,634 $3,779 $3,936 $4,125 $4,358 20% Net sales -- TTM % of WW net sales 45.1% 44.5% 44.4% 44.6% 44.9% N/A Gross profit $171 $249 $206 $200 $206 21% Gross margin -- % of International net sales 20.9% 19.3% 20.0% 20.4% 19.6% N/A Gross profit -- TTM $713 $772 $799 $827 $862 21% Gross margin -- TTM % of International net sales 19.6% 20.4% 20.3% 20.0% 19.8% N/A Operating income $55 $93 $58 $55 $50 (8%) Operating margin -- % of International net sales 6.7% 7.1% 5.6% 5.6% 4.8% N/A Operating income -- TTM $233 $270 $265 $260 $256 10% Operating margin -- TTM % of International net sales 6.4% 7.1% 6.7% 6.3% 5.9% N/A ---------------------------------------------------------------------- AMAZON.COM, INC. Supplemental Financial Information and Business Metrics (in millions, except inventory turnover, accounts payable days, and employee data) (unaudited) ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Y/Y % Q3 Q4 Q1 Q2 Q3 Change 2005 2005 2006 2006 2006 ----------------------------------------- Segments (continued) Consolidated Segments: Operating expenses $342 $482 $427 $429 $477 39% Operating expenses -- TTM $1,358 $1,473 $1,570 $1,681 $1,816 34% Operating income (3) $121 $185 $120 $80 $72 (40%) Operating margin -- % of consolidated sales 6.5% 6.2% 5.3% 3.7% 3.1% N/A Operating income -- TTM (3) $559 $566 $558 $506 $457 (18%) Operating margin -- TTM % of consolidated net sales 6.9% 6.7% 6.3% 5.5% 4.7% N/A Supplemental North America Segment Net Sales: Media $684 $1,030 $815 $730 $785 15% Media -- TTM $2,901 $3,046 $3,163 $3,260 $3,361 16% Electronics and other general merchandise $304 $580 $374 $365 $409 35% Electronics and other general merchandise--TTM $1,311 $1,443 $1,534 $1,622 $1,727 32% Electronics and other general merchandise -- TTM % of North America net sales 30% 31% 31% 32% 32% N/A Other $53 $73 $58 $62 $63 17% Other -- TTM $208 $222 $234 $246 $255 23% Supplemental International Segment Net Sales: Media $629 $968 $763 $718 $757 20% Media -- TTM $2,828 $2,885 $2,972 $3,077 $3,205 13% Electronics and other general merchandise $187 $321 $265 $259 $290 55% Electronics and other general merchandise -- TTM $801 $886 $952 $1,033 $1,136 42% Electronics and other general merchandise -- TTM % of International net sales 22% 23% 24% 25% 26% N/A Other $1 $5 $4 $5 $3 144% Other -- TTM $4 $8 $11 $15 $17 341% Supplemental Worldwide Net Sales: Media $1,313 $1,998 $1,578 $1,448 $1,542 17% Media -- TTM $5,730 $5,931 $6,135 $6,337 $6,566 15% Electronics and other general merchandise $491 $901 $639 $624 $699 43% Electronics and other general merchandise--TTM $2,113 $2,329 $2,486 $2,655 $2,863 36% Electronics and other general merchandise -- TTM % of WW net sales 26% 27% 28% 29% 30% N/A Other $54 $78 $62 $67 $66 20% Other -- TTM $211 $230 $245 $261 $272 29% Balance Sheet Cash and marketable securities $1,419 $2,000 $1,334 $1,419 $1,219 (14%) Inventory, net -- ending $456 $566 $538 $521 $736 61% Inventory -- average inventory % of TTM net sales 5.2% 5.4% 5.3% 5.3% 5.8% N/A Inventory turnover, average -- TTM 14.8 14.1 14.4 14.3 13.2 (11%) Fixed assets, net $322 $348 $361 $405 $449 40% Accounts payable days -- ending 58 54 48 53 63 8% Other Employees (full-time and part-time; excludes contractors & temporary personnel) 11,200 12,000 12,400 12,700 13,300 19% ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Note: The attached "Financial and Operational Summary" is an integral part of this Supplemental Financial Information and Business Metrics. (1) The Company settled a patent lawsuit on terms including a one-time payment of $40 million in Q3 2005. This negatively impacts TTM operating cash flow and free cash flow by $40 million for all periods that include Q3 2005. The settlement negatively affected Q3 2005 operating income by $40 million, and Q3 2005 net income by $20 million after tax. (2) Q4 2005 net income includes a tax benefit of $90 million related to determining that certain of our deferred tax assets are realizable. (3) In Q2 2006, a fee dispute with Toysrus.com reduced our operating income by $20 million. Amazon.com, Inc. Financial and Operational Summary (unaudited) Quarterly Results of Operations (comparisons are with the equivalent period of the prior year, unless otherwise stated) Net Sales Net sales increased 24%, or 23% excluding the $20 million favorable impact of year-over-year changes in foreign exchange. In the prior year, we sold over 1.6 million copies of Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince. Shipping revenue was $118 million, up 5% from $112 million. Amounts paid in advance for subscription services, including amounts received from online DVD rentals, Amazon Prime and other membership programs, are deferred and recognized as revenue over the subscription term. Net sales include fixed fees, commissions and per-unit fees earned from third-party sellers and similar amounts earned through Amazon Enterprise Solutions. Cost of Sales Cost of sales consists of the purchase price of products sold by us, inbound and outbound shipping charges, packaging supplies, amortization of our DVD rental library and service costs such as those incurred in operating and staffing our fulfillment and customer service centers on behalf of third parties. Inbound shipping charges to receive products from our suppliers are included in inventory cost and recognized as cost of sales upon sale to our customers. Outbound shipping costs totaled $182 million, up 14% from $159 million. Net shipping loss was $64 million, or 2.8% of net sales, up 36% from a net shipping loss of $47 million, or 2.5% of net sales, resulting primarily from our free shipping offers and Amazon Prime. To the extent our customers use free shipping offers at an increasing rate, including memberships in Amazon Prime, our net cost of shipping will increase. While costs associated with free shipping, including Amazon Prime, are not included in marketing expense, we view our free shipping offers as an effective worldwide marketing tool and intend to continue offering them indefinitely. We offer promotions, such as free membership trials, for Amazon Prime and expect to continue to offer these promotions in the future. Operating Expenses Depreciation expense for fixed assets, including amortization of internal-use software and website development, was $62 million, up from $29 million. Depreciation is recorded on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives of the assets -- generally two years or less for assets such as internal-use software and our DVD rental library, three years for our technology infrastructure, five years for furniture and fixtures and ten years for heavy equipment. Depreciation expense is generally classified within operating expense categories on the consolidated statements of operations, and certain assets, such as our DVD rental library, are amortized to cost of sales. Stock-based compensation was $30 million compared to $26 million in the prior year, with the increase primarily due to increased restricted stock unit grants generally corresponding with an increase in employees. The estimation of stock awards that will ultimately vest requires judgment, and to the extent actual results or updated estimates differ from our current estimates, such amounts will be recorded as a cumulative adjustment in the period estimates are revised. We consider many factors when estimating expected forfeitures, including types of awards, employee class and historical experience. Actual results, and future changes in estimates, may differ substantially from our current estimates. Operating expenses with and without stock-based compensation are as follows: Three Months Ended Three Months Ended September 30, 2006 September 30, 2005 --------------------------- --------------------------- As Stock-Based As Stock-Based Reported Compensation Net Reported Compensation Net --------------------------- -------------------------- Operating (in millions) (in millions) Expenses: Fulfillment $ 217 $ (8) $209 $ 171 $ (5) $166 Marketing 64 (1) 63 44 (2) 42 Technology and content 172 (16) 156 121 (13) 108 General and administrative 54 (5) 49 32 (6) 26 Other operating expense 2 - 2 40 - 40 -------- ------------ ----- -------- ----------- ----- Total operating expenses $ 509 $ (30) $479 $ 408 $ (26) $382 ======== ============ ===== ======== =========== ===== Year-over-year Percentage Growth: Fulfillment 27 % 26 % 24 % 23 % Marketing 45 49 28 23 Technology and content 42 45 74 66 General and administrative 69 87 12 1 Percent of Net Sales: Fulfillment 9.4 % 9.1 % 9.2 % 8.9 % Marketing 2.8 2.7 2.4 2.3 Technology and content 7.4 6.8 6.5 5.8 General and administrative 2.4 2.1 1.7 1.4 Fulfillment The increase in fulfillment costs in absolute dollars relates to costs from expanding fulfillment capacity and variable costs. Variable costs correspond with sales volume and inventory levels, our mix of product sales, and payment processing and related transaction costs, including mix of payment methods and costs from our guarantee for certain third-party seller transactions. Fulfillment costs represent those costs incurred in operating and staffing our fulfillment and customer service centers, including costs attributable to buying, receiving, inspecting and warehousing inventories; picking, packaging and preparing customer orders for shipment; and payment processing fees and transaction costs, including costs associated with our guarantee of certain third-party seller transactions and responding to inquiries from customers. Fulfillment costs also include amounts paid to third parties who assist us in fulfillment and customer service operations. Payment processing fees charged to us associated with third-party seller sales are based on the gross purchase price of underlying transactions, and transaction costs, such as our A to Z Guarantee, are higher as a percentage of revenue versus our retail sales. Accordingly, third-party sales have higher fulfillment costs as a percentage of net sales. Our worldwide fulfillment capacity expansion in 2006, which will add less space than 2005, is designed to accommodate greater selection and meet anticipated shipment volumes from sales of our own products as well as sales by third parties for which we provide the fulfillment. Marketing We direct customers to our websites primarily through a number of targeted online marketing channels, such as our Associates and Syndicated Stores programs, sponsored search, portal advertising, e-mail campaigns, and other initiatives. Our marketing expenses are largely variable, based on growth in sales and changes in rates. To the extent there is increased or decreased competition for these traffic sources, or to the extent our mix of these channels shifts, we would expect to see a corresponding change in our marketing expense or its effect. Marketing costs increased in absolute dollars in Q3 2006 due to increased spending in variable online marketing channels, such as our Associates program, sponsored search, and other variable marketing initiatives. While costs associated with free shipping are not included in marketing expense, we view free shipping offers as an effective worldwide marketing tool, and intend to continue offering them indefinitely. Technology and Content In 2005, we added a significant number of computer scientists, software engineers and employees involved in editorial content, buying, merchandising, and systems support. We are investing in several areas of technology including seller platforms, web services and digital initiatives. In addition, we increased spending on our technology infrastructure so that we can continue to enhance the customer experience and improve our process efficiency. Technology and content expenses consist principally of payroll and related expenses for employees involved in research and development, including application development, editorial content, merchandising selection, and systems and telecommunications support, as well as costs associated with systems and telecommunications infrastructure. A significant majority of our technology costs are incurred in the U.S. and are allocated to our North America segment. Certain costs relating to the development of internal-use software and website development, including software to upgrade and enhance our websites and processes supporting our business, are capitalized and depreciated over two years. In Q3 2006 and Q3 2005, we capitalized $34 million (including $5 million of stock-based compensation) and $25 million (including $3 million of stock-based compensation) of costs associated with internal-use software and website development. Amortization of previously capitalized amounts was $23 million and $14 million for Q3 2006 and Q3 2005. We expect the year-over-year percentage growth in technology and content, excluding stock-based compensation, to continue to decrease in Q4 2006. General and Administrative The increase in general and administrative costs in Q3 2006 is primarily due to increases in payroll and related expenses. In Q3 2005 we recorded a $12 million benefit for actual and expected reimbursement by an insurer of certain legal costs previously incurred by us. Stock-Based Awards As of January 1, 2005, we adopted SFAS 123(R), which requires measurement of compensation cost for stock-based awards at grant date fair value. The fair value of restricted stock and restricted stock units is determined based on the number of shares granted and the quoted price of our common stock, while the fair value of stock options is determined using a Black-Scholes valuation model. The fair value is recognized as an expense over the service period, net of estimated forfeitures, using the accelerated method under SFAS 123(R). The adoption of SFAS 123(R) in Q1 2005 resulted in a cumulative benefit from accounting change of $26 million, which reflects the net cumulative impact of estimating future forfeitures in the determination of period expense, rather than recording forfeitures when they occur as previously permitted. Stock-based awards generally vest over service periods of between two and five years. We granted stock awards, substantially all of which have been restricted stock units since October 2002, of 1 million shares in the quarter. Our annual stock awards are granted in the second quarter. As of September 30, 2006, there were 24 million shares underlying outstanding stock awards, consisting of 10 million shares underlying stock options with a $16 weighted-average exercise price and 14 million shares underlying restricted stock units. As of September 30, 2006, outstanding common shares plus shares underlying outstanding stock-based awards were 435 million, down 1% from 438 million as of September 30, 2005. This total includes all stock-based awards outstanding, without regard for estimated forfeitures, consisting of vested and unvested awards and in-the-money and out-of-the-money stock options. Other Operating Expense Other operating expense primarily includes costs related to intangibles amortization. We acquired certain companies during the first nine months of 2006 for an aggregate purchase price of $50 million, including cash payments of $30 million in the nine months ended September 30, 2006, and future cash payments of $19 million and $1 million due in 2007 and 2008. Acquired intangibles totaled $17 million and have estimated useful lives of between one and ten years. The excess of purchase price over the fair value of the net assets acquired was $33 million and is classified as goodwill on our consolidated balance sheets. The results of operations of the acquired business have been included in our consolidated results from each closing date forward. The effect of these acquisitions on consolidated net sales and operating income during the first nine months of 2006 was not significant. Remeasurements and Other The remeasurement of our 6.875% PEACS and intercompany balances can result in significant gains and charges associated with the effect of movements in currency exchange rates. Remeasurement of the principal amount of our 6.875% PEACS from Euros to U.S. dollars resulted in a foreign-currency gain of $3 million, compared with a gain of $4 million. Remeasurement of foreign-currency intercompany balances that are to be repaid among subsidiaries resulted in a foreign-currency loss of $4 million, compared with a loss of $2 million. Income Taxes Our tax provision for interim periods is determined using an estimate of the annual effective tax rate. There is a potential for significant volatility of our 2006 effective tax rate due to several factors, including from variability in accurately predicting our taxable income and the taxable jurisdictions to which it relates. Our provision for income taxes was $19 million in Q3 -- and our current estimate of our annual effective tax rate is 51%. The effective tax rate was higher than the 35% statutory rate, resulting from steps we initiated to establish our European headquarters in Luxembourg, which we expect will benefit our effective tax rate over time. Associated with the establishment of our European headquarters, we transferred certain of our operating assets in 2005 and 2006 from the U.S. to international locations. These transfers resulted in taxable income and an increase in our effective tax rate. We expect cash taxes paid in 2006 to be approximately $25 million compared with $12 million in 2005. We endeavor to optimize our global taxes on a cash basis, rather than on a financial reporting basis. Foreign Exchange Our financial reporting currency is the U.S. dollar, and changes in exchange rates significantly affect our reported results and consolidated trends. The effect on our consolidated statements of operations from year-over-year changes in exchange rates versus the U.S. dollar throughout the period is as follows: Three Months Ended September 30, ----------------------------------------------------- 2006 2005 -------------------------- -------------------------- At At Prior Exchange Prior Exchange Year Rate Year Rate Rates Effect As Rates Effect As (1) (2) Reported (1) (2) Reported ------- -------- --------- ------- -------- --------- (in millions, except per share amounts) Net sales $2,287 $ 20 $2,307 $1,865 $ (7) $ 1,858 Gross profit 545 4 549 464 (1) 463 Operating expenses 506 3 509 408 - 408 Income from operations 39 1 40 56 (1) 55 Net interest expense and other 3 - 3 10 - 10 Remeasurements and other income (3) 2 (1) 1 4 2 6 Net income 19 - 19 29 1 30 Diluted earnings per share $ 0.05 $ - $ 0.05 $ 0.07 $ - $ 0.07 (1) Represents the outcome that would have resulted had currency exchange rates in the current period been the same as those in effect in the comparable prior year period for operating results, and if we did not incur the variability associated with remeasurements for our 6.875% PEACS and intercompany balances. (2) Represents the increase or decrease in reported amounts resulting from changes in exchange rates from those in effect in the comparable prior year period for operating results, and if we did not incur the variability associated with remeasurements for our 6.875% PEACS and intercompany balances. (3) Includes foreign-currency gains (losses) on remeasurement of 6.875% PEACS and intercompany balances compared to prior quarter, and realized currency-related gains associated with sales of Euro-denominated investments held by a U.S. subsidiary. Cash Flows and Balance Sheet Free cash flow, a non-GAAP financial measure, was $366 million for the trailing twelve months ended September 30, 2006, compared to $475 million for the trailing twelve months ended September 30, 2005, a decrease of 23%, primarily driven by our increased expenditure in technology and content. Other items reducing free cash flow for the trailing twelve months ended September 30, 2006, include changes in working capital, the termination of our contract with Toysrus.com LLC and $43 million from excess tax benefits for stock-based compensation now classified as financing cash flows. Operating cash flows and free cash flows can be volatile and are sensitive to many factors, including changes in working capital and timing of capital expenditures. Working capital at any specific point in time is subject to many variables, including seasonality, inventory management and category expansion, the timing of expense payments and cash receipts, discounts offered by vendors, vendor payment terms and fluctuations in foreign exchange rates. During Q3 2006, we paid Toysrus.com LLC $13 million previously retained by us against payments otherwise due to them. Free cash flow for the twelve months ended September 30, 2005, was reduced by a $40 million payment for a patent litigation settlement in Q3 2005. In August 2006, our Board of Directors authorized a 24-month program to repurchase up to an aggregate of $500 million of our common stock. We repurchased 8 million shares of our common stock for $252 million in Q3 2006 under this program. Prior to our adoption of SFAS 123(R), cash retained as a result of excess tax deductions relating to stock-based compensation was presented in operating cash flows, along with other tax cash flows. SFAS 123(R) requires benefits relating to excess stock-based compensation deductions to be presented as financing cash inflows -- effectively a reclassification between operating cash flows and financing cash flows. Tax benefits resulting from stock-based compensation deductions in excess of amounts reported for financial reporting purposes -- which negatively impacted operating cash flow - were $9 million in Q3 2006 and $43 million for the trailing twelve months. We expect amounts for 2006 to increase substantially from comparable amounts in 2005. Accordingly, amounts presented for operating cash flows and free cash flows for 2006 will be negatively affected in comparison to prior results; however, the underlying economic substance is not affected by this change in reporting classification. Our cash, cash equivalents and marketable securities of $1.22 billion, at fair value, primarily consist of cash, investment grade securities and AAA-rated money market mutual funds. Included are amounts held in foreign currencies of $383 million, primarily in Euros, British Pounds and Japanese Yen. Accounts receivable, net and other current assets include accounts receivable from merchant partners, vendors and credit card companies, interest receivables and prepaid expenses, such as advance payments for insurance, licenses and other miscellaneous expenses. Fixed assets include assets such as furniture and fixtures, heavy equipment, technology infrastructure, internal-use software and website development, and our DVD rental library. Other assets include, among other things, $83 million of marketable securities restricted for longer than one year, $8 million of deferred issuance costs on long-term debt, $8 million of certain equity investments, and $24 million of other intangibles, net. Marketable securities restricted for longer than one year are related to collateralization of debt for our international operations -- such amounts at December 31, 2005, were insignificant. Accrued expenses and other current liabilities include, among other things, liabilities for gift certificates of $135 million, professional fees, marketing activities, workforce costs -- including accrued payroll, vacation and other benefits--and unearned revenue of $57 million, which is recorded when payments are received or due in advance of performing our service obligations and is amortized over the service period. Long-term debt and other primarily include the following (in millions): Principal Interest Principal at Maturity Rate Due Date -------------- -------- --------- Convertible Subordinated Notes February $900 (1) 4.750% 2009 Premium Adjustable Convertible February Securities ("PEACS") 304 (2)(4) 6.875% 2010 -------------- $1,204 (3) ============== (1) Convertible at the holders' option into our common stock at $78.0275 per share. We have the right to redeem the Convertible Subordinated Notes, in whole or in part, at a redemption price of 101.425% of the principal, which decreases every February 1 by 47.5 basis points until maturity, plus any accrued and unpaid interest. (2) EUR 240 million principal amount, convertible at the holders' option into our common stock at EUR 84.883 per share ($108 per share based on the Euro/U.S. dollar exchange rate as of September 30, 2006). We have the right to redeem the PEACS, in whole or in part, by paying the principal amount, plus any accrued and unpaid interest. We do not hedge any portion of the PEACS. The U.S. dollar equivalent principal, interest and conversion price fluctuate based on the Euro/U.S. dollar exchange ratio. (3) The "if converted" number of shares associated with our convertible debt instruments (approximately 14 million total shares) is excluded from diluted shares as they are antidilutive. (4) As previously announced, in Q1 2006 we redeemed EUR 250 million -- or $300 million at the Euro to U.S. dollar exchange rate on the redemption date--in principal amount of our PEACS at par. Certain Definitions and Other We present segment information for North America and International. We measure operating results of our segments using an internal performance measure of direct segment operating expenses that excludes stock-based compensation and other operating expense, each of which is not allocated to segment results. Other centrally incurred operating costs are fully allocated to segment results. Our operating results, particularly for the International segment, are affected by movements in foreign exchange rates. The North America segment consists of amounts earned from retail sales of consumer products (including from third-party sellers) and subscriptions through North America-focused websites such as www.amazon.com and www.amazon.ca; from North America-focused Syndicated Stores, such as www.borders.com; from our mail-order tool catalog phone orders; from our Amazon Prime membership program; and from non-retail activities such as North America-focused Amazon Enterprise Solutions program, and marketing and promotional agreements. This segment includes export sales from www.amazon.com and www.amazon.ca. The International segment consists of amounts earned from retail sales of consumer products (including from third-party sellers) and subscriptions through internationally focused websites such as www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, and www.joyo.com; from internationally focused Syndicated Stores; from our DVD rental service; and from non-retail activities such as internationally focused marketing and promotional agreements. This segment includes export sales from these internationally based sites (including export sales from these sites to customers in the U.S. and Canada) but excludes export sales from www.amazon.com and www.amazon.ca. We provide supplemental sales information within each segment for three categories: Media, Electronics and Other General Merchandise, and Other. Media consists of amounts earned from DVD rentals and retail sales from all sellers of books, music, DVD/video, magazine subscriptions, software, video games and video-game consoles. Electronics and Other General Merchandise consists of amounts earned from retail sales from all sellers of items not included in Media, such as electronics and office, camera and photo, toys and baby, tools, home and garden, apparel, sports and outdoors, kitchen and housewares, gourmet food, jewelry, health and personal care, beauty and musical instruments. The Other category consists of non-retail activities, such as the Amazon Enterprise Solutions program and miscellaneous marketing and promotional activities, such as our co-branded credit card programs. Operating cash flow is net cash provided by (used in) operating activities, including cash outflows for interest and excluding proceeds from the exercise of stock-based employee awards. Free cash flow is operating cash flow less cash outflows for purchases of fixed assets, including internal-use software and website development. Operating cycle is number of days of sales in inventory plus number of days of sales in accounts receivable minus accounts payable days. Accounts payable days are calculated as the quotient of accounts payable to cost of sales, multiplied by the number of days in the period. Inventory turns are calculated as the quotient of trailing twelve month cost of sales to average inventory over five quarter ends. Return on invested capital is trailing-twelve-month free cash flow divided by average total assets less current liabilities over five quarter ends. References to customers mean customer accounts, which are unique e-mail addresses, established either when a customer's initial order is shipped or when a customer orders from certain third-party sellers on our websites. Customer accounts include customers of Amazon Marketplace, and our Merchants@ and Syndicated Stores programs, but exclude certain customers, including DVD rental customers, customers associated with certain of our acquisitions (including Joyo.com customers), Amazon Enterprise Solutions program customers, Amazon.com Payments customers, our catalog customers and the customers of select companies with whom we have a technology alliance or marketing and promotional relationship. Customers are considered active when they have placed an order during the preceding twelve-month period. References to sellers or merchants mean active seller accounts, which are established when a seller receives an order from a customer account. Seller accounts include sellers in Amazon Marketplace, and Merchants@ platforms, but exclude Amazon Enterprise Solutions sellers. Sellers are considered active when they have received an order during the preceding twelve-month period. References to units mean units sold (net of returns and cancellations) by us and by third-party sellers at Amazon.com domains worldwide -- such as www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr and www.amazon.ca--and at Syndicated Stores domains, as well as Amazon.com-owned items sold through catalogs and at non-Amazon.com domains, such as books, music and DVD/video items ordered from Amazon.com's store at www.target.com. Units sold do not include units associated with certain of our acquisitions (including Joyo.com units), Amazon.com gift certificates or DVD rentals. CONTACT: Amazon.com Investor RelationsKim Nelson, 206/266-2171ir@amazon.comwww.amazon.com/irorAmazon.com Public RelationsPatty Smith, 206/266-7180SOURCE: Amazon.com, Inc.

<p>SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Oct. 24, 2006--Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ:AMZN) today announced financial results for its third quarter ended September 30, 2006.</p><p>Operating cash flow declined 11% to $587 million for the trailing twelve months, compared with $661 million for the trailing twelve months ended September 30, 2005. Free cash flow decreased 23% to $366 million for the trailing twelve months, compared with $475 million for the trailing twelve months ended September 30, 2005, driven primarily by our increased expenditure in technology and content.</p><p>Common shares outstanding plus shares underlying stock-based awards outstanding totaled 435 million at September 30, 2006, compared with 438 million a year ago. During the quarter, the Company repurchased 8 million shares, or $252 million under its previously announced authorization to repurchase up to $500 million of the Company's common stock.</p><p>Net sales increased 24% to $2.31 billion in the third quarter, compared with $1.86 billion in third quarter 2005. Excluding the $20 million favorable impact from year-over-year changes in foreign exchange rates throughout the quarter, net sales grew 23% compared with third quarter 2005.</p><p>Operating income decreased 28% to $40 million in the third quarter, compared with $55 million in third quarter 2005. The decline in operating income was mainly due to technology and content investments. Third quarter 2005 operating income included a negative impact of $40 million relating to a patent litigation settlement.</p><p>Net income was $19 million in the third quarter, or $0.05 per diluted share, compared with net income of $30 million, or $0.07 per diluted share in third quarter 2005.</p><p>"We're pleased with the strong revenue growth and rapid adoption of Amazon Prime," said Jeff Bezos, founder and CEO of Amazon.com. "We look forward to seeing significant sequential improvement in operating leverage this Q4, even as we continue to invest in many initiatives including new retail categories, seller platforms, web services, and digital."</p><p>Amazon Prime continues to demonstrate strong quarter-to-quarter sequential growth for new memberships. Amazon Prime, Amazon.com's first-ever membership program, was introduced in February 2005. For a flat membership fee of $79 per year, Amazon Prime members get unlimited, express two-day shipping for free, with no minimum purchase requirement on over a million eligible items sold by Amazon.com. Members can order as late as 6:30 p.m. ET and still get their order the next day for only $3.99 per item, and they can share the benefits of Amazon Prime with up to four family members living in their household. Sign up for Amazon Prime at www.amazon.com/prime.</p><p>Highlights</p><ul><li>North America segment sales, representing the Company's U.S. and Canadian sites, were $1.26 billion, up 21% from third quarter 2005.</li><li>International segment sales, representing the Company's U.K., German, Japanese, French and Chinese sites, were $1.05 billion, up 29% from third quarter 2005. Excluding the favorable impact from year-over-year changes in foreign exchange rates throughout the quarter, International net sales growth was 26%.</li><li>Worldwide Electronics &amp; Other General Merchandise grew 43% to $699 million in third quarter 2006, and increased to 30% of worldwide net sales compared with 26% in third quarter 2005.</li><li>The Company launched Amazon Unbox, a digital video download service offering customers thousands of television shows, movies and other video content from more than 30 studio and network partners from Hollywood and around the world. Amazon Unbox continues to add selection with the addition of Showtime(R) premium programming in October.</li><li>Amazon Business Solutions launched in beta WebStore by Amazon and Fulfillment by Amazon, giving small and medium-sized businesses access to Amazon's order fulfillment, customer service, customer shipping offers and underlying website technology.</li><li>Amazon Web Services launched Amazon Elastic Compute Cloud (Amazon EC2) in limited public beta. Amazon EC2 is a web service that provides resizable compute capacity, making web-scale computing easier for developers. Just as Amazon Simple Storage Service (Amazon S3) enables "storage" in the cloud, Amazon EC2 enables "compute" in the cloud. Developers continue to adopt Amazon's web services -- over 200,000 have registered to date, up greater than 60% year-over-year.</li><li>Amazon's Japan website -- Amazon.co.jp -- launched its Health &amp; Beauty store, offering customers a selection of over 35,000 items in 12 categories including supplements, drinking water and soft drinks, condiments, processed foods and health foods, as well as cosmetics and products for bath care, nursing care and aroma relaxation.</li><li>The Company announced its Automotive Parts &amp; Accessories store on www.amazon.com, featuring over one million automotive products offered by Amazon and leading mass market and specialty retailers. Amazon's innovative Part Finder allows owners of approximately 10,000 different car and truck models to find the correct replacement parts, performance parts or accessories for their vehicles.</li></ul><p>Financial Guidance</p><p>The following forward-looking statements reflect Amazon.com's expectations as of October 24, 2006. Results may be materially affected by many factors, such as fluctuations in foreign exchange rates, changes in global economic conditions and consumer spending, world events, the rate of growth of the Internet and online commerce, and the various factors detailed below.</p><p>Fourth Quarter 2006 Guidance</p><ul><li>Net sales are expected to be between $3.625 billion and $3.950 billion, or to grow between 22% and 33% compared with fourth quarter 2005.</li><li>Operating income is expected to be between $145 million and $235 million, or between (12%) decline and 43% growth, compared with fourth quarter 2005. This guidance includes $35 million for stock-based compensation and amortization of intangible assets, and it assumes, among other things, that no additional intangible assets are recorded and that there are no further revisions to stock-based compensation estimates.</li></ul><p>Full Year 2006 Guidance</p><ul><li>Net sales are expected to be between $10.350 billion and $10.675 billion, or to grow between 22% and 26% compared with 2005.</li><li>Operating income is expected to be between $339 million and $429 million, or between (22%) decline and (1%) decline, compared with 2005. This guidance includes $113 million for stock-based compensation and amortization of intangible assets, and it assumes, among other things, that no additional intangible assets are recorded and that there are no further revisions to stock-based compensation estimates.</li></ul><p>A conference call will be webcast live today at 2 p.m. PT/5 p.m. ET, and will be available for at least three months at www.amazon.com/ir. This call will contain forward-looking statements and other material information regarding the Company's financial and operating results.</p><p>These forward-looking statements are inherently difficult to predict. Actual results could differ materially for a variety of reasons, including, in addition to the factors discussed above, the amount that Amazon.com invests in new business opportunities and the timing of those investments, the mix of products sold to customers, the mix of net sales derived from products as compared with services, competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international growth and expansion, the outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, risks of inventory management, seasonality, the degree to which the Company enters into, maintains and develops commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, payments risks, and risks of fulfillment throughput and productivity. Other risks and uncertainties include, among others, risk of future losses, significant indebtedness, system interruptions, consumer trends, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, fraud, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings.</p><p>About Amazon.com</p><p>Amazon.com, Inc., (Nasdaq:AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com, Inc. seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden.</p><p>Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com.</p><p>As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise.</p><pre> AMAZON.COM, INC. Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (in millions) (unaudited) Three Months Ended Nine Months Twelve Months September Ended Ended 30, September 30, September 30, ----------- --------------- -------------- 2006 2005 2006 2005 2006 2005 ----- ----- ------- ------- ------ -------CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, BEGINNING OF PERIOD $683 $629 $1,013 $1,303 $600 $746OPERATING ACTIVITIES:Net income 19 30 93 160 292 507Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash from operating activities: Depreciation of fixed assets, including internal-use software and website development, and other amortization 63 30 146 85 182 106 Stock-based compensation 30 26 71 71 87 90 Other operating expense 2 - 9 3 13 (3) Losses (gains) on sales of marketable securities, net (3) - (2) - (4) - Remeasurements and other (1) (6) (10) (38) (14) (6) Non-cash interest expense and other 1 1 3 4 4 5 Deferred income taxes 7 23 15 116 (31) (128) Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle - - - (26) - (26)Changes in operating assets and liabilities: Inventories (218) (76) (155) 10 (269) (98) Accounts receivable, net and other current assets (53) (12) 13 6 (77) 14 Accounts payable 252 147 (187) (224) 312 201 Accrued expenses and other current liabilities 27 (6) (44) (72) 87 (3) Additions to unearned revenue 39 28 131 95 192 120 Amortization of previously unearned revenue (35) (32) (125) (87) (187) (118) ----- ----- ------- ------- ------ ------- Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities 130 153 (42) 103 587 661INVESTING ACTIVITIES:Purchases of fixed assets, including internal-use software and website development (62) (76) (166) (149) (221) (186)Acquisitions, net of cash acquired (2) (4) (30) (24) (30) (24)Sales and maturities of marketable securities and other investments 438 163 975 653 1,159 1,072Purchases of marketable securities (227) (289) (589) (1,027) (947) (1,475) ----- ----- ------- ------- ------ ------- Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities 147 (206) 190 (547) (39) (613)FINANCING ACTIVITIES:Proceeds from exercises of stock options 4 21 17 38 36 55Excess tax benefit on stock awards 9 2 38 4 43 4Common stock repurchased (252) - (252) - (252) -Proceeds from long-term debt and other 13 13 81 13 81 13Repayments of long-term debt and capital lease obligations (42) (6) (376) (272) (376) (272) ----- ----- ------- ------- ------ ------- Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities (268) 30 (492) (217) (468) (200)Foreign-currency effect on cash and cash equivalents 1 (6) 24 (42) 13 6 ----- ----- ------- ------- ------ ------- Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents 10 (29) (320) (703) 93 (146) ----- ----- ------- ------- ------ -------CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, END OF PERIOD $693 $600 $693 $600 $693 $600 ===== ===== ======= ======= ====== =======SUPPLEMENTAL CASH FLOW INFORMATION:Cash paid for interest $22 $21 $85 $105 $85 $105Cash paid for income taxes 5 6 13 11 15 12</pre><pre> AMAZON.COM, INC. Consolidated Statements of Operations (in millions, except per share data) (unaudited) Three Months Nine Months Ended Ended September 30, September 30, ---------------- ---------------- 2006 2005 2006 2005 -------- ------- ----------------Net sales $2,307 $1,858 $6,725 $5,513Cost of sales 1,758 1,395 5,119 4,141 -------- ------- -------- -------Gross profit 549 463 1,606 1,372Operating expenses (1): Fulfillment 217 171 599 495 Marketing 64 44 171 131 Technology and content 172 121 485 319 General and administrative 54 32 150 117 Other operating expense 2 40 9 43 -------- ------- -------- ------- Total operating expenses 509 408 1,414 1,105 -------- ------- -------- -------Income from operations 40 55 192 267Interest income 14 12 41 30Interest expense (21) (22) (58) (70)Other income, net 4 - 4 2Remeasurements and other 1 6 10 38 -------- ------- -------- ------- Total non-operating expense (2) (4) (3) - -------- ------- -------- -------Income before income taxes 38 51 189 267Provision for income taxes 19 21 96 133 -------- ------- -------- -------Income before cumulative effect of change in accounting principle 19 30 93 134Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle - - - 26 -------- ------- -------- -------Net income $19 $30 $93 $160 ======== ======= ======== =======Basic earnings per share: Prior to cumulative effect of change in accounting principle $0.05 $0.07 $0.22 $0.33 Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle - - - 0.06 -------- ------- -------- ------- $0.05 $0.07 $0.22 $0.39 ======== ======= ======== =======Diluted earnings per share: Prior to cumulative effect of change in accounting principle $0.05 $0.07 $0.22 $0.32 Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle - - - 0.06 -------- ------- -------- ------- $0.05 $0.07 $0.22 $0.38 ======== ======= ======== =======Weighted average shares used in computation of earnings per share: Basic 417 413 417 411 ======== ======= ======== ======= Diluted 424 428 425 426 ======== ======= ======== =======(1) Includes stock-based compensation as follows: Fulfillment $8 $5 $18 $13 Marketing 1 2 3 5 Technology and content 16 13 38 36 General and administrative 5 6 12 17</pre><pre> AMAZON.COM, INC. Segment Information (in millions) (unaudited) Three Months Nine Months Ended Ended September 30, September 30, --------------- --------------- 2006 2005 2006 2005 ------- ------- ------- -------North America Net sales $1,257 $1,041 $3,661 $3,028 Cost of sales 914 749 2,668 2,179 ------- ------- ------- ------- Gross profit 343 292 993 849 Direct segment operating expenses (1) 321 226 885 645 ------- ------- ------- ------- Segment operating income $ 22 $ 66 $ 108 $ 204 ======= ======= ======= =======International Net sales 1,050 817 3,064 2,485 Cost of sales 844 646 2,451 1,962 ------- ------- ------- ------- Gross profit 206 171 613 523 Direct segment operating expenses (1) 156 116 449 346 ------- ------- ------- ------- Segment operating income $ 50 $ 55 $ 164 $ 177 ======= ======= ======= =======Consolidated Net sales 2,307 1,858 6,725 5,513 Cost of sales 1,758 1,395 5,119 4,141 ------- ------- ------- ------- Gross profit 549 463 1,606 1,372 Direct segment operating expenses 477 342 1,334 991 ------- ------- ------- ------- Segment operating income 72 121 272 381 Stock-based compensation (30) (26) (71) (71) Other operating expense (2) (40) (9) (43) ------- ------- ------- ------- Income from operations 40 55 192 267 Total non-operating expense, net (2) (4) (3) - Provision for income taxes (19) (21) (96) (133) Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle - - - 26 ------- ------- ------- -------Net income $ 19 $ 30 $ 93 $ 160 ======= ======= ======= =======Segment Highlights: Y/Y net sales growth: North America 21% 28% 21% 23% International 29 26 23 29 Consolidated 24 27 22 26 Y/Y gross profit growth: North America 17% 31% 17% 27% International 21 29 17 35 Consolidated 18 30 17 30 Y/Y segment operating income growth: North America (67%) 16% (47%) 3% International (8) 46 (8) 56 Consolidated (40) 28 (29) 22 Net sales mix: North America 54% 56% 54% 55% International 46 44 46 45(1) A significant majority of our costs for "Technology and content" are incurred in the United States and most of these costs are allocated to our North America segment.</pre><pre> AMAZON.COM, INC. Supplemental Net Sales Information (in millions) (unaudited) Three Months Nine Months Ended Ended September 30, September 30, --------------- --------------- 2006 2005 2006 2005 ------- ------- ------- -------North America Media $ 785 $ 684 $2,330 $2,015 Electronics and other general merchandise 409 304 1,148 863 Other 63 53 183 150 ------- ------- ------- ------- Total North America $1,257 $1,041 $3,661 $3,028 ======= ======= ======= =======International Media 757 629 2,237 1,917 Electronics and other general merchandise 290 187 815 565 Other 3 1 12 3 ------- ------- ------- ------- Total International $1,050 $ 817 $3,064 $2,485 ======= ======= ======= =======Consolidated Media 1,542 1,313 4,567 3,932 Electronics and other general merchandise 699 491 1,963 1,428 Other 66 54 195 153 ------- ------- ------- ------- Total Consolidated $2,307 $1,858 $6,725 $5,513 ======= ======= ======= =======Year-Over-Year Percentage Net Sales Growth:North America: Media 15% 21% 16% 18% Electronics and other general merchandise 35 33 33 27 Other 17 122 22 108 Total North America 21 28 21 23International: Media 20% 19% 17% 20% Electronics and other general merchandise 55 62 44 76 Other 144 177 286 85 Total International 29 26 23 29Consolidated: Media 17% 20% 16% 19% Electronics and other general merchandise 43 43 38 43 Other 20 123 27 107 Total Consolidated 24 27 22 26Year-Over-Year Percentage Net Sales Growth Excluding Effect of Exchange Rates:International: Media 19% 20% 21% 18% Electronics and other general merchandise 51 64 48 72 Other 135 178 296 82 Total International 26 28 27 27Consolidated: Media 17% 21% 18% 18% Electronics and other general merchandise 41 43 39 42 Other 20 123 27 107 Total Consolidated 23 28 24 25Consolidated Net Sales Mix: Media 67% 71% 68% 71% Electronics and other general merchandise 30 26 29 26 Other 3 3 3 3</pre><pre> AMAZON.COM, INC. Consolidated Balance Sheets (in millions, except per share data) September December September 30, 31, 30, 2006 2005 2005 ----------- -------- -----------ASSETS (unaudited) (unaudited)Current assets: Cash and cash equivalents $693 $1,013 $600 Marketable securities 526 987 819 Inventories 736 566 456 Deferred tax assets, current portion 79 89 58 Accounts receivable, net and other current assets 281 274 188 ----------- -------- ----------- Total current assets 2,315 2,929 2,121Fixed assets, net 449 348 322Deferred tax assets, long-term portion 180 223 190Goodwill 194 159 159Other assets 130 37 40 ----------- -------- ----------- Total assets $3,268 $3,696 $2,832 =========== ======== ===========LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITYCurrent liabilities: Accounts payable $1,196 $1,366 $876 Accrued expenses and other current liabilities 572 563 437 ----------- -------- ----------- Total current liabilities 1,768 1,929 1,313Long-term debt and other 1,304 1,521 1,513Commitments and contingenciesStockholders' equity: Preferred stock, $0.01 par value: Authorized shares -- 500 Issued and outstanding shares -- none - - - Common stock, $0.01 par value: Authorized shares -- 5,000 Issued and outstanding shares: 411, 416, and 414 4 4 4 Treasury stock, at cost (252) - - Additional paid-in capital 2,377 2,263 2,215 Accumulated other comprehensive income 1 6 13 Accumulated deficit (1,934) (2,027) (2,226) ----------- -------- ----------- Total stockholders' equity 196 246 6 ----------- -------- ----------- Total liabilities and stockholders' equity $3,268 $3,696 $2,832 =========== ======== ===========</pre><pre> AMAZON.COM, INC. Supplemental Financial Information and Business Metrics (in millions, except per share data) (unaudited)---------------------------------------------------------------------- Y/Y % Q3 Q4 Q1 Q2 Q3 Change 2005 2005 2006 2006 2006 -----------------------------------------Cash Flows and SharesOperating cash flow -- trailing twelve months (TTM) (1) $661 $733 $724 $610 $587 (11%)Purchase of fixed assets (incl. internal-use software &amp; website development) -- TTM $186 $204 $223 $235 $221 19%Free cash flow (operating cash flow less purchases of fixed assets) -- TTM (1) $475 $529 $501 $375 $366 (23%)Common shares and stock-based awards outstanding 438 438 438 443 435 (1%)Common shares outstanding 414 416 417 419 411 (1%)Stock-based awards outstanding 24 22 21 24 24 (1%)Stock-based awards outstanding -- % of common shares outstanding 5.8% 5.2% 4.9% 5.8% 5.8% N/AResults of OperationsWorldwide (WW) net sales $1,858 $2,977 $2,279 $2,139 $2,307 24%WW net sales -- Y/Y growth, excluding the effect of foreign exchange rates 27.6% 21.9% 24.8% 23.4% 23.1% N/AWW net sales -- TTM $8,054 $8,490 $8,867 $9,253 $9,701 20%WW net sales -- TTM Y/Y growth, excluding the effect of foreign exchange rates 25.2% 23.7% 24.3% 24.0% 23.2% N/AGross profit $463 $667 $547 $509 $549 18%Gross margin -- % of WW net sales 24.9% 22.4% 24.0% 23.8% 23.8% N/AGross profit -- TTM $1,917 $2,039 $2,128 $2,187 $2,273 19%Gross margin -- TTM % of WW net sales 23.8% 24.0% 24.0% 23.6% 23.4% N/AOperating income (1)(3) $55 $165 $106 $47 $40 (28%)Operating margin -- % of WW net sales (1) 3.0% 5.5% 4.6% 2.2% 1.7% N/AOperating income -- TTM (1)(3) $430 $432 $430 $372 $357 (17%)Operating margin -- TTM % of WW net sales (1) 5.3% 5.1% 4.8% 4.0% 3.7% N/ANet income (1) (2) $30 $199 $51 $22 $19 (35%)Net income per diluted share (1) (2) $0.07 $0.47 $0.12 $0.05 $0.05 (34%)Net income -- TTM (1) (2) $507 $359 $332 $302 $292 (42%)Net income per diluted share -- TTM (1) (2) $1.19 $0.84 $0.78 $0.71 $0.69 (42%)SegmentsNorth America Segment: Net sales $1,041 $1,683 $1,247 $1,157 $1,257 21% Net sales -- Y/Y growth, excluding the effect of foreign exchange rates 27.4% 20.8% 21.3% 20.4% 20.5% N/A Net sales -- TTM $4,420 $4,711 $4,931 $5,128 $5,343 21% Gross profit $292 $418 $341 $309 $343 17% Gross margin -- % of North America net sales 28.1% 24.8% 27.3% 26.7% 27.3% N/A Gross profit -- TTM $1,204 $1,267 $1,329 $1,361 $1,411 17% Gross margin -- TTM % of North America net sales 27.2% 26.9% 27.0% 26.5% 26.4% N/A Operating income (3) $66 $92 $62 $25 $22 (67%) Operating margin -- % of North America net sales 6.4% 5.5% 5.0% 2.1% 1.7% N/A Operating income -- TTM (3) $326 $296 $292 $245 $200 (39%) Operating margin -- TTM % of North America net sales 7.4% 6.3% 5.9% 4.8% 3.8% N/AInternational Segment: Net sales $817 $1,294 $1,032 $982 $1,050 29% Net sales -- Y/Y growth, excluding the effect of foreign exchange rates 27.8% 23.2% 28.9% 27.0% 26.3% N/A Net sales -- TTM $3,634 $3,779 $3,936 $4,125 $4,358 20% Net sales -- TTM % of WW net sales 45.1% 44.5% 44.4% 44.6% 44.9% N/A Gross profit $171 $249 $206 $200 $206 21% Gross margin -- % of International net sales 20.9% 19.3% 20.0% 20.4% 19.6% N/A Gross profit -- TTM $713 $772 $799 $827 $862 21% Gross margin -- TTM % of International net sales 19.6% 20.4% 20.3% 20.0% 19.8% N/A Operating income $55 $93 $58 $55 $50 (8%) Operating margin -- % of International net sales 6.7% 7.1% 5.6% 5.6% 4.8% N/A Operating income -- TTM $233 $270 $265 $260 $256 10% Operating margin -- TTM % of International net sales 6.4% 7.1% 6.7% 6.3% 5.9% N/A---------------------------------------------------------------------- AMAZON.COM, INC. Supplemental Financial Information and Business Metrics (in millions, except inventory turnover, accounts payable days, and employee data) (unaudited)---------------------------------------------------------------------- Y/Y % Q3 Q4 Q1 Q2 Q3 Change 2005 2005 2006 2006 2006 -----------------------------------------Segments (continued)Consolidated Segments: Operating expenses $342 $482 $427 $429 $477 39% Operating expenses -- TTM $1,358 $1,473 $1,570 $1,681 $1,816 34% Operating income (3) $121 $185 $120 $80 $72 (40%) Operating margin -- % of consolidated sales 6.5% 6.2% 5.3% 3.7% 3.1% N/A Operating income -- TTM (3) $559 $566 $558 $506 $457 (18%) Operating margin -- TTM % of consolidated net sales 6.9% 6.7% 6.3% 5.5% 4.7% N/ASupplemental North America Segment Net Sales: Media $684 $1,030 $815 $730 $785 15% Media -- TTM $2,901 $3,046 $3,163 $3,260 $3,361 16% Electronics and other general merchandise $304 $580 $374 $365 $409 35% Electronics and other general merchandise--TTM $1,311 $1,443 $1,534 $1,622 $1,727 32% Electronics and other general merchandise -- TTM % of North America net sales 30% 31% 31% 32% 32% N/A Other $53 $73 $58 $62 $63 17% Other -- TTM $208 $222 $234 $246 $255 23%Supplemental International Segment Net Sales: Media $629 $968 $763 $718 $757 20% Media -- TTM $2,828 $2,885 $2,972 $3,077 $3,205 13% Electronics and other general merchandise $187 $321 $265 $259 $290 55% Electronics and other general merchandise -- TTM $801 $886 $952 $1,033 $1,136 42% Electronics and other general merchandise -- TTM % of International net sales 22% 23% 24% 25% 26% N/A Other $1 $5 $4 $5 $3 144% Other -- TTM $4 $8 $11 $15 $17 341%Supplemental Worldwide Net Sales: Media $1,313 $1,998 $1,578 $1,448 $1,542 17% Media -- TTM $5,730 $5,931 $6,135 $6,337 $6,566 15% Electronics and other general merchandise $491 $901 $639 $624 $699 43% Electronics and other general merchandise--TTM $2,113 $2,329 $2,486 $2,655 $2,863 36% Electronics and other general merchandise -- TTM % of WW net sales 26% 27% 28% 29% 30% N/A Other $54 $78 $62 $67 $66 20% Other -- TTM $211 $230 $245 $261 $272 29%Balance SheetCash and marketable securities $1,419 $2,000 $1,334 $1,419 $1,219 (14%)Inventory, net -- ending $456 $566 $538 $521 $736 61%Inventory -- average inventory % of TTM net sales 5.2% 5.4% 5.3% 5.3% 5.8% N/AInventory turnover, average -- TTM 14.8 14.1 14.4 14.3 13.2 (11%)Fixed assets, net $322 $348 $361 $405 $449 40%Accounts payable days -- ending 58 54 48 53 63 8%OtherEmployees (full-time and part-time; excludes contractors &amp; temporary personnel) 11,200 12,000 12,400 12,700 13,300 19%----------------------------------------------------------------------Note: The attached "Financial and Operational Summary" is an integral part of this Supplemental Financial Information and Business Metrics.(1) The Company settled a patent lawsuit on terms including a one-time payment of $40 million in Q3 2005. This negatively impacts TTM operating cash flow and free cash flow by $40 million for all periods that include Q3 2005. The settlement negatively affected Q3 2005 operating income by $40 million, and Q3 2005 net income by $20 million after tax.(2) Q4 2005 net income includes a tax benefit of $90 million related to determining that certain of our deferred tax assets are realizable.(3) In Q2 2006, a fee dispute with Toysrus.com reduced our operating income by $20 million. Amazon.com, Inc. Financial and Operational Summary (unaudited)</pre><p>Quarterly Results of Operations (comparisons are with the equivalent period of the prior year, unless otherwise stated)</p><p>Net Sales</p><ul><li>Net sales increased 24%, or 23% excluding the $20 million favorable impact of year-over-year changes in foreign exchange.</li><li>In the prior year, we sold over 1.6 million copies of Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince.</li><li>Shipping revenue was $118 million, up 5% from $112 million.</li><li>Amounts paid in advance for subscription services, including amounts received from online DVD rentals, Amazon Prime and other membership programs, are deferred and recognized as revenue over the subscription term.</li><li>Net sales include fixed fees, commissions and per-unit fees earned from third-party sellers and similar amounts earned through Amazon Enterprise Solutions.</li></ul><p>Cost of Sales</p><ul><li>Cost of sales consists of the purchase price of products sold by us, inbound and outbound shipping charges, packaging supplies, amortization of our DVD rental library and service costs such as those incurred in operating and staffing our fulfillment and customer service centers on behalf of third parties.</li><li>Inbound shipping charges to receive products from our suppliers are included in inventory cost and recognized as cost of sales upon sale to our customers.</li><li>Outbound shipping costs totaled $182 million, up 14% from $159 million. Net shipping loss was $64 million, or 2.8% of net sales, up 36% from a net shipping loss of $47 million, or 2.5% of net sales, resulting primarily from our free shipping offers and Amazon Prime. To the extent our customers use free shipping offers at an increasing rate, including memberships in Amazon Prime, our net cost of shipping will increase.</li><li>While costs associated with free shipping, including Amazon Prime, are not included in marketing expense, we view our free shipping offers as an effective worldwide marketing tool and intend to continue offering them indefinitely. We offer promotions, such as free membership trials, for Amazon Prime and expect to continue to offer these promotions in the future.</li></ul><p>Operating Expenses</p><ul><li>Depreciation expense for fixed assets, including amortization of internal-use software and website development, was $62 million, up from $29 million. Depreciation is recorded on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives of the assets -- generally two years or less for assets such as internal-use software and our DVD rental library, three years for our technology infrastructure, five years for furniture and fixtures and ten years for heavy equipment. Depreciation expense is generally classified within operating expense categories on the consolidated statements of operations, and certain assets, such as our DVD rental library, are amortized to cost of sales.</li><li>Stock-based compensation was $30 million compared to $26 million in the prior year, with the increase primarily due to increased restricted stock unit grants generally corresponding with an increase in employees. The estimation of stock awards that will ultimately vest requires judgment, and to the extent actual results or updated estimates differ from our current estimates, such amounts will be recorded as a cumulative adjustment in the period estimates are revised. We consider many factors when estimating expected forfeitures, including types of awards, employee class and historical experience. Actual results, and future changes in estimates, may differ substantially from our current estimates.</li><li>Operating expenses with and without stock-based compensation are as follows:</li></ul><pre> Three Months Ended Three Months Ended September 30, 2006 September 30, 2005 --------------------------- --------------------------- As Stock-Based As Stock-Based Reported Compensation Net Reported Compensation Net --------------------------- --------------------------Operating (in millions) (in millions) Expenses:Fulfillment $ 217 $ (8) $209 $ 171 $ (5) $166Marketing 64 (1) 63 44 (2) 42Technology and content 172 (16) 156 121 (13) 108General and administrative 54 (5) 49 32 (6) 26Other operating expense 2 - 2 40 - 40 -------- ------------ ----- -------- ----------- -----Total operating expenses $ 509 $ (30) $479 $ 408 $ (26) $382 ======== ============ ===== ======== =========== =====Year-over-year Percentage Growth:Fulfillment 27 % 26 % 24 % 23 %Marketing 45 49 28 23Technology and content 42 45 74 66General and administrative 69 87 12 1Percent of Net Sales:Fulfillment 9.4 % 9.1 % 9.2 % 8.9 %Marketing 2.8 2.7 2.4 2.3Technology and content 7.4 6.8 6.5 5.8General and administrative 2.4 2.1 1.7 1.4</pre><p>Fulfillment</p><ul><li>The increase in fulfillment costs in absolute dollars relates to costs from expanding fulfillment capacity and variable costs. Variable costs correspond with sales volume and inventory levels, our mix of product sales, and payment processing and related transaction costs, including mix of payment methods and costs from our guarantee for certain third-party seller transactions.</li><li>Fulfillment costs represent those costs incurred in operating and staffing our fulfillment and customer service centers, including costs attributable to buying, receiving, inspecting and warehousing inventories; picking, packaging and preparing customer orders for shipment; and payment processing fees and transaction costs, including costs associated with our guarantee of certain third-party seller transactions and responding to inquiries from customers. Fulfillment costs also include amounts paid to third parties who assist us in fulfillment and customer service operations.</li><li>Payment processing fees charged to us associated with third-party seller sales are based on the gross purchase price of underlying transactions, and transaction costs, such as our A to Z Guarantee, are higher as a percentage of revenue versus our retail sales. Accordingly, third-party sales have higher fulfillment costs as a percentage of net sales.</li><li>Our worldwide fulfillment capacity expansion in 2006, which will add less space than 2005, is designed to accommodate greater selection and meet anticipated shipment volumes from sales of our own products as well as sales by third parties for which we provide the fulfillment.</li></ul><p>Marketing</p><ul><li>We direct customers to our websites primarily through a number of targeted online marketing channels, such as our Associates and Syndicated Stores programs, sponsored search, portal advertising, e-mail campaigns, and other initiatives. Our marketing expenses are largely variable, based on growth in sales and changes in rates. To the extent there is increased or decreased competition for these traffic sources, or to the extent our mix of these channels shifts, we would expect to see a corresponding change in our marketing expense or its effect.</li><li>Marketing costs increased in absolute dollars in Q3 2006 due to increased spending in variable online marketing channels, such as our Associates program, sponsored search, and other variable marketing initiatives.</li><li>While costs associated with free shipping are not included in marketing expense, we view free shipping offers as an effective worldwide marketing tool, and intend to continue offering them indefinitely.</li></ul><p>Technology and Content</p><ul><li>In 2005, we added a significant number of computer scientists, software engineers and employees involved in editorial content, buying, merchandising, and systems support. We are investing in several areas of technology including seller platforms, web services and digital initiatives. In addition, we increased spending on our technology infrastructure so that we can continue to enhance the customer experience and improve our process efficiency.</li><li>Technology and content expenses consist principally of payroll and related expenses for employees involved in research and development, including application development, editorial content, merchandising selection, and systems and telecommunications support, as well as costs associated with systems and telecommunications infrastructure.</li><li>A significant majority of our technology costs are incurred in the U.S. and are allocated to our North America segment.</li><li>Certain costs relating to the development of internal-use software and website development, including software to upgrade and enhance our websites and processes supporting our business, are capitalized and depreciated over two years. In Q3 2006 and Q3 2005, we capitalized $34 million (including $5 million of stock-based compensation) and $25 million (including $3 million of stock-based compensation) of costs associated with internal-use software and website development. Amortization of previously capitalized amounts was $23 million and $14 million for Q3 2006 and Q3 2005.</li><li>We expect the year-over-year percentage growth in technology and content, excluding stock-based compensation, to continue to decrease in Q4 2006.</li></ul><p>General and Administrative</p><ul><li>The increase in general and administrative costs in Q3 2006 is primarily due to increases in payroll and related expenses.</li><li>In Q3 2005 we recorded a $12 million benefit for actual and expected reimbursement by an insurer of certain legal costs previously incurred by us.</li></ul><p>Stock-Based Awards</p><ul><li>As of January 1, 2005, we adopted SFAS 123(R), which requires measurement of compensation cost for stock-based awards at grant date fair value. The fair value of restricted stock and restricted stock units is determined based on the number of shares granted and the quoted price of our common stock, while the fair value of stock options is determined using a Black-Scholes valuation model. The fair value is recognized as an expense over the service period, net of estimated forfeitures, using the accelerated method under SFAS 123(R). The adoption of SFAS 123(R) in Q1 2005 resulted in a cumulative benefit from accounting change of $26 million, which reflects the net cumulative impact of estimating future forfeitures in the determination of period expense, rather than recording forfeitures when they occur as previously permitted.</li><li>Stock-based awards generally vest over service periods of between two and five years.</li><li>We granted stock awards, substantially all of which have been restricted stock units since October 2002, of 1 million shares in the quarter. Our annual stock awards are granted in the second quarter.</li><li>As of September 30, 2006, there were 24 million shares underlying outstanding stock awards, consisting of 10 million shares underlying stock options with a $16 weighted-average exercise price and 14 million shares underlying restricted stock units.</li><li>As of September 30, 2006, outstanding common shares plus shares underlying outstanding stock-based awards were 435 million, down 1% from 438 million as of September 30, 2005. This total includes all stock-based awards outstanding, without regard for estimated forfeitures, consisting of vested and unvested awards and in-the-money and out-of-the-money stock options.</li></ul><p>Other Operating Expense</p><ul><li>Other operating expense primarily includes costs related to intangibles amortization.</li><li>We acquired certain companies during the first nine months of 2006 for an aggregate purchase price of $50 million, including cash payments of $30 million in the nine months ended September 30, 2006, and future cash payments of $19 million and $1 million due in 2007 and 2008. Acquired intangibles totaled $17 million and have estimated useful lives of between one and ten years. The excess of purchase price over the fair value of the net assets acquired was $33 million and is classified as goodwill on our consolidated balance sheets. The results of operations of the acquired business have been included in our consolidated results from each closing date forward. The effect of these acquisitions on consolidated net sales and operating income during the first nine months of 2006 was not significant.</li></ul><p>Remeasurements and Other</p><ul><li>The remeasurement of our 6.875% PEACS and intercompany balances can result in significant gains and charges associated with the effect of movements in currency exchange rates.</li><li>Remeasurement of the principal amount of our 6.875% PEACS from Euros to U.S. dollars resulted in a foreign-currency gain of $3 million, compared with a gain of $4 million.</li><li>Remeasurement of foreign-currency intercompany balances that are to be repaid among subsidiaries resulted in a foreign-currency loss of $4 million, compared with a loss of $2 million.</li></ul><p>Income Taxes</p><ul><li>Our tax provision for interim periods is determined using an estimate of the annual effective tax rate. There is a potential for significant volatility of our 2006 effective tax rate due to several factors, including from variability in accurately predicting our taxable income and the taxable jurisdictions to which it relates.</li><li>Our provision for income taxes was $19 million in Q3 -- and our current estimate of our annual effective tax rate is 51%.</li><li>The effective tax rate was higher than the 35% statutory rate, resulting from steps we initiated to establish our European headquarters in Luxembourg, which we expect will benefit our effective tax rate over time. Associated with the establishment of our European headquarters, we transferred certain of our operating assets in 2005 and 2006 from the U.S. to international locations. These transfers resulted in taxable income and an increase in our effective tax rate.</li><li>We expect cash taxes paid in 2006 to be approximately $25 million compared with $12 million in 2005. We endeavor to optimize our global taxes on a cash basis, rather than on a financial reporting basis.</li></ul><p>Foreign Exchange</p><ul><li>Our financial reporting currency is the U.S. dollar, and changes in exchange rates significantly affect our reported results and consolidated trends.</li><li>The effect on our consolidated statements of operations from year-over-year changes in exchange rates versus the U.S. dollar throughout the period is as follows:</li></ul><pre> Three Months Ended September 30, ----------------------------------------------------- 2006 2005 -------------------------- -------------------------- At At Prior Exchange Prior Exchange Year Rate Year Rate Rates Effect As Rates Effect As (1) (2) Reported (1) (2) Reported ------- -------- --------- ------- -------- --------- (in millions, except per share amounts)Net sales $2,287 $ 20 $2,307 $1,865 $ (7) $ 1,858Gross profit 545 4 549 464 (1) 463Operating expenses 506 3 509 408 - 408Income from operations 39 1 40 56 (1) 55Net interest expense and other 3 - 3 10 - 10Remeasurements and other income (3) 2 (1) 1 4 2 6Net income 19 - 19 29 1 30Diluted earnings per share $ 0.05 $ - $ 0.05 $ 0.07 $ - $ 0.07</pre><p>(1) Represents the outcome that would have resulted had currency exchange rates in the current period been the same as those in effect in the comparable prior year period for operating results, and if we did not incur the variability associated with remeasurements for our 6.875% PEACS and intercompany balances.</p><p>(2) Represents the increase or decrease in reported amounts resulting from changes in exchange rates from those in effect in the comparable prior year period for operating results, and if we did not incur the variability associated with remeasurements for our 6.875% PEACS and intercompany balances.</p><p>(3) Includes foreign-currency gains (losses) on remeasurement of 6.875% PEACS and intercompany balances compared to prior quarter, and realized currency-related gains associated with sales of Euro-denominated investments held by a U.S. subsidiary.</p><p>Cash Flows and Balance Sheet</p><ul><li>Free cash flow, a non-GAAP financial measure, was $366 million for the trailing twelve months ended September 30, 2006, compared to $475 million for the trailing twelve months ended September 30, 2005, a decrease of 23%, primarily driven by our increased expenditure in technology and content. Other items reducing free cash flow for the trailing twelve months ended September 30, 2006, include changes in working capital, the termination of our contract with Toysrus.com LLC and $43 million from excess tax benefits for stock-based compensation now classified as financing cash flows.</li><li>Operating cash flows and free cash flows can be volatile and are sensitive to many factors, including changes in working capital and timing of capital expenditures. Working capital at any specific point in time is subject to many variables, including seasonality, inventory management and category expansion, the timing of expense payments and cash receipts, discounts offered by vendors, vendor payment terms and fluctuations in foreign exchange rates.</li><li>During Q3 2006, we paid Toysrus.com LLC $13 million previously retained by us against payments otherwise due to them.</li><li>Free cash flow for the twelve months ended September 30, 2005, was reduced by a $40 million payment for a patent litigation settlement in Q3 2005.</li><li>In August 2006, our Board of Directors authorized a 24-month program to repurchase up to an aggregate of $500 million of our common stock. We repurchased 8 million shares of our common stock for $252 million in Q3 2006 under this program.</li><li>Prior to our adoption of SFAS 123(R), cash retained as a result of excess tax deductions relating to stock-based compensation was presented in operating cash flows, along with other tax cash flows. SFAS 123(R) requires benefits relating to excess stock-based compensation deductions to be presented as financing cash inflows -- effectively a reclassification between operating cash flows and financing cash flows. Tax benefits resulting from stock-based compensation deductions in excess of amounts reported for financial reporting purposes -- which negatively impacted operating cash flow - were $9 million in Q3 2006 and $43 million for the trailing twelve months. We expect amounts for 2006 to increase substantially from comparable amounts in 2005. Accordingly, amounts presented for operating cash flows and free cash flows for 2006 will be negatively affected in comparison to prior results; however, the underlying economic substance is not affected by this change in reporting classification.</li><li>Our cash, cash equivalents and marketable securities of $1.22 billion, at fair value, primarily consist of cash, investment grade securities and AAA-rated money market mutual funds. Included are amounts held in foreign currencies of $383 million, primarily in Euros, British Pounds and Japanese Yen.</li><li>Accounts receivable, net and other current assets include accounts receivable from merchant partners, vendors and credit card companies, interest receivables and prepaid expenses, such as advance payments for insurance, licenses and other miscellaneous expenses.</li><li>Fixed assets include assets such as furniture and fixtures, heavy equipment, technology infrastructure, internal-use software and website development, and our DVD rental library.</li><li>Other assets include, among other things, $83 million of marketable securities restricted for longer than one year, $8 million of deferred issuance costs on long-term debt, $8 million of certain equity investments, and $24 million of other intangibles, net. Marketable securities restricted for longer than one year are related to collateralization of debt for our international operations -- such amounts at December 31, 2005, were insignificant.</li><li>Accrued expenses and other current liabilities include, among other things, liabilities for gift certificates of $135 million, professional fees, marketing activities, workforce costs -- including accrued payroll, vacation and other benefits--and unearned revenue of $57 million, which is recorded when payments are received or due in advance of performing our service obligations and is amortized over the service period.</li><li>Long-term debt and other primarily include the following (in millions):</li></ul><pre> Principal Interest Principal at Maturity Rate Due Date -------------- -------- ---------Convertible Subordinated Notes February $900 (1) 4.750% 2009Premium Adjustable Convertible February Securities ("PEACS") 304 (2)(4) 6.875% 2010 -------------- $1,204 (3) ==============</pre><p>(1) Convertible at the holders' option into our common stock at $78.0275 per share. We have the right to redeem the Convertible Subordinated Notes, in whole or in part, at a redemption price of 101.425% of the principal, which decreases every February 1 by 47.5 basis points until maturity, plus any accrued and unpaid interest.</p><p>(2) EUR 240 million principal amount, convertible at the holders' option into our common stock at EUR 84.883 per share ($108 per share based on the Euro/U.S. dollar exchange rate as of September 30, 2006). We have the right to redeem the PEACS, in whole or in part, by paying the principal amount, plus any accrued and unpaid interest. We do not hedge any portion of the PEACS. The U.S. dollar equivalent principal, interest and conversion price fluctuate based on the Euro/U.S. dollar exchange ratio.</p><p>(3) The "if converted" number of shares associated with our convertible debt instruments (approximately 14 million total shares) is excluded from diluted shares as they are antidilutive.</p><p>(4) As previously announced, in Q1 2006 we redeemed EUR 250 million -- or $300 million at the Euro to U.S. dollar exchange rate on the redemption date--in principal amount of our PEACS at par.</p><p>Certain Definitions and Other</p><ul><li>We present segment information for North America and International. We measure operating results of our segments using an internal performance measure of direct segment operating expenses that excludes stock-based compensation and other operating expense, each of which is not allocated to segment results. Other centrally incurred operating costs are fully allocated to segment results. Our operating results, particularly for the International segment, are affected by movements in foreign exchange rates.</li><li>The North America segment consists of amounts earned from retail sales of consumer products (including from third-party sellers) and subscriptions through North America-focused websites such as www.amazon.com and www.amazon.ca; from North America-focused Syndicated Stores, such as www.borders.com; from our mail-order tool catalog phone orders; from our Amazon Prime membership program; and from non-retail activities such as North America-focused Amazon Enterprise Solutions program, and marketing and promotional agreements. This segment includes export sales from www.amazon.com and www.amazon.ca.</li><li>The International segment consists of amounts earned from retail sales of consumer products (including from third-party sellers) and subscriptions through internationally focused websites such as www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, and www.joyo.com; from internationally focused Syndicated Stores; from our DVD rental service; and from non-retail activities such as internationally focused marketing and promotional agreements. This segment includes export sales from these internationally based sites (including export sales from these sites to customers in the U.S. and Canada) but excludes export sales from www.amazon.com and www.amazon.ca.</li><li>We provide supplemental sales information within each segment for three categories: Media, Electronics and Other General Merchandise, and Other. Media consists of amounts earned from DVD rentals and retail sales from all sellers of books, music, DVD/video, magazine subscriptions, software, video games and video-game consoles. Electronics and Other General Merchandise consists of amounts earned from retail sales from all sellers of items not included in Media, such as electronics and office, camera and photo, toys and baby, tools, home and garden, apparel, sports and outdoors, kitchen and housewares, gourmet food, jewelry, health and personal care, beauty and musical instruments. The Other category consists of non-retail activities, such as the Amazon Enterprise Solutions program and miscellaneous marketing and promotional activities, such as our co-branded credit card programs.</li><li>Operating cash flow is net cash provided by (used in) operating activities, including cash outflows for interest and excluding proceeds from the exercise of stock-based employee awards. Free cash flow is operating cash flow less cash outflows for purchases of fixed assets, including internal-use software and website development.</li><li>Operating cycle is number of days of sales in inventory plus number of days of sales in accounts receivable minus accounts payable days. Accounts payable days are calculated as the quotient of accounts payable to cost of sales, multiplied by the number of days in the period. Inventory turns are calculated as the quotient of trailing twelve month cost of sales to average inventory over five quarter ends.</li><li>Return on invested capital is trailing-twelve-month free cash flow divided by average total assets less current liabilities over five quarter ends.</li><li>References to customers mean customer accounts, which are unique e-mail addresses, established either when a customer's initial order is shipped or when a customer orders from certain third-party sellers on our websites. Customer accounts include customers of Amazon Marketplace, and our Merchants@ and Syndicated Stores programs, but exclude certain customers, including DVD rental customers, customers associated with certain of our acquisitions (including Joyo.com customers), Amazon Enterprise Solutions program customers, Amazon.com Payments customers, our catalog customers and the customers of select companies with whom we have a technology alliance or marketing and promotional relationship. Customers are considered active when they have placed an order during the preceding twelve-month period.</li><li>References to sellers or merchants mean active seller accounts, which are established when a seller receives an order from a customer account. Seller accounts include sellers in Amazon Marketplace, and Merchants@ platforms, but exclude Amazon Enterprise Solutions sellers. Sellers are considered active when they have received an order during the preceding twelve-month period.</li><li>References to units mean units sold (net of returns and cancellations) by us and by third-party sellers at Amazon.com domains worldwide -- such as www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr and www.amazon.ca--and at Syndicated Stores domains, as well as Amazon.com-owned items sold through catalogs and at non-Amazon.com domains, such as books, music and DVD/video items ordered from Amazon.com's store at www.target.com. Units sold do not include units associated with certain of our acquisitions (including Joyo.com units), Amazon.com gift certificates or DVD rentals.</li></ul><p>CONTACT: Amazon.com Investor RelationsKim Nelson, 206/266-2171ir@amazon.comwww.amazon.com/irorAmazon.com Public RelationsPatty Smith, 206/266-7180SOURCE: Amazon.com, Inc.</p>

Amazon.com Launches New Automotive Parts and Accessories Store with over 1 Million Automotive Products Available; 100,000 Items Eligible for Free Super Saver Shipping and Amazon Prime

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Amazon.com-Launches-New-Automotive-Parts-and-Accessories-Store-with-over-1-Million-Automotive-Products-Available-100000-Items-Eligible-for-Free-Super-Saver-Shipping-and-Amazon-Prime

10/23/2006 09:04:00

Amazon.com Launches New Automotive Parts and Accessories Store with over 1 Million Automotive Products Available; 100,000 Items Eligible for Free Super Saver Shipping and Amazon Prime

10/23/2006

2006

SEATTLE, Oct 23, 2006 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- Amazon.com (Nasdaq:AMZN) today announced the grand opening of its Automotive Parts and Accessories Store (www.amazon.com/auto) featuring over 1 million new, used and remanufactured parts from leading parts and accessories manufacturers. A key feature of Amazon's Automotive Store is its innovative Part Finder, allowing owners of approximately 10,000 different American car and truck models to find the parts that fit their vehicles. Amazon customers can simply enter the year, make and model of a car into the Part Finder and trust that they will find items that fit their specified vehicles. Leveraging Amazon's unique technology platform for auto part data, the Part Finder enables third-party data providers and retailers to share part and vehicle information that helps Amazon customers make informed buying decisions. "We're providing a broad selection of products for auto enthusiasts, who are passionate about the appearance and performance of their cars, but also making the Automotive Store convenient for the everyday motorist who is looking for basic car care and maintenance items," said Steve Frazier, vice president, Automotive at Amazon.com. "Amazon's core principles of selection, convenience and low prices will help us meet the needs of this growing segment in the online marketplace." Amazon.com provides Free Super Saver Shipping and Amazon Prime on 100,000 automotive products sold by Amazon. In addition to Free Super Saver Shipping, Amazon's Automotive Store is offering $20 off any purchase of $99 or more on products sold by Amazon.com through Nov. 14th. (Restrictions apply; see www.amazon.com/auto for details.) Core brands carried by Amazon's Automotive Store include Actron, Fram, Holley, Hurst, K&N Engineering, Lund, Meguiar's, Raybestos and Schumacher. And to enhance site selection, hundreds of thousands of additional items are listed on the Amazon site by more than 250 independent auto, truck and motorcycle parts retailers, such as Auto Barn, HoursepowerFreaks, Midway Auto Supply and Summit Racing Equipment. Products are easy to find in categories across Amazon's Automotive Store, including Interior and Exterior Accessories, Replacement Parts, Car Care, Performance Parts, Tools & Equipment and Motorcycle Parts & Accessories. The store also features tires and wheels from The Tire Rack. About Amazon Prime Amazon Prime, Amazon.com's first-ever membership program, is available to customers for a flat fee of $79 per year. Amazon Prime members receive unlimited, express two-day shipping for free, with no minimum purchase requirement on over a million eligible items sold by Amazon.com. Members can order as late as 6:30 p.m. ET and still get their order the next day for only $3.99 per item, and they can share the benefits of Amazon Prime with up to four family members living in their household. Sign up for Amazon Prime at www.amazon.com/prime. About Amazon.com Amazon.com, Inc., (Nasdaq:AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com, Inc. seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden. Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com. As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise. Forward Looking Statements This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings. SOURCE: Amazon.com, Inc. Amazon.com, Inc.Amazon.com Media Line, 206-266-7180

<p>SEATTLE, Oct 23, 2006 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- Amazon.com (Nasdaq:AMZN) today announced the grand opening of its Automotive Parts and Accessories Store (www.amazon.com/auto) featuring over 1 million new, used and remanufactured parts from leading parts and accessories manufacturers.</p><p>A key feature of Amazon's Automotive Store is its innovative Part Finder, allowing owners of approximately 10,000 different American car and truck models to find the parts that fit their vehicles. Amazon customers can simply enter the year, make and model of a car into the Part Finder and trust that they will find items that fit their specified vehicles. Leveraging Amazon's unique technology platform for auto part data, the Part Finder enables third-party data providers and retailers to share part and vehicle information that helps Amazon customers make informed buying decisions.</p><p>"We're providing a broad selection of products for auto enthusiasts, who are passionate about the appearance and performance of their cars, but also making the Automotive Store convenient for the everyday motorist who is looking for basic car care and maintenance items," said Steve Frazier, vice president, Automotive at Amazon.com. "Amazon's core principles of selection, convenience and low prices will help us meet the needs of this growing segment in the online marketplace."</p><p>Amazon.com provides Free Super Saver Shipping and Amazon Prime on 100,000 automotive products sold by Amazon. In addition to Free Super Saver Shipping, Amazon's Automotive Store is offering $20 off any purchase of $99 or more on products sold by Amazon.com through Nov. 14th. (Restrictions apply; see www.amazon.com/auto for details.)</p><p>Core brands carried by Amazon's Automotive Store include Actron, Fram, Holley, Hurst, K&amp;N Engineering, Lund, Meguiar's, Raybestos and Schumacher. And to enhance site selection, hundreds of thousands of additional items are listed on the Amazon site by more than 250 independent auto, truck and motorcycle parts retailers, such as Auto Barn, HoursepowerFreaks, Midway Auto Supply and Summit Racing Equipment. Products are easy to find in categories across Amazon's Automotive Store, including Interior and Exterior Accessories, Replacement Parts, Car Care, Performance Parts, Tools &amp; Equipment and Motorcycle Parts &amp; Accessories. The store also features tires and wheels from The Tire Rack.</p><p>About Amazon Prime</p><p>Amazon Prime, Amazon.com's first-ever membership program, is available to customers for a flat fee of $79 per year. Amazon Prime members receive unlimited, express two-day shipping for free, with no minimum purchase requirement on over a million eligible items sold by Amazon.com. Members can order as late as 6:30 p.m. ET and still get their order the next day for only $3.99 per item, and they can share the benefits of Amazon Prime with up to four family members living in their household. Sign up for Amazon Prime at www.amazon.com/prime.</p><p>About Amazon.com</p><p>Amazon.com, Inc., (Nasdaq:AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com, Inc. seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden.</p><p>Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com.</p><p>As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise.</p><p>Forward Looking Statements</p><p>This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings.</p><p>SOURCE: Amazon.com, Inc.</p><p>Amazon.com, Inc.Amazon.com Media Line, 206-266-7180</p>

Major League Baseball Productions and A&E Home Video Team Up with CustomFlix to Offer 2006 World Series Games to Amazon.com and MLB.com Customers Via DVD on Demand

/news/news-details/2006/Major-League-Baseball-Productions-and-AE-Home-Video-Team-Up-with-CustomFlix-to-Offer-2006-World-Series-Games-to-Amazon.com-and-MLB.com-Customers-Via-DVD-on-Demand/default.aspx

Major-League-Baseball-Productions-and-AE-Home-Video-Team-Up-with-CustomFlix-to-Offer-2006-World-Series-Games-to-Amazon.com-and-MLB.com-Customers-Via-DVD-on-Demand

10/23/2006 08:04:00

Major League Baseball Productions and A&E Home Video Team Up with CustomFlix to Offer 2006 World Series Games to Amazon.com and MLB.com Customers Via DVD on Demand

10/23/2006

2006

2006 World Series Games Now Available for Pre-order and Shipped Within Days of the Completion of Each Game SANTA CRUZ, Calif., SEATTLE & NEW YORK, Oct 23, 2006 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- Major League Baseball Productions and A&E Home Video have teamed up with CustomFlix Labs, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ:AMZN), to offer Amazon.com and MLB.com customers each game of the 2006 World Series® championship between the Detroit Tigers and St. Louis Cardinals through the CustomFlix DVD on Demand service. Each game is available for pre-order and shipped within days of the completion of that game. This represents the first time that individual, complete World Series games have been available to consumers through DVD on Demand. "The 2006 World Series presents two of the most storied teams in baseball, and we are proud to offer Amazon.com customers the ability to purchase and watch their favorite games from this year's Series within just days," said Greg Hart, vice president of movies at Amazon.com. "The CustomFlix DVD on Demand service greatly expands the breadth of video content we can offer to Amazon.com customers and, because it's produced on demand, we can get this programming to customers much more quickly than ever before." Amazon.com has long featured a deep selection of sports content, including DVDs of World Series highlights, but this will be the first year the world's largest online retailer will offer DVDs of entire individual World Series games. "Major League Baseball's Fall Classic creates memories that live long after the series is played," said Elizabeth Scott, Vice President of Programming and Business Affairs, Major League Baseball. "Our new DVD on Demand service gives fans a way to own the complete game and relive their favorite moments while the excitement of the Series still lingers in the air." The CustomFlix DVD on Demand service manufactures DVDs on demand, immediately after a customer orders them. This offers networks, studios, and other content owners such as Major League Baseball Productions and A&E Home Video the ability to offer their content on DVD directly to millions of Amazon.com and MLB.com customers without the cost or risk of carrying inventory. "We really struck a chord with consumers when, in conjunction with Major League Baseball Productions, we launched full game DVD Collector's sets in 2004," said Kate Winn, vice president of Sales & Marketing for A&E Home Video. "It was the first time complete games had been available to fans in DVD format, and we packaged them in such a manner that they became the ultimate sports collectible. We're excited about teaming up with CustomFlix and using the DVD on Demand program, as it extends the MLB brand with an impact and an immediacy which will certainly be hard for baseball fans to ignore." Each game of the Major League Baseball 2006 World Series championship can be purchased on DVD for $19.95 at www.amazon.com/dvd and at MLB.com. About CustomFlix CustomFlix Labs, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Amazon.com, Inc., is the leader in manufacture on demand services for independent and enterprise media content owners. CustomFlix was founded in 2002 with the mission of profitably connecting content owners to a worldwide audience. Today, CustomFlix offers professional digitization into the Future-Proof Archive service, as well as inventory-free physical media distribution via both CD and DVD on Demand, adding thousands of hours of media content to Earth's Biggest Selection on Amazon.com. About Amazon.com Amazon.com, Inc., (Nasdaq: AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden. Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com. As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise. This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings. About A&E Home Video A&E Home Video, part of the Consumer Products Division of A&E Television Networks (AETN) is a video distributor of non-theatrical programming, featuring collectible VHS and DVD editions of the high quality programming from A&E Network and The History Channel, as well as acquired classic programming. A&E Home Video brings the best of critically acclaimed entertainment presented in award-winning packaging to the special interest category. About Major League Baseball Productions Major League Baseball Productions is the Emmy® award-winning television and video production division of Major League Baseball and official video archivists of the game. With unparalleled access to the game and its players, Major League Baseball Productions produces original programming for growing audiences worldwide through its network specials, exclusive home videos, commercials and other specialty programming. For more information on Major League Baseball Productions, log on to www.MLBProductions.com. SOURCE: Amazon.com, Inc. For CustomFlixStacey Hurwitz, 831-457-5925Stacey@customflix.comorFor Amazon.comAmazon Media Hotline, 206-266-7180www.amazon.com/prorFor Major League BaseballKerry Kielar, 212-931-7949kerry.kielar@mlb.comorFor A&E Home VideoKerri Tarmey, 212-551-1504kerri.tarmey@aetn.com

<p>2006 World Series Games Now Available for Pre-order and Shipped Within Days of the Completion of Each Game</p><p>SANTA CRUZ, Calif., SEATTLE &amp; NEW YORK, Oct 23, 2006 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- Major League Baseball Productions and A&amp;E Home Video have teamed up with CustomFlix Labs, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ:AMZN), to offer Amazon.com and MLB.com customers each game of the 2006 World Series® championship between the Detroit Tigers and St. Louis Cardinals through the CustomFlix DVD on Demand service. Each game is available for pre-order and shipped within days of the completion of that game. This represents the first time that individual, complete World Series games have been available to consumers through DVD on Demand.</p><p>"The 2006 World Series presents two of the most storied teams in baseball, and we are proud to offer Amazon.com customers the ability to purchase and watch their favorite games from this year's Series within just days," said Greg Hart, vice president of movies at Amazon.com. "The CustomFlix DVD on Demand service greatly expands the breadth of video content we can offer to Amazon.com customers and, because it's produced on demand, we can get this programming to customers much more quickly than ever before."</p><p>Amazon.com has long featured a deep selection of sports content, including DVDs of World Series highlights, but this will be the first year the world's largest online retailer will offer DVDs of entire individual World Series games.</p><p>"Major League Baseball's Fall Classic creates memories that live long after the series is played," said Elizabeth Scott, Vice President of Programming and Business Affairs, Major League Baseball. "Our new DVD on Demand service gives fans a way to own the complete game and relive their favorite moments while the excitement of the Series still lingers in the air."</p><p>The CustomFlix DVD on Demand service manufactures DVDs on demand, immediately after a customer orders them. This offers networks, studios, and other content owners such as Major League Baseball Productions and A&amp;E Home Video the ability to offer their content on DVD directly to millions of Amazon.com and MLB.com customers without the cost or risk of carrying inventory.</p><p>"We really struck a chord with consumers when, in conjunction with Major League Baseball Productions, we launched full game DVD Collector's sets in 2004," said Kate Winn, vice president of Sales &amp; Marketing for A&amp;E Home Video. "It was the first time complete games had been available to fans in DVD format, and we packaged them in such a manner that they became the ultimate sports collectible. We're excited about teaming up with CustomFlix and using the DVD on Demand program, as it extends the MLB brand with an impact and an immediacy which will certainly be hard for baseball fans to ignore."</p><p>Each game of the Major League Baseball 2006 World Series championship can be purchased on DVD for $19.95 at www.amazon.com/dvd and at MLB.com.</p><p>About CustomFlix</p><p>CustomFlix Labs, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Amazon.com, Inc., is the leader in manufacture on demand services for independent and enterprise media content owners. CustomFlix was founded in 2002 with the mission of profitably connecting content owners to a worldwide audience. Today, CustomFlix offers professional digitization into the Future-Proof Archive service, as well as inventory-free physical media distribution via both CD and DVD on Demand, adding thousands of hours of media content to Earth's Biggest Selection on Amazon.com.</p><p>About Amazon.com</p><p>Amazon.com, Inc., (Nasdaq: AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden.</p><p>Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com.</p><p>As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise.</p><p>This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings.</p><p>About A&amp;E Home Video</p><p>A&amp;E Home Video, part of the Consumer Products Division of A&amp;E Television Networks (AETN) is a video distributor of non-theatrical programming, featuring collectible VHS and DVD editions of the high quality programming from A&amp;E Network and The History Channel, as well as acquired classic programming. A&amp;E Home Video brings the best of critically acclaimed entertainment presented in award-winning packaging to the special interest category.</p><p>About Major League Baseball Productions</p><p>Major League Baseball Productions is the Emmy® award-winning television and video production division of Major League Baseball and official video archivists of the game. With unparalleled access to the game and its players, Major League Baseball Productions produces original programming for growing audiences worldwide through its network specials, exclusive home videos, commercials and other specialty programming. For more information on Major League Baseball Productions, log on to www.MLBProductions.com.</p><p>SOURCE: Amazon.com, Inc.</p><p>For CustomFlixStacey Hurwitz, 831-457-5925Stacey@customflix.comorFor Amazon.comAmazon Media Hotline, 206-266-7180www.amazon.com/prorFor Major League BaseballKerry Kielar, 212-931-7949kerry.kielar@mlb.comorFor A&amp;E Home VideoKerri Tarmey, 212-551-1504kerri.tarmey@aetn.com</p>

Amazon.com Adds SHOWTIME® Programming to its Amazon Unbox Lineup

/news/news-details/2006/Amazon.com-Adds-SHOWTIME-Programming-to-its-Amazon-Unbox-Lineup/default.aspx

Amazon.com-Adds-SHOWTIME-Programming-to-its-Amazon-Unbox-Lineup

10/18/2006 09:18:00

Amazon.com Adds SHOWTIME® Programming to its Amazon Unbox Lineup

10/18/2006

2006

Business Editors/Entertainment Editors SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Oct. 18, 2006--Amazon.com (Nasdaq: AMZN) today announced that the Amazon Unbox digital video service now offers premium programming from SHOWTIME including, for the first time, digital downloads of the groundbreaking hit series "The L Word." The service will also include popular and critically acclaimed SHOWTIME programs such as "Weeds," "Sleeper Cell," "Dave Chapelle's 'For What it's Worth,'" "Fat Actress," "Penn & Teller: BS!" and "Free for All." All SHOWTIME programming will cost $1.99 per episode. To promote the addition of SHOWTIME programming to Unbox, customers will be treated to a $.01 download, available only on Unbox, of the pilot of one of this season's biggest and most talked about new hit shows, "Dexter," starring Michael C. Hall, from October 18-25. The show airs new episodes Sunday nights at 10:00 on SHOWTIME. "Amazon is excited to offer Unbox customers some of SHOWTIME's most popular and compelling television programming," said Bill Carr vice president of digital media at Amazon.com. "Now Unbox customers have a great new way to discover great SHOWTIME series on Amazon.com and download individual episodes for just $1.99." "SHOWTIME is always looking for creative new ways to bring our great original series to a larger audience," said Robert Hayes, senior vice president and general manager, Showtime Networks Digital Media. "Amazon's Unbox is a perfect platform for this as viewers who want to experience SHOWTIME's programs can visit Amazon.com and download episodes of shows like "Weeds," "Sleeper Cell" and "The L Word," to their PC. We're excited to be an early provider of premium programming for Amazon's Unbox," Hayes concluded. Among the SHOWTIME original series programming that will be available on Unbox are: WEEDS, the critically acclaimed SHOWTIME comedy starring Golden Globe® award-winning actress Mary Louise Parker, is one of the most talked about series on television. WEEDS®, a production of Lionsgate Television, offers an unflinching, brutally honest and socially relevant take on drugs, family, suburbia and adolescence. THE L WORD® is one of the most popular SHOWTIME series, generating a large and loyal audience as well as critical praise for its provocative, sexy storylines, its principal cast, and for being a magnet for celebrated directors and guest stars. Since its debut in January 2004, THE L WORD® has become one of the rare television series to transcend the medium and become part of American popular culture, spawning dedicated fan websites and blogs, along with ancillary products such as THE L WORD®-branded perfume, jewelry and books. SLEEPER CELL, nominated for five Emmy® awards, takes viewers behind the veil of a terrorist group and tracks the harrowing challenges faced by a FBI agent determined to learn its secrets. It folds current events and pertinent political developments into its storylines as it explores the personal and professional side of committed agents combating the greatest and most concealed threat in our nation's history. PENN & TELLER: BS!, the award-winning series featuring master showmen Penn & Teller, delivers viewers an aggressive, humorous expose of taboo topics using the duo's trademark humor, knowledge of carnival tricks and con-artistry, as well as hidden cameras and blatant confrontation. Unbox offers customers several unique features including RemoteLoad technology which allows customers to shop for Unbox videos from any Internet-connected PC -- like their PC at the office -- and download their videos to another PC -- like their PC at home. Plus, customers get the added flexibility of taking their video collection on the go using any Windows Media video-compatible portable device, including the popular Creative Zen Vision:M. In addition to the SHOWTIME titles, Amazon Unbox offers current hits from top networks like CBS with "CSI" and "Numb3rs" as well as a broad selection of popular shows from cable networks such as Cartoon Network and Discovery Channel and several channels from MTV Networks, including Comedy Central, Nickelodeon, MTV and VH1. Unbox customers can purchase television series episodes for $1.99 per episode, purchase most movies for between $7.99 and $14.99, or rent the latest movies for $3.99. To learn more about Amazon Unbox and to download your first television show free of charge, visit www.amazon.com/unbox. About Amazon.com Amazon.com, Inc., (Nasdaq: AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden. Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com. As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise. About Showtime Networks Inc. Showtime Networks Inc. (SNI), a wholly-owned subsidiary of CBS Corporation, owns and operates the premium television networks SHOWTIME®, THE MOVIE CHANNELTM and FLIX®, as well as the multiplex channels SHOWTIME® TOOTM, SHOWTIME® SHOWCASE, SHOWTIME EXTREME®, SHOWTIME BEYOND®, SHOWTIME NEXT®, SHOWTIME WOMEN®, SHOWTIME FAMILYZONE® and TMC XTRA. SNI also offers SHOWTIME HD®, THE MOVIE CHANNEL HDTM, SHOWTIME ON DEMANDTM and THE MOVIE CHANNEL ON DEMANDTM. SNI is also an owner and manager of SUNDANCE CHANNEL, a venture of NBC Universal, Robert Redford and SNI. SNI also manages Smithsonian Networks, a joint venture between SNI and the Smithsonian Institution. All SNI feeds provide enhanced sound using Dolby Digital 5.1. SNI markets and distributes sports and entertainment events for exhibition to subscribers on a pay-per-view basis through SHOWTIME® PPV. Forward-Looking Statement This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings. CONTACT: Amazon.com Media RelationsAmazon Media Hotline, 206-266-7180www.amazon.com/prorShowtime NetworksStuart Zakim, 212-708-1590stuart.zakim@showtime.netSOURCE: Amazon.com

<p>Business Editors/Entertainment Editors</p><p>SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Oct. 18, 2006--Amazon.com (Nasdaq: AMZN) today announced that the Amazon Unbox digital video service now offers premium programming from SHOWTIME including, for the first time, digital downloads of the groundbreaking hit series "The L Word." The service will also include popular and critically acclaimed SHOWTIME programs such as "Weeds," "Sleeper Cell," "Dave Chapelle's 'For What it's Worth,'" "Fat Actress," "Penn &amp; Teller: BS!" and "Free for All." All SHOWTIME programming will cost $1.99 per episode.</p><p>To promote the addition of SHOWTIME programming to Unbox, customers will be treated to a $.01 download, available only on Unbox, of the pilot of one of this season's biggest and most talked about new hit shows, "Dexter," starring Michael C. Hall, from October 18-25. The show airs new episodes Sunday nights at 10:00 on SHOWTIME.</p><p>"Amazon is excited to offer Unbox customers some of SHOWTIME's most popular and compelling television programming," said Bill Carr vice president of digital media at Amazon.com. "Now Unbox customers have a great new way to discover great SHOWTIME series on Amazon.com and download individual episodes for just $1.99."</p><p>"SHOWTIME is always looking for creative new ways to bring our great original series to a larger audience," said Robert Hayes, senior vice president and general manager, Showtime Networks Digital Media. "Amazon's Unbox is a perfect platform for this as viewers who want to experience SHOWTIME's programs can visit Amazon.com and download episodes of shows like "Weeds," "Sleeper Cell" and "The L Word," to their PC. We're excited to be an early provider of premium programming for Amazon's Unbox," Hayes concluded.</p><p>Among the SHOWTIME original series programming that will be available on Unbox are:</p><ul><li>WEEDS, the critically acclaimed SHOWTIME comedy starring Golden Globe® award-winning actress Mary Louise Parker, is one of the most talked about series on television. WEEDS®, a production of Lionsgate Television, offers an unflinching, brutally honest and socially relevant take on drugs, family, suburbia and adolescence.</li><li>THE L WORD® is one of the most popular SHOWTIME series, generating a large and loyal audience as well as critical praise for its provocative, sexy storylines, its principal cast, and for being a magnet for celebrated directors and guest stars. Since its debut in January 2004, THE L WORD® has become one of the rare television series to transcend the medium and become part of American popular culture, spawning dedicated fan websites and blogs, along with ancillary products such as THE L WORD®-branded perfume, jewelry and books.</li><li>SLEEPER CELL, nominated for five Emmy® awards, takes viewers behind the veil of a terrorist group and tracks the harrowing challenges faced by a FBI agent determined to learn its secrets. It folds current events and pertinent political developments into its storylines as it explores the personal and professional side of committed agents combating the greatest and most concealed threat in our nation's history.</li><li>PENN &amp; TELLER: BS!, the award-winning series featuring master showmen Penn &amp; Teller, delivers viewers an aggressive, humorous expose of taboo topics using the duo's trademark humor, knowledge of carnival tricks and con-artistry, as well as hidden cameras and blatant confrontation.</li></ul><p>Unbox offers customers several unique features including RemoteLoad technology which allows customers to shop for Unbox videos from any Internet-connected PC -- like their PC at the office -- and download their videos to another PC -- like their PC at home. Plus, customers get the added flexibility of taking their video collection on the go using any Windows Media video-compatible portable device, including the popular Creative Zen Vision:M.</p><p>In addition to the SHOWTIME titles, Amazon Unbox offers current hits from top networks like CBS with "CSI" and "Numb3rs" as well as a broad selection of popular shows from cable networks such as Cartoon Network and Discovery Channel and several channels from MTV Networks, including Comedy Central, Nickelodeon, MTV and VH1.</p><p>Unbox customers can purchase television series episodes for $1.99 per episode, purchase most movies for between $7.99 and $14.99, or rent the latest movies for $3.99. To learn more about Amazon Unbox and to download your first television show free of charge, visit www.amazon.com/unbox.</p><p>About Amazon.com</p><p>Amazon.com, Inc., (Nasdaq: AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden.</p><p>Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com.</p><p>As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise.</p><p>About Showtime Networks Inc.</p><p>Showtime Networks Inc. (SNI), a wholly-owned subsidiary of CBS Corporation, owns and operates the premium television networks SHOWTIME®, THE MOVIE CHANNEL^TM and FLIX®, as well as the multiplex channels SHOWTIME® TOO^TM, SHOWTIME® SHOWCASE, SHOWTIME EXTREME®, SHOWTIME BEYOND®, SHOWTIME NEXT®, SHOWTIME WOMEN®, SHOWTIME FAMILYZONE® and TMC XTRA. SNI also offers SHOWTIME HD®, THE MOVIE CHANNEL HD^TM, SHOWTIME ON DEMAND^TM and THE MOVIE CHANNEL ON DEMAND^TM. SNI is also an owner and manager of SUNDANCE CHANNEL, a venture of NBC Universal, Robert Redford and SNI. SNI also manages Smithsonian Networks, a joint venture between SNI and the Smithsonian Institution. All SNI feeds provide enhanced sound using Dolby Digital 5.1. SNI markets and distributes sports and entertainment events for exhibition to subscribers on a pay-per-view basis through SHOWTIME® PPV.</p><p>Forward-Looking Statement</p><p>This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings.</p><p>CONTACT: Amazon.com Media RelationsAmazon Media Hotline, 206-266-7180www.amazon.com/prorShowtime NetworksStuart Zakim, 212-708-1590stuart.zakim@showtime.netSOURCE: Amazon.com</p>

Bay Area Physician and Canadian Art Student Earn Top Prizes in Amazon.com International Online Treasure Hunt Sponsored by Bestselling Author Michael Stadther

/news/news-details/2006/Bay-Area-Physician-and-Canadian-Art-Student-Earn-Top-Prizes-in-Amazon.com-International-Online-Treasure-Hunt-Sponsored-by-Bestselling-Author-Michael-Stadther/default.aspx

Bay-Area-Physician-and-Canadian-Art-Student-Earn-Top-Prizes-in-Amazon.com-International-Online-Treasure-Hunt-Sponsored-by-Bestselling-Author-Michael-Stadther

10/17/2006 08:38:00

Bay Area Physician and Canadian Art Student Earn Top Prizes in Amazon.com International Online Treasure Hunt Sponsored by Bestselling Author Michael Stadther

10/17/2006

2006

Business Editors/Retail Writers SEATTLE & NEW CANAAN, Conn.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Oct. 17, 2006--Amazon.com (Nasdaq:AMZN) and Michael Stadther, bestselling author of the popular fantasy adventure books A Treasure's Trove and the newly released Secrets of the Alchemist Dar, announced the names of the North American winners of a first-of-its-kind online treasure hunt sponsored by Stadther and hosted on Amazon.com and five of its international Web sites. David Cohen, a night physician at a San Francisco hospital, and Carla Larson, a part-time student at the Ontario College of Art and Design in Toronto, will each receive a ring crafted by renowned jeweler Aaron Basha valued at $10,000 (U.S.). The ring design was inspired by the Fairy Rings of Eternal Life, which figure prominently in the Secrets of the Alchemist Dar storyline. The online contest, which began in July, featured a special nine-clue puzzle designed by Stadther exclusively for Amazon.com, Amazon.co.uk, Amazon.ca, Amazon.de, Amazon.fr and Amazon.co.jp. Each week, a new clue and its accompanying puzzle piece were released on each of the six Amazon Web sites. Once all nine puzzle pieces were in place, contestants had to decipher the puzzle and come up with the correct answer to win. Cohen solved the puzzle on Amazon.com and Larson on Amazon.ca. (Winners on the other sites will be verified and announced later this month.) "I congratulate each of the winners and the thousands of other participants who made this unique online treasure hunt a smashing success," said Stadther. "This contest proved to be an entertaining way to remind people of the treasures that lie within the Amazon.com Web site and to prepare fans for the treasures to be found in my latest book, Secrets of the Alchemist Dar." "This contest reignited the nationwide treasure-hunting phenomenon Michael began when he published A Treasure's Trove," said Laura Porco, director of books merchandising and editorial at Amazon.com. "We congratulate David and Carla for winning this challenging contest and hope that they and everyone else who participated found it to be a rewarding and exciting experience." About the Winners Cohen, the American winner, works nights in a San Francisco hospital, and says he became hooked on treasure hunting with his wife's younger brother and his friends "who are big fans of A Treasure's Trove." Cohen twice came close to finding the jeweled creatures in that first hunt and added, "I've been looking forward to the new book for months. When the Amazon.com online hunt started, I knew I had to give it a try." Canadian winner Larson, who much like Stadther, made a mid-life career change, is a part-time art student at the Ontario College of Art and Design after spending years as "a number-cruncher on Bay Street." She discovered the online treasure hunt when surfing on Amazon.ca and decided to go for it. "Up in Canada, we'd vaguely heard of A Treasure's Trove, but Amazon.ca gave me a way that I could get involved in the hunt, too - plus get a little preview of Stadther's gorgeous art nouveau illustrations in Secrets of the Alchemist Dar," she said. "When I participated in the Amazon.ca online hunt, winning was almost an afterthought; it was just so much fun, I loved going back week after week." New Book Available on Amazon.com In addition to the online treasure hunt, the recent release of Stadther's new book, Secrets of the Alchemist Dar, offers treasure hunters worldwide the opportunity to unlock clues concealed within the pages of the book to win one of 100 rings designed by Aaron Basha and valued together at $2 million (U.S). Anyone can search the book for clues, decipher them and claim a ring, given they meet the Official Rules requirements as printed in Secrets of the Alchemist Dar. Secrets of the Alchemist Dar, which was named this week's No. 1 Children's Trade Paperback on the New York Times Bestseller List, is available for order on Amazon.com for $13.19. The book is being distributed in its English-language version worldwide by Simon Scribbles, a division of Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing. For more information on Secrets of the Alchemist Dar and Michael Stadther, please visit www.alchemistdar.com. About Amazon.com Amazon.com, Inc., (Nasdaq:AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden. Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com. As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise. About Treasure Trove, Inc. Treasure Trove, Inc., based in New Canaan, Connecticut, is the publisher of the bestselling "A Treasure's Trove" and "Secrets of the Alchemist Dar." It also produces family entertainment products that include coloring and activity books, puzzle books, audiobooks, and e-Books. Forward Looking Statement This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings. CONTACT: Amazon.com Media RelationsAmazon Media Hotline, 206-266-7180www.amazon.com/prorTreasure Trove Media RelationsEuro RSCG MagnetMaryellen Lee, 212-367-6906maryellen.lee@eurorscg.comSOURCE: Amazon.com and Treasure Trove Inc.

<p>Business Editors/Retail Writers</p><p>SEATTLE &amp; NEW CANAAN, Conn.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Oct. 17, 2006--Amazon.com (Nasdaq:AMZN) and Michael Stadther, bestselling author of the popular fantasy adventure books A Treasure's Trove and the newly released Secrets of the Alchemist Dar, announced the names of the North American winners of a first-of-its-kind online treasure hunt sponsored by Stadther and hosted on Amazon.com and five of its international Web sites.</p><p>David Cohen, a night physician at a San Francisco hospital, and Carla Larson, a part-time student at the Ontario College of Art and Design in Toronto, will each receive a ring crafted by renowned jeweler Aaron Basha valued at $10,000 (U.S.). The ring design was inspired by the Fairy Rings of Eternal Life, which figure prominently in the Secrets of the Alchemist Dar storyline.</p><p>The online contest, which began in July, featured a special nine-clue puzzle designed by Stadther exclusively for Amazon.com, Amazon.co.uk, Amazon.ca, Amazon.de, Amazon.fr and Amazon.co.jp. Each week, a new clue and its accompanying puzzle piece were released on each of the six Amazon Web sites. Once all nine puzzle pieces were in place, contestants had to decipher the puzzle and come up with the correct answer to win. Cohen solved the puzzle on Amazon.com and Larson on Amazon.ca. (Winners on the other sites will be verified and announced later this month.)</p><p>"I congratulate each of the winners and the thousands of other participants who made this unique online treasure hunt a smashing success," said Stadther. "This contest proved to be an entertaining way to remind people of the treasures that lie within the Amazon.com Web site and to prepare fans for the treasures to be found in my latest book, Secrets of the Alchemist Dar."</p><p>"This contest reignited the nationwide treasure-hunting phenomenon Michael began when he published A Treasure's Trove," said Laura Porco, director of books merchandising and editorial at Amazon.com. "We congratulate David and Carla for winning this challenging contest and hope that they and everyone else who participated found it to be a rewarding and exciting experience."</p><p>About the Winners</p><p>Cohen, the American winner, works nights in a San Francisco hospital, and says he became hooked on treasure hunting with his wife's younger brother and his friends "who are big fans of A Treasure's Trove." Cohen twice came close to finding the jeweled creatures in that first hunt and added, "I've been looking forward to the new book for months. When the Amazon.com online hunt started, I knew I had to give it a try."</p><p>Canadian winner Larson, who much like Stadther, made a mid-life career change, is a part-time art student at the Ontario College of Art and Design after spending years as "a number-cruncher on Bay Street." She discovered the online treasure hunt when surfing on Amazon.ca and decided to go for it. "Up in Canada, we'd vaguely heard of A Treasure's Trove, but Amazon.ca gave me a way that I could get involved in the hunt, too - plus get a little preview of Stadther's gorgeous art nouveau illustrations in Secrets of the Alchemist Dar," she said. "When I participated in the Amazon.ca online hunt, winning was almost an afterthought; it was just so much fun, I loved going back week after week."</p><p>New Book Available on Amazon.com</p><p>In addition to the online treasure hunt, the recent release of Stadther's new book, Secrets of the Alchemist Dar, offers treasure hunters worldwide the opportunity to unlock clues concealed within the pages of the book to win one of 100 rings designed by Aaron Basha and valued together at $2 million (U.S). Anyone can search the book for clues, decipher them and claim a ring, given they meet the Official Rules requirements as printed in Secrets of the Alchemist Dar.</p><p>Secrets of the Alchemist Dar, which was named this week's No. 1 Children's Trade Paperback on the New York Times Bestseller List, is available for order on Amazon.com for $13.19. The book is being distributed in its English-language version worldwide by Simon Scribbles, a division of Simon &amp; Schuster Children's Publishing. For more information on Secrets of the Alchemist Dar and Michael Stadther, please visit www.alchemistdar.com.</p><p>About Amazon.com</p><p>Amazon.com, Inc., (Nasdaq:AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden.</p><p>Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com.</p><p>As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise.</p><p>About Treasure Trove, Inc.</p><p>Treasure Trove, Inc., based in New Canaan, Connecticut, is the publisher of the bestselling "A Treasure's Trove" and "Secrets of the Alchemist Dar." It also produces family entertainment products that include coloring and activity books, puzzle books, audiobooks, and e-Books.</p><p>Forward Looking Statement</p><p>This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings.</p><p>CONTACT: Amazon.com Media RelationsAmazon Media Hotline, 206-266-7180www.amazon.com/prorTreasure Trove Media RelationsEuro RSCG MagnetMaryellen Lee, 212-367-6906maryellen.lee@eurorscg.comSOURCE: Amazon.com and Treasure Trove Inc.</p>

Amazon.com to Webcast Third Quarter 2006 Financial Results Conference Call

/news/news-details/2006/Amazon.com-to-Webcast-Third-Quarter-2006-Financial-Results-Conference-Call/default.aspx

Amazon.com-to-Webcast-Third-Quarter-2006-Financial-Results-Conference-Call

10/13/2006 16:02:00

Amazon.com to Webcast Third Quarter 2006 Financial Results Conference Call

10/13/2006

2006

SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Oct. 13, 2006--Amazon.com, Inc. (Nasdaq:AMZN) announced today that it will hold a conference call to discuss its third quarter 2006 financial results on October 24, 2006, at 2:00 p.m. PT/5:00 p.m. ET. The event will be webcast live, and the audio and associated slides will be available for at least three months thereafter at www.amazon.com/ir. CONTACT: Amazon.com Media RelationsPatty Smith, 206-266-7180SOURCE: Amazon.com, Inc.

<p>SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Oct. 13, 2006--Amazon.com, Inc. (Nasdaq:AMZN) announced today that it will hold a conference call to discuss its third quarter 2006 financial results on October 24, 2006, at 2:00 p.m. PT/5:00 p.m. ET.</p><p>The event will be webcast live, and the audio and associated slides will be available for at least three months thereafter at www.amazon.com/ir.</p><p>CONTACT: Amazon.com Media RelationsPatty Smith, 206-266-7180SOURCE: Amazon.com, Inc.</p>

Amazon Launches New Services to Help Small and Medium-Sized Businesses Enhance Their Customer Offerings by Accessing Amazon's Order Fulfillment, Customer Service, and Website Functionality

/news/news-details/2006/Amazon-Launches-New-Services-to-Help-Small-and-Medium-Sized-Businesses-Enhance-Their-Customer-Offerings-by-Accessing-Amazons-Order-Fulfillment-Customer-Service-and-Website-Functionality/default.aspx

Amazon-Launches-New-Services-to-Help-Small-and-Medium-Sized-Businesses-Enhance-Their-Customer-Offerings-by-Accessing-Amazons-Order-Fulfillment-Customer-Service-and-Website-Functionality

09/19/2006 08:31:00

Amazon Launches New Services to Help Small and Medium-Sized Businesses Enhance Their Customer Offerings by Accessing Amazon's Order Fulfillment, Customer Service, and Website Functionality

09/19/2006

2006

"Fulfillment by Amazon" Makes It Possible for Amazon.com Customers to Receive Benefit of Amazon.com Shipping Offers When Buying from Third-Party Sellers SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Sept. 19, 2006-- Amazon Business Solutions today launched "Fulfillment by Amazon" and "WebStore by Amazon," giving small and medium-sized businesses access to Amazon's order fulfillment, customer service, customer shipping offers, and underlying website technology to improve the experience they offer their customers. Fulfillment by Amazon Fulfillment by Amazon allows businesses to use Amazon's own order fulfillment and post-order customer service infrastructure, and allows Amazon.com customers to receive the benefit of Amazon.com shipping offers when buying from third-party sellers who use Fulfillment by Amazon. Amazon.com customers can now use offers such as Amazon Prime and Free Super Saver Shipping when buying products with the "Fulfilled by Amazon" icon next to the offering listing. "We created Fulfillment by Amazon because it is good for Amazon.com customers, and therefore, great for our third-party sellers," said Joe Walowski, Product Manager, Fulfillment by Amazon. "With membership in Amazon Prime growing every day, more and more Amazon.com customers want a great deal on shipping and to receive their orders quickly. Fulfillment by Amazon makes it possible for sellers to offer Amazon.com customers this convenience." For a handling fee as low as $0.50 per item plus $0.40 per pound and a storage fee of $0.45 per cubic foot per month, Fulfillment by Amazon frees online sellers from the time and money required to store, pick, pack, ship, and provide customer service for the products they sell online. Businesses simply send their products to an Amazon fulfillment center where Amazon stores and sends those products to customers who order them on Amazon.com or the business's WebStore (see "WebStore by Amazon" below). Amazon will also manage post-order customer service such as customer returns and refunds for businesses that use Fulfillment by Amazon. "We are excited about the possibilities of Fulfillment by Amazon for our children's product line 'The Faery Folk dolls.' For small manufacturers of unique products like us, one of the greatest challenges is getting the product to the consumer in a cost-effective manner. The overhead costs of pick-and-pack for one-off orders drains time and resources away from the important tasks of marketing and business development. Fulfillment by Amazon alleviates this issue by acting as the small business owner's fulfillment house at an acceptable price point," said Charles Erdman, co-founder and president of Dervish Media and Dervish Toys. "With a rapidly growing brand and product line, execution is critical for our business, which is why we're so optimistic about the impact Fulfillment by Amazon can have on our business." WebStore by Amazon WebStore by Amazon allows businesses to create their own privately branded e-commerce websites using Amazon technology. Businesses can choose from a variety of website layout options and can customize their sites using their own photos and branding. For example, Seattle Gift Shop now has its own WebStore at www.seattlesgifts.com. WebStore by Amazon users pay a commission of 7 percent (price includes credit card processing fees and fraud protection) for each product purchased through their site and a monthly fee of $59.95. "Not only has using WebStore by Amazon increased my sales dramatically, but its easy-to-use tools give me complete control of the look and feel of my site," said Kathy Wojtczak, who manages www.elementjewelry.com using WebStore by Amazon. "Plus, I can use WebStore by Amazon to track and manage all of my online inventory and sales in one place." WebStore by Amazon allows businesses to: Maintain their brand while leveraging Amazon's own scalable, reliable, and secure back-end technology. Make it secure, simple, and easy for visitors to buy using their existing Amazon.com accounts. Earn additional revenue by including other products from Amazon.com in their WebStore and referring customers through the Amazon Associates program. "Day-to-day mission-critical functions such as handling sensitive payment information and making sure our websites can handle big spikes in traffic are fundamental pieces of Amazon's business. We've made significant investments over the past decade and employ world-class software engineers to make sure these things are done right," said Tim Mirick, Director, Amazon Business Solutions. "WebStore by Amazon now puts these people and this investment to work for sellers, so they can focus on what they do best-building their brands and managing their merchandise." Both Fulfillment by Amazon and WebStore by Amazon are available today in beta. They can be used separately or together. Go to http://www.amazonservices.com/businesssolutions for more information, including information on how businesses can sign-up for these new services. About Amazon Services & Amazon Fulfillment Services Amazon Services, LLC is a subsidiary of Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ:AMZN) that offers the technical platform, operational capabilities and e-commerce expertise that power Amazon.com to other businesses seeking to create a world-class, cost-effective e-commerce offering for their customers. Amazon Enterprise Solutions and Amazon Business Solutions are Amazon Services groups. Amazon Enterprise Solutions works with large retailers such as Target, Bebe, and Marks & Spencer (UK) and the Amazon Business Solutions works with small to medium-sized businesses. Amazon Fulfillment Services, Inc. is a subsidiary of Amazon.com, Inc. that operates U.S.-based fulfillment and customer service networks for Amazon.com and the businesses that leverage fulfillment or customer service as part of their offering from Amazon Enterprise Solutions or Amazon Business Solutions. About Amazon.com Amazon.com, Inc., (NASDAQ:AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden. Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com. As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise. Forward-Looking Statements This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings. CONTACT: Amazon.com, Inc., SeattleMedia Hotline, 206-266-7180http://www.amazon.com/prSOURCE: Amazon.com, Inc.

<p>"Fulfillment by Amazon" Makes It Possible for Amazon.com Customers to Receive Benefit of Amazon.com Shipping Offers When Buying from Third-Party Sellers</p><p>SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Sept. 19, 2006-- Amazon Business Solutions today launched "Fulfillment by Amazon" and "WebStore by Amazon," giving small and medium-sized businesses access to Amazon's order fulfillment, customer service, customer shipping offers, and underlying website technology to improve the experience they offer their customers.</p><p>Fulfillment by Amazon</p><p>Fulfillment by Amazon allows businesses to use Amazon's own order fulfillment and post-order customer service infrastructure, and allows Amazon.com customers to receive the benefit of Amazon.com shipping offers when buying from third-party sellers who use Fulfillment by Amazon. Amazon.com customers can now use offers such as Amazon Prime and Free Super Saver Shipping when buying products with the "Fulfilled by Amazon" icon next to the offering listing.</p><p>"We created Fulfillment by Amazon because it is good for Amazon.com customers, and therefore, great for our third-party sellers," said Joe Walowski, Product Manager, Fulfillment by Amazon. "With membership in Amazon Prime growing every day, more and more Amazon.com customers want a great deal on shipping and to receive their orders quickly. Fulfillment by Amazon makes it possible for sellers to offer Amazon.com customers this convenience."</p><p>For a handling fee as low as $0.50 per item plus $0.40 per pound and a storage fee of $0.45 per cubic foot per month, Fulfillment by Amazon frees online sellers from the time and money required to store, pick, pack, ship, and provide customer service for the products they sell online. Businesses simply send their products to an Amazon fulfillment center where Amazon stores and sends those products to customers who order them on Amazon.com or the business's WebStore (see "WebStore by Amazon" below). Amazon will also manage post-order customer service such as customer returns and refunds for businesses that use Fulfillment by Amazon.</p><p>"We are excited about the possibilities of Fulfillment by Amazon for our children's product line 'The Faery Folk dolls.' For small manufacturers of unique products like us, one of the greatest challenges is getting the product to the consumer in a cost-effective manner. The overhead costs of pick-and-pack for one-off orders drains time and resources away from the important tasks of marketing and business development. Fulfillment by Amazon alleviates this issue by acting as the small business owner's fulfillment house at an acceptable price point," said Charles Erdman, co-founder and president of Dervish Media and Dervish Toys. "With a rapidly growing brand and product line, execution is critical for our business, which is why we're so optimistic about the impact Fulfillment by Amazon can have on our business."</p><p>WebStore by Amazon</p><p>WebStore by Amazon allows businesses to create their own privately branded e-commerce websites using Amazon technology. Businesses can choose from a variety of website layout options and can customize their sites using their own photos and branding. For example, Seattle Gift Shop now has its own WebStore at www.seattlesgifts.com. WebStore by Amazon users pay a commission of 7 percent (price includes credit card processing fees and fraud protection) for each product purchased through their site and a monthly fee of $59.95.</p><p>"Not only has using WebStore by Amazon increased my sales dramatically, but its easy-to-use tools give me complete control of the look and feel of my site," said Kathy Wojtczak, who manages www.elementjewelry.com using WebStore by Amazon. "Plus, I can use WebStore by Amazon to track and manage all of my online inventory and sales in one place."</p><p>WebStore by Amazon allows businesses to:</p><ul><li>Maintain their brand while leveraging Amazon's own scalable, reliable, and secure back-end technology.</li><li>Make it secure, simple, and easy for visitors to buy using their existing Amazon.com accounts.</li><li>Earn additional revenue by including other products from Amazon.com in their WebStore and referring customers through the Amazon Associates program.</li></ul><p>"Day-to-day mission-critical functions such as handling sensitive payment information and making sure our websites can handle big spikes in traffic are fundamental pieces of Amazon's business. We've made significant investments over the past decade and employ world-class software engineers to make sure these things are done right," said Tim Mirick, Director, Amazon Business Solutions. "WebStore by Amazon now puts these people and this investment to work for sellers, so they can focus on what they do best-building their brands and managing their merchandise."</p><p>Both Fulfillment by Amazon and WebStore by Amazon are available today in beta. They can be used separately or together. Go to http://www.amazonservices.com/businesssolutions for more information, including information on how businesses can sign-up for these new services.</p><p>About Amazon Services &amp; Amazon Fulfillment Services</p><p>Amazon Services, LLC is a subsidiary of Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ:AMZN) that offers the technical platform, operational capabilities and e-commerce expertise that power Amazon.com to other businesses seeking to create a world-class, cost-effective e-commerce offering for their customers. Amazon Enterprise Solutions and Amazon Business Solutions are Amazon Services groups. Amazon Enterprise Solutions works with large retailers such as Target, Bebe, and Marks &amp; Spencer (UK) and the Amazon Business Solutions works with small to medium-sized businesses. Amazon Fulfillment Services, Inc. is a subsidiary of Amazon.com, Inc. that operates U.S.-based fulfillment and customer service networks for Amazon.com and the businesses that leverage fulfillment or customer service as part of their offering from Amazon Enterprise Solutions or Amazon Business Solutions.</p><p>About Amazon.com</p><p>Amazon.com, Inc., (NASDAQ:AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden.</p><p>Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com.</p><p>As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise.</p><p>Forward-Looking Statements</p><p>This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings.</p><p>CONTACT: Amazon.com, Inc., SeattleMedia Hotline, 206-266-7180http://www.amazon.com/prSOURCE: Amazon.com, Inc.</p>

CustomFlix and Amazon.com Launch CD on Demand Service; New Service Offers Musicians, Labels, and Audio Content Owners an Inventory-Free Production and Distribution Solution

/news/news-details/2006/CustomFlix-and-Amazon.com-Launch-CD-on-Demand-Service-New-Service-Offers-Musicians-Labels-and-Audio-Content-Owners-an-Inventory-Free-Production-and-Distribution-Solution/default.aspx

CustomFlix-and-Amazon.com-Launch-CD-on-Demand-Service-New-Service-Offers-Musicians-Labels-and-Audio-Content-Owners-an-Inventory-Free-Production-and-Distribution-Solution

09/19/2006 08:31:00

CustomFlix and Amazon.com Launch CD on Demand Service; New Service Offers Musicians, Labels, and Audio Content Owners an Inventory-Free Production and Distribution Solution

09/19/2006

2006

SANTA CRUZ, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Sept. 19, 2006--CustomFlix Labs, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Amazon.com, Inc., (NASDAQ:AMZN) today announced the introduction of the CustomFlix CD on Demand service. The new CD on Demand service is similar to the current DVD on Demand service and offers independent musicians, artists, labels, and other music content owners an inventory-free way to reach a worldwide audience and make their audio CDs available to millions of Amazon.com customers. "With the launch of CustomFlix CD on Demand, we are once again changing the way independent distribution works," said Dana LoPiccolo-Giles, co-founder and managing director of CustomFlix. "Based on the success of CustomFlix DVD on Demand, our members have been asking for an inventory-free audio CD solution. We're pleased to extend our Disc on Demand service beyond video to meet the needs of the independent musician community as well as labels who want to provide as much of their catalogue as possible to Amazon customers. By enabling access to Amazon.com's millions of customers, CD on Demand now offers musicians and labels a powerful new way to profitably connect to their audience." "CustomFlix CD on Demand is a great service for independent musicians and labels because it provides an easy and inexpensive way to gain exposure to millions of people on Amazon.com," said Aaron Martin, Amazon.com's director of Print and Disc on Demand Services. "This program will also increase our already broad selection of CDs on Amazon, giving our customers an even greater library of music to choose from." CustomFlix CD on Demand works the same way as CustomFlix DVD on Demand; CustomFlix manufactures and ships CDs only when customers place orders, so no pre-built inventory is required. This manufacture on demand approach enables independent musicians and labels to offer audio CDs at a fraction of the upfront cost of traditional distribution methods while maintaining unprecedented flexibility and control over their content. Through this service, music content owners can make their CDs available to millions of shoppers on Amazon.com as well as through their own customizable CustomFlix E-Store. At the heart of the CD on Demand program is the CustomFlix Future-Proof Archive(TM) service, a secure storage and reformatting platform designed to provide content owners the flexibility to repurpose content into multiple future digital formats. The Future-Proof Archive service now supports audio CD, DVD-Video, and WMV-HD DVD. Upcoming support for HD DVD and Blu-ray has already been announced, with additional formats coming in the future. CustomFlix CD on Demand units include high-quality CD-R media with full-color hub-printed faces; full-color, double-sided tray cards, and four-page, full-color inserts in over-wrapped clear jewel cases. Please visit www.customflix.com/AudioCD for more information. About CustomFlix CustomFlix Labs, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Amazon.com, Inc., is the leader in manufacture on demand services for independent and enterprise media content owners. CustomFlix was founded in 2002 with the mission of profitably connecting content owners to a worldwide audience. Today, CustomFlix offers professional digitization into the Future-Proof Archive service, as well as inventory-free physical media distribution via both CD and DVD on Demand, adding thousands of hours of media content to Earth's Biggest Selection on Amazon.com. About Amazon.com Amazon.com, Inc., (Nasdaq:AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden. Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com. As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise. This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings. CONTACT: For CustomFlixStacey Hurwitz, 831-457-5925Stacey@customflix.comorFor Amazon.comAmazon Media Hotline, 206-266-7180www.amazon.com/prSOURCE: Amazon.com

<p>SANTA CRUZ, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Sept. 19, 2006--CustomFlix Labs, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Amazon.com, Inc., (NASDAQ:AMZN) today announced the introduction of the CustomFlix CD on Demand service. The new CD on Demand service is similar to the current DVD on Demand service and offers independent musicians, artists, labels, and other music content owners an inventory-free way to reach a worldwide audience and make their audio CDs available to millions of Amazon.com customers.</p><p>"With the launch of CustomFlix CD on Demand, we are once again changing the way independent distribution works," said Dana LoPiccolo-Giles, co-founder and managing director of CustomFlix. "Based on the success of CustomFlix DVD on Demand, our members have been asking for an inventory-free audio CD solution. We're pleased to extend our Disc on Demand service beyond video to meet the needs of the independent musician community as well as labels who want to provide as much of their catalogue as possible to Amazon customers. By enabling access to Amazon.com's millions of customers, CD on Demand now offers musicians and labels a powerful new way to profitably connect to their audience."</p><p>"CustomFlix CD on Demand is a great service for independent musicians and labels because it provides an easy and inexpensive way to gain exposure to millions of people on Amazon.com," said Aaron Martin, Amazon.com's director of Print and Disc on Demand Services. "This program will also increase our already broad selection of CDs on Amazon, giving our customers an even greater library of music to choose from."</p><p>CustomFlix CD on Demand works the same way as CustomFlix DVD on Demand; CustomFlix manufactures and ships CDs only when customers place orders, so no pre-built inventory is required. This manufacture on demand approach enables independent musicians and labels to offer audio CDs at a fraction of the upfront cost of traditional distribution methods while maintaining unprecedented flexibility and control over their content. Through this service, music content owners can make their CDs available to millions of shoppers on Amazon.com as well as through their own customizable CustomFlix E-Store.</p><p>At the heart of the CD on Demand program is the CustomFlix Future-Proof Archive(TM) service, a secure storage and reformatting platform designed to provide content owners the flexibility to repurpose content into multiple future digital formats. The Future-Proof Archive service now supports audio CD, DVD-Video, and WMV-HD DVD. Upcoming support for HD DVD and Blu-ray has already been announced, with additional formats coming in the future.</p><p>CustomFlix CD on Demand units include high-quality CD-R media with full-color hub-printed faces; full-color, double-sided tray cards, and four-page, full-color inserts in over-wrapped clear jewel cases. Please visit www.customflix.com/AudioCD for more information.</p><p>About CustomFlix</p><p>CustomFlix Labs, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Amazon.com, Inc., is the leader in manufacture on demand services for independent and enterprise media content owners. CustomFlix was founded in 2002 with the mission of profitably connecting content owners to a worldwide audience. Today, CustomFlix offers professional digitization into the Future-Proof Archive service, as well as inventory-free physical media distribution via both CD and DVD on Demand, adding thousands of hours of media content to Earth's Biggest Selection on Amazon.com.</p><p>About Amazon.com</p><p>Amazon.com, Inc., (Nasdaq:AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden.</p><p>Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com.</p><p>As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise.</p><p>This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings.</p><p>CONTACT: For CustomFlixStacey Hurwitz, 831-457-5925Stacey@customflix.comorFor Amazon.comAmazon Media Hotline, 206-266-7180www.amazon.com/prSOURCE: Amazon.com</p>

Amazon.com Launches Amazon Unbox(TM), a Digital Video Download Service with DVD-Quality Picture

/news/news-details/2006/Amazon.com-Launches-Amazon-UnboxTM-a-Digital-Video-Download-Service-with-DVD-Quality-Picture/default.aspx

Amazon.com-Launches-Amazon-UnboxTM-a-Digital-Video-Download-Service-with-DVD-Quality-Picture

09/07/2006 17:38:00

Amazon.com Launches Amazon Unbox(TM), a Digital Video Download Service with DVD-Quality Picture

09/07/2006

2006

Amazon Unbox Offers Thousands of DVD-Quality Picture TV Shows, Movies and Other Videos From Around the World; Unbox RemoteLoadTM Technology Allows Customers to Buy From One PC and Download to Another; "Star Trek," VH1 Make Digital Download-to-Own Debut SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Sept. 7, 2006--Amazon.com (Nasdaq:AMZN): Amazon.com (Nasdaq:AMZN) today announced the launch of Amazon UnboxTM, a new digital video download service offering customers thousands of television shows, movies and other video content from more than 30 studio and network partners from Hollywood and around the world. Unbox is the only video download service to offer DVD-quality picture. In addition, Unbox RemoteLoadTM technology allows customers to buy from one PC (such as an office computer) and download to another (such as a home computer). Customers can visit www.amazon.com/unbox to try the Unbox service with a free TV show. Unbox offers triple the video quality of the leading commercial Internet video services, delivering content encoded at 2,500 kilobits per second using the ultra-efficient VC-1 Advanced Profile codec. At no additional charge, Unbox also automatically includes a second file optimized for playback on any Windows Media-compatible portable device. In addition, Unbox uses progressive download, eliminating the need to wait for the entire video to download before watching. This means the typical cable broadband customer can start watching any Unbox TV show or movie within five minutes of ordering. "Amazon Unbox offers TV and movie enthusiasts a fast, convenient way to watch thousands of their favorite videos from around the world," said Bill Carr, Amazon.com's vice president of digital media. "Now Amazon.com customers can choose to get videos delivered to their doorstep from Amazon's DVD store or choose Amazon Unbox and download DVD-quality picture movies or television shows to their PC." Unbox RemoteLoad technology offers customers the convenience of shopping for Unbox videos on Amazon.com from any Internet-connected PC -- like their PC at the office -- and download their videos to that PC or any other connected PC -- like their PC at home. Plus, customers get the added flexibility of taking their video collection on the go using any Windows Media video-compatible portable device, including the popular Creative Zen Vision:M. "Amazon has built the ultimate solution for anyone who has ever had a friend or coworker tell them that they missed a great TV show last night," said Carr. "Now customers can visit Amazon.com while at work and download DVD-quality TV shows and movies to their PC at home or wherever it is most convenient for them to watch." Amazon Unbox customers will be able to access their videos in the Amazon Your Media Library, a personalized Web page that indexes and organizes their media purchases from Amazon.com, including books, CDs, DVDs and Unbox Videos. Your Media Library provides each Unbox customer a place to keep track of their Unbox video purchases, and even download them to an additional PC. Amazon Unbox customers can download episodes of their favorite television shows that aired as recently as last night or favorites from decades past. Unbox offers current hits from top networks like CBS with "CSI" and "Numb3rs" and FOX with "24" and "Prison Break" as well as classics like "Buffy the Vampire Slayer," "Firefly" and "Star Trek." Unbox also offers a broad selection of popular shows from cable networks such as A&E, Cartoon Network, Discovery Channel, FX and several channels from MTV Networks, including Comedy Central, Nickelodeon, MTV and VH1. From September 14th through September 27th, all of the final, cliffhanger episodes from last season's "CSI," "CSI: Miami" and "CSI:NY" will be available for $0.01 to celebrate CSI Week and the launch of the season for all three "CSI" series. Several television series and films will make their digital download debut with Amazon Unbox, including all 79 episodes of the original "Star Trek" series (plus the pre-Shatner original pilot), many anime series including "Mobile Suit Gundam SEED." HGTV, FINE LIVING TV Network and VH1 are three networks making their digital download debut, offering titles such as "Design on a Dime," "America's Dream 18" and "Breaking Bonaduce," respectively. Movies available on Unbox include new releases such as "V for Vendetta," "Inside Man," "Failure to Launch," "RV" and "Walk the Line" as well as numerous classics like "Ben Hur," "Chinatown" and "Poseidon Adventure" from top studios including 20th Century Fox, Paramount Pictures, Sony Pictures, Universal Pictures, Warner Bros. Entertainment and Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Studios, Inc. Unbox will also have independent films from studios such as Focus Features, Fox Searchlight and Lionsgate, including "Akeelah and the Bee," "Brokeback Mountain" and "Friends With Money." Amazon Unbox also offers a broad selection of international television shows and films from the UK, Korea, Hong Kong and Japan. These include the epic Korean period drama "The Immortal Admiral Yi Sun-shin"; the popular BBC comedy "Coupling"; Hong Kong's "Hand of Death," directed by John Woo starring Jackie Chan; and Japan's "Escaflowne." Unbox customers can purchase television series episodes for $1.99 per episode, purchase most movies for between $7.99 and $14.99, or rent the latest movies for $3.99. To learn more about Amazon Unbox and to download your first television show free of charge, visit www.amazon.com/unbox. Participating Television Networks A&E, Adult Swim, Animal Planet, BBC, The Biography Channel, Cartoon Network, CBS, Comedy Central, Discovery Channel, Discovery Health Channel, Discovery Kids, E! Entertainment Television, FINE LIVING TV Network, FOX, Fuel TV, FX, HGTV, The History Channel, KBS (Korean Broadcast System), Logo, MTV, Nickelodeon, Nick at Nite, The N, PBS, Speed, Spike, Travel Channel, TV Land and VH1. Participating Movie Studios 20th Century Fox, Paramount, Sony Pictures Home Entertainment, Universal Pictures, Warner Bros. Entertainment, Lionsgate and Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Studios, Inc. Unbox Partner Quotes CBS "With its broad and extensive user base, impressive marketing capabilities and the Unbox technology, Amazon.com is uniquely positioned as a programming platform in the online world, and we're excited to be one of their charter content providers," said Larry Kramer, President, CBS Digital Media. "The site is a perfect vehicle to further extend the reach of our Network brand and create more opportunities for audiences to discover current and classic CBS programming." Fox Entertainment Group "We expect the convenience of Amazon's Unbox to be a catalyst in expanding the reach of our digital offerings," said Peter Levinsohn, President, Fox Digital Media. "Amazon has made a name for itself as having the biggest selection of physical goods online. We are happy to be a part of its effort to realize this same goal in digital content." MTV Networks "VH1 has chosen Amazon Unbox for our download-to-own premiere of select shows because it offers viewers a flexible and high-quality way to enjoy their favorite programs -- the very qualities our 30-something viewers find important," said Tom Calderone, executive vice president and general manager, VH1. "We are excited to join the other MTV Networks' brands in this launch, and to extend VH1's hit shows to yet another platform." Paramount "Amazon is one of the great trusted brands in the digital space with an excellent track record of building direct consumer relationships via the Internet," said Thomas Lesinski, President, Paramount Pictures Digital Entertainment. "We are very excited about Amazon's new Unbox service, which will provide consumers with a convenient high-quality option for downloading movies directly to their computers." Sony Pictures Home Entertainment "This agreement with Amazon is very exciting for Sony Pictures Home Entertainment. It represents the first time one of our established customers has embraced digital distribution," noted Benjamin S. Feingold, Worldwide President of Sony Pictures Home Entertainment, Digital Distribution and Acquisitions. "Sony and Amazon share the goal of delivering outstanding entertainment to consumers whenever they want it, on whatever platform they choose to experience it and in the most efficient manner possible, and we are delighted to partner with Amazon in fulfilling this mission." Universal Studios Home Entertainment (USHE) "We are pleased to partner with Amazon on this exciting venture, which offers a convenient and flexible alternative for purchasing and enjoying Universal films," said Craig Kornblau, President, Universal Studios Home Entertainment. "Consistent with NBC Universal's strategy for ubiquitous content distribution, we are very excited to align with Amazon, a top-tier partner that is on the forefront of a unique new electronic sell-through technology to deliver our entertainment product: The Unbox Experience." Warner Bros. Entertainment "Warner Bros. digital distribution strategy is to provide consumers with access to our world-class entertainment through as many platforms, devices and channels possible," said Simon Kenny, President, Warner Bros. Digital Distribution. "Amazon is the Internet's leading online retailer, and our customers are already comfortable acquiring entertainment from the website. Unbox is a natural extension of this and a good fit for Warner Bros." MGM "Delivering on our strategy of distributing MGM movies and television series on robust new digital platforms, we are very pleased to be able to offer MGM programming to the launch of Amazon's Unbox service and hope to include additional product in the weeks to come as the service undoubtedly flourishes," said Douglas A. Lee, Executive Vice President, Worldwide Digital Media at MGM. "We are thrilled to extend our partnership with Amazon as it introduces its millions of users to its new service, and welcome them to receiving new ways of obtaining MGM's extraordinary library of films and television," he said. About Amazon.com Amazon.com, Inc., (Nasdaq:AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden. Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com. As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise. Forward Looking Statement This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings. CONTACT: Amazon.com Media RelationsSean Sundwall, 206-266-4322sundwall@amazon.comSOURCE: Amazon.com

<p>Amazon Unbox Offers Thousands of DVD-Quality Picture TV Shows, Movies and Other Videos From Around the World; Unbox RemoteLoad^TM Technology Allows Customers to Buy From One PC and Download to Another; "Star Trek," VH1 Make Digital Download-to-Own Debut</p><p>SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Sept. 7, 2006--Amazon.com (Nasdaq:AMZN): Amazon.com (Nasdaq:AMZN) today announced the launch of Amazon Unbox^TM, a new digital video download service offering customers thousands of television shows, movies and other video content from more than 30 studio and network partners from Hollywood and around the world. Unbox is the only video download service to offer DVD-quality picture. In addition, Unbox RemoteLoad^TM technology allows customers to buy from one PC (such as an office computer) and download to another (such as a home computer). Customers can visit www.amazon.com/unbox to try the Unbox service with a free TV show.</p><p>Unbox offers triple the video quality of the leading commercial Internet video services, delivering content encoded at 2,500 kilobits per second using the ultra-efficient VC-1 Advanced Profile codec. At no additional charge, Unbox also automatically includes a second file optimized for playback on any Windows Media-compatible portable device. In addition, Unbox uses progressive download, eliminating the need to wait for the entire video to download before watching. This means the typical cable broadband customer can start watching any Unbox TV show or movie within five minutes of ordering.</p><p>"Amazon Unbox offers TV and movie enthusiasts a fast, convenient way to watch thousands of their favorite videos from around the world," said Bill Carr, Amazon.com's vice president of digital media. "Now Amazon.com customers can choose to get videos delivered to their doorstep from Amazon's DVD store or choose Amazon Unbox and download DVD-quality picture movies or television shows to their PC."</p><p>Unbox RemoteLoad technology offers customers the convenience of shopping for Unbox videos on Amazon.com from any Internet-connected PC -- like their PC at the office -- and download their videos to that PC or any other connected PC -- like their PC at home. Plus, customers get the added flexibility of taking their video collection on the go using any Windows Media video-compatible portable device, including the popular Creative Zen Vision:M.</p><p>"Amazon has built the ultimate solution for anyone who has ever had a friend or coworker tell them that they missed a great TV show last night," said Carr. "Now customers can visit Amazon.com while at work and download DVD-quality TV shows and movies to their PC at home or wherever it is most convenient for them to watch."</p><p>Amazon Unbox customers will be able to access their videos in the Amazon Your Media Library, a personalized Web page that indexes and organizes their media purchases from Amazon.com, including books, CDs, DVDs and Unbox Videos. Your Media Library provides each Unbox customer a place to keep track of their Unbox video purchases, and even download them to an additional PC.</p><p>Amazon Unbox customers can download episodes of their favorite television shows that aired as recently as last night or favorites from decades past. Unbox offers current hits from top networks like CBS with "CSI" and "Numb3rs" and FOX with "24" and "Prison Break" as well as classics like "Buffy the Vampire Slayer," "Firefly" and "Star Trek." Unbox also offers a broad selection of popular shows from cable networks such as A&amp;E, Cartoon Network, Discovery Channel, FX and several channels from MTV Networks, including Comedy Central, Nickelodeon, MTV and VH1. From September 14th through September 27th, all of the final, cliffhanger episodes from last season's "CSI," "CSI: Miami" and "CSI:NY" will be available for $0.01 to celebrate CSI Week and the launch of the season for all three "CSI" series.</p><p>Several television series and films will make their digital download debut with Amazon Unbox, including all 79 episodes of the original "Star Trek" series (plus the pre-Shatner original pilot), many anime series including "Mobile Suit Gundam SEED." HGTV, FINE LIVING TV Network and VH1 are three networks making their digital download debut, offering titles such as "Design on a Dime," "America's Dream 18" and "Breaking Bonaduce," respectively.</p><p>Movies available on Unbox include new releases such as "V for Vendetta," "Inside Man," "Failure to Launch," "RV" and "Walk the Line" as well as numerous classics like "Ben Hur," "Chinatown" and "Poseidon Adventure" from top studios including 20th Century Fox, Paramount Pictures, Sony Pictures, Universal Pictures, Warner Bros. Entertainment and Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Studios, Inc. Unbox will also have independent films from studios such as Focus Features, Fox Searchlight and Lionsgate, including "Akeelah and the Bee," "Brokeback Mountain" and "Friends With Money."</p><p>Amazon Unbox also offers a broad selection of international television shows and films from the UK, Korea, Hong Kong and Japan. These include the epic Korean period drama "The Immortal Admiral Yi Sun-shin"; the popular BBC comedy "Coupling"; Hong Kong's "Hand of Death," directed by John Woo starring Jackie Chan; and Japan's "Escaflowne."</p><p>Unbox customers can purchase television series episodes for $1.99 per episode, purchase most movies for between $7.99 and $14.99, or rent the latest movies for $3.99. To learn more about Amazon Unbox and to download your first television show free of charge, visit www.amazon.com/unbox.</p><p>Participating Television Networks</p><p>A&amp;E, Adult Swim, Animal Planet, BBC, The Biography Channel, Cartoon Network, CBS, Comedy Central, Discovery Channel, Discovery Health Channel, Discovery Kids, E! Entertainment Television, FINE LIVING TV Network, FOX, Fuel TV, FX, HGTV, The History Channel, KBS (Korean Broadcast System), Logo, MTV, Nickelodeon, Nick at Nite, The N, PBS, Speed, Spike, Travel Channel, TV Land and VH1.</p><p>Participating Movie Studios</p><p>20th Century Fox, Paramount, Sony Pictures Home Entertainment, Universal Pictures, Warner Bros. Entertainment, Lionsgate and Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Studios, Inc.</p><p>Unbox Partner Quotes</p><p>CBS</p><p>"With its broad and extensive user base, impressive marketing capabilities and the Unbox technology, Amazon.com is uniquely positioned as a programming platform in the online world, and we're excited to be one of their charter content providers," said Larry Kramer, President, CBS Digital Media. "The site is a perfect vehicle to further extend the reach of our Network brand and create more opportunities for audiences to discover current and classic CBS programming."</p><p>Fox Entertainment Group</p><p>"We expect the convenience of Amazon's Unbox to be a catalyst in expanding the reach of our digital offerings," said Peter Levinsohn, President, Fox Digital Media. "Amazon has made a name for itself as having the biggest selection of physical goods online. We are happy to be a part of its effort to realize this same goal in digital content."</p><p>MTV Networks</p><p>"VH1 has chosen Amazon Unbox for our download-to-own premiere of select shows because it offers viewers a flexible and high-quality way to enjoy their favorite programs -- the very qualities our 30-something viewers find important," said Tom Calderone, executive vice president and general manager, VH1. "We are excited to join the other MTV Networks' brands in this launch, and to extend VH1's hit shows to yet another platform."</p><p>Paramount</p><p>"Amazon is one of the great trusted brands in the digital space with an excellent track record of building direct consumer relationships via the Internet," said Thomas Lesinski, President, Paramount Pictures Digital Entertainment. "We are very excited about Amazon's new Unbox service, which will provide consumers with a convenient high-quality option for downloading movies directly to their computers."</p><p>Sony Pictures Home Entertainment</p><p>"This agreement with Amazon is very exciting for Sony Pictures Home Entertainment. It represents the first time one of our established customers has embraced digital distribution," noted Benjamin S. Feingold, Worldwide President of Sony Pictures Home Entertainment, Digital Distribution and Acquisitions. "Sony and Amazon share the goal of delivering outstanding entertainment to consumers whenever they want it, on whatever platform they choose to experience it and in the most efficient manner possible, and we are delighted to partner with Amazon in fulfilling this mission."</p><p>Universal Studios Home Entertainment (USHE)</p><p>"We are pleased to partner with Amazon on this exciting venture, which offers a convenient and flexible alternative for purchasing and enjoying Universal films," said Craig Kornblau, President, Universal Studios Home Entertainment. "Consistent with NBC Universal's strategy for ubiquitous content distribution, we are very excited to align with Amazon, a top-tier partner that is on the forefront of a unique new electronic sell-through technology to deliver our entertainment product: The Unbox Experience."</p><p>Warner Bros. Entertainment</p><p>"Warner Bros. digital distribution strategy is to provide consumers with access to our world-class entertainment through as many platforms, devices and channels possible," said Simon Kenny, President, Warner Bros. Digital Distribution. "Amazon is the Internet's leading online retailer, and our customers are already comfortable acquiring entertainment from the website. Unbox is a natural extension of this and a good fit for Warner Bros."</p><p>MGM</p><p>"Delivering on our strategy of distributing MGM movies and television series on robust new digital platforms, we are very pleased to be able to offer MGM programming to the launch of Amazon's Unbox service and hope to include additional product in the weeks to come as the service undoubtedly flourishes," said Douglas A. Lee, Executive Vice President, Worldwide Digital Media at MGM. "We are thrilled to extend our partnership with Amazon as it introduces its millions of users to its new service, and welcome them to receiving new ways of obtaining MGM's extraordinary library of films and television," he said.</p><p>About Amazon.com</p><p>Amazon.com, Inc., (Nasdaq:AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden.</p><p>Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com.</p><p>As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise.</p><p>Forward Looking Statement</p><p>This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings.</p><p>CONTACT: Amazon.com Media RelationsSean Sundwall, 206-266-4322sundwall@amazon.comSOURCE: Amazon.com</p>

Edutopia Teams up with CustomFlix to Distribute Award-Winning Educational Programming on Customizable DVDs

/news/news-details/2006/Edutopia-Teams-up-with-CustomFlix-to-Distribute-Award-Winning-Educational-Programming-on-Customizable-DVDs/default.aspx

Edutopia-Teams-up-with-CustomFlix-to-Distribute-Award-Winning-Educational-Programming-on-Customizable-DVDs

09/06/2006 00:00:00

Edutopia Teams up with CustomFlix to Distribute Award-Winning Educational Programming on Customizable DVDs

09/06/2006

2006

CustomFlix "Create Your Own DVD" Offering Now Gives Teachers Access to Original, Unparalleled DVD Educational Tools NEW YORK & SANTA CRUZ, Calif., Sep 06, 2006 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- Edutopia, a magazine published by The George Lucas Educational Foundation (GLEF) as part of a mission to reinvent schools for the twenty-first century, today announced a partnership with CustomFlix Labs, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Amazon.com, Inc. (Nasdaq:AMZN), to distribute DVDs of exemplary educational programs using the CustomFlix Create Your Own DVD(TM) service. This on-demand service gives educators the unprecedented opportunity to browse nearly 100 award-winning GLEF documentaries on the best practices in K-12 education, and choose only the clips they want to include to create customized educational DVDs for presentations, workshops, and in-classroom use. Educators also benefit from the flexibility of choosing from a wide range of topics, such as professional development, technology integration, business and community involvement, and much more, to find the clips most relevant to their classrooms. "Edutopia's founding principles are steeped in the tradition of integrating technology with education to foster a better learning environment," said Kate Rodler, publisher of Edutopia. "In working with CustomFlix, Edutopia merges its wealth of knowledge with the power of on-demand technology to answer the desire for customization and technology integration in our schools." In addition to creating their own DVDs on the Edutopia website or CustomFlix E-Store, educators can also access a number of pre-made DVDs on Amazon.com on topics including technology integration, project-based learning, social and emotional learning, assessment, school-to-career education, math, and science. "Innovative educational content from GLEF is an excellent match for the CustomFlix Create Your Own DVD service," said Dana LoPiccolo-Giles, co-founder and managing director of CustomFlix. "Not only will educators be able to pick and choose educational content that is most relevant for their classrooms, but also, GLEF can share its practices nationwide by making its content available to millions of Amazon.com customers." The DVDs created by the CustomFlix Create Your Own DVD service boast uniquely customized artwork, professionally packaged DVD faces, and covers in overwrapped amaray-style cases, and can contain up to 10 segments or 90 minutes of video. Educational professionals can purchase the Create Your Own DVD GLEF content at www.edutopia.org/products/dvd, www.customflix.com/Edutopia, or search for pre-made DVDs on Amazon.com. About Edutopia Edutopia, the official magazine of The George Lucas Educational Foundation (GLEF), was launched in 2004 as part of a mission to reinvent schools for the twenty-first century. Founded in 1991 by filmmaker George Lucas, GLEF is a nonprofit organization that chronicles and advocates innovative practices in education. In addition to publishing Edutopia, it produces documentaries and publishes books, DVDs, and CD-ROMs. To find out more about Edutopia magazine and GLEF's resources, visit us at www.edutopia.org. About CustomFlix CustomFlix Labs, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Amazon.com, Inc., is the leader in Disc on Demand services for enterprise and independent media content owners. CustomFlix was founded in 2002 with the mission of profitably connecting content owners and filmmakers to a worldwide audience. Today, CustomFlix offers professional digitization into the Future-Proof Archive service, as well as inventory-free physical media distribution via Disc on Demand, adding thousands of hours of media content to Earth's Biggest Selection on Amazon.com. About Amazon.com Amazon.com, Inc., (Nasdaq:AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com, Inc. seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden. Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com. As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise. Forward-Looking Statement This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings. SOURCE: CustomFlix Labs, Inc. CustomFlix Labs, Inc.Stacey Hurwitz, 831-457-5925Stacey@customflix.comorSean Sundwall, 206-266-4322Sundwall@amazon.comorRosen Group PRDiane Stefani, 212-255-8455 ext. 27diane@rosengrouppr.comRachel Levy Konik, 212-255-8455 ext. 35RachelK@rosengrouppr.com

<p>CustomFlix "Create Your Own DVD" Offering Now Gives Teachers Access to Original, Unparalleled DVD Educational Tools</p><p>NEW YORK &amp; SANTA CRUZ, Calif., Sep 06, 2006 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- Edutopia, a magazine published by The George Lucas Educational Foundation (GLEF) as part of a mission to reinvent schools for the twenty-first century, today announced a partnership with CustomFlix Labs, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Amazon.com, Inc. (Nasdaq:AMZN), to distribute DVDs of exemplary educational programs using the CustomFlix Create Your Own DVD(TM) service.</p><p>This on-demand service gives educators the unprecedented opportunity to browse nearly 100 award-winning GLEF documentaries on the best practices in K-12 education, and choose only the clips they want to include to create customized educational DVDs for presentations, workshops, and in-classroom use. Educators also benefit from the flexibility of choosing from a wide range of topics, such as professional development, technology integration, business and community involvement, and much more, to find the clips most relevant to their classrooms.</p><p>"Edutopia's founding principles are steeped in the tradition of integrating technology with education to foster a better learning environment," said Kate Rodler, publisher of Edutopia. "In working with CustomFlix, Edutopia merges its wealth of knowledge with the power of on-demand technology to answer the desire for customization and technology integration in our schools."</p><p>In addition to creating their own DVDs on the Edutopia website or CustomFlix E-Store, educators can also access a number of pre-made DVDs on Amazon.com on topics including technology integration, project-based learning, social and emotional learning, assessment, school-to-career education, math, and science.</p><p>"Innovative educational content from GLEF is an excellent match for the CustomFlix Create Your Own DVD service," said Dana LoPiccolo-Giles, co-founder and managing director of CustomFlix. "Not only will educators be able to pick and choose educational content that is most relevant for their classrooms, but also, GLEF can share its practices nationwide by making its content available to millions of Amazon.com customers."</p><p>The DVDs created by the CustomFlix Create Your Own DVD service boast uniquely customized artwork, professionally packaged DVD faces, and covers in overwrapped amaray-style cases, and can contain up to 10 segments or 90 minutes of video.</p><p>Educational professionals can purchase the Create Your Own DVD GLEF content at www.edutopia.org/products/dvd, www.customflix.com/Edutopia, or search for pre-made DVDs on Amazon.com.</p><p>About Edutopia</p><p>Edutopia, the official magazine of The George Lucas Educational Foundation (GLEF), was launched in 2004 as part of a mission to reinvent schools for the twenty-first century. Founded in 1991 by filmmaker George Lucas, GLEF is a nonprofit organization that chronicles and advocates innovative practices in education. In addition to publishing Edutopia, it produces documentaries and publishes books, DVDs, and CD-ROMs. To find out more about Edutopia magazine and GLEF's resources, visit us at www.edutopia.org.</p><p>About CustomFlix</p><p>CustomFlix Labs, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Amazon.com, Inc., is the leader in Disc on Demand services for enterprise and independent media content owners. CustomFlix was founded in 2002 with the mission of profitably connecting content owners and filmmakers to a worldwide audience. Today, CustomFlix offers professional digitization into the Future-Proof Archive service, as well as inventory-free physical media distribution via Disc on Demand, adding thousands of hours of media content to Earth's Biggest Selection on Amazon.com.</p><p>About Amazon.com</p><p>Amazon.com, Inc., (Nasdaq:AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com, Inc. seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden.</p><p>Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com.</p><p>As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise.</p><p>Forward-Looking Statement</p><p>This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings.</p><p>SOURCE: CustomFlix Labs, Inc.</p><p>CustomFlix Labs, Inc.Stacey Hurwitz, 831-457-5925Stacey@customflix.comorSean Sundwall, 206-266-4322Sundwall@amazon.comorRosen Group PRDiane Stefani, 212-255-8455 ext. 27diane@rosengrouppr.comRachel Levy Konik, 212-255-8455 ext. 35RachelK@rosengrouppr.com</p>

Amazon.com, Inc.'s Board of Directors Authorizes $500 Million Stock Repurchase Program

/news/news-details/2006/Amazon.com-Inc.s-Board-of-Directors-Authorizes-500-Million-Stock-Repurchase-Program/default.aspx

Amazon.com-Inc.s-Board-of-Directors-Authorizes-500-Million-Stock-Repurchase-Program

08/28/2006 08:31:00

Amazon.com, Inc.'s Board of Directors Authorizes $500 Million Stock Repurchase Program

08/28/2006

2006

SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Aug. 28, 2006--Amazon.com, Inc. (the "Company") announced today that its Board of Directors authorized the Company to repurchase up to $500 million of the Company's common stock within the next 24 months, through one or more open market transactions, privately negotiated transactions, transactions structured through investment banking institutions or a combination of the foregoing. The program allows the Company to opportunistically repurchase its shares. The Company may do so if it believes its shares are undervalued. About Amazon.com Amazon.com, Inc., (Nasdaq:AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com, Inc. seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden. Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com. As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise. Forward-Looking Statement This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings. CONTACT: Amazon.com, Inc., SeattlePatty Smith, 206-266-7180SOURCE: Amazon.com, Inc.

<p>SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Aug. 28, 2006--Amazon.com, Inc. (the "Company") announced today that its Board of Directors authorized the Company to repurchase up to $500 million of the Company's common stock within the next 24 months, through one or more open market transactions, privately negotiated transactions, transactions structured through investment banking institutions or a combination of the foregoing. The program allows the Company to opportunistically repurchase its shares. The Company may do so if it believes its shares are undervalued.</p><p>About Amazon.com</p><p>Amazon.com, Inc., (Nasdaq:AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com, Inc. seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden.</p><p>Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com.</p><p>As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise.</p><p>Forward-Looking Statement</p><p>This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings.</p><p>CONTACT: Amazon.com, Inc., SeattlePatty Smith, 206-266-7180SOURCE: Amazon.com, Inc.</p>

CustomFlix and Amazon.com Announce ''Charlie Rose'' Programming Through DVD On Demand

/news/news-details/2006/CustomFlix-and-Amazon.com-Announce-Charlie-Rose-Programming-Through-DVD-On-Demand/default.aspx

CustomFlix-and-Amazon.com-Announce-Charlie-Rose-Programming-Through-DVD-On-Demand

08/21/2006 06:00:00

CustomFlix and Amazon.com Announce ''Charlie Rose'' Programming Through DVD On Demand

08/21/2006

2006

SANTA CRUZ, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Aug. 21, 2006--CustomFlix Labs, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Amazon.com, Inc. (Nasdaq:AMZN), today announced that more than 1,000 broadcasts of the Emmy Award-winning "The Charlie Rose Show" are now available for purchase on Amazon.com through the CustomFlix DVD On Demand service, with thousands more being added over the next several months. "For years, The Charlie Rose Show has been looking for a way to offer current and past programs quickly and reliably to viewers who want them," said Charlie Rose. "Amazon.com and CustomFlix have developed an efficient and cost-effective way of doing just that. Now our viewers can order and receive a DVD of the programs of their choice in just a matter of days." Charlie Rose viewers can choose from an extensive selection of programs broadcast over the past 12 years. These DVDs feature broadcasts since 1994 from the acclaimed interviewer and broadcast journalist as he engages world leaders, celebrities, and business executives in one-on-one interviews and roundtable discussions. Amazon.com customers will also be able to order every new broadcast after it airs, using CustomFlix's broadcast-to-DVD solution. "Charlie Rose has conducted some of the most important and compelling interviews of our time," said Jeff Bezos, founder and CEO of Amazon.com. "Thanks to CustomFlix, this outstanding television is now on DVD." Charlie Rose episodes available for purchase today through the CustomFlix DVD On Demand service on Amazon.com include interviews with thousands of renowned musicians, media moguls, athletes, and politicians -- from Bruce Springsteen and Dave Matthews to Lance Armstrong and John McEnroe to Ted Turner and Bill Clinton. The CustomFlix DVD On Demand service manufactures DVDs only after a customer orders them. This offers networks, studios and other content owners such as Charlie Rose the ability to offer their content on DVD directly to millions of Amazon.com customers without the cost or risk of carrying inventory. These episodes of "The Charlie Rose Show" can be purchased today at www.amazon.com/charlierose. About Charlie Rose Emmy award-winning journalist Charlie Rose has been praised as "one of America's premier interviewers." Each night, as host of his PBS program, Charlie Rose engages America's best thinkers, writers, politicians, athletes, entertainers, business leaders, scientists, and other newsmakers in one-on-one interviews and roundtable discussions. About CustomFlix CustomFlix Labs, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Amazon.com, Inc., is the leader in Disc on Demand services for enterprise and independent media content owners. CustomFlix was founded in 2002 with the mission of profitably connecting content owners and filmmakers to a worldwide audience. Today, CustomFlix offers professional digitization into the Future-Proof Archive service, as well as inventory-free physical media distribution via Disc on Demand, adding thousands of hours of media content to Earth's Biggest Selection on Amazon.com. About Amazon.com Amazon.com, Inc., (Nasdaq:AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com, Inc. seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden. Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com. As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise. Forward-Looking Statement This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings. CONTACT: CustomFlixStacey Hurwitz, 831-457-5925Stacey@customflix.comorAmazon.comAmazon Media Hotline, 206-266-7180www.amazon.com/prorFor Charlie Rose Inc.Peter Hopkins, 212-617-2606phopkins5@bloomberg.comSOURCE: Amazon.com, Inc.

<p>SANTA CRUZ, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Aug. 21, 2006--CustomFlix Labs, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Amazon.com, Inc. (Nasdaq:AMZN), today announced that more than 1,000 broadcasts of the Emmy Award-winning "The Charlie Rose Show" are now available for purchase on Amazon.com through the CustomFlix DVD On Demand service, with thousands more being added over the next several months.</p><p>"For years, The Charlie Rose Show has been looking for a way to offer current and past programs quickly and reliably to viewers who want them," said Charlie Rose. "Amazon.com and CustomFlix have developed an efficient and cost-effective way of doing just that. Now our viewers can order and receive a DVD of the programs of their choice in just a matter of days."</p><p>Charlie Rose viewers can choose from an extensive selection of programs broadcast over the past 12 years. These DVDs feature broadcasts since 1994 from the acclaimed interviewer and broadcast journalist as he engages world leaders, celebrities, and business executives in one-on-one interviews and roundtable discussions. Amazon.com customers will also be able to order every new broadcast after it airs, using CustomFlix's broadcast-to-DVD solution.</p><p>"Charlie Rose has conducted some of the most important and compelling interviews of our time," said Jeff Bezos, founder and CEO of Amazon.com. "Thanks to CustomFlix, this outstanding television is now on DVD."</p><p>Charlie Rose episodes available for purchase today through the CustomFlix DVD On Demand service on Amazon.com include interviews with thousands of renowned musicians, media moguls, athletes, and politicians -- from Bruce Springsteen and Dave Matthews to Lance Armstrong and John McEnroe to Ted Turner and Bill Clinton.</p><p>The CustomFlix DVD On Demand service manufactures DVDs only after a customer orders them. This offers networks, studios and other content owners such as Charlie Rose the ability to offer their content on DVD directly to millions of Amazon.com customers without the cost or risk of carrying inventory.</p><p>These episodes of "The Charlie Rose Show" can be purchased today at www.amazon.com/charlierose.</p><p>About Charlie Rose</p><p>Emmy award-winning journalist Charlie Rose has been praised as "one of America's premier interviewers." Each night, as host of his PBS program, Charlie Rose engages America's best thinkers, writers, politicians, athletes, entertainers, business leaders, scientists, and other newsmakers in one-on-one interviews and roundtable discussions.</p><p>About CustomFlix</p><p>CustomFlix Labs, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Amazon.com, Inc., is the leader in Disc on Demand services for enterprise and independent media content owners. CustomFlix was founded in 2002 with the mission of profitably connecting content owners and filmmakers to a worldwide audience. Today, CustomFlix offers professional digitization into the Future-Proof Archive service, as well as inventory-free physical media distribution via Disc on Demand, adding thousands of hours of media content to Earth's Biggest Selection on Amazon.com.</p><p>About Amazon.com</p><p>Amazon.com, Inc., (Nasdaq:AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com, Inc. seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden.</p><p>Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com.</p><p>As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise.</p><p>Forward-Looking Statement</p><p>This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings.</p><p>CONTACT: CustomFlixStacey Hurwitz, 831-457-5925Stacey@customflix.comorAmazon.comAmazon Media Hotline, 206-266-7180www.amazon.com/prorFor Charlie Rose Inc.Peter Hopkins, 212-617-2606phopkins5@bloomberg.comSOURCE: Amazon.com, Inc.</p>

New ''Search Suggestions'' Feature Enables Amazon.com Community to Help Customers Find What They're Looking For

/news/news-details/2006/New-Search-Suggestions-Feature-Enables-Amazon.com-Community-to-Help-Customers-Find-What-Theyre-Looking-For/default.aspx

New-Search-Suggestions-Feature-Enables-Amazon.com-Community-to-Help-Customers-Find-What-Theyre-Looking-For

08/10/2006 08:32:00

New ''Search Suggestions'' Feature Enables Amazon.com Community to Help Customers Find What They're Looking For

08/10/2006

2006

SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Aug. 10, 2006--Amazon.com (Nasdaq:AMZN) today announced "Search Suggestions," a new feature enabling customers, sellers, authors, and other members of the Amazon.com community to help customers find what they're looking for. Search Suggestions are user-submitted recommendations for connecting a product to specific keywords, as well as an explanation of why the connection is relevant. Once a Search Suggestion is approved, the product along with its relevancy explanation appears in search results the next time a customer searches using those keywords. Anyone can submit a Search Suggestion directly from the detail page for a product and there is no charge. For example, thanks to a recent Search Suggestion from an Amazon.com customer, the Shakespeare play "Macbeth" now appears when customers search for "The Scottish Play." The customer's explanation is shown next to a link to the book: "theater superstition dictates that 'Macbeth' is referred to as 'the Scottish play.'" "Amazon.com is all about helping customers find whatever they are looking to buy online," said Matt Round, Director of Software Development, Amazon.com. "Search Suggestions empower the broad Amazon.com community to help other customers find what they're looking for. If you're passionate about a product, help it be discovered -- make a Search Suggestion today." Businesses that list products on Amazon.com are encouraged to use Search Suggestions to help customers find their products in new ways. Steve Weber, author of "The Home-Based Bookstore," has already started using Search Suggestions to help Amazon.com customers discover his book. "Since I'm a book author, I immediately thought of a suggestion I could make for my title, 'The Home-Based Bookstore.' My suggestion was for Amazon to show my book when shoppers searched for 'bookselling.' Since that keyword isn't in my title, the book did not appear in those search results before," said Weber. There are already thousands of Search Suggestions on Amazon.com helping customers find what they're looking for in new ways. Other examples include: Searching for "cheryl tweedy" now finds music and posters from the band Girl's Aloud, of which tweedy is a member Searching for "stolen data" now finds the book, "I.T. Wars: Managing the Business-Technology Weave in the New Millennium" Searching for 'bn-v12u charger' now finds the compatible battery charger "ESA Battery Charger" Search Suggestions have been launched to most Amazon.com categories, including Apparel, Automotive, Baby, Beauty, Books, Computers, Electronics, Home & Garden, Health & Personal Care, Jewelry, Loose Diamonds, Music, Musical Instruments, Office Products, Photo, Software, Sports & Outdoors, Toys, Video Games and Watches. About Amazon.com Amazon.com, Inc., (Nasdaq:AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com, Inc. seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden. Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com. As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise. Forward-Looking Statements This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings. CONTACT: Amazon.com, SeattleAmazon Media Hotline, 206-266-7180http://www.amazon.com/prSOURCE: Amazon.com

<p>SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Aug. 10, 2006--Amazon.com (Nasdaq:AMZN) today announced "Search Suggestions," a new feature enabling customers, sellers, authors, and other members of the Amazon.com community to help customers find what they're looking for. Search Suggestions are user-submitted recommendations for connecting a product to specific keywords, as well as an explanation of why the connection is relevant. Once a Search Suggestion is approved, the product along with its relevancy explanation appears in search results the next time a customer searches using those keywords. Anyone can submit a Search Suggestion directly from the detail page for a product and there is no charge.</p><p>For example, thanks to a recent Search Suggestion from an Amazon.com customer, the Shakespeare play "Macbeth" now appears when customers search for "The Scottish Play." The customer's explanation is shown next to a link to the book: "theater superstition dictates that 'Macbeth' is referred to as 'the Scottish play.'"</p><p>"Amazon.com is all about helping customers find whatever they are looking to buy online," said Matt Round, Director of Software Development, Amazon.com. "Search Suggestions empower the broad Amazon.com community to help other customers find what they're looking for. If you're passionate about a product, help it be discovered -- make a Search Suggestion today."</p><p>Businesses that list products on Amazon.com are encouraged to use Search Suggestions to help customers find their products in new ways. Steve Weber, author of "The Home-Based Bookstore," has already started using Search Suggestions to help Amazon.com customers discover his book.</p><p>"Since I'm a book author, I immediately thought of a suggestion I could make for my title, 'The Home-Based Bookstore.' My suggestion was for Amazon to show my book when shoppers searched for 'bookselling.' Since that keyword isn't in my title, the book did not appear in those search results before," said Weber.</p><p>There are already thousands of Search Suggestions on Amazon.com helping customers find what they're looking for in new ways. Other examples include:</p><ul><li>Searching for "cheryl tweedy" now finds music and posters from the band Girl's Aloud, of which tweedy is a member</li><li>Searching for "stolen data" now finds the book, "I.T. Wars: Managing the Business-Technology Weave in the New Millennium"</li><li>Searching for 'bn-v12u charger' now finds the compatible battery charger "ESA Battery Charger"</li></ul><p>Search Suggestions have been launched to most Amazon.com categories, including Apparel, Automotive, Baby, Beauty, Books, Computers, Electronics, Home &amp; Garden, Health &amp; Personal Care, Jewelry, Loose Diamonds, Music, Musical Instruments, Office Products, Photo, Software, Sports &amp; Outdoors, Toys, Video Games and Watches.</p><p>About Amazon.com</p><p>Amazon.com, Inc., (Nasdaq:AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com, Inc. seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden.</p><p>Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com.</p><p>As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise.</p><p>Forward-Looking Statements</p><p>This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings.</p><p>CONTACT: Amazon.com, SeattleAmazon Media Hotline, 206-266-7180http://www.amazon.com/prSOURCE: Amazon.com</p>

Amazon.co.jp launches Health & Beauty Store!

/news/news-details/2006/Amazon.co.jp-launches-Health--Beauty-Store/default.aspx

Amazon.co.jp-launches-Health--Beauty-Store

08/03/2006 00:00:00

Amazon.co.jp launches Health & Beauty Store!

08/03/2006

2006

Offering a rich selection of over 30,000 items and plenty of value Online Store Amazon.co.jp (http://www.amazon.co.jp/) launched its new Health & Beauty Store (http://www.amazon.co.jp/hb/) on Thursday, August 3rd. The store handles a total of over 30,000 items in 12 categories, including supplements, drinking water & soft drinks, condiments, processed foods and health foods, as well as cosmetics and products for bath care, nursing care and aroma relaxation. Amazon.co.jp's Health & Beauty Store is the second of its kind to be launched worldwide, following that of Amazon.com in 2003. The Health & Beauty Store carries a total of approximately 1,300 varieties of popular brand-name products, including cosmetic brands such as 'GRACEOR', created by Kanebo Cosmetics exclusively for mail orders , and 'INGRID MILLET', the esthetic salon-exclusive brand by French company Laboratories Ingrid Millet S.A., first sold through Amazon.co.jp. Other products include kewpie Diet related foods, 'Nature Made' supplements imported and sold by Otsuka Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. the aromatic 'Tree of Life,' loved by women everywhere, as well as miscellaneous daily goods from Gillette, Lion, and Johnson & Johnson. For more information regarding each of the categories please refer to the supplementary section titled "About the Health & Beauty Store." To commemorate the opening of our new Store, we have created a column on our website with the assistance of Mitsuyasu Uchibori, the well-known 'vinegar sommelier,' about different ways to enjoy vinegar. Limited quantities of Amazon.co.jp's own vinegar blend, 'ASSEMBLAGE,' are also available for purchase. Furthermore, the Health & Beauty Store will have all of Amazon.co.jp's usual useful functions such as the Search function and Navigation, the Recommendation and Personalization functions for recommending items based on a customer's shopping or click history, and Customer Reviews to reflect the actual opinions of our customers. We are also going to sell the products via Amazon Mobile very soon after the launch. Jasper Cheung, President and CEO of Amazon Japan K.K. gives his view as follows: "Amazon.co.jp has developed the know-how of EC services through the opening of media stores such as books and DVDs, as well as Electronics, Home & Kitchen, Toys & Hobby, and Sports Stores. I am extremely pleased to see that with the opening of the Health & Beauty Store and by being able to really begin dealing in these consumable goods, we are now able to offer goods that are even closer to our customers' hearts and everyday lives based on our know-how. Amazon.co.jp will further develop as an online store to provide a wide selection of goods from those for daily needs to hobbies." Furthermore, to commemorate the opening of the new Store, customers will receive an Amazon Gift Certificate for JPY 1,000, which can be used immediately, when they purchase items to the value of JPY 5,000 or more (including tax) between August 3rd and August 24th. Also, as always, we offer free delivery within Japan for purchases totaling JPY 1,500 (including tax), and purchases can also be paid for COD (Cash On Delivery). About Amazon.co.jp < www.amazon.co.jp > Amazon.co.jp opened its virtual doors on November 1st 2000, and strives to be the world's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online. Amazon.co.jp today offers more than ten million Japanese and foreign language book titles, CDs, DVDs, videos, PC software, video games, Electronics, Home & Kitchen, Toys & Hobbies, Sports items and Health & Beauty related products. Through the Amazon Mobile platform for mobile commerce, Amazon.co.jp is also accessible via i-mode, EZweb and Vodafone Live! wireless devices. Amazon.co.jp customers enjoy the benefits of industry-leading, online shopping technology such as secure credit-card payment; COD payment; personalized recommendations; and streamlined 1-Click ordering. Amazon.co.jp is one of six internationally focused websites operated by Amazon.com (NASDAQ: AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, Washington, USA. Amazon.com and its affiliates operate seven Web sites: www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.ca and www.joyo.com. Forward-Looking Statements This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings.

<p>Offering a rich selection of over 30,000 items and plenty of value</p><p>Online Store Amazon.co.jp (http://www.amazon.co.jp/) launched its new Health &amp; Beauty Store (http://www.amazon.co.jp/hb/) on Thursday, August 3rd. The store handles a total of over 30,000 items in 12 categories, including supplements, drinking water &amp; soft drinks, condiments, processed foods and health foods, as well as cosmetics and products for bath care, nursing care and aroma relaxation. Amazon.co.jp's Health &amp; Beauty Store is the second of its kind to be launched worldwide, following that of Amazon.com in 2003.</p><p>The Health &amp; Beauty Store carries a total of approximately 1,300 varieties of popular brand-name products, including cosmetic brands such as 'GRACEOR', created by Kanebo Cosmetics exclusively for mail orders , and 'INGRID MILLET', the esthetic salon-exclusive brand by French company Laboratories Ingrid Millet S.A., first sold through Amazon.co.jp. Other products include kewpie Diet related foods, 'Nature Made' supplements imported and sold by Otsuka Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. the aromatic 'Tree of Life,' loved by women everywhere, as well as miscellaneous daily goods from Gillette, Lion, and Johnson &amp; Johnson. For more information regarding each of the categories please refer to the supplementary section titled "About the Health &amp; Beauty Store."</p><p>To commemorate the opening of our new Store, we have created a column on our website with the assistance of Mitsuyasu Uchibori, the well-known 'vinegar sommelier,' about different ways to enjoy vinegar. Limited quantities of Amazon.co.jp's own vinegar blend, 'ASSEMBLAGE,' are also available for purchase.</p><p>Furthermore, the Health &amp; Beauty Store will have all of Amazon.co.jp's usual useful functions such as the Search function and Navigation, the Recommendation and Personalization functions for recommending items based on a customer's shopping or click history, and Customer Reviews to reflect the actual opinions of our customers. We are also going to sell the products via Amazon Mobile very soon after the launch.</p><p>Jasper Cheung, President and CEO of Amazon Japan K.K. gives his view as follows: "Amazon.co.jp has developed the know-how of EC services through the opening of media stores such as books and DVDs, as well as Electronics, Home &amp; Kitchen, Toys &amp; Hobby, and Sports Stores. I am extremely pleased to see that with the opening of the Health &amp; Beauty Store and by being able to really begin dealing in these consumable goods, we are now able to offer goods that are even closer to our customers' hearts and everyday lives based on our know-how. Amazon.co.jp will further develop as an online store to provide a wide selection of goods from those for daily needs to hobbies."</p><p>Furthermore, to commemorate the opening of the new Store, customers will receive an Amazon Gift Certificate for JPY 1,000, which can be used immediately, when they purchase items to the value of JPY 5,000 or more (including tax) between August 3rd and August 24th. Also, as always, we offer free delivery within Japan for purchases totaling JPY 1,500 (including tax), and purchases can also be paid for COD (Cash On Delivery).</p><p>About Amazon.co.jp &lt; www.amazon.co.jp &gt;</p><p>Amazon.co.jp opened its virtual doors on November 1st 2000, and strives to be the world's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online. Amazon.co.jp today offers more than ten million Japanese and foreign language book titles, CDs, DVDs, videos, PC software, video games, Electronics, Home &amp; Kitchen, Toys &amp; Hobbies, Sports items and Health &amp; Beauty related products. Through the Amazon Mobile platform for mobile commerce, Amazon.co.jp is also accessible via i-mode, EZweb and Vodafone Live! wireless devices. Amazon.co.jp customers enjoy the benefits of industry-leading, online shopping technology such as secure credit-card payment; COD payment; personalized recommendations; and streamlined 1-Click ordering. Amazon.co.jp is one of six internationally focused websites operated by Amazon.com (NASDAQ: AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, Washington, USA. Amazon.com and its affiliates operate seven Web sites: www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.ca and www.joyo.com.</p><p>Forward-Looking Statements</p><p>This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings.</p>

Amazon.com Jewelry and Watches Sales up More Than 100 Percent in Second Quarter 2006

/news/news-details/2006/Amazon.com-Jewelry-and-Watches-Sales-up-More-Than-100-Percent-in-Second-Quarter-2006/default.aspx

Amazon.com-Jewelry-and-Watches-Sales-up-More-Than-100-Percent-in-Second-Quarter-2006

08/01/2006 09:01:00

Amazon.com Jewelry and Watches Sales up More Than 100 Percent in Second Quarter 2006

08/01/2006

2006

SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Aug. 1, 2006--Amazon.com, Inc. (Nasdaq:AMZN) today announced that second quarter 2006 jewelry and watches sales increased more than 100 percent year-over-year. Each quarter, an increasing number of Amazon.com's millions of customers are shopping the Amazon.com Jewelry & Watches store, especially for important gift-giving occasions, such as Mother's Day and summer engagements. "More and more customers are discovering the convenience and value for gift purchases on Amazon.com," said Steven Goldsmith, vice president, Amazon.com Jewelry & Watches store. "Particularly for engagement rings, customers are finding huge selection amongst some of the lowest prices for high-quality engagement rings." Custom-built engagement ring sales on Amazon.com in the second quarter increased 254 percent year-over-year. In addition, Amazon.com's selection of unique loose diamonds has increased 30% since January 2006 from 2.1 to 2.6 million unique loose stone/setting configurations. With the extensive loose diamond selection and low prices ranging from $235 to $120,000, customers can also choose from a wide range of sizes and cuts. Through Amazon's proprietary "Create Your Own Ring" feature, customers can easily choose from more than 200 setting styles and many shapes and cuts, such as the Asscher and Princess cuts and the current customer favorite, the Round Brilliant cut. Every piece of jewelry sold by Amazon.com is inspected by jewelry professionals to verify quality attributes and ensure an excellent product. Customers will find detailed product specifications about each of the piece's components, including gemstones, settings and metal stamps. A Learning Center provides buying guides for pearls, diamonds, precious metals, and watches. Loose stones are independently certified to be a specific cut, clarity, color, shape and weight. Finally, the store provides all of the tools and helpful information that Amazon.com customers know and love, such as Customer Reviews, Top Sellers lists, So You'd Like To guides and Listmania lists. About Amazon.com Amazon.com (Nasdaq:AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened its virtual doors on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and third-party sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished, and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden. Amazon.com and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com. As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc. and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise. Forward Looking Statement This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings. CONTACT: Amazon.com, SeattleMedia Relations, 206-266-7180SOURCE: Amazon.com, Inc.

<p>SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Aug. 1, 2006--Amazon.com, Inc. (Nasdaq:AMZN) today announced that second quarter 2006 jewelry and watches sales increased more than 100 percent year-over-year. Each quarter, an increasing number of Amazon.com's millions of customers are shopping the Amazon.com Jewelry &amp; Watches store, especially for important gift-giving occasions, such as Mother's Day and summer engagements.</p><p>"More and more customers are discovering the convenience and value for gift purchases on Amazon.com," said Steven Goldsmith, vice president, Amazon.com Jewelry &amp; Watches store. "Particularly for engagement rings, customers are finding huge selection amongst some of the lowest prices for high-quality engagement rings."</p><p>Custom-built engagement ring sales on Amazon.com in the second quarter increased 254 percent year-over-year. In addition, Amazon.com's selection of unique loose diamonds has increased 30% since January 2006 from 2.1 to 2.6 million unique loose stone/setting configurations. With the extensive loose diamond selection and low prices ranging from $235 to $120,000, customers can also choose from a wide range of sizes and cuts. Through Amazon's proprietary "Create Your Own Ring" feature, customers can easily choose from more than 200 setting styles and many shapes and cuts, such as the Asscher and Princess cuts and the current customer favorite, the Round Brilliant cut.</p><p>Every piece of jewelry sold by Amazon.com is inspected by jewelry professionals to verify quality attributes and ensure an excellent product. Customers will find detailed product specifications about each of the piece's components, including gemstones, settings and metal stamps. A Learning Center provides buying guides for pearls, diamonds, precious metals, and watches. Loose stones are independently certified to be a specific cut, clarity, color, shape and weight. Finally, the store provides all of the tools and helpful information that Amazon.com customers know and love, such as Customer Reviews, Top Sellers lists, So You'd Like To guides and Listmania lists.</p><p>About Amazon.com</p><p>Amazon.com (Nasdaq:AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened its virtual doors on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and third-party sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished, and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden.</p><p>Amazon.com and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com.</p><p>As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc. and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise.</p><p>Forward Looking Statement</p><p>This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings.</p><p>CONTACT: Amazon.com, SeattleMedia Relations, 206-266-7180SOURCE: Amazon.com, Inc.</p>

Amazon.com Announces Library Processing for Public and Academic Libraries Across the United States

/news/news-details/2006/Amazon.com-Announces-Library-Processing-for-Public-and-Academic-Libraries-Across-the-United-States/default.aspx

Amazon.com-Announces-Library-Processing-for-Public-and-Academic-Libraries-Across-the-United-States

07/31/2006 09:02:00

Amazon.com Announces Library Processing for Public and Academic Libraries Across the United States

07/31/2006

2006

SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--July 31, 2006--Amazon.com (NASDAQ:AMZN) today announced it has launched Library Processing, enabling its thousands of library customers to receive Machine-Readable Cataloging (MARC) records and have books and other media they order from Amazon.com fitted with Mylar jackets, barcodes, and other essential preparation services. This end-to-end processing service will significantly reduce library overhead costs and decrease the time from "box to shelf" so that library patrons will have faster access to newly ordered media titles. "Libraries already use Amazon.com when they need fast and reliable delivery of products at competitive prices, but our library customers have told us they would like Library Processing in order to better serve their patrons," said Greg Greeley, vice president of books, magazines and corporate accounts. "Amazon.com is proud to offer libraries this seamless, end-to-end processing service which will make it even easier for libraries to shop with us." When library customers order products from Amazon.com, they will have the option of including MARC records, labels and barcodes as part of their order. Amazon.com library customers will also have the option of having hardcover books delivered with Mylar jacketing - a protective covering used by most libraries - taped over the jackets. Each of these services can be tailored to meet the needs of each library, and each library will be able to manage their processing profile online. "Now, more than ever, libraries are under enormous pressure to meet the increased demand of library services while doing so with less money and resources," said Julie Brinkley of the Dauphin County Library in Pennsylvania. "We're very eager to have Amazon.com provide Library Processing. It will be a great time-saver for the library system." To create a "Processing Profile," a customer simply needs to go to http://www.amazon.com/processing. From there, they can complete a web-based form to provide all the information Amazon.com needs to tailor their processing. Once a library creates a profile, the library can decide which orders they want to apply processing to. Over the last year, Amazon.com has introduced several new library-specific features including the Librarians' Store, online invoicing, approval slips, and partnerships with sellers that enable libraries to more easily sell their used books. Library Processing represents another step forward in providing libraries with an easy way to meet their collection and acquisition needs. For the latest list of new features and services for libraries, visit www.amazon.com/libraries. About Amazon.com Amazon.com, Inc., (Nasdaq:AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com, Inc. seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden. Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com. As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise. Forward-Looking Statement This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings. Quote Sheet MARCIVE, Inc. "We think librarians are going to love saving time with authority-processed records from MARCIVE when they buy from Amazon.com," said Scott Fleming, Chief Operating Officer, MARCIVE, Inc. "For over 25 years, MARCIVE has been helping librarians get the cataloging they need at the price they want. We have always offered our customers choices and we see working with Amazon.com as a choice that librarians are going to want." OCLC Collection Management Services "Through this cataloging partnership with Amazon.com, OCLC will deliver WorldCat metadata records to libraries at the point of need--online, during the acquisitions process," said Phyllis Spies, Vice President, OCLC Collection Management Services. "Now, libraries that buy books and other materials from Amazon.com will automatically receive the corresponding catalog record delivered from OCLC, have their holdings set in WorldCat, and receive labels from Amazon.com. This is an added benefit for libraries with an OCLC cataloging subscription; the service will be provided at no additional charge." TLC "TLC has built its reputation as an innovative library technology partner by including progressive cataloging tools and quality MARC records," commented TLC CEO Annette Harwood Murphy. "With BiblioFile OnDemand, librarians can use those tools with the incredible resources of Amazon.com to obtain quality MARC records within seconds after placing an order. We are delighted with the new service and hope our customers will be too." CONTACT: Amazon.comPublic Relations, 206-266-7180SOURCE: Amazon.com

<p>SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--July 31, 2006--Amazon.com (NASDAQ:AMZN) today announced it has launched Library Processing, enabling its thousands of library customers to receive Machine-Readable Cataloging (MARC) records and have books and other media they order from Amazon.com fitted with Mylar jackets, barcodes, and other essential preparation services. This end-to-end processing service will significantly reduce library overhead costs and decrease the time from "box to shelf" so that library patrons will have faster access to newly ordered media titles.</p><p>"Libraries already use Amazon.com when they need fast and reliable delivery of products at competitive prices, but our library customers have told us they would like Library Processing in order to better serve their patrons," said Greg Greeley, vice president of books, magazines and corporate accounts. "Amazon.com is proud to offer libraries this seamless, end-to-end processing service which will make it even easier for libraries to shop with us."</p><p>When library customers order products from Amazon.com, they will have the option of including MARC records, labels and barcodes as part of their order. Amazon.com library customers will also have the option of having hardcover books delivered with Mylar jacketing - a protective covering used by most libraries - taped over the jackets. Each of these services can be tailored to meet the needs of each library, and each library will be able to manage their processing profile online.</p><p>"Now, more than ever, libraries are under enormous pressure to meet the increased demand of library services while doing so with less money and resources," said Julie Brinkley of the Dauphin County Library in Pennsylvania. "We're very eager to have Amazon.com provide Library Processing. It will be a great time-saver for the library system."</p><p>To create a "Processing Profile," a customer simply needs to go to http://www.amazon.com/processing. From there, they can complete a web-based form to provide all the information Amazon.com needs to tailor their processing. Once a library creates a profile, the library can decide which orders they want to apply processing to.</p><p>Over the last year, Amazon.com has introduced several new library-specific features including the Librarians' Store, online invoicing, approval slips, and partnerships with sellers that enable libraries to more easily sell their used books. Library Processing represents another step forward in providing libraries with an easy way to meet their collection and acquisition needs. For the latest list of new features and services for libraries, visit www.amazon.com/libraries.</p><p>About Amazon.com</p><p>Amazon.com, Inc., (Nasdaq:AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com, Inc. seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden.</p><p>Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com.</p><p>As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise.</p><p>Forward-Looking Statement</p><p>This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings.</p><p>Quote Sheet MARCIVE, Inc.</p><p>"We think librarians are going to love saving time with authority-processed records from MARCIVE when they buy from Amazon.com," said Scott Fleming, Chief Operating Officer, MARCIVE, Inc. "For over 25 years, MARCIVE has been helping librarians get the cataloging they need at the price they want. We have always offered our customers choices and we see working with Amazon.com as a choice that librarians are going to want."</p><p>OCLC Collection Management Services</p><p>"Through this cataloging partnership with Amazon.com, OCLC will deliver WorldCat metadata records to libraries at the point of need--online, during the acquisitions process," said Phyllis Spies, Vice President, OCLC Collection Management Services. "Now, libraries that buy books and other materials from Amazon.com will automatically receive the corresponding catalog record delivered from OCLC, have their holdings set in WorldCat, and receive labels from Amazon.com. This is an added benefit for libraries with an OCLC cataloging subscription; the service will be provided at no additional charge."</p><p>TLC</p><p>"TLC has built its reputation as an innovative library technology partner by including progressive cataloging tools and quality MARC records," commented TLC CEO Annette Harwood Murphy. "With BiblioFile OnDemand, librarians can use those tools with the incredible resources of Amazon.com to obtain quality MARC records within seconds after placing an order. We are delighted with the new service and hope our customers will be too."</p><p>CONTACT: Amazon.comPublic Relations, 206-266-7180SOURCE: Amazon.com</p>

``Alexa Site Thumbnail'' Web Service from Alexa Internet Now Available for Developers; New web service allows software and web developers to incorporate thumbnail images of web site home pages directly into their applications

/news/news-details/2006/Alexa-Site-Thumbnail-Web-Service-from-Alexa-Internet-Now-Available-for-Developers-New-web-service-allows-software-and-web-developers-to-incorporate-thumbnail-images-of-web-site-home-pages-directly-into-their-applications/default.aspx

Alexa-Site-Thumbnail-Web-Service-from-Alexa-Internet-Now-Available-for-Developers-New-web-service-allows-software-and-web-developers-to-incorporate-thumbnail-images-of-web-site-home-pages-directly-into-their-applications

07/27/2006 03:02:00

``Alexa Site Thumbnail'' Web Service from Alexa Internet Now Available for Developers; New web service allows software and web developers to incorporate thumbnail images of web site home pages directly into their applications

07/27/2006

2006

SAN FRANCISCO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--July 27, 2006--Alexa Internet, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ:AMZN), today launched the Alexa Site Thumbnail web service. For years Alexa has been crawling more than 18 million web sites collecting home page images along with a vast amount of other information about the web. Now, using the Alexa Site Thumbnail web service, software and web developers can obtain programmatic access to URLs for these images in Alexa's collection, which they can use to incorporate thumbnail images of web site home pages into their own applications. Developers can sign up and get started using the Alexa Site Thumbnail web service today at the Amazon Web Services web site http://aws.amazon.com/ast. The Alexa Site Thumbnail web service is sold through Amazon Web Services LLC. "Developers are constantly looking for ways to make their websites more visually appealing and to save their users time," said Alexa Vice President of Engineering Niall O'Driscoll. "In just minutes and inexpensively, developers can use the new Alexa Site Thumbnail web service to achieve both these goals." The Alexa Site Thumbnail web service enables developers to enhance web sites, search results, web directories, blog entries, and other web real estate with images of web site home pages that Alexa has collected from crawling the web. Including web site thumbnail images improves the user experience by allowing end users to preview sites before clicking through to the web site. Alexa has millions of images available and is adding more daily. The Alexa Site Thumbnail web service allows developers to customize the size and format in which Alexa's thumbnail images can be displayed in their own applications. There is no minimum fee or start-up cost to use the Alexa Site Thumbnail web service. About Alexa Internet Founded in April 1996 by Bruce Gilliat and acquired by Amazon.com in 1999, Alexa Internet provides dynamic data about the Web. Alexa's services include Web site traffic information, statistics, and other tools to make timely and intelligent business and consumer decisions. About Amazon Web Services LLC Launched in July 2002, Amazon Web Services exposes technology and product data from Amazon and its affiliates that enable developers to build innovative and entrepreneurial applications on their own. More than 180,000 developers have signed up to use Amazon Web Services since its inception. Amazon Web Services recently launched the Solutions Catalog where developers can list the businesses, applications, and solutions they have built using Amazon Web Services. The catalog is available at http://solutions.amazonwebservices.com. Amazon Web Services LLC is an Amazon.com company. About Amazon.com Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ:AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden. Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com. As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise. Amazon Forward-Looking Statement This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings. CONTACT: Amazon.comAmazon Media Hotline, 206-266-7180http://www.amazon.com/prSOURCE: Amazon.com

<p>SAN FRANCISCO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--July 27, 2006--Alexa Internet, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ:AMZN), today launched the Alexa Site Thumbnail web service. For years Alexa has been crawling more than 18 million web sites collecting home page images along with a vast amount of other information about the web. Now, using the Alexa Site Thumbnail web service, software and web developers can obtain programmatic access to URLs for these images in Alexa's collection, which they can use to incorporate thumbnail images of web site home pages into their own applications. Developers can sign up and get started using the Alexa Site Thumbnail web service today at the Amazon Web Services web site http://aws.amazon.com/ast. The Alexa Site Thumbnail web service is sold through Amazon Web Services LLC.</p><p>"Developers are constantly looking for ways to make their websites more visually appealing and to save their users time," said Alexa Vice President of Engineering Niall O'Driscoll. "In just minutes and inexpensively, developers can use the new Alexa Site Thumbnail web service to achieve both these goals."</p><p>The Alexa Site Thumbnail web service enables developers to enhance web sites, search results, web directories, blog entries, and other web real estate with images of web site home pages that Alexa has collected from crawling the web. Including web site thumbnail images improves the user experience by allowing end users to preview sites before clicking through to the web site.</p><p>Alexa has millions of images available and is adding more daily. The Alexa Site Thumbnail web service allows developers to customize the size and format in which Alexa's thumbnail images can be displayed in their own applications. There is no minimum fee or start-up cost to use the Alexa Site Thumbnail web service.</p><p>About Alexa Internet</p><p>Founded in April 1996 by Bruce Gilliat and acquired by Amazon.com in 1999, Alexa Internet provides dynamic data about the Web. Alexa's services include Web site traffic information, statistics, and other tools to make timely and intelligent business and consumer decisions.</p><p>About Amazon Web Services LLC</p><p>Launched in July 2002, Amazon Web Services exposes technology and product data from Amazon and its affiliates that enable developers to build innovative and entrepreneurial applications on their own. More than 180,000 developers have signed up to use Amazon Web Services since its inception. Amazon Web Services recently launched the Solutions Catalog where developers can list the businesses, applications, and solutions they have built using Amazon Web Services. The catalog is available at http://solutions.amazonwebservices.com. Amazon Web Services LLC is an Amazon.com company.</p><p>About Amazon.com</p><p>Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ:AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden.</p><p>Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com.</p><p>As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise.</p><p>Amazon Forward-Looking Statement</p><p>This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings.</p><p>CONTACT: Amazon.comAmazon Media Hotline, 206-266-7180http://www.amazon.com/prSOURCE: Amazon.com</p>

Amazon.com Announces Style Experts Elycia Rubin and Rita Mauceri as Spokespeople for the Apparel & Accessories, Jewelry & Watches, Beauty and Shoe Stores; Authors of the Book 'Frumpy to Foxy in 15 Minutes Flat' to Offer Fashion and Beauty Advice

/news/news-details/2006/Amazon.com-Announces-Style-Experts-Elycia-Rubin-and-Rita-Mauceri-as-Spokespeople-for-the-Apparel--Accessories-Jewelry--Watches-Beauty-and-Shoe-Stores-Authors-of-the-Book-Frumpy-to-Foxy-in-15-Minutes-Flat-to-Offer-Fashion-and-Beauty-Advice/default.aspx

Amazon.com-Announces-Style-Experts-Elycia-Rubin-and-Rita-Mauceri-as-Spokespeople-for-the-Apparel--Accessories-Jewelry--Watches-Beauty-and-Shoe-Stores-Authors-of-the-Book-Frumpy-to-Foxy-in-15-Minutes-Flat-to-Offer-Fashion-and-Beauty-Advice

07/26/2006 09:01:00

Amazon.com Announces Style Experts Elycia Rubin and Rita Mauceri as Spokespeople for the Apparel & Accessories, Jewelry & Watches, Beauty and Shoe Stores; Authors of the Book 'Frumpy to Foxy in 15 Minutes Flat' to Offer Fashion and Beauty Advice

07/26/2006

2006

SEATTLE, Jul 26, 2006 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- Amazon.com (Nasdaq:AMZN) today announced style experts Elycia Rubin and Rita Mauceri as spokespeople for the Apparel & Accessories, Beauty, Jewelry & Watches and Shoe stores. Updated monthly, customers can visit Elycia and Rita's page on Amazon.com (www.amazon.com/frumpytofoxy) to find their accessible and stylish beauty, apparel and accessory picks that will enhance or transform anyone's wardrobe. "Amazon.com is thrilled to be teaming up with fashion pioneers Elycia and Rita," said Steven Goldsmith, vice president of Amazon.com's Apparel & Accessories and Jewelry & Watches stores. "We feel their sophisticated style is a natural fit and is uniquely suited to Amazon.com's savvy customer base." Television personalities and co-creators of the hit book "Frumpy to Foxy in 15 Minutes Flat," Elycia Rubin and Rita Mauceri have over 20 years' combined experience covering style and design. In 2005, Elycia and Rita formed the lifestyle brand Foxy & Co, launched the website FrumpyToFoxy.com, and published the essential style guide for women everywhere, "Frumpy to Foxy in 15 Minutes Flat." They make numerous national television appearances on such shows as "The Today Show," "The View," "Good Morning America," "The Tyra Banks Show," and "Beauty and The Geek," and are frequently sought after for their advice by such magazines as "In Style," "Glamour," "Marie Claire," and "Cosmopolitan." "We're thrilled to be working with Amazon," said Elycia Rubin and Rita Mauceri. "This partnership is an ideal extension of our fashion philosophy - that feeling stylish doesn't have to be hard or high priced. Amazon offers an incredible array of hip clothing, accessory and cosmetic brands for all budgets, making it easier than ever to look stylish in a snap." About Amazon.com Amazon.com, Inc., (Nasdaq:AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com, Inc. seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden. Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com. As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise. Forward-Looking Statement This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings. SOURCE: Amazon.com Amazon.com Media RelationsTracy Ogden, 206-266-1379ogden@amazon.com

<p>SEATTLE, Jul 26, 2006 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- Amazon.com (Nasdaq:AMZN) today announced style experts Elycia Rubin and Rita Mauceri as spokespeople for the Apparel &amp; Accessories, Beauty, Jewelry &amp; Watches and Shoe stores. Updated monthly, customers can visit Elycia and Rita's page on Amazon.com (www.amazon.com/frumpytofoxy) to find their accessible and stylish beauty, apparel and accessory picks that will enhance or transform anyone's wardrobe.</p><p>"Amazon.com is thrilled to be teaming up with fashion pioneers Elycia and Rita," said Steven Goldsmith, vice president of Amazon.com's Apparel &amp; Accessories and Jewelry &amp; Watches stores. "We feel their sophisticated style is a natural fit and is uniquely suited to Amazon.com's savvy customer base."</p><p>Television personalities and co-creators of the hit book "Frumpy to Foxy in 15 Minutes Flat," Elycia Rubin and Rita Mauceri have over 20 years' combined experience covering style and design. In 2005, Elycia and Rita formed the lifestyle brand Foxy &amp; Co, launched the website FrumpyToFoxy.com, and published the essential style guide for women everywhere, "Frumpy to Foxy in 15 Minutes Flat." They make numerous national television appearances on such shows as "The Today Show," "The View," "Good Morning America," "The Tyra Banks Show," and "Beauty and The Geek," and are frequently sought after for their advice by such magazines as "In Style," "Glamour," "Marie Claire," and "Cosmopolitan."</p><p>"We're thrilled to be working with Amazon," said Elycia Rubin and Rita Mauceri. "This partnership is an ideal extension of our fashion philosophy - that feeling stylish doesn't have to be hard or high priced. Amazon offers an incredible array of hip clothing, accessory and cosmetic brands for all budgets, making it easier than ever to look stylish in a snap."</p><p>About Amazon.com</p><p>Amazon.com, Inc., (Nasdaq:AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com, Inc. seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden.</p><p>Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com.</p><p>As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise.</p><p>Forward-Looking Statement</p><p>This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings.</p><p>SOURCE: Amazon.com</p><p>Amazon.com Media RelationsTracy Ogden, 206-266-1379ogden@amazon.com</p>

Amazon.com and ''A Treasure's Trove'' Author Michael Stadther Launch International Online Treasure Hunt

/news/news-details/2006/Amazon.com-and-A-Treasures-Trove-Author-Michael-Stadther-Launch-International-Online-Treasure-Hunt/default.aspx

Amazon.com-and-A-Treasures-Trove-Author-Michael-Stadther-Launch-International-Online-Treasure-Hunt

07/27/2006 00:12:00

Amazon.com and ''A Treasure's Trove'' Author Michael Stadther Launch International Online Treasure Hunt

07/27/2006

2006

SEATTLE & NEW CANAAN, Conn.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--July 26, 2006--Amazon.com (Nasdaq:AMZN): First-of-Its-Kind Contest Leads Treasure Hunters from around the World to $50,000 in Aaron Basha Rings by Following Hidden Clues Found Exclusively on Amazon.com and Five of Its International Web Sites Hunt Whets "Trovers'" Appetites for Author's Upcoming Book, "Secrets of the Alchemist Dar" Amazon.com (Nasdaq:AMZN) and Michael Stadther, renowned author of "A Treasure's Trove" and the soon-to-be-released "Secrets of the Alchemist Dar," announced today the launch of an international online treasure hunt designed by Stadther and hosted exclusively on Amazon.com in the United States and five of the company's international Web sites: Canada (Amazon.ca), United Kingdom (Amazon.co.uk), Germany (Amazon.de), France (Amazon.fr) and Japan (Amazon.co.jp). Participants must have a valid login for the applicable Amazon site. Amazon.com customers in the U.S. can participate by visiting www.amazon.com/treasurehunt. On each of the six sites, customers will find a self-contained treasure hunt where they can search for nine clues that will reveal a secret puzzle. Each country's winner, with the exception of Japan, will receive a ring crafted by renowned jeweler Aaron Basha valued at $10,000. Japan's winner will receive an alternative prize in accordance with Japanese law. Stadther, who is widely acknowledged as having launched the current nationwide treasure hunting phenomenon with his first book, "A Treasure's Trove," created a special nine-piece puzzle for Amazon.com, one piece of which appears each time a contestant deciphers a clue. The first customer from each of Amazon's six Web sites to correctly decipher all nine clues and solve the puzzle will be declared the winner. A new clue will be released each week beginning today, with the final clue appearing on Sept. 19. "The purpose of working with Amazon in creating this first-of-a-kind online treasure hunt is to explore the power of the Internet. This is a fun and relatively easy hunt that I hope encourages families all over the world to work on the clues together, just as families did with 'A Treasure's Trove,' and as I hope they will with my new book, 'Secrets of the Alchemist Dar,'" said Stadther. "This contest is also an entertaining way for people to explore the treasures that lie within the Amazon.com Web site." This is the first time in Amazon.com's history that it has simultaneously engaged so many of its international sites in such a contest, a contest it hopes will introduce its tens of millions of customers to some of the newer shopping experiences on the Web site. "When Michael published 'A Treasure's Trove,' he ignited the current nationwide treasure hunting phenomenon," said Laura Porco, director of merchandising at Amazon.com. "As our customers look for and solve the clues of this unique online treasure hunt, we hope they experience Amazon.com in a way they have never experienced it before." In addition to the online treasure hunt conducted exclusively on Amazon.com's Web sites, the Sept. 26 release of Stadther's new book, "Secrets of the Alchemist Dar," offers intrepid treasure hunters around the globe the opportunity, using the clues concealed in the new book's pages, to win one of the 100 rings by Aaron Basha valued together at $2 million. Anyone can look for clues in the book, decipher the clues and, if they meet all of the requirements in the Official Rules printed in "Secrets of the Alchemist Dar," claim a ring. "Secrets of the Alchemist Dar" is a sequel to "A Treasure's Trove," the enchanting, classic fairy tale, written and illustrated by Michael Stadther. "A Treasure's Trove" was first published on Nov. 12, 2004, and rapidly climbed the nation's bestseller lists, where it remained for months, selling more than 500,000 copies. The book's pages contained clues that, when successfully deciphered, led readers to the exact locations of 18-karat gold tokens hidden throughout the continental U.S. The gold tokens were redeemable for one-of-a-kind jewels with a combined value of more than $1 million. Tens of thousands of avid treasure hunters, of every age, were dubbed "trovers" by the media and raced all over the United States in search of the hidden tokens. "Secrets of the Alchemist Dar" is currently available for pre-order on Amazon.com for $14.29 -- a savings of 35 percent. The book is being distributed in its English language version worldwide by Simon Scribbles, a division of Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing. For more information on "Secrets of the Alchemist Dar" and Michael Stadther, please visit www.alchemistdar.com. About Amazon.com Amazon.com, Inc., (Nasdaq:AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden. Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com. As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise. About Treasure Trove, Inc. Treasure Trove, Inc., based in New Canaan, Connecticut, is the publisher of the bestselling "A Treasure's Trove" and the Sept. 26, 2006 release "Secrets of the Alchemist Dar." It also produces family entertainment products that include coloring and activity books, puzzle books, audiobooks, and e-Books. About Aaron Basha Aaron Basha is known for his collection of magical treasures and masterful designs originated of 18 karat gold, gemstones, and colored enamel. His name is internationally recognized for the signature jeweled Baby Shoes, Love Bugs, spectacular diamond designs, and a high profile celebrity clientele. Aaron Basha has an extraordinary family history dating as far back as 1906. Son to a mother who served as a jewel merchant to Middle Eastern royals and a father who prospered as a pearl dealer, Aaron traveled often. Inspired by his excursions through the Persian Gulf cities and India, he acquired a love of rare jewels very early on. It was in 1959 that Aaron first began designing his own pieces and has since established himself as a Madison Avenue magnate and industry leader. Today, with the help of his wife and four children, Aaron Basha continues to delight the world with his whimsical charms and ever-expanding fine jewelry collection. Aaron Basha's flagship boutique is located on Madison Avenue, NYC. Renowned retailers worldwide featuring the Aaron Basha line are located throughout the United States, the United Kingdom, Russia, Japan, Hong Kong, the Middle East, Europe, Latin America and the Caribbean Islands. "We are thrilled to be a part of the adventure of 'Secrets of the Alchemist Dar,'" says Aaron. "Our designs are known to charm the child at heart; may the rings of eternal life bring fun, play and love!" For more information please visit www.aaronbasha.com.Forward-Looking Statement This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings. CONTACT: Amazon.com, Inc., SeattleAmazon Media Hotline, 206-266-7180www.amazon.com/prorEuro RSCG Magnet for Treasure Trove, Inc.Maryellen Lee, 212-367-6906 (Media Relations)maryellen.lee@eurorscg.comSOURCE: Amazon.com, Inc.

<p>SEATTLE &amp; NEW CANAAN, Conn.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--July 26, 2006--Amazon.com (Nasdaq:AMZN):</p><ul><li>First-of-Its-Kind Contest Leads Treasure Hunters from around the World to $50,000 in Aaron Basha Rings by Following Hidden Clues Found Exclusively on Amazon.com and Five of Its International Web Sites</li><li>Hunt Whets "Trovers'" Appetites for Author's Upcoming Book, "Secrets of the Alchemist Dar"</li></ul><p>Amazon.com (Nasdaq:AMZN) and Michael Stadther, renowned author of "A Treasure's Trove" and the soon-to-be-released "Secrets of the Alchemist Dar," announced today the launch of an international online treasure hunt designed by Stadther and hosted exclusively on Amazon.com in the United States and five of the company's international Web sites: Canada (Amazon.ca), United Kingdom (Amazon.co.uk), Germany (Amazon.de), France (Amazon.fr) and Japan (Amazon.co.jp). Participants must have a valid login for the applicable Amazon site. Amazon.com customers in the U.S. can participate by visiting www.amazon.com/treasurehunt.</p><p>On each of the six sites, customers will find a self-contained treasure hunt where they can search for nine clues that will reveal a secret puzzle. Each country's winner, with the exception of Japan, will receive a ring crafted by renowned jeweler Aaron Basha valued at $10,000. Japan's winner will receive an alternative prize in accordance with Japanese law.</p><p>Stadther, who is widely acknowledged as having launched the current nationwide treasure hunting phenomenon with his first book, "A Treasure's Trove," created a special nine-piece puzzle for Amazon.com, one piece of which appears each time a contestant deciphers a clue. The first customer from each of Amazon's six Web sites to correctly decipher all nine clues and solve the puzzle will be declared the winner. A new clue will be released each week beginning today, with the final clue appearing on Sept. 19.</p><p>"The purpose of working with Amazon in creating this first-of-a-kind online treasure hunt is to explore the power of the Internet. This is a fun and relatively easy hunt that I hope encourages families all over the world to work on the clues together, just as families did with 'A Treasure's Trove,' and as I hope they will with my new book, 'Secrets of the Alchemist Dar,'" said Stadther. "This contest is also an entertaining way for people to explore the treasures that lie within the Amazon.com Web site."</p><p>This is the first time in Amazon.com's history that it has simultaneously engaged so many of its international sites in such a contest, a contest it hopes will introduce its tens of millions of customers to some of the newer shopping experiences on the Web site.</p><p>"When Michael published 'A Treasure's Trove,' he ignited the current nationwide treasure hunting phenomenon," said Laura Porco, director of merchandising at Amazon.com. "As our customers look for and solve the clues of this unique online treasure hunt, we hope they experience Amazon.com in a way they have never experienced it before."</p><p>In addition to the online treasure hunt conducted exclusively on Amazon.com's Web sites, the Sept. 26 release of Stadther's new book, "Secrets of the Alchemist Dar," offers intrepid treasure hunters around the globe the opportunity, using the clues concealed in the new book's pages, to win one of the 100 rings by Aaron Basha valued together at $2 million. Anyone can look for clues in the book, decipher the clues and, if they meet all of the requirements in the Official Rules printed in "Secrets of the Alchemist Dar," claim a ring.</p><p>"Secrets of the Alchemist Dar" is a sequel to "A Treasure's Trove," the enchanting, classic fairy tale, written and illustrated by Michael Stadther. "A Treasure's Trove" was first published on Nov. 12, 2004, and rapidly climbed the nation's bestseller lists, where it remained for months, selling more than 500,000 copies. The book's pages contained clues that, when successfully deciphered, led readers to the exact locations of 18-karat gold tokens hidden throughout the continental U.S. The gold tokens were redeemable for one-of-a-kind jewels with a combined value of more than $1 million. Tens of thousands of avid treasure hunters, of every age, were dubbed "trovers" by the media and raced all over the United States in search of the hidden tokens.</p><p>"Secrets of the Alchemist Dar" is currently available for pre-order on Amazon.com for $14.29 -- a savings of 35 percent. The book is being distributed in its English language version worldwide by Simon Scribbles, a division of Simon &amp; Schuster Children's Publishing. For more information on "Secrets of the Alchemist Dar" and Michael Stadther, please visit www.alchemistdar.com.</p><p>About Amazon.com</p><p>Amazon.com, Inc., (Nasdaq:AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden.</p><p>Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com.</p><p>As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise.</p><p>About Treasure Trove, Inc.</p><p>Treasure Trove, Inc., based in New Canaan, Connecticut, is the publisher of the bestselling "A Treasure's Trove" and the Sept. 26, 2006 release "Secrets of the Alchemist Dar." It also produces family entertainment products that include coloring and activity books, puzzle books, audiobooks, and e-Books.</p><p>About Aaron Basha</p><p>Aaron Basha is known for his collection of magical treasures and masterful designs originated of 18 karat gold, gemstones, and colored enamel. His name is internationally recognized for the signature jeweled Baby Shoes, Love Bugs, spectacular diamond designs, and a high profile celebrity clientele.</p><p>Aaron Basha has an extraordinary family history dating as far back as 1906. Son to a mother who served as a jewel merchant to Middle Eastern royals and a father who prospered as a pearl dealer, Aaron traveled often. Inspired by his excursions through the Persian Gulf cities and India, he acquired a love of rare jewels very early on. It was in 1959 that Aaron first began designing his own pieces and has since established himself as a Madison Avenue magnate and industry leader. Today, with the help of his wife and four children, Aaron Basha continues to delight the world with his whimsical charms and ever-expanding fine jewelry collection.</p><p>Aaron Basha's flagship boutique is located on Madison Avenue, NYC. Renowned retailers worldwide featuring the Aaron Basha line are located throughout the United States, the United Kingdom, Russia, Japan, Hong Kong, the Middle East, Europe, Latin America and the Caribbean Islands.</p><p>"We are thrilled to be a part of the adventure of 'Secrets of the Alchemist Dar,'" says Aaron. "Our designs are known to charm the child at heart; may the rings of eternal life bring fun, play and love!"</p><p>For more information please visit www.aaronbasha.com.Forward-Looking Statement</p><p>This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings.</p><p>CONTACT: Amazon.com, Inc., SeattleAmazon Media Hotline, 206-266-7180www.amazon.com/prorEuro RSCG Magnet for Treasure Trove, Inc.Maryellen Lee, 212-367-6906 (Media Relations)maryellen.lee@eurorscg.comSOURCE: Amazon.com, Inc.</p>

Amazon.com Announces 22% Sales Growth Fueled by Lower Prices, Free Shipping; Amazon Prime Memberships MORE THAN Double from Year End; Raises Top Line and Lowers Bottom Line Guidance; Will Invest Heavily in Toy Category in Back Half of Year

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Amazon.com-Announces-22-Sales-Growth-Fueled-by-Lower-Prices-Free-Shipping-Amazon-Prime-Memberships-MORE-THAN-Double-from-Year-End-Raises-Top-Line-and-Lowers-Bottom-Line-Guidance-Will-Invest-Heavily-in-Toy-Category-in-Back-Half-of-Year

01/25/2006 16:29:00

Amazon.com Announces 22% Sales Growth Fueled by Lower Prices, Free Shipping; Amazon Prime Memberships MORE THAN Double from Year End; Raises Top Line and Lowers Bottom Line Guidance; Will Invest Heavily in Toy Category in Back Half of Year

01/25/2006

2006

SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--July 25, 2006--Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ:AMZN) today announced financial results for its second quarter ended June 30, 2006. Operating cash flow declined 2% to $610 million for the trailing twelve months, compared with $624 million for the trailing twelve months ended June 30, 2005. Free cash flow decreased 23% to $375 million for the trailing twelve months, compared with $486 million for the trailing twelve months ended June 30, 2005. The primary driver of the free cash flow decline was our increased expenditure in technology and content. Free cash flow was also reduced by a $40 million patent litigation settlement in third quarter 2005, $34 million from excess tax benefits for stock-based compensation now classified as financing cash flows, and investments in additional fulfillment capacity. Common shares outstanding plus shares underlying stock-based awards outstanding totaled 443 million at June 30, 2006, compared with 438 million a year ago. Net sales increased 22% to $2.14 billion in the second quarter, compared with $1.75 billion in second quarter 2005. Excluding the $24 million unfavorable impact from year-over-year changes in foreign exchange rates throughout the quarter, net sales grew 23% compared with second quarter 2005. Operating income decreased 55% to $47 million in the second quarter, compared with $104 million in second quarter 2005. The decline in operating income was mainly due to technology and content investments, lower prices including free shipping and Amazon Prime, and $20 million from a contract termination and related fee dispute. Net income was $22 million in the second quarter, or $0.05 per diluted share, compared with net income of $52 million, or $0.12 per diluted share in second quarter 2005. "We're investing in Amazon Prime and future technology initiatives," said Jeff Bezos, founder and CEO of Amazon.com. "Amazon Prime gets customers their products fast, and our investments in technology position us to innovate in seller platforms, web services, and digital. We're looking forward to the coming decrease in our year-over-year growth rates in technology spending in the second half of 2006." Amazon Prime, Amazon.com's first-ever membership program, was introduced in February 2005. For a flat membership fee of $79 per year, Amazon Prime members get unlimited, express two-day shipping for free, with no minimum purchase requirement on over a million eligible items sold by Amazon.com. Members can order as late as 6:30 p.m. ET and still get their order the next day for only $3.99 per item, and they can share the benefits of Amazon Prime with up to four family members living in their household. Sign up for Amazon Prime at www.amazon.com/prime. Highlights North America segment sales, representing the Company's U.S. and Canadian sites, were $1.16 billion, up 21% from second quarter 2005. International segment sales, representing the Company's U.K., German, Japanese, French and Chinese sites, were $982 million, up 24% from second quarter 2005. Excluding the unfavorable impact from year-over-year changes in foreign exchange rates throughout the quarter, International net sales growth was 27%. Worldwide Electronics & Other General Merchandise grew 37% to $624 million in second quarter 2006, and increased to 29% of worldwide net sales compared with 26% in second quarter 2005. The Company launched its new Toy and Baby stores on www.amazon.com, featuring tens of thousands of products offered by Amazon and leading mass market and specialty retailers. This is the largest selection of Toy and Baby products ever offered through Amazon.com, and for the first time ever, Toy and Baby products are eligible for Free Super Saver Shipping and Amazon Prime. The Company launched a Grocery store on www.amazon.com, with over 14,000 dry goods grocery products across more than 1,200 brands - all eligible for Free Super Saver Shipping and Amazon Prime. Amazon's German website -- Amazon.de -- launched its Sporting Goods store, offering customers a selection of thousands of sporting goods in over 25 categories from top brands like Adidas, Burton, Nike, Puma, Quiksilver and Salomon. The Company extended its Enterprise Solutions agreement with Target.com through August 2010 and launched a new Sears Canada branded website providing Sears Canada with the tools and services to control its brand, merchandising and online business using Amazon Enterprise Solutions technology. Amazon S3, a simple storage service for software developers, gained momentum in its first full quarter after launch, providing businesses of all sizes -- from Microsoft to SmugMug -- with a web services solution for storing and retrieving any amount of data, at any time, from anywhere on the web. Developers continue to adopt Amazon's web services -- over 180,000 have registered to date, up greater than 60% year-over-year. Financial Guidance The following forward-looking statements reflect Amazon.com's expectations as of July 25, 2006. Results may be materially affected by many factors, such as fluctuations in foreign exchange rates, changes in global economic conditions and consumer spending, world events, the rate of growth of the Internet and online commerce, and the various factors detailed below. Third Quarter 2006 Guidance Net sales are expected to be between $2.17 billion and $2.33 billion, or to grow between 17% and 25% compared with third quarter 2005. Operating income is expected to be between $7 million and $42 million, or between (87%) decline and (24%) decline, compared with third quarter 2005. This guidance includes $38 million for stock-based compensation and amortization of intangible assets, and it assumes, among other things, that no additional intangible assets are recorded and that there are no further revisions to stock-based compensation estimates. Full Year 2006 Expectations Net sales are expected to be between $10.15 billion and $10.65 billion, or to grow between 20% and 25% compared with 2005. Operating income is expected to be between $310 million and $440 million, or between (28%) decline and 2% growth, compared with 2005. This guidance includes $120 million for stock-based compensation and amortization of intangible assets, and it assumes, among other things, that no additional intangible assets are recorded and that there are no further revisions to stock-based compensation estimates. A conference call will be webcast live today at 2 p.m. PT/5 p.m. ET, and will be available for at least three months at www.amazon.com/ir. This call will contain forward-looking statements and other material information regarding the Company's financial and operating results. These forward-looking statements are inherently difficult to predict. Actual results could differ materially for a variety of reasons, including, in addition to the factors discussed above, the amount that Amazon.com invests in new business opportunities and the timing of those investments, the mix of products sold to customers, the mix of net sales derived from products as compared with services, competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international growth and expansion, the outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, risks of inventory management, seasonality, the degree to which the Company enters into, maintains and develops commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, payments risks, and risks of fulfillment throughput and productivity. Other risks and uncertainties include, among others, risk of future losses, significant indebtedness, system interruptions, consumer trends, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, fraud, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings. About Amazon.com Amazon.com (Nasdaq:AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com, Inc. seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden. Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com. As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise. AMAZON.COM, INC. Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (in millions) (unaudited) Three Months Six Months Twelve Months Ended Ended Ended June 30, June 30, June 30, ------------- -------------- --------------- 2006 2005 2006 2005 2006 2005 ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------- CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, BEGINNING OF PERIOD $ 507 $ 533 $1,013 $1,303 $ 629 $ 701 OPERATING ACTIVITIES: Net income 22 52 73 130 302 531 Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash from operating activities: Depreciation of fixed assets, including internal-use software and website development, and other amortization 43 26 83 55 149 95 Stock-based compensation 30 26 41 45 84 74 Other operating expense 3 2 6 3 10 2 Losses (gains) on sales of marketable securities, net (1) - 1 - - - Remeasurements and other (12) (18) (9) (32) (19) 5 Non-cash interest expense and other 1 1 2 3 5 5 Deferred income taxes (2) 44 8 94 (15) (154) Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle - - - (26) - (26) Changes in operating assets and liabilities: Inventories 30 13 63 85 (128) (93) Accounts receivable, net and other current assets 16 9 66 19 (37) 8 Accounts payable 4 54 (438) (370) 207 150 Accrued expenses and other current liabilities 1 28 (71) (66) 54 15 Additions to unearned revenue 38 38 92 66 181 125 Amortization of previously unearned revenue (43) (31) (90) (56) (183) (113) ----- ----- ------ ------ ------- ------- Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities 130 244 (173) (50) 610 624 INVESTING ACTIVITIES: Purchases of fixed assets, including internal-use software and website development (58) (46) (104) (73) (235) (138) Acquisitions, net of cash acquired - (5) (28) (20) (32) (91) Sales and maturities of marketable securities and other investments 249 142 537 490 883 1,305 Purchases of marketable securities (232) (235) (362) (738) (1,009) (1,568) ----- ----- ------ ------ ------- ------- Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities (41) (144) 43 (341) (393) (492) FINANCING ACTIVITIES: Proceeds from exercises of stock options 7 8 13 17 55 42 Excess tax benefit on stock awards 21 1 29 2 34 2 Proceeds from long- term debt and other 66 - 69 - 82 - Repayments of long- term debt and capital lease obligations (21) - (334) (266) (341) (267) ----- ----- ------ ------ ------- ------- Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities 73 9 (223) (247) (170) (223) Foreign-currency effect on cash and cash equivalents 14 (13) 23 (36) 7 19 ----- ----- ------ ------ ------- ------- Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents 176 96 (330) (674) 54 (72) ----- ----- ------ ------ ------- ------- CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, END OF PERIOD $ 683 $ 629 $ 683 $ 629 $ 683 $ 629 ===== ===== ====== ====== ======= ======= SUPPLEMENTAL CASH FLOW INFORMATION: Cash paid for interest $ - $ - $ 63 $ 84 $ 84 $ 105 Cash paid for income taxes 3 1 8 5 15 8 AMAZON.COM, INC. Consolidated Statements of Operations (in millions, except per share data) (unaudited) Three Months Ended Six Months Ended June 30, June 30, ------------------ ----------------- 2006 2005 2006 2005 ------- ------- -------- ------- Net sales $ 2,139 $ 1,753 $ 4,418 $ 3,655 Cost of sales 1,630 1,303 3,361 2,746 ------- ------- ------- ------- Gross profit 509 450 1,057 909 Operating expenses (1): Fulfillment 189 158 383 324 Marketing 53 42 107 87 Technology and content 167 106 314 198 General and administrative 50 38 95 85 Other operating expense 3 2 6 3 ------- ------- ------- ------- Total operating expenses 462 346 905 697 ------- ------- ------- ------- Income from operations 47 104 152 212 Interest income 13 9 27 18 Interest expense (19) (22) (38) (48) Other income (expense), net 1 (1) - 2 Remeasurements and other 12 18 9 32 ------- ------- ------- ------- Total non-operating income (expense) 7 4 (2) 4 ------- ------- ------- ------- Income before income taxes 54 108 150 216 Provision for income taxes 32 56 77 112 ------- ------- ------- ------- Income before cumulative effect of change in accounting principle 22 52 73 104 Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle - - - 26 ------- ------- ------- ------- Net income $ 22 $ 52 $ 73 $ 130 ======= ======= ======= ======= Basic earnings per share: Prior to cumulative effect of change in accounting principle $ 0.05 $ 0.13 $ 0.18 $ 0.25 Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle - - - 0.07 ------- ------- ------- ------- $ 0.05 $ 0.13 $ 0.18 $ 0.32 ======= ======= ======= ======= Diluted earnings per share: Prior to cumulative effect of change in accounting principle $ 0.05 $ 0.12 $ 0.17 $ 0.24 Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle - - - 0.07 ------- ------- ------- ------- $ 0.05 $ 0.12 $ 0.17 $ 0.31 ======= ======= ======= ======= Weighted average shares used in computation of earnings per share: Basic 418 411 417 410 ======= ======= ======= ======= Diluted 426 425 426 425 ======= ======= ======= ======= (1) Includes stock-based compensation as follows: Fulfillment $ 7 $ 5 $ 10 $ 8 Marketing 1 2 2 3 Technology and content 16 13 23 23 General and administrative 6 6 6 11 AMAZON.COM, INC. Segment Information (in millions) (unaudited) Three Months Ended Six Months Ended June 30, June 30, -------------- --------------- 2006 2005 2006 2005 ------ ------ ------ ------ North America Net sales $1,157 $ 960 $2,404 $1,987 Cost of sales 848 682 1,753 1,430 ------ ------ ------ ------ Gross profit 309 278 651 557 Direct segment operating expenses (1) 284 206 565 420 ------ ------ ------ ------ Segment operating income 25 72 86 137 International Net sales 982 793 2,014 1,668 Cost of sales 782 621 1,608 1,316 ------ ------ ------ ------ Gross profit 200 172 406 352 Direct segment operating expenses (1) 145 112 293 229 ------ ------ ------ ------ Segment operating income 55 60 113 123 Consolidated Net sales 2,139 1,753 4,418 3,655 Cost of sales 1,630 1,303 3,361 2,746 ------ ------ ------ ------ Gross profit 509 450 1,057 909 Direct segment operating expenses 429 318 858 649 ------ ------ ------ ------ Segment operating income 80 132 199 260 Stock-based compensation (30) (26) (41) (45) Other operating expense (3) (2) (6) (3) ------ ------ ------ ------ Income from operations 47 104 152 212 Total non-operating income (expense), net 7 4 (2) 4 Provision for income taxes (32) (56) (77) (112) Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle - - - 26 ------ ------ ------ ------ Net income $ 22 $ 52 $ 73 $ 130 ====== ====== ====== ====== Segment Highlights: Y/Y net sales growth: North America 21% 21% 21% 21% International 24 33 21 30 Consolidated 22 26 21 25 Y/Y gross profit growth: North America 11% 27% 17% 25% International 16 42 16 37 Consolidated 13 32 16 29 Y/Y segment operating income growth: North America (66%) 9% (37%) (3%) International (8) 72 (8) 61 Consolidated (39) 31 (23) 20 Net sales mix: North America 54% 55% 54% 54% International 46 45 46 46 (1) A significant majority of our costs for "Technology and content" are incurred in the United States and most of these costs are allocated to our North America segment. AMAZON.COM, INC. Supplemental Net Sales Information (in millions) (unaudited) Three Months Ended Six Months Ended June 30, June 30, -------------- -------------- 2006 2005 2006 2005 ------ ------ ------ ------ North America Media $ 730 $ 632 $1,545 $1,331 Electronics and other general merchandise 365 278 738 559 Other 62 50 121 97 ------ ------ ------ ------ Total North America 1,157 960 2,404 1,987 International Media 718 614 1,481 1,289 Electronics and other general merchandise 259 178 524 377 Other 5 1 9 2 ------ ------ ------ ------ Total International 982 793 2,014 1,668 Consolidated Media 1,448 1,246 3,026 2,620 Electronics and other general merchandise 624 456 1,262 936 Other 67 51 130 99 ------ ------ ------ ------ Total Consolidated $2,139 $1,753 $4,418 $3,655 ====== ====== ====== ====== Y/Y Net Sales Growth: North America: Media 15% 17% 16% 17% Electronics and other general merchandise 32 23 32 24 Other 25 105 25 100 Total North America 21 21 21 21 International: Media 17% 24% 15% 20% Electronics and other general merchandise 45 80 39 83 Other 354 35 388 49 Total International 24 33 21 30 Consolidated: Media 16% 20% 16% 18% Electronics and other general merchandise 37 40 35 43 Other 32 103 31 99 Total Consolidated 22 26 21 25 Y/Y Net Sales Growth Excluding Effect of Exchange Rates: International: Media 20% 20% 22% 17% Electronics and other general merchandise 48 75 46 77 Other 362 32 412 45 Total International 27 29 28 26 Consolidated: Media 18% 18% 19% 17% Electronics and other general merchandise 38 39 38 41 Other 32 103 32 99 Total Consolidated 23 25 24 23 Consolidated Net Sales Mix: Media 68% 71% 68% 71% Electronics and other general merchandise 29 26 29 26 Other 3 3 3 3 AMAZON.COM, INC. Consolidated Balance Sheets (in millions, except per share data) June 30, December 31, June 30, 2006 2005 2005 ----------- ----------- ----------- ASSETS (unaudited) (unaudited) Current assets: Cash and cash equivalents $683 $1,013 $629 Marketable securities 736 987 696 Inventories 521 566 383 Deferred tax assets, current portion 66 89 63 Accounts receivable, net and other current assets 225 274 155 ----------- ----------- ----------- Total current assets 2,231 2,929 1,926 Fixed assets, net 405 348 267 Deferred tax assets, long-term portion 208 223 206 Goodwill 193 159 154 Other assets 128 37 48 ----------- ----------- ----------- Total assets $3,165 $3,696 $2,601 =========== =========== =========== LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY (DEFICIT) Current liabilities: Accounts payable $943 $1,366 $735 Accrued expenses and other current liabilities 515 563 409 ----------- ----------- ----------- Total current liabilities 1,458 1,929 1,144 Long-term debt and other 1,324 1,521 1,521 Commitments and contingencies Stockholders' Equity (Deficit): Preferred stock, $0.01 par value: Authorized shares -- 500 Issued and outstanding shares -- none - - - Common stock, $0.01 par value: Authorized shares -- 5,000 Issued and outstanding shares -- 419, 416 and 412 4 4 4 Additional paid-in capital 2,334 2,263 2,161 Accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income (2) 6 27 Accumulated deficit (1,953) (2,027) (2,256) ----------- ----------- ----------- Total stockholders' equity (deficit) 383 246 (64) ----------- ----------- ----------- Total liabilities and stockholders' equity (deficit) $3,165 $3,696 $2,601 =========== =========== =========== AMAZON.COM, INC. Supplemental Financial Information and Business Metrics (in millions, except per share data) (unaudited) ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Y/Y % Q2 2005 Q3 2005 Q4 2005 Q1 2006 Q2 2006 Change ----------------------------------------------- Cash Flows and Shares Operating cash flow -- trailing twelve months (TTM) (1) $ 624 $ 661 $ 733 $ 724 $ 610 (2%) Purchase of fixed assets (incl. internal-use software & website development) -- TTM $ 138 $ 186 $ 204 $ 223 $ 235 70% Free cash flow (operating cash flow less purchases of fixed assets) -- TTM (1) $ 486 $ 475 $ 529 $ 501 $ 375 (23%) Common shares and stock-based awards outstanding 438 438 438 438 443 1% Common shares outstanding 412 414 416 417 419 2% Stock-based awards outstanding 26 24 22 21 24 (6%) Stock-based awards outstanding -- % of common shares outstanding 6.3% 5.8% 5.2% 4.9% 5.8% N/A Results of Operations Worldwide (WW) net sales $1,753 $1,858 $2,977 $2,279 $2,139 22% WW net sales -- Y/Y growth, excluding the effect of foreign exchange rates 24.6% 27.6% 21.9% 24.8% 23.4% N/A WW net sales -- TTM $7,658 $8,054 $8,490 $8,867 $9,253 21% WW net sales -- TTM Y/Y growth, excluding the effect of foreign exchange rates 24.4% 25.2% 23.7% 24.3% 24.0% N/A Gross profit $ 450 $ 463 $ 667 $ 547 $ 509 13% Gross margin -- % of WW net sales 25.7% 24.9% 22.4% 24.0% 23.8% N/A Gross profit -- TTM $1,809 $1,917 $2,039 $2,128 $2,187 21% Gross margin -- TTM % of WW net sales 23.6% 23.8% 24.0% 24.0% 23.6% N/A Operating income (1)(3) $ 104 $ 55 $ 165 $ 106 $ 47 (55%) Operating margin -- % of WW net sales (1) 6.0% 3.0% 5.5% 4.6% 2.2% N/A Operating income -- TTM (1)(3) $ 456 $ 430 $ 432 $ 430 $ 372 (18%) Operating margin -- TTM % of WW net sales (1) 6.0% 5.3% 5.1% 4.8% 4.0% N/A Net income (1)(2) $ 52 $ 30 $ 199 $ 51 $ 22 (58%) Net income per diluted share (1)(2) $ 0.12 $ 0.07 $ 0.47 $ 0.12 $ 0.05 (58%) Net income -- TTM (1)(2) $ 531 $ 507 $ 359 $ 332 $ 302 (43%) Net income per diluted share -- TTM (1)(2) $ 1.25 $ 1.19 $ 0.84 $ 0.78 $ 0.71 (43%) Segments North America Segment: Net sales $ 960 $1,041 $1,683 $1,247 $1,157 21% Net sales -- Y/Y growth, excluding the effect of foreign exchange rates 21.0% 27.4% 20.8% 21.3% 20.4% N/A Net sales -- TTM $4,195 $4,420 $4,711 $4,931 $5,128 22% Gross profit $ 278 $ 292 $ 418 $ 341 $ 309 11% Gross margin -- % of North America net sales 29.0% 28.1% 24.8% 27.3% 26.7% N/A Gross profit -- TTM $1,135 $1,204 $1,267 $1,329 $1,361 20% Gross margin -- TTM % of North America net sales 27.1% 27.2% 26.9% 27.0% 26.5% N/A Operating income (3) $ 72 $ 66 $ 92 $ 62 $ 25 (66%) Operating margin -- % of North America net sales 7.5% 6.4% 5.5% 5.0% 2.1% N/A Operating income -- TTM (3) $ 317 $ 326 $ 296 $ 292 $ 245 (23%) Operating margin -- TTM % of North America net sales 7.6% 7.4% 6.3% 5.9% 4.8% N/A International Segment: Net sales $ 793 $ 817 $1,294 $1,032 $ 982 24% Net sales -- Y/Y growth, excluding the effect of foreign exchange rates 29.3% 27.8% 23.2% 28.9% 27.0% N/A Net sales -- TTM $3,463 $3,634 $3,779 $3,936 $4,125 19% Net sales -- TTM % of WW net sales 45.2% 45.1% 44.5% 44.4% 44.6% N/A Gross profit $ 172 $ 171 $ 249 $ 206 $ 200 16% Gross margin -- % of International net sales 21.7% 20.9% 19.3% 20.0% 20.4% N/A Gross profit -- TTM $ 674 $ 713 $ 772 $ 799 $ 827 23% Gross margin -- TTM % of International net sales 19.5% 19.6% 20.4% 20.3% 20.0% N/A Operating income $ 60 $ 55 $ 93 $ 58 $ 55 (8%) Operating margin -- % of International net sales 7.6% 6.7% 7.1% 5.6% 5.6% N/A Operating income -- TTM $ 216 $ 233 $ 270 $ 265 $ 260 21% Operating margin -- TTM % of International net sales 6.2% 6.4% 7.1% 6.7% 6.3% N/A ---------------------------------------------------------------------- AMAZON.COM, INC. Supplemental Financial Information and Business Metrics (in millions, except inventory turnover, accounts payable days, and employee data) (unaudited) ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Y/Y % Q2 2005 Q3 2005 Q4 2005 Q1 2006 Q2 2006 Change --------------------------------------------------- Segments (continued) Consolidated Segments: Operating expenses $ 318 $ 342 $ 482 $ 427 $ 429 35% Operating expenses -- TTM $ 1,276 $ 1,358 $ 1,473 $ 1,570 $ 1,681 32% Operating income (3) $ 132 $ 121 $ 185 $ 120 $ 80 (39%) Operating margin -- % of consolidated sales 7.5% 6.5% 6.2% 5.3% 3.7% N/A Operating income -- TTM (3) $ 533 $ 559 $ 566 $ 558 $ 506 (5%) Operating margin -- TTM % of consolidated net sales 7.0% 6.9% 6.7% 6.3% 5.5% N/A Supplemental North America Segment Net Sales: Media $ 632 $ 684 $ 1,030 $ 815 $ 730 15% Media -- TTM $ 2,780 $ 2,901 $ 3,046 $ 3,163 $ 3,260 17% Electronics and other general merchandise $ 278 $ 304 $ 580 $ 374 $ 365 32% Electronics and other general merchandise -- TTM $ 1,236 $ 1,311 $ 1,443 $ 1,534 $ 1,622 31% Electronics and other general merchandise -- TTM % of North America net sales 29% 30% 31% 31% 32% N/A Other $ 50 $ 53 $ 73 $ 58 $ 62 25% Other -- TTM $ 178 $ 208 $ 222 $ 234 $ 246 38% Supplemental International Segment Net Sales: Media $ 614 $ 629 $ 968 $ 763 $ 718 17% Media -- TTM $ 2,730 $ 2,828 $ 2,885 $ 2,972 $ 3,077 13% Electronics and other general merchandise $ 178 $ 187 $ 321 $ 265 $ 259 45% Electronics and other general merchandise -- TTM $ 730 $ 801 $ 886 $ 952 $ 1,033 42% Electronics and other general merchandise -- TTM % of International net sales 21% 22% 23% 24% 25% N/A Other $ 1 $ 1 $ 5 $ 4 $ 5 354% Other -- TTM $ 3 $ 4 $ 8 $ 11 $ 15 399% Supplemental Worldwide Net Sales: Media $ 1,246 $ 1,313 $ 1,998 $ 1,578 $ 1,448 16% Media -- TTM $ 5,510 $ 5,730 $ 5,931 $ 6,135 $ 6,337 15% Electronics and other general merchandise $ 456 $ 491 $ 901 $ 639 $ 624 37% Electronics and other general merchandise -- TTM $ 1,966 $ 2,113 $ 2,329 $ 2,486 $ 2,655 35% Electronics and other general merchandise -- TTM % of WW net sales 26% 26% 27% 28% 29% N/A Other $ 51 $ 54 $ 78 $ 62 $ 67 32% Other -- TTM $ 181 $ 211 $ 230 $ 245 $ 261 44% Balance Sheet Cash and marketable securities $ 1,325 $ 1,419 $ 2,000 $ 1,334 $ 1,419 7% Inventory, net -- ending $ 383 $ 456 $ 566 $ 538 $ 521 36% Inventory -- average inventory % of TTM net sales 5.0% 5.2% 5.4% 5.3% 5.3% N/A Inventory turnover, average -- TTM 15.3 14.8 14.1 14.4 14.3 (6%) Fixed assets, net $ 267 $ 322 $ 348 $ 361 $ 405 52% Accounts payable days -- ending $ 51 $ 58 $ 54 $ 48 $ 53 3% Other Employees (full- time and part- time; excludes contractors & temporary personnel) 10,200 11,200 12,000 12,400 12,700 24% ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Note: The attached "Financial and Operational Summary" is an integral part of this Supplemental Financial Information and Business Metrics. (1) The Company settled a patent lawsuit on terms including a one-time payment of $40 million in Q3 2005. This negatively impacts TTM operating cash flow and free cash flow by $40 million for all periods that include Q3 2005. The settlement negatively affected Q3 2005 operating income by $40 million, and Q3 2005 net income by $20 million after tax. (2) Q4 2005 net income includes a tax benefit of $90 million related to determining that certain of our deferred tax assets are realizable. (3) In Q2 2006, a fee dispute with Toysrus.com reduced our operating income by $20 million. Amazon.com, Inc. Financial and Operational Summary (unaudited) Quarterly Results of Operations (comparisons are with the equivalent period of the prior year, unless otherwise stated) Net Sales Shipping revenue was $128 million, up 24% from $103 million. Amounts paid in advance for subscription services, including amounts received from online DVD rentals, Amazon Prime and other membership programs, are deferred and recognized as revenue over the subscription term. Net sales include fixed fees, commissions and per-unit fees earned from third-party sellers and similar amounts earned through Amazon Enterprise Solutions. Cost of Sales Cost of sales consists of the purchase price of products sold by us, inbound and outbound shipping charges, packaging supplies, amortization of our DVD rental library and service costs such as those incurred in operating and staffing our fulfillment and customer service centers on behalf of third parties. Inbound shipping charges to receive products from our suppliers are included in inventory cost and recognized as cost of sales upon sale to our customers. Outbound shipping costs totaled $188 million, up 27% from $148 million. Net shipping loss was $60 million, or 2.8% of net sales, up 33% from a net shipping loss of $45 million, or 2.6% of net sales, resulting primarily from our free shipping offers and Amazon Prime. To the extent our customers use our free shipping offers at an increasing rate, including memberships in Amazon Prime, our net cost of shipping will increase. While costs associated with free shipping, including Amazon Prime, are not included in marketing expense, we view our free shipping offers as an effective worldwide marketing tool and intend to continue offering them indefinitely. We offer free membership trials for Amazon Prime and expect to continue to offer these trials in the future. Operating Expenses Depreciation expense for fixed assets, including amortization of internal-use software and website development, was $41 million, up from $26 million. Depreciation is recorded on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives of the assets--generally two years or less for assets such as internal-use software and our DVD rental library, three years for our technology infrastructure, five years for furniture and fixtures and ten years for heavy equipment. Depreciation expense is generally classified within operating expense categories on the consolidated statements of operations, and certain assets, such as our DVD rental library, are amortized to cost of sales. Stock-based compensation was $30 million compared to $26 million in the prior year. The estimation of stock awards that will ultimately vest requires judgment, and to the extent actual results or updated estimates differ from our current estimates, such amounts will be recorded as a cumulative adjustment in the period estimates are revised. Operating expenses with and without stock-based compensation are as follows: Three Months Ended Three Months Ended June 30, 2006 June 30, 2005 -------------------------- -------------------------- As Stock-Based As Stock-Based Reported Compensation Net Reported Compensation Net -------- ----------------- -------- ----------------- Operating Expenses: Fulfillment $ 189 $ (7) $182 $ 158 $ (5) $153 Marketing 53 (1) 52 42 (2) 40 Technology and content 167 (16) 151 106 (13) 93 General and administrative 50 (6) 44 38 (6) 32 Other operating expense 3 - 3 2 - 2 ------- -------- ---- ------- -------- ---- Total operating expenses $ 462 $ (30) $432 $ 346 $ (26) $320 ======= ======== ==== ======= ======== ==== Year-over-year Percentage Growth: Fulfillment 20% 20% 25% 25% Marketing 26 28 24 26 Technology and content 58 63 49 59 General and administrative 32 37 25 19 Percent of Net Sales: Fulfillment 8.9% 8.5% 9.0% 8.7% Marketing 2.5 2.4 2.4 2.3 Technology and content 7.8 7.1 6.0 5.3 General and administrative 2.4 2.1 2.2 1.8 Fulfillment Fulfillment costs represent those costs incurred in operating and staffing our fulfillment and customer service centers, including costs attributable to buying, receiving, inspecting and warehousing inventories; picking, packaging and preparing customer orders for shipment; and payment processing fees and transaction costs, including costs associated with our guarantee of certain third-party seller transactions and responding to inquiries from customers. Fulfillment costs also include amounts paid to third parties who assist us in fulfillment and customer service operations. Payment processing fees charged to us associated with third-party seller sales are based on the gross purchase price of underlying transactions, and transaction costs, such as our A to Z Guarantee, are higher as a percentage of revenue versus our retail sales. Accordingly, third-party sales have higher fulfillment costs as a percentage of net sales. The increase in fulfillment costs in absolute dollars relates to costs from expanding fulfillment capacity and variable costs. Variable costs correspond with sales volume and inventory levels, our mix of product sales, and payment processing and related transaction costs, including mix of payment methods and costs from our guarantee for certain third-party seller transactions. We expanded our fulfillment capacity in the first half of 2006 and throughout 2005 through gains in efficiencies as well as increases in leased warehouse space. We plan to continue expanding our worldwide fulfillment capacity--although to add less space than in 2005--in order to accommodate greater selection and to meet anticipated shipment volumes from sales of our own products as well as sales by third parties for which we provide the fulfillment. We expect absolute amounts spent in fulfillment and fulfillment-related cost of sales to increase over time. Marketing Marketing costs increased in absolute terms, primarily corresponding with revenue growth as we utilized variable online marketing channels, such as our Associates program, sponsored search and other variable marketing initiatives. To the extent there is increased or decreased competition for these traffic sources, or to the extent our mix of these channels shifts, we would expect to see a corresponding change in our marketing expense or its effect. We expect absolute amounts spent in marketing to increase over time. Technology and Content Technology and content expenses consist principally of payroll and related expenses for employees involved in research and development, including application development, editorial content, merchandising selection, and systems and telecommunications support, as well as costs associated with systems and telecommunications infrastructure. In 2005, we added a significant number of computer scientists, software engineers and employees involved in editorial content, merchandising selection and systems support. We are investing in several areas of technology including seller platforms, web services and digital initiatives. In addition, we increased spending on our technology infrastructure so that we can continue to enhance the customer experience and improve our process efficiency. We expect the year-over-year percentage growth in technology and content, excluding stock-based compensation, to decrease in the second half of 2006. A significant majority of our technology costs are incurred in the U.S. and are allocated to our North America segment. Certain costs relating to the development of internal-use software and website development, including software to upgrade and enhance our websites and processes supporting our business, are capitalized and depreciated over two years. In Q2 2006 and Q2 2005, we capitalized $32 million (including $5 million of stock-based compensation) and $22 million (including $3 million of stock-based compensation) of costs associated with internal-use software and website development. Amortization of previously capitalized amounts was $20 million and $12 million for Q2 2006 and Q2 2005. We expect absolute amounts spent in technology and content to increase over time. General and Administrative The increase in general and administrative costs in Q2 2006 is primarily due to increases in payroll and related expenses. Additionally, in Q1 2005 we recorded a charge of $8 million related to possible settlements of outstanding litigation, and in Q2 2005 the favorable resolution of one of these matters resulted in a $3 million expense reduction. We expect absolute amounts spent in general and administrative to increase over time. Stock-Based Compensation Stock-based compensation was $30 million, up from $26 million, reflecting grants to new employees and our annual performance-based awards that are granted in Q2 of each year. As of January 1, 2005, we adopted SFAS 123(R), which requires measurement of compensation cost for stock-based awards at grant date fair value. The fair value of restricted stock and restricted stock units is determined based on the number of shares granted and the quoted price of our common stock, while the fair value of stock options is determined using a Black-Scholes valuation model. The fair value is recognized as an expense over the service period, net of estimated forfeitures, using the accelerated method under SFAS 123(R). The adoption of SFAS 123(R) in Q1 2005 resulted in a cumulative benefit from accounting change of $26 million, which reflects the net cumulative impact of estimating forfeitures in the determination of period expense, rather than recording forfeitures when they occur as previously permitted. Stock-based awards generally vest over service periods of between two and five years. Payroll tax expense resulting from exercises of stock-based awards is a cash expense and is not categorized as stock-based compensation. We granted stock awards, substantially all of which have been restricted stock units since October 2002, of 6 million shares in the quarter. Our annual stock awards are granted in the second quarter. As of June 30, 2006, there were 24 million shares underlying outstanding stock awards, consisting of 10 million shares underlying stock options with a $15 weighted-average exercise price and 14 million shares underlying restricted stock units. As of June 30, 2005, there were 26 million shares underlying outstanding stock awards. As of June 30, 2006, outstanding common shares plus shares underlying outstanding stock-based awards were 443 million, up 1% from 438 million as of June 30, 2005. This total includes all stock-based awards outstanding, without regard for estimated forfeitures, consisting of vested and unvested awards and in-the-money and out-of-the-money stock options. Other Operating Expense Other operating expense primarily includes costs related to intangibles amortization. We acquired one company during Q1 2006 for a purchase price of $47 million, including a $28 million cash payment in Q1 2006 and $19 million due in 2007. The excess of purchase price over the fair value of the net assets acquired was $33 million and is classified as goodwill on our consolidated balance sheets. Acquired other intangibles totaled $14 million and have estimated useful lives of between one and ten years. The results of operations of the acquired business have been included in our consolidated results from the closing date forward. The effect of this acquisition on consolidated net sales and operating income during the first half of 2006 was not significant. Remeasurements and Other The remeasurement of our 6.875% PEACS and intercompany balances can result in significant gains and charges associated with the effect of movements in currency exchange rates. Remeasurement of the principal amount of our 6.875% PEACS from Euros to U.S. dollars resulted in a foreign-currency loss of $16 million, compared with a gain of $42 million. Remeasurement of foreign-currency intercompany balances that are to be repaid among subsidiaries represented a $26 million gain, compared with a loss of $25 million. Income Taxes Our tax provision for interim periods is determined using an estimate of the annual effective tax rate. Our provision for income taxes was $32MM in Q2 - or a 59% rate for the quarter - which includes a $4 million year-to-date adjustment to reflect our current estimate of our annual effective tax rate of 51%. There is a potential for significant volatility of our 2006 effective tax rate due to several factors, including from variability in accurately predicting our taxable income and the taxable jurisdictions to which it relates. The effective tax rate was higher than the 35% statutory rate, resulting from steps we initiated to establish our European headquarters in Luxembourg, which we expect will benefit our effective tax rate over time. We expect cash taxes paid in 2006 to be approximately $25 million compared with $12 million in 2005. We endeavor to optimize our global taxes on a cash basis, rather than on a financial reporting basis. Foreign Exchange Our financial reporting currency is the U.S. dollar, and changes in exchange rates significantly affect our reported results and consolidated trends. For example, during Q2 2006 our consolidated revenue and operating income were negatively affected by the strengthening of the U.S. dollar in comparison to the currencies of internationally focused websites, but our consolidated revenue and operating income from Q2 2002 through Q2 2005 benefited from weakness in the U.S. dollar in comparison to the same currencies. The effect on our consolidated statements of operations from year-over-year changes in exchange rates versus the U.S. dollar throughout the period is as follows: Three Months Ended June 30, ----------------------------------------------------- 2006 2005 ------------------------- ------------------------- At At Prior Exchange Prior Exchange Year Rate Year Rate Rates Effect As Rates Effect As (1) (2) Reported (1) (2) Reported ------- -------- --------- ------- -------- --------- (in millions, except per share amounts) Net sales $2,163 $ (24) $ 2,139 $1,728 $ 25 $ 1,753 Gross profit 514 (5) 509 445 5 450 Operating expenses 460 2 462 343 3 346 Income from operations 49 (2) 47 102 2 104 Net interest expense and other (4) (1) (5) (14) - (14) Remeasurements and other (3) 2 10 12 1 17 18 Net income 19 3 22 43 9 52 Diluted earnings per share $ 0.04 $ 0.01 $ 0.05 $ 0.10 $ 0.02 $ 0.12 (1) Represents the outcome that would have resulted had currency exchange rates in the current period been the same as those in effect in the comparable prior year period for operating results, and if we did not incur the variability associated with remeasurements for our 6.875% PEACS and intercompany balances. (2) Represents the increase (decrease) in reported amounts resulting from changes in exchange rates from those in effect in the comparable prior year period for operating results, and if we did not incur the variability associated with remeasurements for our 6.875% PEACS and intercompany balances. (3) Includes foreign-currency gains (losses) on remeasurement of 6.875% PEACS and intercompany balances compared to prior quarter, and realized currency-related gains associated with sales of Euro-denominated investments held by a U.S. subsidiary. Other -- In March 2006, the Superior Court of New Jersey terminated our contract with Toysrus.com LLC but declined to award damages to either party. We continued to provide services to Toysrus.com during the contractual wind-down period in Q2 2006, but Toysrus.com is contesting the amount of fees owed to compensate us for that work. This fee dispute reduced our income from operations for Q2 2006 by approximately $20 million, and the fee dispute together with the termination of the Toysrus.com contract reduced our operating cash flows and free cash flows for Q2 2006 by approximately $20 million. Had we not retained $13 million against payments otherwise due to Toysrus.com, our operating cash flows and free cash flows for Q2 2006 would have been lower by that amount. We are appealing the trial court's initial rulings in Toysrus.com's favor regarding the contract termination and the fee dispute. Cash Flows and Balance Sheet -- Operating cash flows and free cash flows can be volatile and are sensitive to many factors, including changes in working capital and timing of capital expenditures. Working capital at any specific point in time is subject to many variables, including seasonality, the timing of expense payments, discounts offered by vendors, vendor payment terms and fluctuations in foreign exchange rates. -- Additionally, prior to our adoption of SFAS 123(R), cash retained as a result of excess tax deductions relating to stock-based compensation was presented in operating cash flows, along with other tax cash flows. SFAS 123(R) requires benefits relating to excess stock-based compensation deductions to be presented as financing cash inflows--effectively a reclassification between operating cash flows and financing cash flows. Tax benefits resulting from stock-based compensation deductions in excess of amounts reported for financial reporting purposes--which negatively impacted operating cash flow--were $21 million in Q2 2006 and $34 million for the trailing twelve months; such amounts should be less than $100 million in 2006 - compared with $7 million for 2005 - but are subject to considerable variability. Accordingly, amounts presented for operating cash flows and free cash flows for 2006 will be negatively affected in comparison to prior results; however, there is no change in economic substance resulting from this change in reporting classification. -- Our cash, cash equivalents and marketable securities of $1.42 billion, at fair value, primarily consist of cash, investment grade securities and AAA-rated money market mutual funds. Included are amounts held in foreign currencies of $738 million, primarily in Euros, British Pounds and Japanese Yen. -- Accounts receivable, net and other current assets include accounts receivable from merchant partners, vendors and credit card companies, interest receivables and prepaid expenses. -- Fixed assets include assets such as furniture and fixtures, heavy equipment, technology infrastructure, internal-use software and website development, and our DVD rental library. -- Other assets include, among other things, $85 million of restricted long-term marketable securities, $9 million of deferred issuance costs on long-term debt, $8 million of certain equity investments, and $21 million of other intangibles, net. Marketable securities restricted for longer than one year are related to collateralization of debt for our international operations - such amounts at December 31, 2005 were insignificant. -- Accrued expenses and other current liabilities include, among other things, liabilities for gift certificates of $126 million, professional fees, marketing activities, workforce costs--including accrued payroll, vacation and other benefits--and unearned revenue of $53 million, which is recorded when payments are received or due in advance of performing our service obligations and is amortized over the service period. -- Long-term debt and other primarily include the following (in millions): Principal Interest Principal at Maturity Rate Due Date ----------------------------------------- Convertible Subordinated Notes $ 900 (1) 4.750% February 2009 Premium Adjustable Convertible Securities ("PEACS") 307 (2) (4) 6.875% February 2010 ---------- $1,207 (3) ========== (1) Convertible at the holders' option into our common stock at $78.0275 per share. We have the right to redeem the Convertible Subordinated Notes, in whole or in part, at a redemption price of 101.425% of the principal, which decreases every February 1 by 47.5 basis points until maturity, plus any accrued and unpaid interest. (2) EUR 240 million principal amount, convertible at the holders' option into our common stock at EUR 84.883 per share ($109 per share based on the Euro/U.S. dollar exchange rate as of June 30, 2006). We have the right to redeem the PEACS, in whole or in part, by paying the principal amount, plus any accrued and unpaid interest. We do not hedge any portion of the PEACS. The U.S. dollar equivalent principal, interest and conversion price fluctuate based on the Euro/U.S. dollar exchange ratio. (3) The "if converted" number of shares associated with our convertible debt instruments (approximately 14 million total shares) is excluded from diluted shares as they are antidilutive. (4) As previously announced, in Q1 2006 we redeemed EUR 250 million--or $300 million at the Euro to U.S. dollar exchange rate on the redemption date--in principal amount of our PEACS at par. Certain Definitions and Other We present segment information for North America and International. We measure operating results of our segments using an internal performance measure of direct segment operating expenses that excludes stock-based compensation and other operating expense, each of which is not allocated to segment results. Other centrally incurred operating costs are fully allocated to segment results. Our operating results, particularly for the International segment, are affected by movements in foreign exchange rates. The North America segment consists of amounts earned from retail sales of consumer products (including from third-party sellers) and subscriptions through North America-focused websites such as www.amazon.com and www.amazon.ca; from North America-focused Syndicated Stores, such as www.borders.com; from our mail-order tool catalog phone orders; from our Amazon Prime membership program; and from non-retail activities such as North America-focused Amazon Enterprise Solutions program, and marketing and promotional agreements. This segment includes export sales from www.amazon.com and www.amazon.ca. The International segment consists of amounts earned from retail sales of consumer products (including from third-party sellers) and subscriptions through internationally focused websites such as www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, and www.joyo.com; from internationally focused Syndicated Stores; from our DVD rental service; and from non-retail activities such as internationally focused marketing and promotional agreements. This segment includes export sales from these internationally based sites (including export sales from these sites to customers in the U.S. and Canada) but excludes export sales from www.amazon.com and www.amazon.ca. We provide supplemental sales information within each segment for three categories: Media, Electronics and Other General Merchandise, and Other. Media consists of amounts earned from DVD rentals and retail sales from all sellers of books, music, DVD/video, magazine subscriptions, software, video games and video-game consoles. Electronics and Other General Merchandise consists of amounts earned from retail sales from all sellers of items not included in Media, such as electronics and office, camera and photo, toys and baby, tools, home and garden, apparel, sports and outdoors, kitchen and housewares, gourmet food, jewelry, health and personal care, beauty and musical instruments. The Other category consists of non-retail activities, such as the Amazon Enterprise Solutions program and miscellaneous marketing and promotional activities, such as our co-branded credit card programs. Operating cash flow is net cash provided by (used in) operating activities, including cash outflows for interest and excluding proceeds from the exercise of stock-based employee awards. Free cash flow is operating cash flow less cash outflows for purchases of fixed assets, including internal-use software and website development. Operating cycle is number of days of sales in inventory plus number of days of sales in accounts receivable minus accounts payable days. Accounts payable days are calculated as the quotient of accounts payable to cost of sales, multiplied by the number of days in the period. Inventory turns are calculated as the quotient of trailing twelve month cost of sales to average inventory over five quarter ends. Return on invested capital is trailing-twelve-month free cash flow divided by average total assets less current liabilities over five quarter ends. References to customers mean customer accounts, which are unique e-mail addresses, established either when a customer's initial order is shipped or when a customer orders from certain third-party sellers on our websites. Customer accounts include customers of Amazon Marketplace, Auctions and zShops, and our Merchants@ and Syndicated Stores programs, but exclude certain customers, including DVD rental customers, customers associated with certain of our acquisitions (including Joyo.com customers), Amazon Enterprise Solutions program customers, Amazon.com Payments customers, our catalog customers and the customers of select companies with whom we have a technology alliance or marketing and promotional relationship. Customers are considered active when they have placed an order during the preceding twelve-month period. References to sellers or merchants mean active seller accounts, which are established when a seller receives an order from a customer account. Seller accounts include sellers in Amazon Marketplace, Auctions, zShops, and Merchants@ platforms, but exclude Amazon Enterprise Solutions sellers. Sellers are considered active when they have received an order during the preceding twelve-month period. References to units mean units sold (net of returns and cancellations) by us and by third-party sellers at Amazon.com domains worldwide--such as www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr and www.amazon.ca--and at Syndicated Stores domains, as well as Amazon.com-owned items sold through catalogs and at non-Amazon.com domains, such as books, music and DVD/video items ordered from Amazon.com's store at www.target.com. Units sold do not include units associated with certain of our acquisitions (including Joyo.com units), Amazon.com gift certificates or DVD rentals. CONTACT: Amazon.com Investor RelationsKim Nelson, 206-266-2171ir@amazon.comwww.amazon.com/irorAmazon.com Public RelationsPatty Smith, 206-266-7180SOURCE: Amazon.com, Inc.

<p>SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--July 25, 2006--Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ:AMZN) today announced financial results for its second quarter ended June 30, 2006.</p><p>Operating cash flow declined 2% to $610 million for the trailing twelve months, compared with $624 million for the trailing twelve months ended June 30, 2005. Free cash flow decreased 23% to $375 million for the trailing twelve months, compared with $486 million for the trailing twelve months ended June 30, 2005. The primary driver of the free cash flow decline was our increased expenditure in technology and content. Free cash flow was also reduced by a $40 million patent litigation settlement in third quarter 2005, $34 million from excess tax benefits for stock-based compensation now classified as financing cash flows, and investments in additional fulfillment capacity.</p><p>Common shares outstanding plus shares underlying stock-based awards outstanding totaled 443 million at June 30, 2006, compared with 438 million a year ago.</p><p>Net sales increased 22% to $2.14 billion in the second quarter, compared with $1.75 billion in second quarter 2005. Excluding the $24 million unfavorable impact from year-over-year changes in foreign exchange rates throughout the quarter, net sales grew 23% compared with second quarter 2005.</p><p>Operating income decreased 55% to $47 million in the second quarter, compared with $104 million in second quarter 2005. The decline in operating income was mainly due to technology and content investments, lower prices including free shipping and Amazon Prime, and $20 million from a contract termination and related fee dispute.</p><p>Net income was $22 million in the second quarter, or $0.05 per diluted share, compared with net income of $52 million, or $0.12 per diluted share in second quarter 2005.</p><p>"We're investing in Amazon Prime and future technology initiatives," said Jeff Bezos, founder and CEO of Amazon.com. "Amazon Prime gets customers their products fast, and our investments in technology position us to innovate in seller platforms, web services, and digital. We're looking forward to the coming decrease in our year-over-year growth rates in technology spending in the second half of 2006."</p><p>Amazon Prime, Amazon.com's first-ever membership program, was introduced in February 2005. For a flat membership fee of $79 per year, Amazon Prime members get unlimited, express two-day shipping for free, with no minimum purchase requirement on over a million eligible items sold by Amazon.com. Members can order as late as 6:30 p.m. ET and still get their order the next day for only $3.99 per item, and they can share the benefits of Amazon Prime with up to four family members living in their household. Sign up for Amazon Prime at www.amazon.com/prime.</p><p>Highlights</p><ul><li>North America segment sales, representing the Company's U.S. and Canadian sites, were $1.16 billion, up 21% from second quarter 2005.</li><li>International segment sales, representing the Company's U.K., German, Japanese, French and Chinese sites, were $982 million, up 24% from second quarter 2005. Excluding the unfavorable impact from year-over-year changes in foreign exchange rates throughout the quarter, International net sales growth was 27%.</li><li>Worldwide Electronics &amp; Other General Merchandise grew 37% to $624 million in second quarter 2006, and increased to 29% of worldwide net sales compared with 26% in second quarter 2005.</li><li>The Company launched its new Toy and Baby stores on www.amazon.com, featuring tens of thousands of products offered by Amazon and leading mass market and specialty retailers. This is the largest selection of Toy and Baby products ever offered through Amazon.com, and for the first time ever, Toy and Baby products are eligible for Free Super Saver Shipping and Amazon Prime.</li><li>The Company launched a Grocery store on www.amazon.com, with over 14,000 dry goods grocery products across more than 1,200 brands - all eligible for Free Super Saver Shipping and Amazon Prime.</li><li>Amazon's German website -- Amazon.de -- launched its Sporting Goods store, offering customers a selection of thousands of sporting goods in over 25 categories from top brands like Adidas, Burton, Nike, Puma, Quiksilver and Salomon.</li><li>The Company extended its Enterprise Solutions agreement with Target.com through August 2010 and launched a new Sears Canada branded website providing Sears Canada with the tools and services to control its brand, merchandising and online business using Amazon Enterprise Solutions technology.</li><li>Amazon S3, a simple storage service for software developers, gained momentum in its first full quarter after launch, providing businesses of all sizes -- from Microsoft to SmugMug -- with a web services solution for storing and retrieving any amount of data, at any time, from anywhere on the web. Developers continue to adopt Amazon's web services -- over 180,000 have registered to date, up greater than 60% year-over-year.</li></ul><p>Financial Guidance</p><p>The following forward-looking statements reflect Amazon.com's expectations as of July 25, 2006. Results may be materially affected by many factors, such as fluctuations in foreign exchange rates, changes in global economic conditions and consumer spending, world events, the rate of growth of the Internet and online commerce, and the various factors detailed below.</p><p>Third Quarter 2006 Guidance</p><ul><li>Net sales are expected to be between $2.17 billion and $2.33 billion, or to grow between 17% and 25% compared with third quarter 2005.</li><li>Operating income is expected to be between $7 million and $42 million, or between (87%) decline and (24%) decline, compared with third quarter 2005. This guidance includes $38 million for stock-based compensation and amortization of intangible assets, and it assumes, among other things, that no additional intangible assets are recorded and that there are no further revisions to stock-based compensation estimates.</li></ul><p>Full Year 2006 Expectations</p><ul><li>Net sales are expected to be between $10.15 billion and $10.65 billion, or to grow between 20% and 25% compared with 2005.</li><li>Operating income is expected to be between $310 million and $440 million, or between (28%) decline and 2% growth, compared with 2005. This guidance includes $120 million for stock-based compensation and amortization of intangible assets, and it assumes, among other things, that no additional intangible assets are recorded and that there are no further revisions to stock-based compensation estimates.</li></ul><p>A conference call will be webcast live today at 2 p.m. PT/5 p.m. ET, and will be available for at least three months at www.amazon.com/ir. This call will contain forward-looking statements and other material information regarding the Company's financial and operating results.</p><p>These forward-looking statements are inherently difficult to predict. Actual results could differ materially for a variety of reasons, including, in addition to the factors discussed above, the amount that Amazon.com invests in new business opportunities and the timing of those investments, the mix of products sold to customers, the mix of net sales derived from products as compared with services, competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international growth and expansion, the outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, risks of inventory management, seasonality, the degree to which the Company enters into, maintains and develops commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, payments risks, and risks of fulfillment throughput and productivity. Other risks and uncertainties include, among others, risk of future losses, significant indebtedness, system interruptions, consumer trends, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, fraud, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings.</p><p>About Amazon.com</p><p>Amazon.com (Nasdaq:AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com, Inc. seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden.</p><p>Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com.</p><p>As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise.</p><pre> AMAZON.COM, INC. Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (in millions) (unaudited) Three Months Six Months Twelve Months Ended Ended Ended June 30, June 30, June 30, ------------- -------------- --------------- 2006 2005 2006 2005 2006 2005 ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ -------CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, BEGINNING OF PERIOD $ 507 $ 533 $1,013 $1,303 $ 629 $ 701OPERATING ACTIVITIES:Net income 22 52 73 130 302 531Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash from operating activities: Depreciation of fixed assets, including internal-use software and website development, and other amortization 43 26 83 55 149 95 Stock-based compensation 30 26 41 45 84 74 Other operating expense 3 2 6 3 10 2 Losses (gains) on sales of marketable securities, net (1) - 1 - - - Remeasurements and other (12) (18) (9) (32) (19) 5 Non-cash interest expense and other 1 1 2 3 5 5 Deferred income taxes (2) 44 8 94 (15) (154) Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle - - - (26) - (26)Changes in operating assets and liabilities: Inventories 30 13 63 85 (128) (93) Accounts receivable, net and other current assets 16 9 66 19 (37) 8 Accounts payable 4 54 (438) (370) 207 150 Accrued expenses and other current liabilities 1 28 (71) (66) 54 15 Additions to unearned revenue 38 38 92 66 181 125 Amortization of previously unearned revenue (43) (31) (90) (56) (183) (113) ----- ----- ------ ------ ------- ------- Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities 130 244 (173) (50) 610 624INVESTING ACTIVITIES:Purchases of fixed assets, including internal-use software and website development (58) (46) (104) (73) (235) (138)Acquisitions, net of cash acquired - (5) (28) (20) (32) (91)Sales and maturities of marketable securities and other investments 249 142 537 490 883 1,305Purchases of marketable securities (232) (235) (362) (738) (1,009) (1,568) ----- ----- ------ ------ ------- ------- Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities (41) (144) 43 (341) (393) (492)FINANCING ACTIVITIES:Proceeds from exercises of stock options 7 8 13 17 55 42Excess tax benefit on stock awards 21 1 29 2 34 2Proceeds from long- term debt and other 66 - 69 - 82 -Repayments of long- term debt and capital lease obligations (21) - (334) (266) (341) (267) ----- ----- ------ ------ ------- ------- Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities 73 9 (223) (247) (170) (223)Foreign-currency effect on cash and cash equivalents 14 (13) 23 (36) 7 19 ----- ----- ------ ------ ------- ------- Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents 176 96 (330) (674) 54 (72) ----- ----- ------ ------ ------- -------CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, END OF PERIOD $ 683 $ 629 $ 683 $ 629 $ 683 $ 629 ===== ===== ====== ====== ======= =======SUPPLEMENTAL CASH FLOW INFORMATION:Cash paid for interest $ - $ - $ 63 $ 84 $ 84 $ 105Cash paid for income taxes 3 1 8 5 15 8 AMAZON.COM, INC. Consolidated Statements of Operations (in millions, except per share data) (unaudited) Three Months Ended Six Months Ended June 30, June 30, ------------------ ----------------- 2006 2005 2006 2005 ------- ------- -------- -------Net sales $ 2,139 $ 1,753 $ 4,418 $ 3,655Cost of sales 1,630 1,303 3,361 2,746 ------- ------- ------- -------Gross profit 509 450 1,057 909Operating expenses (1): Fulfillment 189 158 383 324 Marketing 53 42 107 87 Technology and content 167 106 314 198 General and administrative 50 38 95 85 Other operating expense 3 2 6 3 ------- ------- ------- ------- Total operating expenses 462 346 905 697 ------- ------- ------- -------Income from operations 47 104 152 212Interest income 13 9 27 18Interest expense (19) (22) (38) (48)Other income (expense), net 1 (1) - 2Remeasurements and other 12 18 9 32 ------- ------- ------- ------- Total non-operating income (expense) 7 4 (2) 4 ------- ------- ------- -------Income before income taxes 54 108 150 216Provision for income taxes 32 56 77 112 ------- ------- ------- -------Income before cumulative effect of change in accounting principle 22 52 73 104Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle - - - 26 ------- ------- ------- -------Net income $ 22 $ 52 $ 73 $ 130 ======= ======= ======= =======Basic earnings per share: Prior to cumulative effect of change in accounting principle $ 0.05 $ 0.13 $ 0.18 $ 0.25 Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle - - - 0.07 ------- ------- ------- ------- $ 0.05 $ 0.13 $ 0.18 $ 0.32 ======= ======= ======= =======Diluted earnings per share: Prior to cumulative effect of change in accounting principle $ 0.05 $ 0.12 $ 0.17 $ 0.24 Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle - - - 0.07 ------- ------- ------- ------- $ 0.05 $ 0.12 $ 0.17 $ 0.31 ======= ======= ======= =======Weighted average shares used in computation of earnings per share: Basic 418 411 417 410 ======= ======= ======= ======= Diluted 426 425 426 425 ======= ======= ======= =======(1) Includes stock-based compensation as follows: Fulfillment $ 7 $ 5 $ 10 $ 8 Marketing 1 2 2 3 Technology and content 16 13 23 23 General and administrative 6 6 6 11 AMAZON.COM, INC. Segment Information (in millions) (unaudited) Three Months Ended Six Months Ended June 30, June 30, -------------- --------------- 2006 2005 2006 2005 ------ ------ ------ ------North America Net sales $1,157 $ 960 $2,404 $1,987 Cost of sales 848 682 1,753 1,430 ------ ------ ------ ------ Gross profit 309 278 651 557 Direct segment operating expenses (1) 284 206 565 420 ------ ------ ------ ------ Segment operating income 25 72 86 137International Net sales 982 793 2,014 1,668 Cost of sales 782 621 1,608 1,316 ------ ------ ------ ------ Gross profit 200 172 406 352 Direct segment operating expenses (1) 145 112 293 229 ------ ------ ------ ------ Segment operating income 55 60 113 123Consolidated Net sales 2,139 1,753 4,418 3,655 Cost of sales 1,630 1,303 3,361 2,746 ------ ------ ------ ------ Gross profit 509 450 1,057 909 Direct segment operating expenses 429 318 858 649 ------ ------ ------ ------ Segment operating income 80 132 199 260 Stock-based compensation (30) (26) (41) (45) Other operating expense (3) (2) (6) (3) ------ ------ ------ ------ Income from operations 47 104 152 212 Total non-operating income (expense), net 7 4 (2) 4 Provision for income taxes (32) (56) (77) (112) Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle - - - 26 ------ ------ ------ ------ Net income $ 22 $ 52 $ 73 $ 130 ====== ====== ====== ======Segment Highlights: Y/Y net sales growth: North America 21% 21% 21% 21% International 24 33 21 30 Consolidated 22 26 21 25 Y/Y gross profit growth: North America 11% 27% 17% 25% International 16 42 16 37 Consolidated 13 32 16 29 Y/Y segment operating income growth: North America (66%) 9% (37%) (3%) International (8) 72 (8) 61 Consolidated (39) 31 (23) 20 Net sales mix: North America 54% 55% 54% 54% International 46 45 46 46(1) A significant majority of our costs for "Technology and content" are incurred in the United States and most of these costs are allocated to our North America segment. AMAZON.COM, INC. Supplemental Net Sales Information (in millions) (unaudited) Three Months Ended Six Months Ended June 30, June 30, -------------- -------------- 2006 2005 2006 2005 ------ ------ ------ ------North America Media $ 730 $ 632 $1,545 $1,331 Electronics and other general merchandise 365 278 738 559 Other 62 50 121 97 ------ ------ ------ ------ Total North America 1,157 960 2,404 1,987International Media 718 614 1,481 1,289 Electronics and other general merchandise 259 178 524 377 Other 5 1 9 2 ------ ------ ------ ------ Total International 982 793 2,014 1,668Consolidated Media 1,448 1,246 3,026 2,620 Electronics and other general merchandise 624 456 1,262 936 Other 67 51 130 99 ------ ------ ------ ------ Total Consolidated $2,139 $1,753 $4,418 $3,655 ====== ====== ====== ======Y/Y Net Sales Growth:North America: Media 15% 17% 16% 17% Electronics and other general merchandise 32 23 32 24 Other 25 105 25 100 Total North America 21 21 21 21International: Media 17% 24% 15% 20% Electronics and other general merchandise 45 80 39 83 Other 354 35 388 49 Total International 24 33 21 30Consolidated: Media 16% 20% 16% 18% Electronics and other general merchandise 37 40 35 43 Other 32 103 31 99 Total Consolidated 22 26 21 25Y/Y Net Sales Growth Excluding Effect of Exchange Rates:International: Media 20% 20% 22% 17% Electronics and other general merchandise 48 75 46 77 Other 362 32 412 45 Total International 27 29 28 26Consolidated: Media 18% 18% 19% 17% Electronics and other general merchandise 38 39 38 41 Other 32 103 32 99 Total Consolidated 23 25 24 23Consolidated Net Sales Mix: Media 68% 71% 68% 71% Electronics and other general merchandise 29 26 29 26 Other 3 3 3 3 AMAZON.COM, INC. Consolidated Balance Sheets (in millions, except per share data) June 30, December 31, June 30, 2006 2005 2005 ----------- ----------- -----------ASSETS (unaudited) (unaudited)Current assets: Cash and cash equivalents $683 $1,013 $629 Marketable securities 736 987 696 Inventories 521 566 383 Deferred tax assets, current portion 66 89 63 Accounts receivable, net and other current assets 225 274 155 ----------- ----------- ----------- Total current assets 2,231 2,929 1,926Fixed assets, net 405 348 267Deferred tax assets, long-term portion 208 223 206Goodwill 193 159 154Other assets 128 37 48 ----------- ----------- ----------- Total assets $3,165 $3,696 $2,601 =========== =========== ===========LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY (DEFICIT)Current liabilities: Accounts payable $943 $1,366 $735 Accrued expenses and other current liabilities 515 563 409 ----------- ----------- ----------- Total current liabilities 1,458 1,929 1,144Long-term debt and other 1,324 1,521 1,521Commitments and contingenciesStockholders' Equity (Deficit): Preferred stock, $0.01 par value: Authorized shares -- 500 Issued and outstanding shares -- none - - - Common stock, $0.01 par value: Authorized shares -- 5,000 Issued and outstanding shares -- 419, 416 and 412 4 4 4 Additional paid-in capital 2,334 2,263 2,161 Accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income (2) 6 27 Accumulated deficit (1,953) (2,027) (2,256) ----------- ----------- -----------Total stockholders' equity (deficit) 383 246 (64) ----------- ----------- -----------Total liabilities and stockholders' equity (deficit) $3,165 $3,696 $2,601 =========== =========== =========== AMAZON.COM, INC. Supplemental Financial Information and Business Metrics (in millions, except per share data) (unaudited)---------------------------------------------------------------------- Y/Y % Q2 2005 Q3 2005 Q4 2005 Q1 2006 Q2 2006 Change -----------------------------------------------Cash Flows and SharesOperating cash flow -- trailing twelve months (TTM) (1) $ 624 $ 661 $ 733 $ 724 $ 610 (2%)Purchase of fixed assets (incl. internal-use software &amp; website development) -- TTM $ 138 $ 186 $ 204 $ 223 $ 235 70%Free cash flow (operating cash flow less purchases of fixed assets) -- TTM (1) $ 486 $ 475 $ 529 $ 501 $ 375 (23%)Common shares and stock-based awards outstanding 438 438 438 438 443 1%Common shares outstanding 412 414 416 417 419 2%Stock-based awards outstanding 26 24 22 21 24 (6%)Stock-based awards outstanding -- % of common shares outstanding 6.3% 5.8% 5.2% 4.9% 5.8% N/AResults of OperationsWorldwide (WW) net sales $1,753 $1,858 $2,977 $2,279 $2,139 22%WW net sales -- Y/Y growth, excluding the effect of foreign exchange rates 24.6% 27.6% 21.9% 24.8% 23.4% N/AWW net sales -- TTM $7,658 $8,054 $8,490 $8,867 $9,253 21%WW net sales -- TTM Y/Y growth, excluding the effect of foreign exchange rates 24.4% 25.2% 23.7% 24.3% 24.0% N/AGross profit $ 450 $ 463 $ 667 $ 547 $ 509 13%Gross margin -- % of WW net sales 25.7% 24.9% 22.4% 24.0% 23.8% N/AGross profit -- TTM $1,809 $1,917 $2,039 $2,128 $2,187 21%Gross margin -- TTM % of WW net sales 23.6% 23.8% 24.0% 24.0% 23.6% N/AOperating income (1)(3) $ 104 $ 55 $ 165 $ 106 $ 47 (55%)Operating margin -- % of WW net sales (1) 6.0% 3.0% 5.5% 4.6% 2.2% N/AOperating income -- TTM (1)(3) $ 456 $ 430 $ 432 $ 430 $ 372 (18%)Operating margin -- TTM % of WW net sales (1) 6.0% 5.3% 5.1% 4.8% 4.0% N/ANet income (1)(2) $ 52 $ 30 $ 199 $ 51 $ 22 (58%)Net income per diluted share (1)(2) $ 0.12 $ 0.07 $ 0.47 $ 0.12 $ 0.05 (58%)Net income -- TTM (1)(2) $ 531 $ 507 $ 359 $ 332 $ 302 (43%)Net income per diluted share -- TTM (1)(2) $ 1.25 $ 1.19 $ 0.84 $ 0.78 $ 0.71 (43%)SegmentsNorth America Segment: Net sales $ 960 $1,041 $1,683 $1,247 $1,157 21% Net sales -- Y/Y growth, excluding the effect of foreign exchange rates 21.0% 27.4% 20.8% 21.3% 20.4% N/A Net sales -- TTM $4,195 $4,420 $4,711 $4,931 $5,128 22% Gross profit $ 278 $ 292 $ 418 $ 341 $ 309 11% Gross margin -- % of North America net sales 29.0% 28.1% 24.8% 27.3% 26.7% N/A Gross profit -- TTM $1,135 $1,204 $1,267 $1,329 $1,361 20% Gross margin -- TTM % of North America net sales 27.1% 27.2% 26.9% 27.0% 26.5% N/A Operating income (3) $ 72 $ 66 $ 92 $ 62 $ 25 (66%) Operating margin -- % of North America net sales 7.5% 6.4% 5.5% 5.0% 2.1% N/A Operating income -- TTM (3) $ 317 $ 326 $ 296 $ 292 $ 245 (23%) Operating margin -- TTM % of North America net sales 7.6% 7.4% 6.3% 5.9% 4.8% N/AInternational Segment: Net sales $ 793 $ 817 $1,294 $1,032 $ 982 24% Net sales -- Y/Y growth, excluding the effect of foreign exchange rates 29.3% 27.8% 23.2% 28.9% 27.0% N/A Net sales -- TTM $3,463 $3,634 $3,779 $3,936 $4,125 19% Net sales -- TTM % of WW net sales 45.2% 45.1% 44.5% 44.4% 44.6% N/A Gross profit $ 172 $ 171 $ 249 $ 206 $ 200 16% Gross margin -- % of International net sales 21.7% 20.9% 19.3% 20.0% 20.4% N/A Gross profit -- TTM $ 674 $ 713 $ 772 $ 799 $ 827 23% Gross margin -- TTM % of International net sales 19.5% 19.6% 20.4% 20.3% 20.0% N/A Operating income $ 60 $ 55 $ 93 $ 58 $ 55 (8%) Operating margin -- % of International net sales 7.6% 6.7% 7.1% 5.6% 5.6% N/A Operating income -- TTM $ 216 $ 233 $ 270 $ 265 $ 260 21% Operating margin -- TTM % of International net sales 6.2% 6.4% 7.1% 6.7% 6.3% N/A---------------------------------------------------------------------- AMAZON.COM, INC. Supplemental Financial Information and Business Metrics (in millions, except inventory turnover, accounts payable days, and employee data) (unaudited)---------------------------------------------------------------------- Y/Y % Q2 2005 Q3 2005 Q4 2005 Q1 2006 Q2 2006 Change ---------------------------------------------------Segments (continued)Consolidated Segments: Operating expenses $ 318 $ 342 $ 482 $ 427 $ 429 35% Operating expenses -- TTM $ 1,276 $ 1,358 $ 1,473 $ 1,570 $ 1,681 32% Operating income (3) $ 132 $ 121 $ 185 $ 120 $ 80 (39%) Operating margin -- % of consolidated sales 7.5% 6.5% 6.2% 5.3% 3.7% N/A Operating income -- TTM (3) $ 533 $ 559 $ 566 $ 558 $ 506 (5%) Operating margin -- TTM % of consolidated net sales 7.0% 6.9% 6.7% 6.3% 5.5% N/ASupplemental North America Segment Net Sales: Media $ 632 $ 684 $ 1,030 $ 815 $ 730 15% Media -- TTM $ 2,780 $ 2,901 $ 3,046 $ 3,163 $ 3,260 17% Electronics and other general merchandise $ 278 $ 304 $ 580 $ 374 $ 365 32% Electronics and other general merchandise -- TTM $ 1,236 $ 1,311 $ 1,443 $ 1,534 $ 1,622 31% Electronics and other general merchandise -- TTM % of North America net sales 29% 30% 31% 31% 32% N/A Other $ 50 $ 53 $ 73 $ 58 $ 62 25% Other -- TTM $ 178 $ 208 $ 222 $ 234 $ 246 38%Supplemental International Segment Net Sales: Media $ 614 $ 629 $ 968 $ 763 $ 718 17% Media -- TTM $ 2,730 $ 2,828 $ 2,885 $ 2,972 $ 3,077 13% Electronics and other general merchandise $ 178 $ 187 $ 321 $ 265 $ 259 45% Electronics and other general merchandise -- TTM $ 730 $ 801 $ 886 $ 952 $ 1,033 42% Electronics and other general merchandise -- TTM % of International net sales 21% 22% 23% 24% 25% N/A Other $ 1 $ 1 $ 5 $ 4 $ 5 354% Other -- TTM $ 3 $ 4 $ 8 $ 11 $ 15 399%Supplemental Worldwide Net Sales: Media $ 1,246 $ 1,313 $ 1,998 $ 1,578 $ 1,448 16% Media -- TTM $ 5,510 $ 5,730 $ 5,931 $ 6,135 $ 6,337 15% Electronics and other general merchandise $ 456 $ 491 $ 901 $ 639 $ 624 37% Electronics and other general merchandise -- TTM $ 1,966 $ 2,113 $ 2,329 $ 2,486 $ 2,655 35% Electronics and other general merchandise -- TTM % of WW net sales 26% 26% 27% 28% 29% N/A Other $ 51 $ 54 $ 78 $ 62 $ 67 32% Other -- TTM $ 181 $ 211 $ 230 $ 245 $ 261 44%Balance SheetCash and marketable securities $ 1,325 $ 1,419 $ 2,000 $ 1,334 $ 1,419 7%Inventory, net -- ending $ 383 $ 456 $ 566 $ 538 $ 521 36%Inventory -- average inventory % of TTM net sales 5.0% 5.2% 5.4% 5.3% 5.3% N/AInventory turnover, average -- TTM 15.3 14.8 14.1 14.4 14.3 (6%)Fixed assets, net $ 267 $ 322 $ 348 $ 361 $ 405 52%Accounts payable days -- ending $ 51 $ 58 $ 54 $ 48 $ 53 3%OtherEmployees (full- time and part- time; excludes contractors &amp; temporary personnel) 10,200 11,200 12,000 12,400 12,700 24%----------------------------------------------------------------------Note: The attached "Financial and Operational Summary" is an integralpart of this Supplemental Financial Information and Business Metrics.(1) The Company settled a patent lawsuit on terms including a one-time payment of $40 million in Q3 2005. This negatively impacts TTM operating cash flow and free cash flow by $40 million for all periods that include Q3 2005. The settlement negatively affected Q3 2005 operating income by $40 million, and Q3 2005 net income by $20 million after tax.(2) Q4 2005 net income includes a tax benefit of $90 million related to determining that certain of our deferred tax assets are realizable.(3) In Q2 2006, a fee dispute with Toysrus.com reduced our operating income by $20 million.</pre><pre> Amazon.com, Inc. Financial and Operational Summary (unaudited)</pre><p>Quarterly Results of Operations (comparisons are with the equivalent period of the prior year, unless otherwise stated)</p><p>Net Sales</p><ul><li>Shipping revenue was $128 million, up 24% from $103 million.</li><li>Amounts paid in advance for subscription services, including amounts received from online DVD rentals, Amazon Prime and other membership programs, are deferred and recognized as revenue over the subscription term.</li><li>Net sales include fixed fees, commissions and per-unit fees earned from third-party sellers and similar amounts earned through Amazon Enterprise Solutions.</li></ul><p>Cost of Sales</p><ul><li>Cost of sales consists of the purchase price of products sold by us, inbound and outbound shipping charges, packaging supplies, amortization of our DVD rental library and service costs such as those incurred in operating and staffing our fulfillment and customer service centers on behalf of third parties.</li><li>Inbound shipping charges to receive products from our suppliers are included in inventory cost and recognized as cost of sales upon sale to our customers.</li><li>Outbound shipping costs totaled $188 million, up 27% from $148 million. Net shipping loss was $60 million, or 2.8% of net sales, up 33% from a net shipping loss of $45 million, or 2.6% of net sales, resulting primarily from our free shipping offers and Amazon Prime. To the extent our customers use our free shipping offers at an increasing rate, including memberships in Amazon Prime, our net cost of shipping will increase.</li><li>While costs associated with free shipping, including Amazon Prime, are not included in marketing expense, we view our free shipping offers as an effective worldwide marketing tool and intend to continue offering them indefinitely. We offer free membership trials for Amazon Prime and expect to continue to offer these trials in the future.</li></ul><p>Operating Expenses</p><ul><li>Depreciation expense for fixed assets, including amortization of internal-use software and website development, was $41 million, up from $26 million. Depreciation is recorded on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives of the assets--generally two years or less for assets such as internal-use software and our DVD rental library, three years for our technology infrastructure, five years for furniture and fixtures and ten years for heavy equipment. Depreciation expense is generally classified within operating expense categories on the consolidated statements of operations, and certain assets, such as our DVD rental library, are amortized to cost of sales.</li><li>Stock-based compensation was $30 million compared to $26 million in the prior year. The estimation of stock awards that will ultimately vest requires judgment, and to the extent actual results or updated estimates differ from our current estimates, such amounts will be recorded as a cumulative adjustment in the period estimates are revised.</li><li>Operating expenses with and without stock-based compensation are as follows:</li></ul><pre> Three Months Ended Three Months Ended June 30, 2006 June 30, 2005 -------------------------- -------------------------- As Stock-Based As Stock-Based Reported Compensation Net Reported Compensation Net -------- ----------------- -------- -----------------OperatingExpenses: Fulfillment $ 189 $ (7) $182 $ 158 $ (5) $153 Marketing 53 (1) 52 42 (2) 40 Technology and content 167 (16) 151 106 (13) 93 General and administrative 50 (6) 44 38 (6) 32 Other operating expense 3 - 3 2 - 2 ------- -------- ---- ------- -------- ---- Total operating expenses $ 462 $ (30) $432 $ 346 $ (26) $320 ======= ======== ==== ======= ======== ====Year-over-yearPercentage Growth: Fulfillment 20% 20% 25% 25% Marketing 26 28 24 26 Technology and content 58 63 49 59 General and administrative 32 37 25 19Percent of NetSales: Fulfillment 8.9% 8.5% 9.0% 8.7% Marketing 2.5 2.4 2.4 2.3 Technology and content 7.8 7.1 6.0 5.3 General and administrative 2.4 2.1 2.2 1.8</pre><p>Fulfillment</p><ul><li>Fulfillment costs represent those costs incurred in operating and staffing our fulfillment and customer service centers, including costs attributable to buying, receiving, inspecting and warehousing inventories; picking, packaging and preparing customer orders for shipment; and payment processing fees and transaction costs, including costs associated with our guarantee of certain third-party seller transactions and responding to inquiries from customers. Fulfillment costs also include amounts paid to third parties who assist us in fulfillment and customer service operations.</li><li>Payment processing fees charged to us associated with third-party seller sales are based on the gross purchase price of underlying transactions, and transaction costs, such as our A to Z Guarantee, are higher as a percentage of revenue versus our retail sales. Accordingly, third-party sales have higher fulfillment costs as a percentage of net sales.</li><li>The increase in fulfillment costs in absolute dollars relates to costs from expanding fulfillment capacity and variable costs. Variable costs correspond with sales volume and inventory levels, our mix of product sales, and payment processing and related transaction costs, including mix of payment methods and costs from our guarantee for certain third-party seller transactions.</li><li>We expanded our fulfillment capacity in the first half of 2006 and throughout 2005 through gains in efficiencies as well as increases in leased warehouse space. We plan to continue expanding our worldwide fulfillment capacity--although to add less space than in 2005--in order to accommodate greater selection and to meet anticipated shipment volumes from sales of our own products as well as sales by third parties for which we provide the fulfillment. We expect absolute amounts spent in fulfillment and fulfillment-related cost of sales to increase over time.</li></ul><p>Marketing</p><ul><li>Marketing costs increased in absolute terms, primarily corresponding with revenue growth as we utilized variable online marketing channels, such as our Associates program, sponsored search and other variable marketing initiatives. To the extent there is increased or decreased competition for these traffic sources, or to the extent our mix of these channels shifts, we would expect to see a corresponding change in our marketing expense or its effect. We expect absolute amounts spent in marketing to increase over time.</li></ul><p>Technology and Content</p><ul><li>Technology and content expenses consist principally of payroll and related expenses for employees involved in research and development, including application development, editorial content, merchandising selection, and systems and telecommunications support, as well as costs associated with systems and telecommunications infrastructure.</li><li>In 2005, we added a significant number of computer scientists, software engineers and employees involved in editorial content, merchandising selection and systems support. We are investing in several areas of technology including seller platforms, web services and digital initiatives. In addition, we increased spending on our technology infrastructure so that we can continue to enhance the customer experience and improve our process efficiency.</li><li>We expect the year-over-year percentage growth in technology and content, excluding stock-based compensation, to decrease in the second half of 2006.</li><li>A significant majority of our technology costs are incurred in the U.S. and are allocated to our North America segment.</li><li>Certain costs relating to the development of internal-use software and website development, including software to upgrade and enhance our websites and processes supporting our business, are capitalized and depreciated over two years. In Q2 2006 and Q2 2005, we capitalized $32 million (including $5 million of stock-based compensation) and $22 million (including $3 million of stock-based compensation) of costs associated with internal-use software and website development. Amortization of previously capitalized amounts was $20 million and $12 million for Q2 2006 and Q2 2005.</li><li>We expect absolute amounts spent in technology and content to increase over time.</li></ul><p>General and Administrative</p><ul><li>The increase in general and administrative costs in Q2 2006 is primarily due to increases in payroll and related expenses.</li><li>Additionally, in Q1 2005 we recorded a charge of $8 million related to possible settlements of outstanding litigation, and in Q2 2005 the favorable resolution of one of these matters resulted in a $3 million expense reduction.</li><li>We expect absolute amounts spent in general and administrative to increase over time.</li></ul><p>Stock-Based Compensation</p><ul><li>Stock-based compensation was $30 million, up from $26 million, reflecting grants to new employees and our annual performance-based awards that are granted in Q2 of each year.</li><li>As of January 1, 2005, we adopted SFAS 123(R), which requires measurement of compensation cost for stock-based awards at grant date fair value. The fair value of restricted stock and restricted stock units is determined based on the number of shares granted and the quoted price of our common stock, while the fair value of stock options is determined using a Black-Scholes valuation model. The fair value is recognized as an expense over the service period, net of estimated forfeitures, using the accelerated method under SFAS 123(R). The adoption of SFAS 123(R) in Q1 2005 resulted in a cumulative benefit from accounting change of $26 million, which reflects the net cumulative impact of estimating forfeitures in the determination of period expense, rather than recording forfeitures when they occur as previously permitted.</li><li>Stock-based awards generally vest over service periods of between two and five years.</li><li>Payroll tax expense resulting from exercises of stock-based awards is a cash expense and is not categorized as stock-based compensation.</li><li>We granted stock awards, substantially all of which have been restricted stock units since October 2002, of 6 million shares in the quarter. Our annual stock awards are granted in the second quarter.</li><li>As of June 30, 2006, there were 24 million shares underlying outstanding stock awards, consisting of 10 million shares underlying stock options with a $15 weighted-average exercise price and 14 million shares underlying restricted stock units. As of June 30, 2005, there were 26 million shares underlying outstanding stock awards.</li><li>As of June 30, 2006, outstanding common shares plus shares underlying outstanding stock-based awards were 443 million, up 1% from 438 million as of June 30, 2005. This total includes all stock-based awards outstanding, without regard for estimated forfeitures, consisting of vested and unvested awards and in-the-money and out-of-the-money stock options.</li></ul><p>Other Operating Expense</p><ul><li>Other operating expense primarily includes costs related to intangibles amortization.</li><li>We acquired one company during Q1 2006 for a purchase price of $47 million, including a $28 million cash payment in Q1 2006 and $19 million due in 2007. The excess of purchase price over the fair value of the net assets acquired was $33 million and is classified as goodwill on our consolidated balance sheets. Acquired other intangibles totaled $14 million and have estimated useful lives of between one and ten years. The results of operations of the acquired business have been included in our consolidated results from the closing date forward. The effect of this acquisition on consolidated net sales and operating income during the first half of 2006 was not significant.</li></ul><p>Remeasurements and Other</p><ul><li>The remeasurement of our 6.875% PEACS and intercompany balances can result in significant gains and charges associated with the effect of movements in currency exchange rates.</li><li>Remeasurement of the principal amount of our 6.875% PEACS from Euros to U.S. dollars resulted in a foreign-currency loss of $16 million, compared with a gain of $42 million.</li><li>Remeasurement of foreign-currency intercompany balances that are to be repaid among subsidiaries represented a $26 million gain, compared with a loss of $25 million.</li></ul><p>Income Taxes</p><ul><li>Our tax provision for interim periods is determined using an estimate of the annual effective tax rate. Our provision for income taxes was $32MM in Q2 - or a 59% rate for the quarter - which includes a $4 million year-to-date adjustment to reflect our current estimate of our annual effective tax rate of 51%.</li><li>There is a potential for significant volatility of our 2006 effective tax rate due to several factors, including from variability in accurately predicting our taxable income and the taxable jurisdictions to which it relates.</li><li>The effective tax rate was higher than the 35% statutory rate, resulting from steps we initiated to establish our European headquarters in Luxembourg, which we expect will benefit our effective tax rate over time.</li><li>We expect cash taxes paid in 2006 to be approximately $25 million compared with $12 million in 2005. We endeavor to optimize our global taxes on a cash basis, rather than on a financial reporting basis.</li></ul><p>Foreign Exchange</p><ul><li>Our financial reporting currency is the U.S. dollar, and changes in exchange rates significantly affect our reported results and consolidated trends. For example, during Q2 2006 our consolidated revenue and operating income were negatively affected by the strengthening of the U.S. dollar in comparison to the currencies of internationally focused websites, but our consolidated revenue and operating income from Q2 2002 through Q2 2005 benefited from weakness in the U.S. dollar in comparison to the same currencies.</li><li>The effect on our consolidated statements of operations from year-over-year changes in exchange rates versus the U.S. dollar throughout the period is as follows:</li></ul><pre> Three Months Ended June 30, ----------------------------------------------------- 2006 2005 ------------------------- ------------------------- At At Prior Exchange Prior Exchange Year Rate Year Rate Rates Effect As Rates Effect As (1) (2) Reported (1) (2) Reported ------- -------- --------- ------- -------- --------- (in millions, except per share amounts)Net sales $2,163 $ (24) $ 2,139 $1,728 $ 25 $ 1,753Gross profit 514 (5) 509 445 5 450Operating expenses 460 2 462 343 3 346Income from operations 49 (2) 47 102 2 104Net interest expense and other (4) (1) (5) (14) - (14)Remeasurements and other (3) 2 10 12 1 17 18Net income 19 3 22 43 9 52Diluted earnings per share $ 0.04 $ 0.01 $ 0.05 $ 0.10 $ 0.02 $ 0.12 (1) Represents the outcome that would have resulted had currency exchange rates in the current period been the same as those in effect in the comparable prior year period for operating results, and if we did not incur the variability associated with remeasurements for our 6.875% PEACS and intercompany balances. (2) Represents the increase (decrease) in reported amounts resulting from changes in exchange rates from those in effect in the comparable prior year period for operating results, and if we did not incur the variability associated with remeasurements for our 6.875% PEACS and intercompany balances. (3) Includes foreign-currency gains (losses) on remeasurement of 6.875% PEACS and intercompany balances compared to prior quarter, and realized currency-related gains associated with sales of Euro-denominated investments held by a U.S. subsidiary. Other -- In March 2006, the Superior Court of New Jersey terminated our contract with Toysrus.com LLC but declined to award damages to either party. We continued to provide services to Toysrus.com during the contractual wind-down period in Q2 2006, but Toysrus.com is contesting the amount of fees owed to compensate us for that work. This fee dispute reduced our income from operations for Q2 2006 by approximately $20 million, and the fee dispute together with the termination of the Toysrus.com contract reduced our operating cash flows and free cash flows for Q2 2006 by approximately $20 million. Had we not retained $13 million against payments otherwise due to Toysrus.com, our operating cash flows and free cash flows for Q2 2006 would have been lower by that amount. We are appealing the trial court's initial rulings in Toysrus.com's favor regarding the contract termination and the fee dispute. Cash Flows and Balance Sheet -- Operating cash flows and free cash flows can be volatile and are sensitive to many factors, including changes in working capital and timing of capital expenditures. Working capital at any specific point in time is subject to many variables, including seasonality, the timing of expense payments, discounts offered by vendors, vendor payment terms and fluctuations in foreign exchange rates. -- Additionally, prior to our adoption of SFAS 123(R), cash retained as a result of excess tax deductions relating to stock-based compensation was presented in operating cash flows, along with other tax cash flows. SFAS 123(R) requires benefits relating to excess stock-based compensation deductions to be presented as financing cash inflows--effectively a reclassification between operating cash flows and financing cash flows. Tax benefits resulting from stock-based compensation deductions in excess of amounts reported for financial reporting purposes--which negatively impacted operating cash flow--were $21 million in Q2 2006 and $34 million for the trailing twelve months; such amounts should be less than $100 million in 2006 - compared with $7 million for 2005 - but are subject to considerable variability. Accordingly, amounts presented for operating cash flows and free cash flows for 2006 will be negatively affected in comparison to prior results; however, there is no change in economic substance resulting from this change in reporting classification. -- Our cash, cash equivalents and marketable securities of $1.42 billion, at fair value, primarily consist of cash, investment grade securities and AAA-rated money market mutual funds. Included are amounts held in foreign currencies of $738 million, primarily in Euros, British Pounds and Japanese Yen. -- Accounts receivable, net and other current assets include accounts receivable from merchant partners, vendors and credit card companies, interest receivables and prepaid expenses. -- Fixed assets include assets such as furniture and fixtures, heavy equipment, technology infrastructure, internal-use software and website development, and our DVD rental library. -- Other assets include, among other things, $85 million of restricted long-term marketable securities, $9 million of deferred issuance costs on long-term debt, $8 million of certain equity investments, and $21 million of other intangibles, net. Marketable securities restricted for longer than one year are related to collateralization of debt for our international operations - such amounts at December 31, 2005 were insignificant. -- Accrued expenses and other current liabilities include, among other things, liabilities for gift certificates of $126 million, professional fees, marketing activities, workforce costs--including accrued payroll, vacation and other benefits--and unearned revenue of $53 million, which is recorded when payments are received or due in advance of performing our service obligations and is amortized over the service period. -- Long-term debt and other primarily include the following (in millions): Principal Interest Principal at Maturity Rate Due Date -----------------------------------------Convertible Subordinated Notes $ 900 (1) 4.750% February 2009Premium Adjustable Convertible Securities ("PEACS") 307 (2) (4) 6.875% February 2010 ---------- $1,207 (3) ==========(1) Convertible at the holders' option into our common stock at $78.0275 per share. We have the right to redeem the Convertible Subordinated Notes, in whole or in part, at a redemption price of 101.425% of the principal, which decreases every February 1 by 47.5 basis points until maturity, plus any accrued and unpaid interest.(2) EUR 240 million principal amount, convertible at the holders' option into our common stock at EUR 84.883 per share ($109 per share based on the Euro/U.S. dollar exchange rate as of June 30, 2006). We have the right to redeem the PEACS, in whole or in part, by paying the principal amount, plus any accrued and unpaid interest. We do not hedge any portion of the PEACS. The U.S. dollar equivalent principal, interest and conversion price fluctuate based on the Euro/U.S. dollar exchange ratio.(3) The "if converted" number of shares associated with our convertible debt instruments (approximately 14 million total shares) is excluded from diluted shares as they are antidilutive.(4) As previously announced, in Q1 2006 we redeemed EUR 250 million--or $300 million at the Euro to U.S. dollar exchange rate on the redemption date--in principal amount of our PEACS at par.</pre><p>Certain Definitions and Other</p><ul><li>We present segment information for North America and International. We measure operating results of our segments using an internal performance measure of direct segment operating expenses that excludes stock-based compensation and other operating expense, each of which is not allocated to segment results. Other centrally incurred operating costs are fully allocated to segment results. Our operating results, particularly for the International segment, are affected by movements in foreign exchange rates.</li><li>The North America segment consists of amounts earned from retail sales of consumer products (including from third-party sellers) and subscriptions through North America-focused websites such as www.amazon.com and www.amazon.ca; from North America-focused Syndicated Stores, such as www.borders.com; from our mail-order tool catalog phone orders; from our Amazon Prime membership program; and from non-retail activities such as North America-focused Amazon Enterprise Solutions program, and marketing and promotional agreements. This segment includes export sales from www.amazon.com and www.amazon.ca.</li><li>The International segment consists of amounts earned from retail sales of consumer products (including from third-party sellers) and subscriptions through internationally focused websites such as www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, and www.joyo.com; from internationally focused Syndicated Stores; from our DVD rental service; and from non-retail activities such as internationally focused marketing and promotional agreements. This segment includes export sales from these internationally based sites (including export sales from these sites to customers in the U.S. and Canada) but excludes export sales from www.amazon.com and www.amazon.ca.</li><li>We provide supplemental sales information within each segment for three categories: Media, Electronics and Other General Merchandise, and Other. Media consists of amounts earned from DVD rentals and retail sales from all sellers of books, music, DVD/video, magazine subscriptions, software, video games and video-game consoles. Electronics and Other General Merchandise consists of amounts earned from retail sales from all sellers of items not included in Media, such as electronics and office, camera and photo, toys and baby, tools, home and garden, apparel, sports and outdoors, kitchen and housewares, gourmet food, jewelry, health and personal care, beauty and musical instruments. The Other category consists of non-retail activities, such as the Amazon Enterprise Solutions program and miscellaneous marketing and promotional activities, such as our co-branded credit card programs.</li><li>Operating cash flow is net cash provided by (used in) operating activities, including cash outflows for interest and excluding proceeds from the exercise of stock-based employee awards. Free cash flow is operating cash flow less cash outflows for purchases of fixed assets, including internal-use software and website development.</li><li>Operating cycle is number of days of sales in inventory plus number of days of sales in accounts receivable minus accounts payable days. Accounts payable days are calculated as the quotient of accounts payable to cost of sales, multiplied by the number of days in the period. Inventory turns are calculated as the quotient of trailing twelve month cost of sales to average inventory over five quarter ends.</li><li>Return on invested capital is trailing-twelve-month free cash flow divided by average total assets less current liabilities over five quarter ends.</li><li>References to customers mean customer accounts, which are unique e-mail addresses, established either when a customer's initial order is shipped or when a customer orders from certain third-party sellers on our websites. Customer accounts include customers of Amazon Marketplace, Auctions and zShops, and our Merchants@ and Syndicated Stores programs, but exclude certain customers, including DVD rental customers, customers associated with certain of our acquisitions (including Joyo.com customers), Amazon Enterprise Solutions program customers, Amazon.com Payments customers, our catalog customers and the customers of select companies with whom we have a technology alliance or marketing and promotional relationship. Customers are considered active when they have placed an order during the preceding twelve-month period.</li><li>References to sellers or merchants mean active seller accounts, which are established when a seller receives an order from a customer account. Seller accounts include sellers in Amazon Marketplace, Auctions, zShops, and Merchants@ platforms, but exclude Amazon Enterprise Solutions sellers. Sellers are considered active when they have received an order during the preceding twelve-month period.</li><li>References to units mean units sold (net of returns and cancellations) by us and by third-party sellers at Amazon.com domains worldwide--such as www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr and www.amazon.ca--and at Syndicated Stores domains, as well as Amazon.com-owned items sold through catalogs and at non-Amazon.com domains, such as books, music and DVD/video items ordered from Amazon.com's store at www.target.com. Units sold do not include units associated with certain of our acquisitions (including Joyo.com units), Amazon.com gift certificates or DVD rentals.</li></ul><p>CONTACT: Amazon.com Investor RelationsKim Nelson, 206-266-2171ir@amazon.comwww.amazon.com/irorAmazon.com Public RelationsPatty Smith, 206-266-7180SOURCE: Amazon.com, Inc.</p>

Target Corporation and Amazon Enterprise Solutions Extend E-Commerce Agreement to 2010

/news/news-details/2006/Target-Corporation-and-Amazon-Enterprise-Solutions-Extend-E-Commerce-Agreement-to-2010/default.aspx

Target-Corporation-and-Amazon-Enterprise-Solutions-Extend-E-Commerce-Agreement-to-2010

07/18/2006 00:00:00

Target Corporation and Amazon Enterprise Solutions Extend E-Commerce Agreement to 2010

07/18/2006

2006

MINNEAPOLIS & SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--July 18, 2006--Target Corporation (NYSE:TGT) and Amazon Enterprise Solutions today announced that they have extended their e-commerce relationship to August 2010. This revised agreement extends by two years the existing alliance and reflects the strength and strategic alignment of the partnership between Target and Amazon Enterprise Solutions. Under the terms of the amended agreement, Amazon Enterprise Solutions will continue to provide a comprehensive e-commerce technology solution in addition to providing portions of Target.com's order fulfillment and guest services operations in exchange for fixed and variable fees. "Through our association with Amazon Enterprise Solutions, Target has enjoyed tremendous growth and provided our guests with a superior online shopping experience," said Dale Nitschke, president of Target.com. "We are pleased that Target will be able to remain focused on our core strengths of merchandising and design, while continuing to benefit from Amazon's innovation and expertise." "Target has been a terrific partner over the past six years and we are pleased that they chose to extend our agreement," said Wes Herman, vice president of Amazon Enterprise Solutions. "We look forward to continuing our work to invent innovative solutions that make the shopping experience on Target.com the best it can be for their guests." About Target Target Corporation's operations include large, general merchandise discount stores and a fully integrated on-line business through which we offer a fun and convenient shopping experience with thousands of highly differentiated and affordably priced items. The company gives back more than $2 million each week to its local communities through grants and special programs. The company currently operates 1,418 Target stores in 47 states. Forward-looking statements in this release should be read in conjunction with the cautionary statements in Exhibit (99)C to the company's 2005 Form 10-K. Target Corporation news releases are available at www.target.com. About Amazon Enterprise Solutions Amazon Enterprise Solutions works with retailers to help grow their online and multi-channel businesses. By working with Amazon Enterprise Solutions, retailers can combine their own brands with the e-commerce expertise, proven technology, and operational infrastructure of Amazon to create a world-class online shopping experience for their customers. Amazon Enterprise Solutions is part of the Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ:AMZN) group of companies. Amazon Forward-Looking Statement This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings. CONTACT: TargetSusan Kahn, 612-761-6735 (Investor Relations)orPaula Thornton-Greear, 612-696-3444 (Media Relations)orAmazonMedia Relations, 206-266-7180www.amazon.com/prSOURCE: Amazon Enterprise Solutions

<p>MINNEAPOLIS &amp; SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--July 18, 2006--Target Corporation (NYSE:TGT) and Amazon Enterprise Solutions today announced that they have extended their e-commerce relationship to August 2010. This revised agreement extends by two years the existing alliance and reflects the strength and strategic alignment of the partnership between Target and Amazon Enterprise Solutions. Under the terms of the amended agreement, Amazon Enterprise Solutions will continue to provide a comprehensive e-commerce technology solution in addition to providing portions of Target.com's order fulfillment and guest services operations in exchange for fixed and variable fees.</p><p>"Through our association with Amazon Enterprise Solutions, Target has enjoyed tremendous growth and provided our guests with a superior online shopping experience," said Dale Nitschke, president of Target.com. "We are pleased that Target will be able to remain focused on our core strengths of merchandising and design, while continuing to benefit from Amazon's innovation and expertise."</p><p>"Target has been a terrific partner over the past six years and we are pleased that they chose to extend our agreement," said Wes Herman, vice president of Amazon Enterprise Solutions. "We look forward to continuing our work to invent innovative solutions that make the shopping experience on Target.com the best it can be for their guests."</p><p>About Target</p><p>Target Corporation's operations include large, general merchandise discount stores and a fully integrated on-line business through which we offer a fun and convenient shopping experience with thousands of highly differentiated and affordably priced items. The company gives back more than $2 million each week to its local communities through grants and special programs. The company currently operates 1,418 Target stores in 47 states. Forward-looking statements in this release should be read in conjunction with the cautionary statements in Exhibit (99)C to the company's 2005 Form 10-K. Target Corporation news releases are available at www.target.com.</p><p>About Amazon Enterprise Solutions</p><p>Amazon Enterprise Solutions works with retailers to help grow their online and multi-channel businesses. By working with Amazon Enterprise Solutions, retailers can combine their own brands with the e-commerce expertise, proven technology, and operational infrastructure of Amazon to create a world-class online shopping experience for their customers. Amazon Enterprise Solutions is part of the Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ:AMZN) group of companies.</p><p>Amazon Forward-Looking Statement</p><p>This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings.</p><p>CONTACT: TargetSusan Kahn, 612-761-6735 (Investor Relations)orPaula Thornton-Greear, 612-696-3444 (Media Relations)orAmazonMedia Relations, 206-266-7180www.amazon.com/prSOURCE: Amazon Enterprise Solutions</p>

Amazon.com Announces the Launch of Its Grocery Store

/news/news-details/2006/Amazon.com-Announces-the-Launch-of-Its-Grocery-Store/default.aspx

Amazon.com-Announces-the-Launch-of-Its-Grocery-Store

07/17/2006 08:01:00

Amazon.com Announces the Launch of Its Grocery Store

07/17/2006

2006

The New Store Offers over 14,000 Dry Grocery Products All Shipped Free via Super Saver Shipping or Amazon Prime SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--July 17, 2006--Amazon.com (Nasdaq:AMZN) today announced the launch of its new Grocery store (www.amazon.com/grocery) which offers customers great selection, competitive pricing, and free shipping. The Amazon.com Grocery store, offering over 1,200 brands such as Kashi, Nestle, Kellogg, Kraft, Seventh Generation and Procter and Gamble, brings together a large, in-depth selection of dry Grocery products the Amazon way -- one convenient destination, easy navigation, a single shopping cart, and candid customer reviews. All items are eligible for Free Super Saver Shipping and Amazon Prime. In addition, the Grocery store has a huge selection of natural and organic products, which include brands such as Annie's Homegrown, Wild Oats, Newman's Own, Bear Naked and Nature's Gate, to name a few. Currently about half the selection is natural and organic. As an introductory offer, shoppers will receive a $10 instant rebate on purchases of $49 or more in the Grocery store. For more details, visit www.amazon.com/grocery. "When we asked customers what they wanted from a grocery store on Amazon.com, the answer was clear: 'great brands and products, at competitive prices, shipped free or via Amazon Prime.' We think we've met that challenge," said Doug Herrington, vice president of Amazon.com's Grocery store. "I just wanted to let you know how delighted I am that you're offering groceries covered by Amazon Prime shipping. As a full-time employed mother of two, I have heavily relied on online shopping for everything ... Thank you so much for adding this!" -- Wendy N., Austin, TX "GREAT GREAT GREAT -- Thank you so much" -- Kimberly, K., Duluth, MN "I have been waiting my whole life for this!! To be able to order groceries and have them delivered to my door!!! This is a dream come true! Thank you so much!" -- Chimene H., Orlando, FL With back-to-school right around the corner, parents can stock up on plenty of healthy treats and lunch food items for their kids such as Wild Oats Natural Trail Mix, Kettle Valley Fruit Snacks, or Wolfgang Puck's soups. And with the convenience of one-stop shopping, busy moms can also stock up on DVDs for the kids, their favorite tinted moisturizer and a wedge sandal for that summer barbecue, all on the same site. The Amazon.com Grocery store launched in May 2006 in a beta (test) phase in order to gather input from customers to ensure the best possible customer experience. During this beta phase, the Grocery store is continually adding selection and testing different features. Visitors to Amazon.com's Grocery store will discover deep selection and great prices in the following areas and much more: Baking Supplies Beverages (sports and energy drinks) Breakfast Food Boxed Meals and Side Dishes Coffee and Tea Condiments Dairy and Gluten Free Household Supplies (conventional and eco-friendly) Low Carb & Sugar Free Pasta, Beans, Grains & Rice Soups & Stocks Snacks, Cookies and Candy About Amazon.com Amazon.com, Inc., (Nasdaq:AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com, Inc. seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden. Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com. As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise. Forward Looking Statement This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings. CONTACT: Amazon.com Media RelationsTracy Ogden, 206-266-7180ogden@amazon.comSOURCE: Amazon.com

<p>The New Store Offers over 14,000 Dry Grocery Products All Shipped Free via Super Saver Shipping or Amazon Prime</p><p>SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--July 17, 2006--Amazon.com (Nasdaq:AMZN) today announced the launch of its new Grocery store (www.amazon.com/grocery) which offers customers great selection, competitive pricing, and free shipping. The Amazon.com Grocery store, offering over 1,200 brands such as Kashi, Nestle, Kellogg, Kraft, Seventh Generation and Procter and Gamble, brings together a large, in-depth selection of dry Grocery products the Amazon way -- one convenient destination, easy navigation, a single shopping cart, and candid customer reviews. All items are eligible for Free Super Saver Shipping and Amazon Prime.</p><p>In addition, the Grocery store has a huge selection of natural and organic products, which include brands such as Annie's Homegrown, Wild Oats, Newman's Own, Bear Naked and Nature's Gate, to name a few. Currently about half the selection is natural and organic.</p><p>As an introductory offer, shoppers will receive a $10 instant rebate on purchases of $49 or more in the Grocery store. For more details, visit www.amazon.com/grocery.</p><p>"When we asked customers what they wanted from a grocery store on Amazon.com, the answer was clear: 'great brands and products, at competitive prices, shipped free or via Amazon Prime.' We think we've met that challenge," said Doug Herrington, vice president of Amazon.com's Grocery store.</p><p>"I just wanted to let you know how delighted I am that you're offering groceries covered by Amazon Prime shipping. As a full-time employed mother of two, I have heavily relied on online shopping for everything ... Thank you so much for adding this!" -- Wendy N., Austin, TX</p><p>"GREAT GREAT GREAT -- Thank you so much" -- Kimberly, K., Duluth, MN</p><p>"I have been waiting my whole life for this!! To be able to order groceries and have them delivered to my door!!! This is a dream come true! Thank you so much!" -- Chimene H., Orlando, FL</p><p>With back-to-school right around the corner, parents can stock up on plenty of healthy treats and lunch food items for their kids such as Wild Oats Natural Trail Mix, Kettle Valley Fruit Snacks, or Wolfgang Puck's soups. And with the convenience of one-stop shopping, busy moms can also stock up on DVDs for the kids, their favorite tinted moisturizer and a wedge sandal for that summer barbecue, all on the same site.</p><p>The Amazon.com Grocery store launched in May 2006 in a beta (test) phase in order to gather input from customers to ensure the best possible customer experience. During this beta phase, the Grocery store is continually adding selection and testing different features.</p><p>Visitors to Amazon.com's Grocery store will discover deep selection and great prices in the following areas and much more:</p><ul><li>Baking Supplies</li><li>Beverages (sports and energy drinks)</li><li>Breakfast Food</li><li>Boxed Meals and Side Dishes</li><li>Coffee and Tea</li><li>Condiments</li><li>Dairy and Gluten Free</li><li>Household Supplies (conventional and eco-friendly)</li><li>Low Carb &amp; Sugar Free</li><li>Pasta, Beans, Grains &amp; Rice</li><li>Soups &amp; Stocks</li><li>Snacks, Cookies and Candy</li></ul><p>About Amazon.com</p><p>Amazon.com, Inc., (Nasdaq:AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com, Inc. seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden.</p><p>Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com.</p><p>As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise.</p><p>Forward Looking Statement</p><p>This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings.</p><p>CONTACT: Amazon.com Media RelationsTracy Ogden, 206-266-7180ogden@amazon.comSOURCE: Amazon.com</p>

Amazon.com to Webcast Second Quarter 2006 Financial Results Conference Call

/news/news-details/2006/Amazon.com-to-Webcast-Second-Quarter-2006-Financial-Results-Conference-Call/default.aspx

Amazon.com-to-Webcast-Second-Quarter-2006-Financial-Results-Conference-Call

07/14/2006 16:02:00

Amazon.com to Webcast Second Quarter 2006 Financial Results Conference Call

07/14/2006

2006

SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--July 14, 2006--Amazon.com, Inc. (Nasdaq:AMZN) announced today that it will hold a conference call to discuss its second quarter 2006 financial results on July 25, 2006, at 2:00 p.m. PT/5:00 p.m. ET. The event will be webcast live, and the audio and associated slides will be available for at least three months thereafter at www.amazon.com/ir. CONTACT: Amazon.com Media RelationsPatty Smith, 206-266-7180SOURCE: Amazon.com

<p>SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--July 14, 2006--Amazon.com, Inc. (Nasdaq:AMZN) announced today that it will hold a conference call to discuss its second quarter 2006 financial results on July 25, 2006, at 2:00 p.m. PT/5:00 p.m. ET.</p><p>The event will be webcast live, and the audio and associated slides will be available for at least three months thereafter at www.amazon.com/ir.</p><p>CONTACT: Amazon.com Media RelationsPatty Smith, 206-266-7180SOURCE: Amazon.com</p>

CORRECTING and REPLACING CustomFlix and Amazon.com to Distribute CBS News' ''60 Minutes'' Broadcasts as Customized DVDs

/news/news-details/2006/CORRECTING-and-REPLACING-CustomFlix-and-Amazon.com-to-Distribute-CBS-News-60-Minutes-Broadcasts-as-Customized-DVDs/default.aspx

CORRECTING-and-REPLACING-CustomFlix-and-Amazon.com-to-Distribute-CBS-News-60-Minutes-Broadcasts-as-Customized-DVDs

07/13/2006 10:14:00

CORRECTING and REPLACING CustomFlix and Amazon.com to Distribute CBS News' ''60 Minutes'' Broadcasts as Customized DVDs

07/13/2006

2006

SANTA CRUZ, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--July 13, 2006--In BW5144 issued July 13, 2006: In the ninth graph the URL should read www.CustomFlix.com/60minutes (sted www.CustomFlix/60minutes). The corrected release reads: CUSTOMFLIX AND AMAZON.COM TO DISTRIBUTE CBS NEWS' ''60 MINUTES'' BROADCASTS AS CUSTOMIZED DVDS CustomFlix "Create Your Own DVD" Service Allows Customers to Build Customized DVDs of Popular CBS Programming CustomFlix Labs, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of leading online retailer Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ: AMZN), today announced that CBS News has selected CustomFlix and Amazon.com to distribute thousands of hours of prime-time and classic news content, including award-winning "Minutes" programming, through the CustomFlix Create Your Own DVD(TM) service. CBS News content will also be placed in the CustomFlix Future-Proof Archive(TM) service, a secure storage platform designed to repurpose content into future digital formats. "This arrangement provides CBS News with a new way to make thousands of hours of our content accessible to millions of Amazon.com customers on DVD, most of which has never before been available in this format," said Sean McManus, President of CBS News. "The service gives us the flexibility to distribute our content the way the customer wants it." "CBS News programming is a natural fit for the CustomFlix Create Your Own DVD service," said Dana LoPiccolo-Giles, co-founder and Managing Director of CustomFlix. "We understand that many customers want the flexibility of picking and choosing CBS News content in a collectible format and customized DVDs are a perfect solution. Through the CustomFlix Create Your Own DVD service, customers can select the specific news clips they want and then CustomFlix builds a customized DVD containing just that content." Amazon.com customers can order complete programs of daily or weekly news broadcasts and compilations on Amazon.com, or choose from thousands of news segments and assemble their own compilations through the CustomFlix Create Your Own DVD service. CBS News programming now available for purchase includes: "60 Minutes" - Content from the most successful news broadcast in television history, from hard-hitting investigative reports, interviews, and feature segments to profiles of the people who have helped change our world. "CBS Evening News" - Classic and current news broadcasts from the "CBS Evening News," the "CBS Evening News Saturday Edition," and the "CBS Evening News Sunday Edition." CBS Long-Form Documentaries - Numerous single-topic documentaries produced by CBS News Productions over the past 10 years. The DVDs created by the CustomFlix Create Your Own DVD system have uniquely customized artwork, are professionally packaged with full-color DVD faces and covers in overwrapped amaray-style cases, and can contain up to 10 news segments or 90 minutes of video. CBS News content can be purchased today at www.amazon.com/60minutes or www.CustomFlix.com/60minutes. About CBS News The CBS News Division operates a worldwide news organization serving the CBS Television and Radio Networks and CBSNews.com with regularly scheduled news and public affairs programming -- including, among others, the CBS EVENING NEWS, THE EARLY SHOW, 60 MINUTES, 48 HOURS MYSTERY, FACE THE NATION and SUNDAY MORNING -- and special reports on breaking news. The division maintains 19 news bureaus and offices in the United States and abroad in addition to its world headquarters in New York. About CustomFlix CustomFlix Labs, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Amazon.com, Inc., is the leader in DVD on Demand services for enterprise and independent media content owners. CustomFlix was founded in 2002 with the mission of profitably connecting content owners and filmmakers to a worldwide audience. Today, CustomFlix offers professional digitization into the Future-Proof Archive service, as well as inventory-free physical media distribution via DVD on Demand, adding thousands of hours of media content to Earth's Biggest Selection on Amazon.com. About Amazon.com Amazon.com, Inc., (Nasdaq: AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden. Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com. As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise. This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings. CONTACT: CustomFlix/Amazon.comAmazon Media Hotline, 206-266-7180www.amazon.com/prorCBS NewsKevin Tedesco, 212-975-2329Kev@cbsnews.comSOURCE: CustomFlix/Amazon.com

<p>SANTA CRUZ, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--July 13, 2006--In BW5144 issued July 13, 2006: In the ninth graph the URL should read www.CustomFlix.com/60minutes (sted www.CustomFlix/60minutes).</p><p>The corrected release reads:</p><p>CUSTOMFLIX AND AMAZON.COM TO DISTRIBUTE CBS NEWS' ''60 MINUTES'' BROADCASTS AS CUSTOMIZED DVDS</p><p>CustomFlix "Create Your Own DVD" Service Allows Customers to Build Customized DVDs of Popular CBS Programming</p><p>CustomFlix Labs, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of leading online retailer Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ: AMZN), today announced that CBS News has selected CustomFlix and Amazon.com to distribute thousands of hours of prime-time and classic news content, including award-winning "Minutes" programming, through the CustomFlix Create Your Own DVD(TM) service. CBS News content will also be placed in the CustomFlix Future-Proof Archive(TM) service, a secure storage platform designed to repurpose content into future digital formats.</p><p>"This arrangement provides CBS News with a new way to make thousands of hours of our content accessible to millions of Amazon.com customers on DVD, most of which has never before been available in this format," said Sean McManus, President of CBS News. "The service gives us the flexibility to distribute our content the way the customer wants it."</p><p>"CBS News programming is a natural fit for the CustomFlix Create Your Own DVD service," said Dana LoPiccolo-Giles, co-founder and Managing Director of CustomFlix. "We understand that many customers want the flexibility of picking and choosing CBS News content in a collectible format and customized DVDs are a perfect solution. Through the CustomFlix Create Your Own DVD service, customers can select the specific news clips they want and then CustomFlix builds a customized DVD containing just that content."</p><p>Amazon.com customers can order complete programs of daily or weekly news broadcasts and compilations on Amazon.com, or choose from thousands of news segments and assemble their own compilations through the CustomFlix Create Your Own DVD service. CBS News programming now available for purchase includes:</p><ul><li>"60 Minutes" - Content from the most successful news broadcast in television history, from hard-hitting investigative reports, interviews, and feature segments to profiles of the people who have helped change our world.</li><li>"CBS Evening News" - Classic and current news broadcasts from the "CBS Evening News," the "CBS Evening News Saturday Edition," and the "CBS Evening News Sunday Edition."</li><li>CBS Long-Form Documentaries - Numerous single-topic documentaries produced by CBS News Productions over the past 10 years.</li></ul><p>The DVDs created by the CustomFlix Create Your Own DVD system have uniquely customized artwork, are professionally packaged with full-color DVD faces and covers in overwrapped amaray-style cases, and can contain up to 10 news segments or 90 minutes of video.</p><p>CBS News content can be purchased today at www.amazon.com/60minutes or www.CustomFlix.com/60minutes.</p><p>About CBS News</p><p>The CBS News Division operates a worldwide news organization serving the CBS Television and Radio Networks and CBSNews.com with regularly scheduled news and public affairs programming -- including, among others, the CBS EVENING NEWS, THE EARLY SHOW, 60 MINUTES, 48 HOURS MYSTERY, FACE THE NATION and SUNDAY MORNING -- and special reports on breaking news. The division maintains 19 news bureaus and offices in the United States and abroad in addition to its world headquarters in New York.</p><p>About CustomFlix</p><p>CustomFlix Labs, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Amazon.com, Inc., is the leader in DVD on Demand services for enterprise and independent media content owners. CustomFlix was founded in 2002 with the mission of profitably connecting content owners and filmmakers to a worldwide audience. Today, CustomFlix offers professional digitization into the Future-Proof Archive service, as well as inventory-free physical media distribution via DVD on Demand, adding thousands of hours of media content to Earth's Biggest Selection on Amazon.com.</p><p>About Amazon.com</p><p>Amazon.com, Inc., (Nasdaq: AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden.</p><p>Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com.</p><p>As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise.</p><p>This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings.</p><p>CONTACT: CustomFlix/Amazon.comAmazon Media Hotline, 206-266-7180www.amazon.com/prorCBS NewsKevin Tedesco, 212-975-2329Kev@cbsnews.comSOURCE: CustomFlix/Amazon.com</p>

CustomFlix and Amazon.com to Distribute CBS News' ''60 Minutes'' Broadcasts as Customized DVDs

/news/news-details/2006/CustomFlix-and-Amazon.com-to-Distribute-CBS-News-60-Minutes-Broadcasts-as-Customized-DVDs/default.aspx

CustomFlix-and-Amazon.com-to-Distribute-CBS-News-60-Minutes-Broadcasts-as-Customized-DVDs

07/13/2006 09:01:00

CustomFlix and Amazon.com to Distribute CBS News' ''60 Minutes'' Broadcasts as Customized DVDs

07/13/2006

2006

CustomFlix "Create Your Own DVD" Service Allows Customers to Build Customized DVDs of Popular CBS Programming SANTA CRUZ, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--July 13, 2006-- CustomFlix Labs, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of leading online retailer Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ: AMZN), today announced that CBS News has selected CustomFlix and Amazon.com to distribute thousands of hours of prime-time and classic news content, including award-winning "60 Minutes" programming, through the CustomFlix Create Your Own DVD(TM) service. CBS News content will also be placed in the CustomFlix Future-Proof Archive(TM) service, a secure storage platform designed to repurpose content into future digital formats. "This arrangement provides CBS News with a new way to make thousands of hours of our content accessible to millions of Amazon.com customers on DVD, most of which has never before been available in this format," said Sean McManus, President of CBS News. "The service gives us the flexibility to distribute our content the way the customer wants it." "CBS News programming is a natural fit for the CustomFlix Create Your Own DVD service," said Dana LoPiccolo-Giles, co-founder and Managing Director of CustomFlix. "We understand that many customers want the flexibility of picking and choosing CBS News content in a collectible format and customized DVDs are a perfect solution. Through the CustomFlix Create Your Own DVD service, customers can select the specific news clips they want and then CustomFlix builds a customized DVD containing just that content." Amazon.com customers can order complete programs of daily or weekly news broadcasts and compilations on Amazon.com, or choose from thousands of news segments and assemble their own compilations through the CustomFlix Create Your Own DVD service. CBS News programming now available for purchase includes: "60 Minutes" - Content from the most successful news broadcast in television history, from hard-hitting investigative reports, interviews, and feature segments to profiles of the people who have helped change our world. "CBS Evening News" - Classic and current news broadcasts from the "CBS Evening News," the "CBS Evening News Saturday Edition," and the "CBS Evening News Sunday Edition." CBS Long-Form Documentaries - Numerous single-topic documentaries produced by CBS News Productions over the past 10 years. The DVDs created by the CustomFlix Create Your Own DVD system have uniquely customized artwork, are professionally packaged with full-color DVD faces and covers in overwrapped amaray-style cases, and can contain up to 10 news segments or 90 minutes of video. CBS News content can be purchased today at www.amazon.com/60minutes or www.CustomFlix/60minutes. About CBS News The CBS News Division operates a worldwide news organization serving the CBS Television and Radio Networks and CBSNews.com with regularly scheduled news and public affairs programming -- including, among others, the CBS EVENING NEWS, THE EARLY SHOW, 60 MINUTES, 48 HOURS MYSTERY, FACE THE NATION and SUNDAY MORNING -- and special reports on breaking news. The division maintains 19 news bureaus and offices in the United States and abroad in addition to its world headquarters in New York. About CustomFlix CustomFlix Labs, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Amazon.com, Inc., is the leader in DVD on Demand services for enterprise and independent media content owners. CustomFlix was founded in 2002 with the mission of profitably connecting content owners and filmmakers to a worldwide audience. Today, CustomFlix offers professional digitization into the Future-Proof Archive service, as well as inventory-free physical media distribution via DVD on Demand, adding thousands of hours of media content to Earth's Biggest Selection on Amazon.com. About Amazon.com Amazon.com, Inc., (Nasdaq: AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden. Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com. As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise. This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings. CONTACT: CustomFlix/Amazon.comAmazon Media Hotline, 206-266-7180www.amazon.com/prorCBS NewsKevin Tedesco, 212-975-2329Kev@cbsnews.comSOURCE: CustomFlix/Amazon.com

<p>CustomFlix "Create Your Own DVD" Service Allows Customers to Build Customized DVDs of Popular CBS Programming</p><p>SANTA CRUZ, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--July 13, 2006-- CustomFlix Labs, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of leading online retailer Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ: AMZN), today announced that CBS News has selected CustomFlix and Amazon.com to distribute thousands of hours of prime-time and classic news content, including award-winning "60 Minutes" programming, through the CustomFlix Create Your Own DVD(TM) service. CBS News content will also be placed in the CustomFlix Future-Proof Archive(TM) service, a secure storage platform designed to repurpose content into future digital formats.</p><p>"This arrangement provides CBS News with a new way to make thousands of hours of our content accessible to millions of Amazon.com customers on DVD, most of which has never before been available in this format," said Sean McManus, President of CBS News. "The service gives us the flexibility to distribute our content the way the customer wants it."</p><p>"CBS News programming is a natural fit for the CustomFlix Create Your Own DVD service," said Dana LoPiccolo-Giles, co-founder and Managing Director of CustomFlix. "We understand that many customers want the flexibility of picking and choosing CBS News content in a collectible format and customized DVDs are a perfect solution. Through the CustomFlix Create Your Own DVD service, customers can select the specific news clips they want and then CustomFlix builds a customized DVD containing just that content."</p><p>Amazon.com customers can order complete programs of daily or weekly news broadcasts and compilations on Amazon.com, or choose from thousands of news segments and assemble their own compilations through the CustomFlix Create Your Own DVD service. CBS News programming now available for purchase includes:</p><ul><li>"60 Minutes" - Content from the most successful news broadcast in television history, from hard-hitting investigative reports, interviews, and feature segments to profiles of the people who have helped change our world.</li><li>"CBS Evening News" - Classic and current news broadcasts from the "CBS Evening News," the "CBS Evening News Saturday Edition," and the "CBS Evening News Sunday Edition."</li><li>CBS Long-Form Documentaries - Numerous single-topic documentaries produced by CBS News Productions over the past 10 years.</li></ul><p>The DVDs created by the CustomFlix Create Your Own DVD system have uniquely customized artwork, are professionally packaged with full-color DVD faces and covers in overwrapped amaray-style cases, and can contain up to 10 news segments or 90 minutes of video.</p><p>CBS News content can be purchased today at www.amazon.com/60minutes or www.CustomFlix/60minutes.</p><p>About CBS News</p><p>The CBS News Division operates a worldwide news organization serving the CBS Television and Radio Networks and CBSNews.com with regularly scheduled news and public affairs programming -- including, among others, the CBS EVENING NEWS, THE EARLY SHOW, 60 MINUTES, 48 HOURS MYSTERY, FACE THE NATION and SUNDAY MORNING -- and special reports on breaking news. The division maintains 19 news bureaus and offices in the United States and abroad in addition to its world headquarters in New York.</p><p>About CustomFlix</p><p>CustomFlix Labs, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Amazon.com, Inc., is the leader in DVD on Demand services for enterprise and independent media content owners. CustomFlix was founded in 2002 with the mission of profitably connecting content owners and filmmakers to a worldwide audience. Today, CustomFlix offers professional digitization into the Future-Proof Archive service, as well as inventory-free physical media distribution via DVD on Demand, adding thousands of hours of media content to Earth's Biggest Selection on Amazon.com.</p><p>About Amazon.com</p><p>Amazon.com, Inc., (Nasdaq: AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden.</p><p>Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com.</p><p>As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise.</p><p>This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings.</p><p>CONTACT: CustomFlix/Amazon.comAmazon Media Hotline, 206-266-7180www.amazon.com/prorCBS NewsKevin Tedesco, 212-975-2329Kev@cbsnews.comSOURCE: CustomFlix/Amazon.com</p>

GOOOAAALLL! GOOOAAALLL! -- FROM SURVIVING WORLD CUP TRAFFIC TO STORING HUGE IMAGE LIBRARIES, BUSINESSES OF ALL SIZES ARE SCORING WITH CHEAP AND RELIABLE WEB-SCALE STORAGE FROM AMAZON S3

/news/news-details/2006/GOOOAAALLL-GOOOAAALLL----FROM-SURVIVING-WORLD-CUP-TRAFFIC-TO-STORING-HUGE-IMAGE-LIBRARIES-BUSINESSES-OF-ALL-SIZES-ARE-SCORING-WITH-CHEAP-AND-RELIABLE-WEB-SCALE-STORAGE-FROM-AMAZON-S3/default.aspx

GOOOAAALLL-GOOOAAALLL----FROM-SURVIVING-WORLD-CUP-TRAFFIC-TO-STORING-HUGE-IMAGE-LIBRARIES-BUSINESSES-OF-ALL-SIZES-ARE-SCORING-WITH-CHEAP-AND-RELIABLE-WEB-SCALE-STORAGE-FROM-AMAZON-S3

07/12/2006 05:01:00

GOOOAAALLL! GOOOAAALLL! -- FROM SURVIVING WORLD CUP TRAFFIC TO STORING HUGE IMAGE LIBRARIES, BUSINESSES OF ALL SIZES ARE SCORING WITH CHEAP AND RELIABLE WEB-SCALE STORAGE FROM AMAZON S3

07/12/2006

2006

Altexa, Amazon.com, Elephant Drive, Jungle Disk, LA NACION, MediaSilo, Microsoft, and SmugMug among companies storing more than 800 million total data objects using Amazon S3 from Amazon Web Services SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--July 12, 2006-- Early World Cup victories by Argentina triggered a flood of website traffic for the country's second-largest newspaper, LA NACION. Uncertain whether its banner ads would survive the traffic spike, LANACION.COM searched for a better solution to store and serve ads that was cheap enough not to cut into advertising profits, simple enough to get up and running immediately, and massively scalable in case the team kept winning. That's when LANACION.COM discovered Amazon Simple Storage Service (Amazon S3). Within hours, the site started storing ads in Amazon S3 to ease the load on its servers. After seeing how well Amazon S3 performed and how much the paper saved by using the service, LANACION.COM moved all of its ads to Amazon S3. Nearly 7,000 miles away in Redmond, Washington, Microsoft wanted to expand its MSDN Direct Student Download program. "We needed a storage and delivery solution that made it simple, fast, and dependable for students in hundreds of countries around the world to download our software at any time," said Joe Wilson, Director of Academic Initiatives in the Developer Marketing division at Microsoft Corp. Microsoft wanted to scale the program up without any upfront or increased ongoing expenses, which is why it chose Amazon S3. Microsoft expanded the program while managing to cut storage costs by more than 90 percent since switching to Amazon S3. "In addition to being easy for our users, Amazon S3 allows us to deploy and scale up in a very cost-efficient manner," said Wilson. Growing photo-sharing company SmugMug was on the brink of becoming the victim of its own success in early 2006. Growth was accelerating rapidly and CEO Don MacAskill was concerned his storage solution for the hundreds of millions of images SmugMug managed would not reliably or cost-efficiently meet the scaling requirements he would soon have. With just one programmer and a tight budget, SmugMug needed storage that was inexpensive, simple and reliable. "We looked at Amazon S3's pricing, design and ease-of-use, and were blown away. Amazon S3 is simple and elegant, so much so that it was basically a drop-in addition to our current infrastructure," said MacAskill. SmugMug took just five days to integrate with Amazon S3 and has saved $500,000 in storage expenditures since starting to use the service in March while adding more than 10 terabytes of images each month - all with zero increase in staff or data center space. "Amazon S3 makes it possible for SmugMug to compete with huge, deep-pocketed companies without having to raise massive amounts of cash for hardware," said MacAskill. These examples represent the breadth of companies choosing to use the web-scale storage offered by Amazon S3. Global enterprises like Microsoft are using Amazon S3 to dramatically reduce their storage costs without compromising scale or reliability. On the opposite end of the spectrum, small but fast-growing businesses such as SmugMug that depend on storage are using Amazon S3's benefits of scale and cost-efficiency that were previously only available to large companies. Amazon.com continues to use Amazon S3 for its own business as well, recently launching new digital initiatives (described below under "Amazon.com") that store and retrieve large data files using Amazon S3. Amazon S3 (http://aws.amazon.com/s3) provides a web services interface that lets businesses simply and quickly store and retrieve any amount of data, at any time, from anywhere on the web. Amazon S3 uses the same highly scalable, reliable, fast, and inexpensive data storage infrastructure that Amazon uses to run its own global network of web sites. There is no minimum fee and developers pay only for what they use at a rate of just $0.15 per gigabyte of storage per month and $0.20 per gigabyte of data transferred. Amazon S3 is available from Amazon Web Services (http://aws.amazon.com), a subsidiary of Amazon.com (NASDAQ:AMZN). Launched on March 14, Amazon S3 now holds more than 800 million total data objects. "Scaling successfully is becoming a business requirement for building a business or application on the Web," said Adam Selipsky, Vice President of Product Management and Developer Relations, Amazon Web Services. "We're delighted to see such a wide variety of businesses discovering that with Amazon S3 they can have web-scale storage and cut costs, without compromising reliability." Below are other examples of businesses that are using Amazon S3: Altexa Altexa Software used Amazon S3 to overhaul its Altexa Backup product, which aims to make data backup an easy, automated and consistent task for consumers and small businesses. Amazon S3 replaced Altexa's in-house storage system that was becoming expensive and unreliable as their business grew. Altexa switched over to Amazon S3 in just two days and now offers its customers a storage product that costs 15 times less than competitive solutions. "As soon as we heard about Amazon S3 we were intrigued with its possibilities for Altexa," said Altexa CEO Mark Walker. "When we learned of the pricing model and saw for ourselves its ease of use and scalability, we knew it was the best choice for Altexa. Amazon S3 has taken away the burden of back-up storage and freed-up our development team to concentrate its efforts on our product offering." Amazon.com Amazon.com continues to use Amazon S3 for its own business. Among the many new company initiatives and customer features using the service is "Amazon Upgrade." The new program lets customers who purchase or have previously purchased the physical copy of a book to also buy 24x7 online access to the book for approximately 10 to 20 percent more. Customers can search the entire text of the book, take notes, add highlights and bookmarks, and print specific pages from any web browser. The full content of the tens of thousands of books available through Amazon Upgrade is stored in Amazon S3. Amazon securely stores the encrypted book contents using the same Amazon S3 hardware, interface and services available to any developer. ElephantDrive Online storage provider ElephantDrive started using Amazon S3 as backup during its datacenter migration. The company was so pleased with Amazon S3's performance and ease of use that it quickly moved to integrate the storage solution into its regular business operations. Free to focus on marketing and sales instead of issues like storage, ElephantDrive has more than doubled its user base and quadrupled its number of digital assets since moving to Amazon S3. This growth comes with zero increase in capital costs and no concerns about reliability or scale. "Our business plan relied in part upon the availability of massive commodity-based storage provided by an established and trustworthy enterprise. So when Amazon S3 launched, we were ecstatic. It is precisely the sort of service we anticipated, offered by precisely the kind of player we hoped to partner with," said ElephantDrive Co-Founder Ben Widhelm. "We are in the business of providing the best online storage service possible. And since Amazon S3 has enabled easy access to world-class storage, we can concentrate on delivering a world-class service." Jungle Disk Jungle Disk built a simple, reliable and affordable online data back-up service using Amazon S3. Amazon S3's pay-as-you-go pricing model allowed Jungle Disk to offer their customers the same benefit - to only pay for the storage they use instead of paying a flat fee for storage space that they may or may not use. The simplicity of the Amazon S3 API meant that Jungle Disk was up and running with its new service in less than 30 days from start to finish. The popularity of Jungle Disk's product has grown tremendously in the past 60 days, with thousands of customers already signed up. "From a developer's perspective, the ease of use of Amazon S3 is a huge benefit," said Jungle Disk Lead Developer Dave Wright. "For our customers, the affordable pricing is key, as is the peace of mind they have in knowing their important data is stored with Amazon - a company they can trust to safeguard it for years to come." MediaSilo Digital asset management solution provider MediaSilo uses Amazon S3 because it makes their video downloads cheaper and quicker for customers. Amazon S3 allows MediaSilo to offer a service to video professionals that frees them to collaborate and manage post-production projects over the Internet without having to download any software or pay MediaSilo for costly storage. With the ability to offer its customers virtually unlimited storage at a cheap rate, MediaSilo expects to service upwards of 300 accounts with up to 50 gigabytes of data each by the end of the year. "Amazon S3 has had a profound impact on our business," said Kai Pradel, MediaSilo president. "The business implications are significant. If we offer our subscribers large amounts of storage, we have to plan accordingly and purchase hard drive space, perform backups and regular maintenance. With Amazon S3, we pay for what we use and can shift our focus to the other important elements of our business." Full case studies on the companies above and their use of Amazon S3 are available on the Amazon Web Services website under "Success Stories" at http://aws.amazon.com. Other news: Amazon Simple Queue Service Also today, Amazon Web Services released the Amazon Simple Queue Service (Amazon SQS) for developers. Amazon SQS offers a reliable, highly scalable hosted queue for storing messages as they travel between computers. By using Amazon SQS, developers can simply move data between distributed application components performing different tasks, without losing messages or requiring each component to be always available. Using Amazon SQS queues frees developers from worrying about how to transport or store information, allowing them to focus on building distinctive applications for their customers. Amazon SQS works by exposing Amazon's web-scale messaging infrastructure as a web service at extremely low cost to developers. Any computer on the Internet can add or read messages without any installed software or special firewall configurations, no matter where it is or when it is available. Developers can get started using Amazon SQS today at http://aws.amazon.com/sqs. Additionally, Microsoft has built functionality for Amazon SQS that allows software developers who use the Windows Communication Foundation (WCF) to send their messages through Amazon SQS without having to change their application code. This functionality makes it easy for WCF applications to pass messages to other systems that are not in their network, such as remote browser-based applications and systems run by their business partners. About Amazon Web Services LLC Launched in July 2002, Amazon Web Services exposes technology and product data from Amazon and its affiliates that enable developers to build innovative and entrepreneurial applications on their own. More than 160,000 developers have signed up to use Amazon Web Services since its inception. Amazon Web Services recently launched the Solutions Catalog where developers can list the businesses, applications, and solutions they have built using Amazon Web Services. The catalog is available at http://solutions.amazonwebservices.com. Amazon Web Services LLC is an Amazon.com company. About Amazon.com Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ: AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden. Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com. As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise. Forward-Looking Statement This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings. CONTACT: Amazon.comAmazon Media Hotline, 206-266-7180orwww.amazon.com/prSOURCE: Amazon.com

<p>Altexa, Amazon.com, Elephant Drive, Jungle Disk, LA NACION, MediaSilo, Microsoft, and SmugMug among companies storing more than 800 million total data objects using Amazon S3 from Amazon Web Services</p><p>SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--July 12, 2006-- Early World Cup victories by Argentina triggered a flood of website traffic for the country's second-largest newspaper, LA NACION. Uncertain whether its banner ads would survive the traffic spike, LANACION.COM searched for a better solution to store and serve ads that was cheap enough not to cut into advertising profits, simple enough to get up and running immediately, and massively scalable in case the team kept winning. That's when LANACION.COM discovered Amazon Simple Storage Service (Amazon S3). Within hours, the site started storing ads in Amazon S3 to ease the load on its servers. After seeing how well Amazon S3 performed and how much the paper saved by using the service, LANACION.COM moved all of its ads to Amazon S3.</p><p>Nearly 7,000 miles away in Redmond, Washington, Microsoft wanted to expand its MSDN Direct Student Download program. "We needed a storage and delivery solution that made it simple, fast, and dependable for students in hundreds of countries around the world to download our software at any time," said Joe Wilson, Director of Academic Initiatives in the Developer Marketing division at Microsoft Corp. Microsoft wanted to scale the program up without any upfront or increased ongoing expenses, which is why it chose Amazon S3. Microsoft expanded the program while managing to cut storage costs by more than 90 percent since switching to Amazon S3. "In addition to being easy for our users, Amazon S3 allows us to deploy and scale up in a very cost-efficient manner," said Wilson.</p><p>Growing photo-sharing company SmugMug was on the brink of becoming the victim of its own success in early 2006. Growth was accelerating rapidly and CEO Don MacAskill was concerned his storage solution for the hundreds of millions of images SmugMug managed would not reliably or cost-efficiently meet the scaling requirements he would soon have. With just one programmer and a tight budget, SmugMug needed storage that was inexpensive, simple and reliable. "We looked at Amazon S3's pricing, design and ease-of-use, and were blown away. Amazon S3 is simple and elegant, so much so that it was basically a drop-in addition to our current infrastructure," said MacAskill. SmugMug took just five days to integrate with Amazon S3 and has saved $500,000 in storage expenditures since starting to use the service in March while adding more than 10 terabytes of images each month - all with zero increase in staff or data center space. "Amazon S3 makes it possible for SmugMug to compete with huge, deep-pocketed companies without having to raise massive amounts of cash for hardware," said MacAskill.</p><p>These examples represent the breadth of companies choosing to use the web-scale storage offered by Amazon S3. Global enterprises like Microsoft are using Amazon S3 to dramatically reduce their storage costs without compromising scale or reliability. On the opposite end of the spectrum, small but fast-growing businesses such as SmugMug that depend on storage are using Amazon S3's benefits of scale and cost-efficiency that were previously only available to large companies. Amazon.com continues to use Amazon S3 for its own business as well, recently launching new digital initiatives (described below under "Amazon.com") that store and retrieve large data files using Amazon S3.</p><p>Amazon S3 (http://aws.amazon.com/s3) provides a web services interface that lets businesses simply and quickly store and retrieve any amount of data, at any time, from anywhere on the web. Amazon S3 uses the same highly scalable, reliable, fast, and inexpensive data storage infrastructure that Amazon uses to run its own global network of web sites. There is no minimum fee and developers pay only for what they use at a rate of just $0.15 per gigabyte of storage per month and $0.20 per gigabyte of data transferred. Amazon S3 is available from Amazon Web Services (http://aws.amazon.com), a subsidiary of Amazon.com (NASDAQ:AMZN). Launched on March 14, Amazon S3 now holds more than 800 million total data objects.</p><p>"Scaling successfully is becoming a business requirement for building a business or application on the Web," said Adam Selipsky, Vice President of Product Management and Developer Relations, Amazon Web Services. "We're delighted to see such a wide variety of businesses discovering that with Amazon S3 they can have web-scale storage and cut costs, without compromising reliability."</p><p>Below are other examples of businesses that are using Amazon S3:</p><p><em>Altexa</em></p><p>Altexa Software used Amazon S3 to overhaul its Altexa Backup product, which aims to make data backup an easy, automated and consistent task for consumers and small businesses. Amazon S3 replaced Altexa's in-house storage system that was becoming expensive and unreliable as their business grew. Altexa switched over to Amazon S3 in just two days and now offers its customers a storage product that costs 15 times less than competitive solutions.</p><p>"As soon as we heard about Amazon S3 we were intrigued with its possibilities for Altexa," said Altexa CEO Mark Walker. "When we learned of the pricing model and saw for ourselves its ease of use and scalability, we knew it was the best choice for Altexa. Amazon S3 has taken away the burden of back-up storage and freed-up our development team to concentrate its efforts on our product offering."</p><p><em>Amazon.com</em></p><p>Amazon.com continues to use Amazon S3 for its own business. Among the many new company initiatives and customer features using the service is "Amazon Upgrade." The new program lets customers who purchase or have previously purchased the physical copy of a book to also buy 24x7 online access to the book for approximately 10 to 20 percent more. Customers can search the entire text of the book, take notes, add highlights and bookmarks, and print specific pages from any web browser. The full content of the tens of thousands of books available through Amazon Upgrade is stored in Amazon S3. Amazon securely stores the encrypted book contents using the same Amazon S3 hardware, interface and services available to any developer.</p><p><em>ElephantDrive</em></p><p>Online storage provider ElephantDrive started using Amazon S3 as backup during its datacenter migration. The company was so pleased with Amazon S3's performance and ease of use that it quickly moved to integrate the storage solution into its regular business operations. Free to focus on marketing and sales instead of issues like storage, ElephantDrive has more than doubled its user base and quadrupled its number of digital assets since moving to Amazon S3. This growth comes with zero increase in capital costs and no concerns about reliability or scale.</p><p>"Our business plan relied in part upon the availability of massive commodity-based storage provided by an established and trustworthy enterprise. So when Amazon S3 launched, we were ecstatic. It is precisely the sort of service we anticipated, offered by precisely the kind of player we hoped to partner with," said ElephantDrive Co-Founder Ben Widhelm. "We are in the business of providing the best online storage service possible. And since Amazon S3 has enabled easy access to world-class storage, we can concentrate on delivering a world-class service."</p><p><em>Jungle Disk</em></p><p>Jungle Disk built a simple, reliable and affordable online data back-up service using Amazon S3. Amazon S3's pay-as-you-go pricing model allowed Jungle Disk to offer their customers the same benefit - to only pay for the storage they use instead of paying a flat fee for storage space that they may or may not use. The simplicity of the Amazon S3 API meant that Jungle Disk was up and running with its new service in less than 30 days from start to finish. The popularity of Jungle Disk's product has grown tremendously in the past 60 days, with thousands of customers already signed up.</p><p>"From a developer's perspective, the ease of use of Amazon S3 is a huge benefit," said Jungle Disk Lead Developer Dave Wright. "For our customers, the affordable pricing is key, as is the peace of mind they have in knowing their important data is stored with Amazon - a company they can trust to safeguard it for years to come."</p><p><em>MediaSilo</em></p><p>Digital asset management solution provider MediaSilo uses Amazon S3 because it makes their video downloads cheaper and quicker for customers. Amazon S3 allows MediaSilo to offer a service to video professionals that frees them to collaborate and manage post-production projects over the Internet without having to download any software or pay MediaSilo for costly storage. With the ability to offer its customers virtually unlimited storage at a cheap rate, MediaSilo expects to service upwards of 300 accounts with up to 50 gigabytes of data each by the end of the year.</p><p>"Amazon S3 has had a profound impact on our business," said Kai Pradel, MediaSilo president. "The business implications are significant. If we offer our subscribers large amounts of storage, we have to plan accordingly and purchase hard drive space, perform backups and regular maintenance. With Amazon S3, we pay for what we use and can shift our focus to the other important elements of our business."</p><p>Full case studies on the companies above and their use of Amazon S3 are available on the Amazon Web Services website under "Success Stories" at http://aws.amazon.com.</p><p>Other news: Amazon Simple Queue Service</p><p>Also today, Amazon Web Services released the Amazon Simple Queue Service (Amazon SQS) for developers. Amazon SQS offers a reliable, highly scalable hosted queue for storing messages as they travel between computers. By using Amazon SQS, developers can simply move data between distributed application components performing different tasks, without losing messages or requiring each component to be always available. Using Amazon SQS queues frees developers from worrying about how to transport or store information, allowing them to focus on building distinctive applications for their customers. Amazon SQS works by exposing Amazon's web-scale messaging infrastructure as a web service at extremely low cost to developers. Any computer on the Internet can add or read messages without any installed software or special firewall configurations, no matter where it is or when it is available. Developers can get started using Amazon SQS today at http://aws.amazon.com/sqs.</p><p>Additionally, Microsoft has built functionality for Amazon SQS that allows software developers who use the Windows Communication Foundation (WCF) to send their messages through Amazon SQS without having to change their application code. This functionality makes it easy for WCF applications to pass messages to other systems that are not in their network, such as remote browser-based applications and systems run by their business partners.</p><p>About Amazon Web Services LLC</p><p>Launched in July 2002, Amazon Web Services exposes technology and product data from Amazon and its affiliates that enable developers to build innovative and entrepreneurial applications on their own. More than 160,000 developers have signed up to use Amazon Web Services since its inception. Amazon Web Services recently launched the Solutions Catalog where developers can list the businesses, applications, and solutions they have built using Amazon Web Services. The catalog is available at http://solutions.amazonwebservices.com. Amazon Web Services LLC is an Amazon.com company.</p><p>About Amazon.com</p><p>Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ: AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden.</p><p>Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com.</p><p>As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise.</p><p>Forward-Looking Statement</p><p>This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings.</p><p>CONTACT: Amazon.comAmazon Media Hotline, 206-266-7180orwww.amazon.com/prSOURCE: Amazon.com</p>

Amazon.de launches Sporting Goods Store

/news/news-details/2006/Amazon.de-launches-Sporting-Goods-Store/default.aspx

Amazon.de-launches-Sporting-Goods-Store

07/12/2006 00:00:00

Amazon.de launches Sporting Goods Store

07/12/2006

2006

Amazon.com Launches New Toy and Baby Stores with Largest Selection Ever; Toy and Baby Items Sold by Amazon Now Eligible for Free Super Saver Shipping and Amazon Prime

/news/news-details/2006/Amazon.com-Launches-New-Toy-and-Baby-Stores-with-Largest-Selection-Ever-Toy-and-Baby-Items-Sold-by-Amazon-Now-Eligible-for-Free-Super-Saver-Shipping-and-Amazon-Prime/default.aspx

Amazon.com-Launches-New-Toy-and-Baby-Stores-with-Largest-Selection-Ever-Toy-and-Baby-Items-Sold-by-Amazon-Now-Eligible-for-Free-Super-Saver-Shipping-and-Amazon-Prime

07/05/2006 08:32:00

Amazon.com Launches New Toy and Baby Stores with Largest Selection Ever; Toy and Baby Items Sold by Amazon Now Eligible for Free Super Saver Shipping and Amazon Prime

07/05/2006

2006

SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--July 5, 2006--Amazon.com (Nasdaq:AMZN) today announced the grand opening of its new Toy and Baby Stores, which feature tens of thousands of products, including hard-to-find items from specialty retailers. This is the largest selection of Toy and Baby products ever offered through Amazon.com and for the first time, Toy and Baby products are eligible for Free Super Saver Shipping and Amazon Prime, enabling customers to save even more on their purchases. "We are incredibly proud of our new Toy and Baby stores," said Jeff Bezos, founder and CEO of Amazon.com. "We've never been able to offer our customers this much selection, plus the added benefit of Amazon Prime and Free Super Saver Shipping -- we think this is a winning combination that will benefit our customers for years to come." Amazon.com's new Toy Store (www.amazon.com/toys) carries a wide variety of leading brands, including, Fisher-Price(R), Hasbro(R), LeapFrog(R), Lego(R), Mattel(R), and VTech(R). In addition, Amazon.com also carries the complete lines of Ty Plush (including Beanie Babies(R) and Pluffies(R)) and Madame Alexander(R) dolls. With 17 categories of products such as Dolls & Accessories, Games, and Learning & Education, the new Amazon.com Toy Store has something for children of all ages. Amazon.com's new Baby Store (www.amazon.com/baby) also carries an extensive collection of products for outfitting children from birth to two years old, and includes everything from receiving blankets to nursery furniture to educational games. And to help customers find the perfect baby gift, the Amazon.com Baby Registry (www.amazon.com/babyregistry) enables customers to search, discover and register, from a huge selection baby products from leading brands, including Baby Bjorn(R), Babylicious(R), Evenflo(R), Elegant Baby(R), and more. In addition to Amazon's own Toy and Baby inventory, thousands of additional items are listed by popular merchants including Target, eToys, Discovery Channel Store, and Babystyle, making it even easier for customers to find exactly what they're looking for. Both Amazon's Toy and Baby Stores offer Amazon's unparalleled customer service, and popular features such as personalized recommendations and editorial reviews. In addition, Amazon.com allows customers to contribute their own reviews, and upload personal pictures of products on product detail pages. About Amazon Prime Amazon Prime, Amazon.com's first-ever membership program, is available to customer for a flat fee of $79 per year. Amazon Prime members receive unlimited, express two-day shipping for free, with no minimum purchase requirement on over a million eligible items sold by Amazon.com. Members can order as late as 6:30 p.m. ET and still get their order the next day for only $3.99 per item, and they can share the benefits of Amazon Prime with up to four family members living in their household. Sign up for Amazon Prime at www.amazon.com/prime. About Amazon.com Amazon.com, Inc., (Nasdaq:AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com, Inc. seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden. Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com. As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise. Forward Looking Statement This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings. CONTACT: Amazon.comAmazon.com Media Line, 206-266-7180 (Media Contact)SOURCE: Amazon.com

<p>SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--July 5, 2006--Amazon.com (Nasdaq:AMZN) today announced the grand opening of its new Toy and Baby Stores, which feature tens of thousands of products, including hard-to-find items from specialty retailers. This is the largest selection of Toy and Baby products ever offered through Amazon.com and for the first time, Toy and Baby products are eligible for Free Super Saver Shipping and Amazon Prime, enabling customers to save even more on their purchases.</p><p>"We are incredibly proud of our new Toy and Baby stores," said Jeff Bezos, founder and CEO of Amazon.com. "We've never been able to offer our customers this much selection, plus the added benefit of Amazon Prime and Free Super Saver Shipping -- we think this is a winning combination that will benefit our customers for years to come."</p><p>Amazon.com's new Toy Store (www.amazon.com/toys) carries a wide variety of leading brands, including, Fisher-Price(R), Hasbro(R), LeapFrog(R), Lego(R), Mattel(R), and VTech(R). In addition, Amazon.com also carries the complete lines of Ty Plush (including Beanie Babies(R) and Pluffies(R)) and Madame Alexander(R) dolls. With 17 categories of products such as Dolls &amp; Accessories, Games, and Learning &amp; Education, the new Amazon.com Toy Store has something for children of all ages.</p><p>Amazon.com's new Baby Store (www.amazon.com/baby) also carries an extensive collection of products for outfitting children from birth to two years old, and includes everything from receiving blankets to nursery furniture to educational games. And to help customers find the perfect baby gift, the Amazon.com Baby Registry (www.amazon.com/babyregistry) enables customers to search, discover and register, from a huge selection baby products from leading brands, including Baby Bjorn(R), Babylicious(R), Evenflo(R), Elegant Baby(R), and more.</p><p>In addition to Amazon's own Toy and Baby inventory, thousands of additional items are listed by popular merchants including Target, eToys, Discovery Channel Store, and Babystyle, making it even easier for customers to find exactly what they're looking for.</p><p>Both Amazon's Toy and Baby Stores offer Amazon's unparalleled customer service, and popular features such as personalized recommendations and editorial reviews. In addition, Amazon.com allows customers to contribute their own reviews, and upload personal pictures of products on product detail pages.</p><p>About Amazon Prime</p><p>Amazon Prime, Amazon.com's first-ever membership program, is available to customer for a flat fee of $79 per year. Amazon Prime members receive unlimited, express two-day shipping for free, with no minimum purchase requirement on over a million eligible items sold by Amazon.com. Members can order as late as 6:30 p.m. ET and still get their order the next day for only $3.99 per item, and they can share the benefits of Amazon Prime with up to four family members living in their household. Sign up for Amazon Prime at www.amazon.com/prime.</p><p>About Amazon.com</p><p>Amazon.com, Inc., (Nasdaq:AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com, Inc. seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden.</p><p>Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com.</p><p>As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise.</p><p>Forward Looking Statement</p><p>This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings.</p><p>CONTACT: Amazon.comAmazon.com Media Line, 206-266-7180 (Media Contact)SOURCE: Amazon.com</p>

Amazon.com Premieres Exclusive Video Footage of M. Night Shyamalan's ''Lady in the Water'' Picture Book

/news/news-details/2006/Amazon.com-Premieres-Exclusive-Video-Footage-of-M.-Night-Shyamalans-Lady-in-the-Water-Picture-Book/default.aspx

Amazon.com-Premieres-Exclusive-Video-Footage-of-M.-Night-Shyamalans-Lady-in-the-Water-Picture-Book

06/13/2006 08:31:00

Amazon.com Premieres Exclusive Video Footage of M. Night Shyamalan's ''Lady in the Water'' Picture Book

06/13/2006

2006

SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--June 13, 2006-- Never-Before-Seen Footage of Acclaimed Filmmaker M. Night Shyamalan Reading and Commenting on His Much-Anticipated Children's Bedtime Story Amazon.com (Nasdaq:AMZN) premiered exclusive video footage today of Academy Award-nominated director M. Night Shyamalan reading and commenting on his new children's book, "Lady in the Water," to be released on June 21. Beginning today, this footage is available exclusively on Amazon.com at www.amazon.com/ladyinthewater-book, and will run through the theatrical release of Warner Bros. Pictures' feature film "Lady in the Water" scheduled to open in theaters nationwide on July 21. Originally written by M. Night Shyamalan as a bedtime story for his own children, "Lady in the Water" is an imaginative reading experience that inspires readers to observe the world around them and consider their purpose on earth. Like all of Shyamalan's work, this story offers a dark mystery with surprising twists, a touch of magic, and a powerful message at the end. "The storybook is based on the actual bedtime story that I told my own kids, so it skews younger than the movie," said Shyamalan. "The movie is kind of intense and I really didn't hold back in terms of the suspense. But hopefully, the way the book is written, it can be something a 4- or 5-year-old can enjoy reading with their parents." "M. Night Shyamalan has captured the attention of moviegoers around the world with his thought-provoking and inspiring cinematic productions," said Laura Porco, Amazon.com's director of media merchandising, North America. "With this book, Shyamalan proves he is just as profound a writer as he is a filmmaker. We are thrilled to provide our customers with this incredible footage of Shyamalan captivating his audience yet again, this time through the written word." The five-minute video features him reading from the book and providing insightful commentary on how the book came to be. "Lady in the Water" will be released on June 21. The book is currently available for pre-order on Amazon.com (www.amazon.com) for $12.23 -- a savings of 32 percent. About Amazon.com Amazon.com, Inc. (Nasdaq:AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden. Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com. As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise. Forward-Looking Statement This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings. CONTACT: Amazon.com Media RelationsAmazon Media Hotline, 206-266-718www.amazon.com/prSOURCE: Amazon.com

<p>SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--June 13, 2006-- Never-Before-Seen Footage of Acclaimed Filmmaker M. Night Shyamalan Reading and Commenting on His Much-Anticipated Children's Bedtime Story</p><p>Amazon.com (Nasdaq:AMZN) premiered exclusive video footage today of Academy Award-nominated director M. Night Shyamalan reading and commenting on his new children's book, "Lady in the Water," to be released on June 21. Beginning today, this footage is available exclusively on Amazon.com at www.amazon.com/ladyinthewater-book, and will run through the theatrical release of Warner Bros. Pictures' feature film "Lady in the Water" scheduled to open in theaters nationwide on July 21.</p><p>Originally written by M. Night Shyamalan as a bedtime story for his own children, "Lady in the Water" is an imaginative reading experience that inspires readers to observe the world around them and consider their purpose on earth. Like all of Shyamalan's work, this story offers a dark mystery with surprising twists, a touch of magic, and a powerful message at the end.</p><p>"The storybook is based on the actual bedtime story that I told my own kids, so it skews younger than the movie," said Shyamalan. "The movie is kind of intense and I really didn't hold back in terms of the suspense. But hopefully, the way the book is written, it can be something a 4- or 5-year-old can enjoy reading with their parents."</p><p>"M. Night Shyamalan has captured the attention of moviegoers around the world with his thought-provoking and inspiring cinematic productions," said Laura Porco, Amazon.com's director of media merchandising, North America. "With this book, Shyamalan proves he is just as profound a writer as he is a filmmaker. We are thrilled to provide our customers with this incredible footage of Shyamalan captivating his audience yet again, this time through the written word."</p><p>The five-minute video features him reading from the book and providing insightful commentary on how the book came to be.</p><p>"Lady in the Water" will be released on June 21. The book is currently available for pre-order on Amazon.com (www.amazon.com) for $12.23 -- a savings of 32 percent.</p><p>About Amazon.com</p><p>Amazon.com, Inc. (Nasdaq:AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden.</p><p>Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com.</p><p>As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise.</p><p>Forward-Looking Statement</p><p>This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings.</p><p>CONTACT: Amazon.com Media RelationsAmazon Media Hotline, 206-266-718www.amazon.com/prSOURCE: Amazon.com</p>

Amazon.com Unveils Exclusive The Devil Wears Prada Boutique in Its Apparel & Accessories Store; Customers Can Purchase the Handbag Created by Renowned Designer Patricia Field and Worn by Anne Hathaway's Character in the Film

/news/news-details/2006/Amazon.com-Unveils-Exclusive-The-Devil-Wears-Prada-Boutique-in-Its-Apparel--Accessories-Store-Customers-Can-Purchase-the-Handbag-Created-by-Renowned-Designer-Patricia-Field-and-Worn-by-Anne-Hathaways-Character-in-the-Film/default.aspx

Amazon.com-Unveils-Exclusive-The-Devil-Wears-Prada-Boutique-in-Its-Apparel--Accessories-Store-Customers-Can-Purchase-the-Handbag-Created-by-Renowned-Designer-Patricia-Field-and-Worn-by-Anne-Hathaways-Character-in-the-Film

06/06/2006 09:01:00

Amazon.com Unveils Exclusive The Devil Wears Prada Boutique in Its Apparel & Accessories Store; Customers Can Purchase the Handbag Created by Renowned Designer Patricia Field and Worn by Anne Hathaway's Character in the Film

06/06/2006

2006

SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--June 6, 2006--Amazon.com (Nasdaq:AMZN) today unveiled its exclusive The Devil Wears Prada boutique (www.amazon.com/devilwearsprada) in conjunction with the new movie, based on the best-selling book by Lauren Weisberger. Slated for release on June 30, the movie stars Meryl Streep who plays Miranda, the relentlessly savage editor of the world's top fashion magazine, and Anne Hathaway, who plays Andrea Sachs, the meek small-town girl who lands the coveted job of Miranda's assistant. Starting today, Amazon.com customers can shop the new The Devil Wears Prada boutique in the Apparel & Accessories store for film-inspired products, including a handbag designed exclusively for the film by costume designer Patricia Field and worn by Anne Hathaway's character, Andrea Sachs. Available for $79.95, the bag captures the urban, contemporary style of the movie and is sold exclusively on Amazon.com. "I wanted to create a bag unlike any other bag of the moment which at the same time could serve a young working girl in the day and the evening," said Patricia Field. To hear more about the creation of the bag, customers can view exclusive video footage of Patricia Field discussing the inspiration behind its ingenious design. In addition to the Patricia Field bag, customers can also purchase the Amazon.com exclusive tee or tank featuring a line from the film "I'm just one stomach flu away from my goal weight" on the front. The tee and tank, made from 100% combed cotton in navy with pink writing, are the must-haves for the beach this summer and are available for $14.99. The boutique also features exclusive video clips from the film. "Amazon.com is thrilled to be teaming up with Twentieth Century Fox to celebrate the most stylish film of the year," said Steven Goldsmith, vice president of Amazon.com's Apparel & Accessories and Jewelry & Watches stores. "The boutique celebrates the film and its fashion, and offers customers a way to replicate the iconic style of its characters." Customers will also be able to purchase several limited-edition beauty products from Sephora, such as the Angels Wear Dior Set (includes a full-size 5-color eyeshadow in Incognito, a deluxe travel-size DiorKiss in Pink Marshmallow and DiorShow mascara in black), the Oscar Blandi "Girl on the Go" set (includes Proteine di Jasmine Protein Mist and Pronto shampoo), the Prada Tendre set (contains samples of the Tendre Eau de Parfum Spray) and the Sephora The Devil Wears Prada train case. All products can be purchased through Amazon.com's The Devil Wears Prada boutique. About Amazon.com Amazon.com, Inc., (Nasdaq: AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com, Inc. seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden. Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com. As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise. Forward-Looking Statement This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings. CONTACT: Amazon.com Media RelationsTracy Ogden, 206-266-1379ogden@amazon.comSOURCE: Amazon.com

<p>SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--June 6, 2006--Amazon.com (Nasdaq:AMZN) today unveiled its exclusive The Devil Wears Prada boutique (www.amazon.com/devilwearsprada) in conjunction with the new movie, based on the best-selling book by Lauren Weisberger. Slated for release on June 30, the movie stars Meryl Streep who plays Miranda, the relentlessly savage editor of the world's top fashion magazine, and Anne Hathaway, who plays Andrea Sachs, the meek small-town girl who lands the coveted job of Miranda's assistant.</p><p>Starting today, Amazon.com customers can shop the new The Devil Wears Prada boutique in the Apparel &amp; Accessories store for film-inspired products, including a handbag designed exclusively for the film by costume designer Patricia Field and worn by Anne Hathaway's character, Andrea Sachs. Available for $79.95, the bag captures the urban, contemporary style of the movie and is sold exclusively on Amazon.com. "I wanted to create a bag unlike any other bag of the moment which at the same time could serve a young working girl in the day and the evening," said Patricia Field. To hear more about the creation of the bag, customers can view exclusive video footage of Patricia Field discussing the inspiration behind its ingenious design.</p><p>In addition to the Patricia Field bag, customers can also purchase the Amazon.com exclusive tee or tank featuring a line from the film "I'm just one stomach flu away from my goal weight" on the front. The tee and tank, made from 100% combed cotton in navy with pink writing, are the must-haves for the beach this summer and are available for $14.99. The boutique also features exclusive video clips from the film.</p><p>"Amazon.com is thrilled to be teaming up with Twentieth Century Fox to celebrate the most stylish film of the year," said Steven Goldsmith, vice president of Amazon.com's Apparel &amp; Accessories and Jewelry &amp; Watches stores. "The boutique celebrates the film and its fashion, and offers customers a way to replicate the iconic style of its characters."</p><p>Customers will also be able to purchase several limited-edition beauty products from Sephora, such as the Angels Wear Dior Set (includes a full-size 5-color eyeshadow in Incognito, a deluxe travel-size DiorKiss in Pink Marshmallow and DiorShow mascara in black), the Oscar Blandi "Girl on the Go" set (includes Proteine di Jasmine Protein Mist and Pronto shampoo), the Prada Tendre set (contains samples of the Tendre Eau de Parfum Spray) and the Sephora The Devil Wears Prada train case. All products can be purchased through Amazon.com's The Devil Wears Prada boutique.</p><p>About Amazon.com</p><p>Amazon.com, Inc., (Nasdaq: AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com, Inc. seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden.</p><p>Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com.</p><p>As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise.</p><p>Forward-Looking Statement</p><p>This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings.</p><p>CONTACT: Amazon.com Media RelationsTracy Ogden, 206-266-1379ogden@amazon.comSOURCE: Amazon.com</p>

Amazon.com Launches Emergency Preparedness Store to Offer Preparation and Recovery Products for Hurricane Season

/news/news-details/2006/Amazon.com-Launches-Emergency-Preparedness-Store-to-Offer-Preparation-and-Recovery-Products-for-Hurricane-Season/default.aspx

Amazon.com-Launches-Emergency-Preparedness-Store-to-Offer-Preparation-and-Recovery-Products-for-Hurricane-Season

06/01/2006 08:31:00

Amazon.com Launches Emergency Preparedness Store to Offer Preparation and Recovery Products for Hurricane Season

06/01/2006

2006

SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--June 1, 2006--Amazon.com, Inc. (Nasdaq:AMZN) today announced the grand opening of its new Emergency Preparedness Store (www.amazon.com/prepare) within its existing Tools & Hardware Store, which offers an extensive collection of over 800,000 tools and accessories. With the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration predicting a very active 2006 hurricane season, Amazon.com's new Emergency Preparedness Store offers a single shopping destination for tools, communication devices, first aid supplies, safety equipment and more to coincide with the first day of hurricane season. In an effort to assist customers in choosing the appropriate items for emergency kits, Amazon.com offers Emergency Preparedness Checklists for both the preparation for and recovery from natural disasters such as hurricanes, floods, earthquakes, tornadoes and power outages. In addition, customers will find resources and recommendations from the American Red Cross, the National Weather Service, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the National Hurricane Center. "We have seen the predictions for the upcoming hurricane season and, while we hope they do not come to fruition, we want to help our customers prepare for inclement weather," said Jason Goldberger, director, Amazon.com Tools and Hardware Store. "Amazon.com has launched a new Emergency Preparedness Store where customers can do research, get advice and find the products they need for their particular situation." With a comprehensive collection of products that includes first aid kits, portable generators, emergency blankets, flashlights, emergency radios and more, Amazon.com offers both preparation and recovery aid with all the conveniences of shopping online. Amazon.com's Emergency Preparedness Checklists also include toll-free phone numbers for those instances when ordering online is not an option. Amazon Tools and Hardware operators are available at 800-358-3096 Monday through Friday, 6AM - 11PM, Saturday from 7AM - 9PM and Sunday from 8AM - 8PM. About Amazon.com Emergency Preparedness Store As part of the Tools & Hardware Store, the Amazon Emergency Preparedness Store (http://www.amazon.com/prepare) is a one-stop shop for the products needed to prepare for and recover from a disaster. Items in the store include hand tools, first aid kits, emergency radios, generators, and power tools. In addition, the store features resources such as Emergency Preparedness Checklists and links to reference information. About Amazon.com Amazon.com, Inc., (Nasdaq:AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com, Inc. seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden. Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com. As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise. Forward-Looking Statement This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings. CONTACT: Dobbin/Bolgla Associates, Inc. Rachel Bonsignore, 212-388-1400 rbonsignore@dba-pr.com or Amazon.com Stephanie Mantello Ward, 206-266-4722 stepward@amazon.com SOURCE: Amazon.com, Inc.

<p>SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--June 1, 2006--Amazon.com, Inc. (Nasdaq:AMZN) today announced the grand opening of its new Emergency Preparedness Store (www.amazon.com/prepare) within its existing Tools &amp; Hardware Store, which offers an extensive collection of over 800,000 tools and accessories. With the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration predicting a very active 2006 hurricane season, Amazon.com's new Emergency Preparedness Store offers a single shopping destination for tools, communication devices, first aid supplies, safety equipment and more to coincide with the first day of hurricane season.</p><p>In an effort to assist customers in choosing the appropriate items for emergency kits, Amazon.com offers Emergency Preparedness Checklists for both the preparation for and recovery from natural disasters such as hurricanes, floods, earthquakes, tornadoes and power outages. In addition, customers will find resources and recommendations from the American Red Cross, the National Weather Service, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the National Hurricane Center.</p><p>"We have seen the predictions for the upcoming hurricane season and, while we hope they do not come to fruition, we want to help our customers prepare for inclement weather," said Jason Goldberger, director, Amazon.com Tools and Hardware Store. "Amazon.com has launched a new Emergency Preparedness Store where customers can do research, get advice and find the products they need for their particular situation."</p><p>With a comprehensive collection of products that includes first aid kits, portable generators, emergency blankets, flashlights, emergency radios and more, Amazon.com offers both preparation and recovery aid with all the conveniences of shopping online. Amazon.com's Emergency Preparedness Checklists also include toll-free phone numbers for those instances when ordering online is not an option. Amazon Tools and Hardware operators are available at 800-358-3096 Monday through Friday, 6AM - 11PM, Saturday from 7AM - 9PM and Sunday from 8AM - 8PM.</p><p>About Amazon.com Emergency Preparedness Store</p><p>As part of the Tools &amp; Hardware Store, the Amazon Emergency Preparedness Store (http://www.amazon.com/prepare) is a one-stop shop for the products needed to prepare for and recover from a disaster. Items in the store include hand tools, first aid kits, emergency radios, generators, and power tools. In addition, the store features resources such as Emergency Preparedness Checklists and links to reference information.</p><p>About Amazon.com</p><p>Amazon.com, Inc., (Nasdaq:AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com, Inc. seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden.</p><p>Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com.</p><p>As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise.</p><p>Forward-Looking Statement</p><p>This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings.</p><pre> CONTACT: Dobbin/Bolgla Associates, Inc. Rachel Bonsignore, 212-388-1400 rbonsignore@dba-pr.com or Amazon.com Stephanie Mantello Ward, 206-266-4722 stepward@amazon.com SOURCE: Amazon.com, Inc.</pre>

The Dixie Chicks, Dean Koontz, and Chris ''Ludacris'' Bridges Headline World Premiere of ''Amazon Fishbowl with Bill Maher'' This Thursday, June 1, on Amazon.com

/news/news-details/2006/The-Dixie-Chicks-Dean-Koontz-and-Chris-Ludacris-Bridges-Headline-World-Premiere-of-Amazon-Fishbowl-with-Bill-Maher-This-Thursday-June-1-on-Amazon.com/default.aspx

The-Dixie-Chicks-Dean-Koontz-and-Chris-Ludacris-Bridges-Headline-World-Premiere-of-Amazon-Fishbowl-with-Bill-Maher-This-Thursday-June-1-on-Amazon.com

05/30/2006 08:31:00

The Dixie Chicks, Dean Koontz, and Chris ''Ludacris'' Bridges Headline World Premiere of ''Amazon Fishbowl with Bill Maher'' This Thursday, June 1, on Amazon.com

05/30/2006

2006

Amazon's Original Weekly Program Sponsored by UPS Premieres on Amazon.com Homepage Thursday at 8 p.m. PT/11 p.m. ET SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--May 30, 2006-- Amazon.com (Nasdaq:AMZN) today announced that the Dixie Chicks, Dean Koontz and Chris "Ludacris" Bridges are scheduled to appear as guests on the premiere episode of "Amazon Fishbowl with Bill Maher" this Thursday, June 1, at 8 p.m. PT/11 p.m. ET. "I'm delighted to be a part of the premiere of 'Amazon Fishbowl,'" said author Dean Koontz about his scheduled appearance on the June 1 show. "This is a brilliant new way to reach readers, and with Bill Maher as the host, at least his half of our conversation is guaranteed to be coherent." Taped live and streamed through a media player on the Amazon.com homepage, "Amazon Fishbowl with Bill Maher" is an approximately 30-minute show with live musical performances and interviews conducted by comedian Bill Maher with authors, film stars and musicians every Thursday night June 1 through August 17 (shows will be archived on the Amazon Entertainment homepage at http://www.amazon.com/entertainment). The goal of the show is to help Amazon.com customers find and discover new music, films, and books, and to help the creators of these works find new audiences. Each show includes a "UPS Special Delivery" in which Amazon.com and UPS surprise randomly selected customers by delivering their Amazon.com order alongside their favorite authors, musicians and film stars. On the June 1 premiere, the Grammy-award-winning Dixie Chicks will talk with Maher and play songs from their brand-new album "Taking the Long Way," which was released on May 23 and currently tops Amazon.com's music bestseller list. Koontz will discuss his latest book, "The Husband," which was released today, May 30. Chris "Ludacris" Bridges will be joined by former high school basketball star Darnellia Russell to discuss their involvement in the new Miramax Pictures documentary film, "The Heart of the Game," which is scheduled to be shown in select theaters starting June 9. Examples of other guests scheduled to appear on the show this summer include Dashboard Confessional, John Mayer, Nelly Furtado, Augusten Burroughs, Janet Evanovich, Kathy Reichs, and Robert Baer. The full-length pilot episode of "Amazon Fishbowl with Bill Maher" was filmed in Park City, Utah, during the Sundance Film Festival and is now available for viewing on the Amazon Entertainment homepage at http://www.amazon.com/entertainment. Maher's guests for the pilot show included musician Rob Thomas, bestselling author Stephen King, and novelist/screenwriter Armistead Maupin, who adapted his novel "The Night Listener" for the Sundance debut film of the same name. Actor and comedian Paul Reiser made the UPS Special Delivery for the pilot episode. Journalists interested in receiving more information or covering a taping of "Amazon Fishbowl with Bill Maher" in person can submit an inquiry via http://www.amazon.com/pr or the Amazon.com Media Hotline at 206-266-7180. About Amazon.com Amazon.com, Inc. (Nasdaq:AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com, Inc. seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden. Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com. As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise. Forward-Looking Statement This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings. CONTACT:Amazon Media Hotline, 206-266-7180www.amazon.com/prSOURCE:Amazon.com

<p>Amazon's Original Weekly Program Sponsored by UPS Premieres on Amazon.com Homepage Thursday at 8 p.m. PT/11 p.m. ET</p><p>SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--May 30, 2006-- Amazon.com (Nasdaq:AMZN) today announced that the Dixie Chicks, Dean Koontz and Chris "Ludacris" Bridges are scheduled to appear as guests on the premiere episode of "Amazon Fishbowl with Bill Maher" this Thursday, June 1, at 8 p.m. PT/11 p.m. ET.</p><p>"I'm delighted to be a part of the premiere of 'Amazon Fishbowl,'" said author Dean Koontz about his scheduled appearance on the June 1 show. "This is a brilliant new way to reach readers, and with Bill Maher as the host, at least his half of our conversation is guaranteed to be coherent."</p><p>Taped live and streamed through a media player on the Amazon.com homepage, "Amazon Fishbowl with Bill Maher" is an approximately 30-minute show with live musical performances and interviews conducted by comedian Bill Maher with authors, film stars and musicians every Thursday night June 1 through August 17 (shows will be archived on the Amazon Entertainment homepage at http://www.amazon.com/entertainment). The goal of the show is to help Amazon.com customers find and discover new music, films, and books, and to help the creators of these works find new audiences. Each show includes a "UPS Special Delivery" in which Amazon.com and UPS surprise randomly selected customers by delivering their Amazon.com order alongside their favorite authors, musicians and film stars.</p><p>On the June 1 premiere, the Grammy-award-winning Dixie Chicks will talk with Maher and play songs from their brand-new album "Taking the Long Way," which was released on May 23 and currently tops Amazon.com's music bestseller list. Koontz will discuss his latest book, "The Husband," which was released today, May 30. Chris "Ludacris" Bridges will be joined by former high school basketball star Darnellia Russell to discuss their involvement in the new Miramax Pictures documentary film, "The Heart of the Game," which is scheduled to be shown in select theaters starting June 9. Examples of other guests scheduled to appear on the show this summer include Dashboard Confessional, John Mayer, Nelly Furtado, Augusten Burroughs, Janet Evanovich, Kathy Reichs, and Robert Baer.</p><p>The full-length pilot episode of "Amazon Fishbowl with Bill Maher" was filmed in Park City, Utah, during the Sundance Film Festival and is now available for viewing on the Amazon Entertainment homepage at http://www.amazon.com/entertainment. Maher's guests for the pilot show included musician Rob Thomas, bestselling author Stephen King, and novelist/screenwriter Armistead Maupin, who adapted his novel "The Night Listener" for the Sundance debut film of the same name. Actor and comedian Paul Reiser made the UPS Special Delivery for the pilot episode.</p><p>Journalists interested in receiving more information or covering a taping of "Amazon Fishbowl with Bill Maher" in person can submit an inquiry via http://www.amazon.com/pr or the Amazon.com Media Hotline at 206-266-7180.</p><p>About Amazon.com</p><p>Amazon.com, Inc. (Nasdaq:AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com, Inc. seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden.</p><p>Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com.</p><p>As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise.</p><p>Forward-Looking Statement</p><p>This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings.</p><p>CONTACT:Amazon Media Hotline, 206-266-7180www.amazon.com/prSOURCE:Amazon.com</p>

Amazon.com to Webcast Annual Shareholders Meeting and Investor Conference Presentation

/news/news-details/2006/Amazon.com-to-Webcast-Annual-Shareholders-Meeting-and-Investor-Conference-Presentation/default.aspx

Amazon.com-to-Webcast-Annual-Shareholders-Meeting-and-Investor-Conference-Presentation

05/19/2006 16:02:00

Amazon.com to Webcast Annual Shareholders Meeting and Investor Conference Presentation

05/19/2006

2006

SEATTLE, May 19, 2006 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ:AMZN) announced today that it will hold its 2006 Annual Meeting of Shareholders in Seattle on May 23, 2006, at 9:00 a.m. PT/12:00 p.m. ET. Additionally, the Company will be speaking at The Goldman Sachs Internet Conference on May 25, 2006 at 11:00 a.m. PT/2:00 p.m. ET. These events will be webcast live, and the audio and associated slides for both will be available for at least three months thereafter, at www.amazon.com/ir. SOURCE: Amazon.com, Inc. Amazon.com, Inc. Patty Smith, 206-266-7180

<p>SEATTLE, May 19, 2006 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ:AMZN) announced today that it will hold its 2006 Annual Meeting of Shareholders in Seattle on May 23, 2006, at 9:00 a.m. PT/12:00 p.m. ET.</p><p>Additionally, the Company will be speaking at The Goldman Sachs Internet Conference on May 25, 2006 at 11:00 a.m. PT/2:00 p.m. ET.</p><p>These events will be webcast live, and the audio and associated slides for both will be available for at least three months thereafter, at www.amazon.com/ir.</p><p>SOURCE: Amazon.com, Inc.</p><p>Amazon.com, Inc. Patty Smith, 206-266-7180</p>

Amazon.com Introduces Print-On-Demand Program for Book Publishers; Program Lowers Economic Barriers for Publishers While Increasing Selection for Amazon.com Customers

/news/news-details/2006/Amazon.com-Introduces-Print-On-Demand-Program-for-Book-Publishers-Program-Lowers-Economic-Barriers-for-Publishers-While-Increasing-Selection-for-Amazon.com-Customers/default.aspx

Amazon.com-Introduces-Print-On-Demand-Program-for-Book-Publishers-Program-Lowers-Economic-Barriers-for-Publishers-While-Increasing-Selection-for-Amazon.com-Customers

05/19/2006 09:01:00

Amazon.com Introduces Print-On-Demand Program for Book Publishers; Program Lowers Economic Barriers for Publishers While Increasing Selection for Amazon.com Customers

05/19/2006

2006

WASHINGTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--May 19, 2006--Amazon.com, Inc. (Nasdaq:AMZN) and BookSurge LLC, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Amazon.com, Inc., today announced a new Print-on-Demand (POD) program designed to help book publishers sell lower volume book titles through a more economical supply chain. The new POD program removes the upfront economic barriers associated with traditional book publishing while making those titles available to the tens of millions of active Amazon.com customers. Books are printed as they are ordered, providing publishers an easy and economical way to bring back out-of-print titles and introduce new, lower-volume titles, offering Amazon.com customers a dramatically expanded selection of books to purchase. For a limited time, BookSurge will provide discounted book scanning services with no upfront investment to the publisher and free setup for titles with POD-ready digital files. BookSurge is also offering competitive manufacturing rates as part of a comprehensive solution. Publishers participating in POD will also be provided the option to enroll these titles into Amazon's Search Inside the Book and Amazon Upgrade programs at no additional cost. Further, these titles will receive the same retail treatment as other book titles on Amazon.com and are eligible for both the Super Saver Shipping and Amazon Prime programs. "Publishers have told us they are looking for ways to serve lower-volume book markets more effectively," said Greg Greeley, vice president of worldwide media at Amazon.com. "This program offers our customers increased choice and selection while providing publishers quick and efficient distribution of previously unavailable titles without exposure to the risk and expense of traditional methods." Proprietary print-on-demand technology allows BookSurge to economically print and ship a single book in response to an Amazon.com customer order. This technology eliminates the need for inventory making it efficient for publishers to supply customers more lower-volume titles through Amazon.com's catalog. Even books in print with existing physical inventory would benefit from the POD program to absorb unexpected demand spikes and ensure continuous availability. For more information, pricing and details on the Print-on-Demand program, please visit www.booksurgepublisherservices.com or www.amazon.com/booksurge. About BookSurge BookSurge, an Amazon.com company, is a leader in print-on-demand solutions for publishers. BookSurge Publisher Services offers comprehensive, customizable programs that allow publishers to increase sales, reduce costs and increase their profit margins through inventory-free fulfillment. About Amazon.com Amazon.com, Inc., (Nasdaq:AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as beauty, health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden. Amazon.com and its affiliates operate seven Web sites: www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com. As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise. Forward Looking Statement This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings. CONTACT:Amazon.comAmazon Media Hotline, 206-266-7180, www.amazon.com/prorBookSurgeLisa Ryan, 843-200-6277SOURCE:Amazon.com, Inc.

<p>WASHINGTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--May 19, 2006--Amazon.com, Inc. (Nasdaq:AMZN) and BookSurge LLC, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Amazon.com, Inc., today announced a new Print-on-Demand (POD) program designed to help book publishers sell lower volume book titles through a more economical supply chain. The new POD program removes the upfront economic barriers associated with traditional book publishing while making those titles available to the tens of millions of active Amazon.com customers. Books are printed as they are ordered, providing publishers an easy and economical way to bring back out-of-print titles and introduce new, lower-volume titles, offering Amazon.com customers a dramatically expanded selection of books to purchase.</p><p>For a limited time, BookSurge will provide discounted book scanning services with no upfront investment to the publisher and free setup for titles with POD-ready digital files. BookSurge is also offering competitive manufacturing rates as part of a comprehensive solution. Publishers participating in POD will also be provided the option to enroll these titles into Amazon's Search Inside the Book and Amazon Upgrade programs at no additional cost. Further, these titles will receive the same retail treatment as other book titles on Amazon.com and are eligible for both the Super Saver Shipping and Amazon Prime programs.</p><p>"Publishers have told us they are looking for ways to serve lower-volume book markets more effectively," said Greg Greeley, vice president of worldwide media at Amazon.com. "This program offers our customers increased choice and selection while providing publishers quick and efficient distribution of previously unavailable titles without exposure to the risk and expense of traditional methods."</p><p>Proprietary print-on-demand technology allows BookSurge to economically print and ship a single book in response to an Amazon.com customer order. This technology eliminates the need for inventory making it efficient for publishers to supply customers more lower-volume titles through Amazon.com's catalog. Even books in print with existing physical inventory would benefit from the POD program to absorb unexpected demand spikes and ensure continuous availability.</p><p>For more information, pricing and details on the Print-on-Demand program, please visit www.booksurgepublisherservices.com or www.amazon.com/booksurge.</p><p>About BookSurge</p><p>BookSurge, an Amazon.com company, is a leader in print-on-demand solutions for publishers. BookSurge Publisher Services offers comprehensive, customizable programs that allow publishers to increase sales, reduce costs and increase their profit margins through inventory-free fulfillment.</p><p>About Amazon.com</p><p>Amazon.com, Inc., (Nasdaq:AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as beauty, health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden.</p><p>Amazon.com and its affiliates operate seven Web sites: www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com.</p><p>As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise.</p><p>Forward Looking Statement</p><p>This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings.</p><p>CONTACT:Amazon.comAmazon Media Hotline, 206-266-7180, www.amazon.com/prorBookSurgeLisa Ryan, 843-200-6277SOURCE:Amazon.com, Inc.</p>

ReserveAmerica Announces Its Annual Camping Gear Awards; Customers Can Purchase Winning Products Directly from Amazon.com's Camping & Hiking Store

/news/news-details/2006/ReserveAmerica-Announces-Its-Annual-Camping-Gear-Awards-Customers-Can-Purchase-Winning-Products-Directly-from-Amazon.coms-Camping--Hiking-Store/default.aspx

ReserveAmerica-Announces-Its-Annual-Camping-Gear-Awards-Customers-Can-Purchase-Winning-Products-Directly-from-Amazon.coms-Camping--Hiking-Store

05/03/2006 09:02:00

ReserveAmerica Announces Its Annual Camping Gear Awards; Customers Can Purchase Winning Products Directly from Amazon.com's Camping & Hiking Store

05/03/2006

2006

BALLSTON SPA, N.Y.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--May 3, 2006--ReserveAmerica, the leading camping reservation service in North America, today announced the winners of their annual Camping Gear Awards. In addition and for the first time, ReserveAmerica customers can purchase the winning products directly from Amazon.com's (Nasdaq:AMZN) Camping & Hiking store, which currently sells more than 35,000 camping and outdoor products. ReserveAmerica's annual award list is developed by the editors of their publications, including The Campfire Chronicle with over one million subscribers, in conjunction with the opinions and feedback of visitors of ReserveAmerica's web site throughout the year. Featuring 16 categories, including tents, sleeping bags, GPS units and binoculars, this comprehensive list is designed to help the 36.5 million campers in the U.S. select high-quality equipment for the upcoming camping season. In addition to the Gear Awards, ReserveAmerica customers can also use the camping checklist, which allows campers to automatically purchase items on their checklist directly from Amazon.com's Camping & Hiking store. Outdoor recreation enthusiasts can learn more and purchase products by visiting www.ReserveAmerica.com or www.Amazon.com/camping to learn more. Top Tents Coleman Sundome Eureka! Tetragon 1610 Sierra Designs Sirius 3 Tent: 3 Season Tent Paha Que The Promontory Kelty Teton 4 - 4-Person Backpacking Tent Columbia 3-Person 7.5 x 7.5 Foot McKenzie Pass Tent Wenger 9' x 9' 4-Person Geneva I Sport Dome Tent Top Camping Grills Coleman Roadtrip Grill LXE Coleman Propane Camp Grill Brunton Raptor Camp Chef The Explorer Camp Chef Pro 60 Weber Propane Gas Go-Anywhere Grill Century 4675 Deluxe Portable Propane Camp Stove Top Backpacks Camelbak Hellion Kelty Sierra Cabela's XPG 5000 Mountainsmith Approach Jansport Endeavor Approach Fox 75+10L Internal Frame Backpack by NEBO Sports (Aztec Blue) Kelty Tioga 5000 (2006) - External Frame Backpack High Sierra Internal Frame Backpacks Dyno 65+10, Cinder/Red Spice/Black Lafuma Extreme 42 Overnight Backpack Top Camping Lighting Coleman Water Beam 2D Floating Flashlight Coleman Wide Beam with Carabiner 2D Flashlight Brunton Glorb LED Century 7210 Double Mantle Lantern Black Diamond Nightray Headlamp (Orange) Coleman Endurance 6 LED Light Top Mountain Bikes Columbia Trailhead Disc 26-Inch Mountain Bike Mongoose Men's 26-Inch E303 Dual Suspension Mountain Bike Jeep Cherokee Classic 26-inch Mountain Bike Dahon Jack 26-Inch Folding Mountain Bike Mobiky Genius Folding Bike Top Canoes/Kayaks Coleman Quest 9'6" Sit-On-Top Kayak with Paddle Stearns Back Country Inflatable Canoe Pelican International Dare Devil Blue 15' Canoe Sevylor Fiji inflatable Kayak with paddle and travel bag Advanced Elements Adventure Kayak Kit Top Camping Sleeping Bags Eureka! Grasshopper Kids Eureka! Copper River Mummy Sleeping Bag Coleman Exponent Northbound 25-Degree Mummy Sleeping Bag Sierra Designs Osage 35 Degree Down Sleeping Bag -- Regular Mountain Hardwear Womens Clouds Rest Sleeping Bag : Down Winter Sleeping Bag Columbia Thunder Scout Marmot Helium EQ Reg Slumberjack Baffin Sleeping Bag Marmot Never Winter Sleeping Bag Top Hiking Boots/Shoes Chaco Water Sandals Men's Lowa Renegade II GTX Mid Women's Merrell Chameleon II Stretch -- Light Brown Teva X-1 Columbia Skamania Pass HI-TEC Altitude IV Plus Merrell Men's Chameleon II Stretch Chaco Women's Z/2 Sandal Men's Timberland Chochorua Trail Kamik Courage Hiking Boots Top Bug Sprays 3M Ultrathon 8hr Protection SC Johnson OFF! Deep Woods Tender Corporation After Bite All Terrain Herbal Armor Deet-Free Repellent Muskol Aerosol Insect Repellent Top Binoculars Brunton Eterna Mid-Size Olympus Outback Steiner Peregrine Nikon Premier LX Series Pentax DCF HR II Celestron Outland LX Canon IS All Weather Top Digital Cameras Canon 18 x 50 IS All Weather Pentax *ist DL Casio EX-S600 Steiner DC500 Digital Camera Celestron Vista Pix Nikon COOLPIX L4 Olympus Stylus 800 Digital Top GPS Units Navman ICN 320 Brunton New Atlas MNS GPS Garmin GPS MAP 76CSx Suunto X9i Wrist GPS Magellane Xplorist 100 North America Top Pop Up Campers Fleetwood Niagara Model-Highlander Series Starcraft XL 36RT Off-Road Viking Clipper Jayco Baja Coachmen Futura Top Fishing Gear Stren Super Braid Line Flambeau Outdoors 3005 Tackle Station Soft Side Bag Flambeau Outdoors 2400ST Fishing Backpack Minn Kota Maxxum Pro Bow-Mount Shimano Clarus Salmon & Steelhead Spinning Rods; Model: CSS-86ML-2 (8' 6", ML) Cannon Sport Troll G. Loomis NativeRun GLX Fly and Spey Rods; Model: FR1207-4 GLX Sage Two-Handed Series 4-Piece Rods Rapala -- Shad Rap -- 5/16 oz. -- Perch Berkley Trilene XT Filler Spools; Pound test: 6 pound; Color: Low-Vis Green Mitchell Acovet Gold Spinning Reel Roddy By Penn 175 Baitcasting Reel Quantum -- Cabo PT 20 Baitcasting Reel Top Coolers Coleman 52-Quart Xtreme Cooler Coleman 82-Quart Ultimate Xtreme Cooler Igloo MaxCold 150-qt. Cooler Igloo -- Max Cold 60 Quart Wheeled Ice Blue/White Coleman 40-qt. Thermoelectric Cooler Top Camping Accessories Ruffwear W.A.G. Bag Grabber Hand/Feet Warmers Silva Ranger 530 Ultra Compass Air Grill Blower Kelty Carport Coleman Portable Skillet Coleman Deck Chair with Table Crazy Creek Sports Chair Camp Chef Cast Iron Dutch Ovens Camp Chef Keg Roaster Katadyn Base Camp MicroFilter Zodi Instant Hot Shower Kestrel Pocket Weather Meter Swiss Army Huntsman Plus Pocket Knife (Red) SmartWool Hiking Light Crew Socks -- Men's Columbia Cloud Haven Packable Pillow About ReserveAmerica ReserveAmerica is North America's leading camping reservation and campground management solutions provider. ReserveAmerica specializes in complete reservations solutions, stand-alone call center/database management tools, online reservations solutions and park software solutions. The Company manages the largest reservable campsite inventory with partnerships throughout North America. ReserveAmerica is an operating business of IAC/InterActiveCorp (Nasdaq: IACI). NOTE TO MEDIA: Electronic images of products and the Gear Awards logo are available upon request. CONTACT:ReserveAmericaJohn McDonald, 518-885-4282 ext. 5581jmcdonald@ReserveAmerica.comwww.ReserveAmerica.comorAmazon.comTracy Ogden, 206-266-1379SOURCE:Amazon.com

<p>BALLSTON SPA, N.Y.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--May 3, 2006--ReserveAmerica, the leading camping reservation service in North America, today announced the winners of their annual Camping Gear Awards. In addition and for the first time, ReserveAmerica customers can purchase the winning products directly from Amazon.com's (Nasdaq:AMZN) Camping &amp; Hiking store, which currently sells more than 35,000 camping and outdoor products.</p><p>ReserveAmerica's annual award list is developed by the editors of their publications, including The Campfire Chronicle with over one million subscribers, in conjunction with the opinions and feedback of visitors of ReserveAmerica's web site throughout the year.</p><p>Featuring 16 categories, including tents, sleeping bags, GPS units and binoculars, this comprehensive list is designed to help the 36.5 million campers in the U.S. select high-quality equipment for the upcoming camping season. In addition to the Gear Awards, ReserveAmerica customers can also use the camping checklist, which allows campers to automatically purchase items on their checklist directly from Amazon.com's Camping &amp; Hiking store.</p><p>Outdoor recreation enthusiasts can learn more and purchase products by visiting www.ReserveAmerica.com or www.Amazon.com/camping to learn more.</p><pre>Top TentsColeman SundomeEureka! Tetragon 1610Sierra Designs Sirius 3 Tent: 3 Season TentPaha Que The PromontoryKelty Teton 4 - 4-Person Backpacking TentColumbia 3-Person 7.5 x 7.5 Foot McKenzie Pass TentWenger 9' x 9' 4-Person Geneva I Sport Dome TentTop Camping GrillsColeman Roadtrip Grill LXEColeman Propane Camp GrillBrunton RaptorCamp Chef The ExplorerCamp Chef Pro 60Weber Propane Gas Go-Anywhere GrillCentury 4675 Deluxe Portable Propane Camp StoveTop BackpacksCamelbak HellionKelty SierraCabela's XPG 5000Mountainsmith ApproachJansport Endeavor ApproachFox 75+10L Internal Frame Backpack by NEBO Sports (Aztec Blue)Kelty Tioga 5000 (2006) - External Frame BackpackHigh Sierra Internal Frame Backpacks Dyno 65+10, Cinder/Red Spice/BlackLafuma Extreme 42 Overnight BackpackTop Camping LightingColeman Water Beam 2D Floating FlashlightColeman Wide Beam with Carabiner 2D FlashlightBrunton Glorb LEDCentury 7210 Double Mantle LanternBlack Diamond Nightray Headlamp (Orange)Coleman Endurance 6 LED LightTop Mountain BikesColumbia Trailhead Disc 26-Inch Mountain BikeMongoose Men's 26-Inch E303 Dual Suspension Mountain BikeJeep Cherokee Classic 26-inch Mountain BikeDahon Jack 26-Inch Folding Mountain BikeMobiky Genius Folding BikeTop Canoes/KayaksColeman Quest 9'6" Sit-On-Top Kayak with PaddleStearns Back Country Inflatable CanoePelican International Dare Devil Blue 15' CanoeSevylor Fiji inflatable Kayak with paddle and travel bagAdvanced Elements Adventure Kayak KitTop Camping Sleeping BagsEureka! Grasshopper KidsEureka! Copper River Mummy Sleeping BagColeman Exponent Northbound 25-Degree Mummy Sleeping BagSierra Designs Osage 35 Degree Down Sleeping Bag -- RegularMountain Hardwear Womens Clouds Rest Sleeping Bag : Down Winter Sleeping BagColumbia Thunder ScoutMarmot Helium EQ RegSlumberjack Baffin Sleeping BagMarmot Never Winter Sleeping BagTop Hiking Boots/ShoesChaco Water SandalsMen's Lowa Renegade II GTX MidWomen's Merrell Chameleon II Stretch -- Light BrownTeva X-1Columbia Skamania PassHI-TEC Altitude IV PlusMerrell Men's Chameleon II StretchChaco Women's Z/2 SandalMen's Timberland Chochorua TrailKamik Courage Hiking BootsTop Bug Sprays3M Ultrathon 8hr ProtectionSC Johnson OFF! Deep WoodsTender Corporation After BiteAll Terrain Herbal Armor Deet-Free RepellentMuskol Aerosol Insect RepellentTop BinocularsBrunton Eterna Mid-SizeOlympus OutbackSteiner PeregrineNikon Premier LX SeriesPentax DCF HR IICelestron Outland LXCanon IS All WeatherTop Digital CamerasCanon 18 x 50 IS All WeatherPentax *ist DLCasio EX-S600Steiner DC500 Digital CameraCelestron Vista PixNikon COOLPIX L4Olympus Stylus 800 DigitalTop GPS UnitsNavman ICN 320Brunton New Atlas MNS GPSGarmin GPS MAP 76CSxSuunto X9i Wrist GPSMagellane Xplorist 100 North AmericaTop Pop Up CampersFleetwood Niagara Model-Highlander SeriesStarcraft XL 36RT Off-RoadViking ClipperJayco BajaCoachmen FuturaTop Fishing GearStren Super Braid LineFlambeau Outdoors 3005 Tackle Station Soft Side BagFlambeau Outdoors 2400ST Fishing BackpackMinn Kota Maxxum Pro Bow-MountShimano Clarus Salmon &amp; Steelhead Spinning Rods; Model: CSS-86ML-2 (8' 6", ML)Cannon Sport TrollG. Loomis NativeRun GLX Fly and Spey Rods; Model: FR1207-4 GLXSage Two-Handed Series 4-Piece RodsRapala -- Shad Rap -- 5/16 oz. -- PerchBerkley Trilene XT Filler Spools; Pound test: 6 pound; Color: Low-Vis GreenMitchell Acovet Gold Spinning ReelRoddy By Penn 175 Baitcasting ReelQuantum -- Cabo PT 20 Baitcasting ReelTop CoolersColeman 52-Quart Xtreme CoolerColeman 82-Quart Ultimate Xtreme CoolerIgloo MaxCold 150-qt. CoolerIgloo -- Max Cold 60 Quart Wheeled Ice Blue/WhiteColeman 40-qt. Thermoelectric CoolerTop Camping AccessoriesRuffwear W.A.G. BagGrabber Hand/Feet WarmersSilva Ranger 530 Ultra CompassAir Grill BlowerKelty CarportColeman Portable SkilletColeman Deck Chair with TableCrazy Creek Sports ChairCamp Chef Cast Iron Dutch OvensCamp Chef Keg RoasterKatadyn Base Camp MicroFilterZodi Instant Hot ShowerKestrel Pocket Weather MeterSwiss Army Huntsman Plus Pocket Knife (Red)SmartWool Hiking Light Crew Socks -- Men'sColumbia Cloud Haven Packable Pillow</pre><p>About ReserveAmerica</p><p>ReserveAmerica is North America's leading camping reservation and campground management solutions provider. ReserveAmerica specializes in complete reservations solutions, stand-alone call center/database management tools, online reservations solutions and park software solutions. The Company manages the largest reservable campsite inventory with partnerships throughout North America. ReserveAmerica is an operating business of IAC/InterActiveCorp (Nasdaq: IACI).</p><p>NOTE TO MEDIA: Electronic images of products and the Gear Awards logo are available upon request.</p><p>CONTACT:ReserveAmericaJohn McDonald, 518-885-4282 ext. 5581jmcdonald@ReserveAmerica.comwww.ReserveAmerica.comorAmazon.comTracy Ogden, 206-266-1379SOURCE:Amazon.com</p>

Amazon.com Jewelry and Watch Sales Up More Than 100 Percent in First Quarter 2006

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Amazon.com-Jewelry-and-Watch-Sales-Up-More-Than-100-Percent-in-First-Quarter-2006

05/02/2006 09:01:00

Amazon.com Jewelry and Watch Sales Up More Than 100 Percent in First Quarter 2006

05/02/2006

2006

SEATTLE, May 02, 2006 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- Amazon.com, Inc. (Nasdaq:AMZN) today announced that first quarter 2006 jewelry sales increased more than 100 percent year-over-year. Each quarter, an increasing number of Amazon.com's millions of customers are shopping the Amazon Jewelry & Watches store, especially for important gift-giving occasions -- such as Valentine's Day. "We're extremely pleased that our strong fourth-quarter momentum continued into 2006," said Steven Goldsmith, vice president, Amazon.com Jewelry & Watches. "We suspect that there were a lot of very happy Valentine's Day celebrations among Amazon.com customers this year." In the first quarter of 2006, Amazon.com and its merchant partners in the Amazon Jewelry & Watches store sold more than 58,000 styles of jewelry and watches. Currently, the store is featuring the Top 50 Gifts for Mother's Day, with options ranging from diamond hoop earrings and pendants to classic pearl strands, to Movado and TAG Heuer watches. Customers can shop by material, such as diamonds, gemstones, pearls, platinum, gold or silver; by price, ranging from less than $25 to more than $10,000; and by seller or designer. Every piece of jewelry sold by Amazon.com is inspected by jewelry professionals to verify quality attributes and ensure an excellent product. Customers will find detailed product specifications about each of the piece's components, including gemstones, settings and metal stamps. A Learning Center provides buying guides for pearls, diamonds, precious metals, and watches. Loose stones are independently certified to be a specific cut, clarity, color, shape and weight. Finally, the store provides all of the tools and helpful information that Amazon.com customers know and love, such as Customer Reviews, Top Sellers lists, So You'd Like To guides and Listmania lists. About Amazon.com Amazon.com (Nasdaq:AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened its virtual doors on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and third-party sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished, and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden. Amazon.com and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com. As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc. and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise. his announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings. SOURCE:Amazon.com, Inc. Amazon.com, SeattleMedia Relations, 206-266-7180

<p>SEATTLE, May 02, 2006 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- Amazon.com, Inc. (Nasdaq:AMZN) today announced that first quarter 2006 jewelry sales increased more than 100 percent year-over-year. Each quarter, an increasing number of Amazon.com's millions of customers are shopping the Amazon Jewelry &amp; Watches store, especially for important gift-giving occasions -- such as Valentine's Day.</p><p>"We're extremely pleased that our strong fourth-quarter momentum continued into 2006," said Steven Goldsmith, vice president, Amazon.com Jewelry &amp; Watches. "We suspect that there were a lot of very happy Valentine's Day celebrations among Amazon.com customers this year."</p><p>In the first quarter of 2006, Amazon.com and its merchant partners in the Amazon Jewelry &amp; Watches store sold more than 58,000 styles of jewelry and watches.</p><p>Currently, the store is featuring the Top 50 Gifts for Mother's Day, with options ranging from diamond hoop earrings and pendants to classic pearl strands, to Movado and TAG Heuer watches. Customers can shop by material, such as diamonds, gemstones, pearls, platinum, gold or silver; by price, ranging from less than $25 to more than $10,000; and by seller or designer.</p><p>Every piece of jewelry sold by Amazon.com is inspected by jewelry professionals to verify quality attributes and ensure an excellent product. Customers will find detailed product specifications about each of the piece's components, including gemstones, settings and metal stamps. A Learning Center provides buying guides for pearls, diamonds, precious metals, and watches. Loose stones are independently certified to be a specific cut, clarity, color, shape and weight. Finally, the store provides all of the tools and helpful information that Amazon.com customers know and love, such as Customer Reviews, Top Sellers lists, So You'd Like To guides and Listmania lists.</p><p>About Amazon.com</p><p>Amazon.com (Nasdaq:AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened its virtual doors on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and third-party sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished, and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden.</p><p>Amazon.com and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com.</p><p>As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc. and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise.</p><p>his announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings.</p><p>SOURCE:Amazon.com, Inc.</p><p>Amazon.com, SeattleMedia Relations, 206-266-7180</p>

Exclusive, Never-Before-Seen Dixie Chicks Video Now Available for Viewing on Amazon.com

/news/news-details/2006/Exclusive-Never-Before-Seen-Dixie-Chicks-Video-Now-Available-for-Viewing-on-Amazon.com/default.aspx

Exclusive-Never-Before-Seen-Dixie-Chicks-Video-Now-Available-for-Viewing-on-Amazon.com

05/01/2006 08:00:00

Exclusive, Never-Before-Seen Dixie Chicks Video Now Available for Viewing on Amazon.com

05/01/2006

2006

The Dixie Chicks offer unique glimpse of their highly anticipated new album by creating video footage exclusively for Amazon.com customers SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--May 1, 2006-- Amazon.com (Nasdaq:AMZN) today premiered video footage, created exclusively for Amazon.com, of the Dixie Chicks performing "The Long Way Around," the first track on their new album, Taking the Long Way, slated for release on May 23. For one week starting today, this footage is available only on Amazon.com at www.amazon.com/dixiechicks. "The Long Way Around" is the first of 14 tracks on this much-anticipated album and was co-written by the Dixie Chicks themselves. "This is one of the year's most eagerly-awaited new releases and the Dixie Chicks are one of our top-selling artists, so we are thrilled to provide fans with this exclusive sneak-peek," said Jeff Belle, Amazon.com's vice president of worldwide media buying. Filmed in a rehearsal studio in Austin, this exclusive video footage also contains commentary from the band discussing the new album and how the single, "The Long Way Around," came to fruition. Taking the Long Way is the fourth album from the nine-time Grammy Award-winning trio, and will be released on May 23. The album is currently available for pre-order on Amazon.com (www.amazon.com) for $9.98 -- a savings of 47 percent. About Amazon.com, Inc. Amazon.com, Inc., (Nasdaq:AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden. Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com. As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise. Forward-Looking Statement This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings. CONTACT:Amazon.com Media RelationsTracy Ogden, 206-266-7180ogden@amazon.comSOURCE:Amazon.com

<p>The Dixie Chicks offer unique glimpse of their highly anticipated new album by creating video footage exclusively for Amazon.com customers</p><p>SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--May 1, 2006-- Amazon.com (Nasdaq:AMZN) today premiered video footage, created exclusively for Amazon.com, of the Dixie Chicks performing "The Long Way Around," the first track on their new album, Taking the Long Way, slated for release on May 23.</p><p>For one week starting today, this footage is available only on Amazon.com at www.amazon.com/dixiechicks. "The Long Way Around" is the first of 14 tracks on this much-anticipated album and was co-written by the Dixie Chicks themselves.</p><p>"This is one of the year's most eagerly-awaited new releases and the Dixie Chicks are one of our top-selling artists, so we are thrilled to provide fans with this exclusive sneak-peek," said Jeff Belle, Amazon.com's vice president of worldwide media buying.</p><p>Filmed in a rehearsal studio in Austin, this exclusive video footage also contains commentary from the band discussing the new album and how the single, "The Long Way Around," came to fruition.</p><p>Taking the Long Way is the fourth album from the nine-time Grammy Award-winning trio, and will be released on May 23. The album is currently available for pre-order on Amazon.com (www.amazon.com) for $9.98 -- a savings of 47 percent.</p><p>About Amazon.com, Inc.</p><p>Amazon.com, Inc., (Nasdaq:AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden.</p><p>Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com.</p><p>As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise.</p><p>Forward-Looking Statement</p><p>This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings.</p><p>CONTACT:Amazon.com Media RelationsTracy Ogden, 206-266-7180ogden@amazon.comSOURCE:Amazon.com</p>

First Anniversary of Amazon Prime Brings Continued Strong Growth; Free Cash Flow Grows 20% Year over Year

/news/news-details/2006/First-Anniversary-of-Amazon-Prime-Brings-Continued-Strong-Growth-Free-Cash-Flow-Grows-20-Year-over-Year/default.aspx

First-Anniversary-of-Amazon-Prime-Brings-Continued-Strong-Growth-Free-Cash-Flow-Grows-20-Year-over-Year

04/25/2006 16:03:00

First Anniversary of Amazon Prime Brings Continued Strong Growth; Free Cash Flow Grows 20% Year over Year

04/25/2006

2006

SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--April 25, 2006--Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ:AMZN) today announced financial results for its first quarter ended March 31, 2006. Operating cash flow grew 38% to $724 million for the trailing twelve months, compared with $523 million for the trailing twelve months ended March 31, 2005. Free cash flow grew 20% to $501 million for the trailing twelve months, compared with $417 million for the trailing twelve months ended March 31, 2005. Operating cash flow and free cash flow include a one-time payment of $40 million in connection with a patent lawsuit settlement in third quarter 2005. Common shares outstanding plus shares underlying stock-based awards outstanding totaled 438 million at March 31, 2006, compared with 434 million a year ago. Net sales increased 20% to $2.28 billion in the first quarter, compared with $1.90 billion in first quarter 2005. Excluding the $94 million unfavorable impact from year-over-year changes in foreign exchange rates throughout the quarter, net sales grew 25% compared with first quarter 2005. Operating income decreased 2% to $106 million in the first quarter, compared with $108 million in first quarter 2005. Excluding the $8 million unfavorable impact from year-over-year changes in foreign exchange rates throughout the quarter, operating income grew 6% compared with first quarter 2005. Net income was $51 million in the first quarter, or $0.12 per diluted share, compared with net income of $78 million, or $0.18 per diluted share in first quarter 2005. First quarter 2005 includes a $26 million, or $0.06 per diluted share, gain for the cumulative effect of a change in accounting principle related to the Company's early adoption of SFAS 123(R). "We're pleased to see strong quarter-to-quarter sequential growth for new Amazon Prime subscriptions," said Jeff Bezos, founder and CEO of Amazon.com. "This sequential growth comes off our biggest holiday season ever, and one where new subscriptions to Amazon Prime more than doubled from November to December." Amazon Prime, Amazon.com's first-ever membership program, was introduced in February 2005. For a flat membership fee of $79 per year, Amazon Prime members get unlimited, express two-day shipping for free, with no minimum purchase requirement on over a million eligible items sold by Amazon.com. Members can order as late as 6:30 p.m. ET and still get their order the next day for only $3.99 per item, and they can share the benefits of Amazon Prime with up to four family members living in their household. Sign up for Amazon Prime at www.amazon.com/prime. Highlights North America segment sales, representing the Company's U.S. and Canadian sites, were $1.25 billion, up 21% from first quarter 2005. International segment sales, representing the Company's U.K., German, Japanese, French and Chinese sites, were $1.03 billion, up 18% from first quarter 2005. Excluding the unfavorable impact from year-over-year changes in foreign exchange rates throughout the quarter, International net sales growth was 29%. Worldwide Electronics & Other General Merchandise represented 28% of worldwide net sales, compared with 25% in first quarter 2005. Worldwide Other revenue, which includes Amazon Enterprise Solutions, increased 31% to $62 million in first quarter 2006. Additionally, the Company announced new enterprise solutions agreements with Timex and Benefit Cosmetics, a subsidiary of luxury group LVMH Moet Hennessy Louis Vuitton, to provide customized solutions for timex.com, benefitcosmetics.com and benefitcosmetics.co.uk. Amazon Web Services launched Amazon S3, a simple storage service for software developers. S3 provides an Application Programming Interface for highly scalable, reliable, low-latency data storage at very low costs. Developers continue to adopt Amazon's web services - over 160,000 have registered to date, up more than 60% year over year. The Company introduced "click to call," a new feature for our U.S., U.K., German and French websites that allows customers to be connected quickly with a customer service representative who often already has the customer's account information in front of them, saving the customer time and increasing satisfaction. The Company acquired Shopbop.com, a retailer of fashion-forward apparel, shoes and accessories for women, featuring products from more than 75 leading designers including Marc Jacobs, Juicy Couture and True Religion. Financial Guidance The following forward-looking statements reflect Amazon.com's expectations as of April 25, 2006. Results may be materially affected by many factors, such as fluctuations in foreign exchange rates, changes in global economic conditions and consumer spending, world events, the rate of growth of the Internet and online commerce, and the various factors detailed below. Second Quarter 2006 Guidance Net sales are expected to be between $2.03 billion and $2.18 billion, or to grow between 16% and 24% compared with second quarter 2005. Operating income is expected to be between $32 million and $67 million, or between (69%) decline and (36%) decline, compared with second quarter 2005. This guidance includes $38 million for stock-based compensation and amortization of intangible assets, and it assumes, among other things, that no additional intangible assets are recorded and that there are no further revisions to stock-based compensation estimates. Full Year 2006 Expectations Net sales are expected to be between $9.95 billion and $10.50 billion, or to grow between 17% and 24% compared with 2005. Operating income is expected to be between $390 million and $520 million, or between (10%) decline and 20% growth, compared with 2005. This guidance includes $125 million for stock-based compensation and amortization of intangible assets, and it assumes, among other things, that no additional intangible assets are recorded and that there are no further revisions to stock-based compensation estimates. We are appealing a recent court decision that terminates our Toysrus.com contract and are seeking a stay of the termination pending a decision on our appeal. While we believe we will prevail and that Toysrus.com's claims lack merit, the timing and possible outcomes of this litigation are uncertain and possible effects of termination are not reflected in the guidance above. If we do not prevail, operating profit could be negatively impacted by as much as $50 million for the year, including by as much as $25 million for the second quarter. A conference call will be webcast live today at 2 p.m. PT/5 p.m. ET, and will be available for at least three months at www.amazon.com/ir. This call will contain forward-looking statements and other material information regarding the Company's financial and operating results. These forward-looking statements are inherently difficult to predict. Actual results could differ materially for a variety of reasons, including, in addition to the factors discussed above, the amount that Amazon.com invests in new business opportunities and the timing of those investments, the mix of products sold to customers, the mix of net sales derived from products as compared with services, competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international growth and expansion, the outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, risks of inventory management, seasonality, the degree to which the Company enters into, maintains and develops commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, payments risks, and risks of fulfillment throughput and productivity. Other risks and uncertainties include, among others, risk of future losses, significant indebtedness, system interruptions, consumer trends, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, fraud, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings. About Amazon.com Amazon.com (NASDAQ:AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened its virtual doors on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and third-party sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished, and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden. Amazon.com and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com. As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc. and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise. AMAZON.COM, INC. Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (in millions) (unaudited) Three Months Ended Twelve Months Ended March 31, March 31, --------------- ---------------- 2006 2005 2006 2005 ------ ------ ------- ------- CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, BEGINNING OF PERIOD $1,013 $1,303 $ 533 $ 769 OPERATING ACTIVITIES: Net income 51 78 332 555 Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash from operating activities: Depreciation of fixed assets, including internal-use software and website development, and other amortization 40 28 132 86 Stock-based compensation 11 19 79 70 Other operating expense (income) 3 1 9 (7) Losses on sales of marketable securities, net 2 - - 1 Remeasurements and other 3 (14) (26) 8 Non-cash interest expense and other 1 1 5 5 Deferred income taxes 10 50 31 (200) Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle - (26) - (26) Changes in operating assets and liabilities: Inventories 33 72 (143) (110) Accounts receivable, net and other current assets 50 10 (44) (6) Accounts payable (442) (425) 258 117 Accrued expenses and other current liabilities (71) (92) 81 22 Additions to unearned revenue 54 29 181 115 Amortization of previously unearned revenue (48) (25) (171) (107) ------ ------ ------- ------- Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities (303) (294) 724 523 INVESTING ACTIVITIES: Purchases of fixed assets, including internal-use software and website development (46) (26) (223) (106) Acquisitions, net of cash acquired (28) (15) (37) (86) Sales and maturities of marketable securities and other investments 288 348 776 1,205 Purchases of marketable securities (130) (504) (1,012) (1,583) ------ ------ ------- ------- Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities 84 (197) (496) (570) FINANCING ACTIVITIES: Proceeds from exercises of stock options 7 8 57 54 Excess tax benefit on stock awards 7 1 13 1 Proceeds from long-term debt and other 3 - 16 - Repayments of long-term debt and capital lease obligations (313) (265) (320) (267) ------ ------ ------- ------- Net cash used in financing activities (296) (256) (234) (212) Foreign-currency effect on cash and cash equivalents 9 (23) (20) 23 ------ ------ ------- ------- Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents (506) (770) (26) (236) ------ ------ ------- ------- CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, END OF PERIOD $ 507 $ 533 $ 507 $ 533 ====== ====== ======= ======= SUPPLEMENTAL CASH FLOW INFORMATION: Cash paid for interest $ 63 $ 84 $ 84 $ 106 Cash paid for income taxes 5 3 13 7 AMAZON.COM, INC. Consolidated Statements of Operations (in millions, except per share data) (unaudited) Three Months Ended March 31, --------------- 2006 2005 ------ ------ Net sales $2,279 $1,902 Cost of sales 1,732 1,444 ------ ------ Gross profit 547 458 Operating expenses(1): Fulfillment 193 166 Marketing 54 45 Technology and content 146 92 General and administrative 45 46 Other operating expense 3 1 ------ ------ Total operating expenses 441 350 ------ ------ Income from operations 106 108 Interest income 15 9 Interest expense (21) (26) Other income (expense), net (1) 3 Remeasurements and other (3) 14 ------ ------ Total non-operating expense (10) - ------ ------ Income before income taxes 96 108 Provision for income taxes 45 56 ------ ------ Income before cumulative effect of change in accounting principle 51 52 Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle - 26 ------ ------ Net income $ 51 $ 78 ====== ====== Basic earnings per share: Prior to cumulative effect of change in accounting principle $ 0.12 $ 0.13 Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle - 0.06 ------ ------ $ 0.12 $ 0.19 ====== ====== Diluted earnings per share: Prior to cumulative effect of change in accounting principle $ 0.12 $ 0.12 Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle - 0.06 ------ ------ $ 0.12 $ 0.18 ====== ====== Weighted average shares used in computation of earnings per share: Basic 417 410 ====== ====== Diluted 426 424 ====== ====== (1) Includes stock-based compensation as follows: Fulfillment $ 3 $ 4 Marketing - 1 Technology and content 8 10 General and administrative - 4 AMAZON.COM, INC. Segment Information (in millions) (unaudited) Three Months Ended March 31, ------------------ 2006 2005 ------- ------- North America Net sales $ 1,247 $ 1,027 Cost of sales 906 748 ------- ------- Gross profit 341 279 Direct segment operating expenses (1) 279 213 ------- ------- Segment operating income 62 66 International Net sales 1,032 875 Cost of sales 826 696 ------- ------- Gross profit 206 179 Direct segment operating expenses (1) 148 117 ------- ------- Segment operating income 58 62 Consolidated Net sales 2,279 1,902 Cost of sales 1,732 1,444 ------- ------- Gross profit 547 458 Direct segment operating expenses 427 330 ------- ------- Segment operating income 120 128 Stock-based compensation (11) (19) Other operating expense (3) (1) ------- ------- Income from operations 106 108 Total non-operating expense, net (10) - Provision for income taxes (45) (56) Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle - 26 ------- ------- Net income $ 51 $ 78 ======= ======= Segment Highlights: Y/Y net sales growth: North America 21% 21% International 18 28 Consolidated 20 24 Y/Y gross profit growth: North America 22% 23% International 15 33 Consolidated 19 27 Y/Y segment operating income growth: North America (6%) (13%) International (7) 51 Consolidated (7) 10 Net sales mix: North America 55% 54% International 45 46 --------------------------------- (1) A significant majority of our costs for "Technology and content" are incurred in the United States and most of these costs are allocated to our North America segment. AMAZON.COM, INC. Supplemental Net Sales Information (in millions) (unaudited) Three Months Ended March 31, --------------------- 2006 2005 --------- --------- North America Media $ 815 $ 699 Electronics and other general merchandise 374 282 Other 58 46 --------- --------- 1,247 1,027 International Media 763 675 Electronics and other general merchandise 265 199 Other 4 1 --------- --------- 1,032 875 Consolidated Media 1,578 1,374 Electronics and other general merchandise 639 481 Other 62 47 --------- --------- $ 2,279 $ 1,902 ========= ========= Y/Y Net Sales Growth: North America: Media 17% 17% Electronics and other general merchandise 33 25 Other 24 96 International: Media 13% 17% Electronics and other general merchandise 33 86 Other 432 74 Consolidated: Media 15% 17% Electronics and other general merchandise 33 45 Other 31 95 Consolidated Net Sales Mix: Media 69% 72% Electronics and other general merchandise 28 25 Other 3 3 AMAZON.COM, INC. Consolidated Balance Sheets (in millions, except per share data) March 31, December 31, March 31, 2006 2005 2005 ---------- ------- ---------- ASSETS (unaudited) (unaudited) Current assets: Cash and cash equivalents $ 507 $ 1,013 $ 533 Marketable securities 827 987 618 ---------- ------- ---------- Cash, cash equivalents, and marketable securities 1,334 2,000 1,151 Inventories 538 566 403 Deferred tax assets, current portion 86 89 68 Accounts receivable, net and other current assets 228 274 171 ---------- ------- ---------- Total current assets 2,186 2,929 1,793 Fixed assets, net 361 348 245 Deferred tax assets, long-term portion 205 223 239 Goodwill 193 159 149 Other assets 45 37 46 ---------- ------- ---------- Total assets $ 2,990 $ 3,696 $ 2,472 ========== ======= ========== LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY (DEFICIT) Current liabilities: Accounts payable $ 920 $ 1,366 $ 704 Accrued expenses and other current liabilities 487 563 369 ---------- ------- ---------- Total current liabilities 1,407 1,929 1,073 Long-term debt and other 1,259 1,521 1,561 Commitments and contingencies Stockholders' Equity (Deficit): Preferred stock, $0.01 par value: Authorized shares -- 500 Issued and outstanding shares -- none - - - Common stock, $0.01 par value: Authorized shares -- 5,000 Issued and outstanding shares -- 417, 416 and 411 4 4 4 Additional paid-in capital 2,287 2,263 2,118 Accumulated other comprehensive income 9 6 24 Accumulated deficit (1,976) (2,027) (2,308) ---------- ------- ---------- Total stockholders' equity (deficit) 324 246 (162) ---------- ------- ---------- Total liabilities and stockholders' equity (deficit) $ 2,990 $ 3,696 $ 2,472 ========== ======= ========== AMAZON.COM, INC. Supplemental Financial Information and Business Metrics (in millions, except per share data) (unaudited) ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Q1 Y/Y % 2005 2005 2005 2005 2006 Change --------------------------------------------- Cash Flows and Shares Operating cash flow -- trailing twelve months (TTM) (1) $ 523 $ 624 $ 661 $ 733 $ 724 38% Purchase of fixed assets (incl. internal-use software & website development) -- TTM $ 106 $ 138 $ 186 $ 204 $ 223 110% Free cash flow (operating cash flow less purchases of fixed assets) -- TTM (1) $ 417 $ 486 $ 475 $ 529 $ 501 20% Common shares and stock- based awards outstanding 434 438 438 438 438 1% Common shares outstanding 411 412 414 416 417 2% Stock-based awards outstanding 24 26 24 22 21 (14%) Stock-based awards outstanding -- % of common shares outstanding 5.7% 6.3% 5.8% 5.2% 4.9% N/A Results of Operations Worldwide (WW) net sales $1,902 $ 1,753 $ 1,858 $ 2,977 $ 2,279 20% WW net sales -- Y/Y growth, excluding the effect of foreign exchange rates 22.3% 24.6% 27.6% 21.9% 24.8% N/A WW net sales -- TTM $7,292 $ 7,658 $ 8,054 $ 8,490 $ 8,867 22% WW net sales -- TTM Y/Y growth, excluding the effect of foreign exchange rates 23.9% 24.4% 25.2% 23.7% 24.3% N/A Gross profit $ 458 $ 450 $ 463 $ 667 $ 547 19% Gross margin -- % of WW net sales 24.1% 25.7% 24.9% 22.4% 24.0% N/A Gross profit -- TTM $1,700 $ 1,809 $ 1,917 $ 2,039 $ 2,128 25% Gross margin -- TTM % of WW net sales 23.3% 23.6% 23.8% 24.0% 24.0% N/A Operating income (1) $ 108 $ 104 $ 55 $ 165 $ 106 (2%) Operating margin -- % of WW net sales (1) 5.7% 6.0% 3.0% 5.5% 4.6% N/A Operating income -- TTM (1) $ 438 $ 456 $ 430 $ 432 $ 430 (2%) Operating margin -- TTM % of WW net sales (1) 6.0% 6.0% 5.3% 5.1% 4.8% N/A Net income (1) (2) $ 78 $ 52 $ 30 $ 199 $ 51 (34%) Net income per diluted share (1) (2) $ 0.18 $ 0.12 $ 0.07 $ 0.47 $ 0.12 (34%) Net income -- TTM (1) (2) $ 555 $ 531 $ 507 $ 359 $ 332 (40%) Net income per diluted share -- TTM (1) (2) $ 1.31 $ 1.25 $ 1.19 $ 0.84 $ 0.78 (40%) Segments North America Segment: Net sales $1,027 $ 960 $ 1,041 $ 1,683 $ 1,247 21% Net sales -- Y/Y growth, excluding the effect of foreign exchange rates 21.1% 21.0% 27.4% 20.8% 21.3% N/A Net sales -- TTM $4,027 $ 4,195 $ 4,420 $ 4,711 $ 4,931 22% Gross profit $ 279 $ 278 $ 292 $ 418 $ 341 22% Gross margin -- % of North America net sales 27.2% 29.0% 28.1% 24.8% 27.3% N/A Gross profit -- TTM $1,077 $ 1,135 $ 1,204 $ 1,267 $ 1,329 23% Gross margin -- TTM % of North America net sales 26.7% 27.1% 27.2% 26.9% 27.0% N/A Operating income $ 66 $ 72 $ 66 $ 92 $ 62 (6%) Operating margin -- % of North America net sales 6.4% 7.5% 6.4% 5.5% 5.0% N/A Operating income -- TTM $ 311 $ 317 $ 326 $ 296 $ 292 (6%) Operating margin -- TTM % of North America net sales 7.7% 7.6% 7.4% 6.3% 5.9% N/A International Segment: Net sales $ 875 $ 793 $ 817 $ 1,294 $ 1,032 18% Net sales -- Y/Y growth, excluding the effect of foreign exchange rates 23.8% 29.3% 27.8% 23.2% 28.9% N/A Net sales -- TTM $3,265 $ 3,463 $ 3,634 $ 3,779 $ 3,936 21% Net sales -- TTM % of WW net sales 44.8% 45.2% 45.1% 44.5% 44.4% N/A Gross profit $ 179 $ 172 $ 171 $ 249 $ 206 15% Gross margin -- % of International net sales 20.5% 21.7% 20.9% 19.3% 20.0% N/A Gross profit -- TTM $ 623 $ 674 $ 713 $ 772 $ 799 28% Gross margin -- TTM % of International net sales 19.1% 19.5% 19.6% 20.4% 20.3% N/A Operating income $ 62 $ 60 $ 55 $ 93 $ 58 (7%) Operating margin -- % of International net sales 7.2% 7.6% 6.7% 7.1% 5.6% N/A Operating income -- TTM $ 190 $ 216 $ 233 $ 270 $ 265 39% Operating margin -- TTM % of International net sales 5.8% 6.2% 6.4% 7.1% 6.7% N/A ------------------------ ------ ------- ------- ------- ------------- AMAZON.COM, INC. Supplemental Financial Information and Business Metrics (in millions, except inventory turnover, accounts payable days, and employee data) (unaudited) ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Q1 Y/Y % 2005 2005 2005 2005 2006 Change --------------------------------------------- Segments (continued) Consolidated Segments: Operating expenses $ 330 $ 318 $ 342 $ 482 $ 427 30% Operating expenses -- TTM $1,198 $ 1,276 $ 1,358 $ 1,473 $ 1,570 31% Operating income $ 128 $ 132 $ 121 $ 185 $ 120 (7%) Operating margin -- % of consolidated sales 6.8% 7.5% 6.5% 6.2% 5.3% N/A Operating income -- TTM $ 502 $ 533 $ 559 $ 566 $ 558 11% Operating margin -- TTM % of consolidated net sales 6.9% 7.0% 6.9% 6.7% 6.3% N/A Supplemental North America Segment Net Sales: Media $ 699 $ 632 $ 684 $ 1,030 $ 815 17% Media -- TTM $2,690 $ 2,780 $ 2,901 $ 3,046 $ 3,163 18% Electronics and other general merchandise $ 282 $ 278 $ 304 $ 580 $ 374 33% Electronics and other general merchandise -- TTM $1,185 $ 1,236 $ 1,311 $ 1,443 $ 1,534 29% Electronics and other general merchandise -- TTM % of North America net sales 29% 29% 30% 31% 31% N/A Other $ 46 $ 50 $ 53 $ 73 $ 58 24% Other -- TTM $ 153 $ 178 $ 208 $ 222 $ 234 53% Supplemental International Segment Net Sales: Media $ 675 $ 614 $ 629 $ 968 $ 763 13% Media -- TTM $2,612 $ 2,730 $ 2,828 $ 2,885 $ 2,972 14% Electronics and other general merchandise $ 199 $ 178 $ 187 $ 321 $ 265 33% Electronics and other general merchandise -- TTM $ 651 $ 730 $ 801 $ 886 $ 952 46% Electronics and other general merchandise -- TTM % of International net sales 20% 21% 22% 23% 24% N/A Other $ 1 $ 1 $ 1 $ 5 $ 4 432% Other -- TTM $ 3 $ 3 $ 4 $ 8 $ 11 317% Supplemental Worldwide Net Sales: Media $1,374 $ 1,246 $ 1,313 $ 1,998 $ 1,578 15% Media -- TTM $5,302 $ 5,510 $ 5,730 $ 5,931 $ 6,135 16% Electronics and other general merchandise $ 481 $ 456 $ 491 $ 901 $ 639 33% Electronics and other general merchandise -- TTM $1,835 $ 1,966 $ 2,113 $ 2,329 $ 2,486 35% Electronics and other general merchandise -- TTM % of WW net sales 25% 26% 26% 27% 28% N/A Other $ 47 $ 51 $ 54 $ 78 $ 62 31% Other -- TTM $ 156 $ 181 $ 211 $ 230 $ 245 58% Balance Sheet Cash and marketable securities $1,151 $ 1,325 $ 1,419 $ 2,000 $ 1,334 16% Inventory, net -- ending $ 403 $ 383 $ 456 $ 566 $ 538 33% Inventory -- average inventory % of TTM net sales 5.0% 5.0% 5.2% 5.4% 5.3% N/A Inventory turnover, average -- TTM 15.5 15.3 14.8 14.1 14.4 (7%) Fixed assets, net $ 245 $ 267 $ 322 $ 348 $ 361 47% Accounts payable days -- ending $ 44 $ 51 $ 58 $ 54 $ 48 9% Other Employees (full-time and part-time; excludes contractors & temporary personnel) 9,400 10,200 11,100 12,000 12,400 31% ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Note: The attached "Financial and Operational Summary" is an integral part of this Supplemental Financial Information and Business Metrics. (1) The Company settled a patent lawsuit on terms including a one- time payment of $40 million in Q3 2005. This negatively impacts TTM operating cash flow and free cash flow by $40 million for all periods that include Q3 2005. The settlement negatively affected Q3 2005 operating income by $40 million, and Q3 2005 net income by $20 million after tax. (2) Q4 2005 net income includes a tax benefit of $90 million related to determining that certain of our deferred tax assets are realizable. Amazon.com, Inc.Financial and Operational Summary(unaudited) Quarterly Results of Operations (comparisons are with the equivalent period of the prior year, unless otherwise stated) Net Sales Shipping revenue was $129 million, up 20% from $108 million. Amounts paid in advance for subscription services, including amounts received from online DVD rentals, Amazon Prime and other membership programs, are deferred and recognized as revenue over the subscription term. Net sales includes fixed fees, commissions and per-unit fees earned from third-party sellers and similar amounts earned through Amazon Enterprise Solutions. Cost of Sales Cost of sales consists of the purchase price of products sold by us, inbound and outbound shipping charges, packaging supplies, amortization of our DVD rental library and service costs such as those incurred in operating and staffing our fulfillment and customer service centers on behalf of third parties. Inbound shipping charges to receive products from our suppliers are included in inventory cost and recognized as cost of sales upon sale to our customers. Outbound shipping costs totaled $197 million, up 21% from $163 million. Net shipping loss was $68 million, up 22% from a net shipping loss of $55 million, resulting primarily from our free shipping offers and Amazon Prime. While costs associated with free shipping, including Amazon Prime, are not included in marketing expense, we view our free shipping offers as an effective worldwide marketing tool and intend to continue offering them indefinitely. In Q1 2006 we offered free membership trials for Amazon Prime and expect to continue to offer these trials in the future. Operating Expenses Depreciation expense for fixed assets, including amortization of internal-use software and website development, was $38 million, up from $23 million. Depreciation is recorded on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives of the assets--generally two years or less for assets such as internal-use software and our DVD rental library, three years for our technology infrastructure, five years for furniture and fixtures, and ten years for heavy equipment. Depreciation expense is generally classified within operating expense categories on the consolidated statements of operations, and certain assets, such as our DVD rental library, are amortized to cost of sales. Stock-based compensation was $11 million, a decrease of $8 million year over year. In Q1 2006 we recorded a $13 million benefit, $8 million net of tax or $0.02 per diluted share, representing the cumulative effect of increasing our estimated rate of stock award forfeitures. As a result, the net amount of stock-based compensation classified as general and administrative and marketing on our consolidated statements of operations was insignificant for Q1 2006. Operating expenses with and without stock-based compensation are as follows: Three Months Ended Three Months Ended March 31, 2006 March 31, 2005 -------------------------- -------------------------- As Stock-Based As Stock-Based Reported Compensation Net Reported Compensation Net -------- ------------ ---- -------- ------------ ---- Operating Expenses: Fulfillment $ 193 $ (3) $190 $ 166 $ (4) $162 Marketing 54 - 54 45 (1) 44 Technology and content 146 (8) 138 92 (10) 82 General and administrative 45 - 45 46 (4) 42 Other operating expense 3 - 3 1 - 1 ------- ------- ---- ------- ------- ---- Total operating expenses $ 441 $ (11) $430 $ 350 $ (19) $331 ======= ======= ==== ======= ======= ==== Year-over-year Percentage Growth: Fulfillment 16 % 17 % 29 % 28 % Marketing 21 26 30 28 Technology and content 59 69 57 49 General and administrative (3) 7 57 53 Percent of Net Sales: Fulfillment 8.5 % 8.3 % 8.8 % 8.6 % Marketing 2.4 2.4 2.3 2.3 Technology and content 6.4 6.1 4.8 4.3 General and administrative 2.0 2.0 2.4 2.2 Fulfillment Fulfillment costs represent those costs incurred in operating and staffing our fulfillment and customer service centers, including costs attributable to buying, receiving, inspecting and warehousing inventories; picking, packaging and preparing customer orders for shipment; and payment processing fees and transaction costs, including costs associated with our guarantee of certain third-party seller transactions and responding to inquiries from customers. Fulfillment costs also include amounts paid to third parties who assist us in fulfillment and customer service operations. Payment processing fees associated with third-party seller sales are based on the gross purchase price of underlying transactions, and transaction costs, such as our A to Z Guarantee, are higher as a percentage of revenue versus our retail sales. Accordingly, third-party sales have higher fulfillment costs as a percentage of net sales. The increase in fulfillment costs in absolute dollars relates to costs from expanding fulfillment capacity; and variable costs corresponding with sales volume and inventory levels; our mix of product sales; and payment processing and related transaction costs, including mix of payment methods and costs from our guarantee for certain third-party seller transactions. First quarter 2005 included a charge of $5 million relating to certain North America fulfillment assets removed from service. We expanded our fulfillment capacity in Q1 2006 and throughout 2005 through gains in efficiencies as well as increases in leased warehouse space. We plan to continue expanding our worldwide fulfillment capacity--although to add less space than in 2005--in order to accommodate greater selection and to meet anticipated shipment volumes from sales of our own products as well as sales by third parties for which we provide the fulfillment. We expect absolute amounts spent in fulfillment and fulfillment-related cost of sales to increase over time. Marketing Marketing costs increased in absolute terms, primarily corresponding with revenue growth as we utilized variable online marketing channels, such as our Associates program, sponsored search and other variable marketing initiatives. To the extent there is increased or decreased competition for these traffic sources, or to the extent our mix of these channels shifts, we would expect to see a corresponding change in our marketing expense or its effect. We expect absolute amounts spent in marketing to increase over time. Technology and Content Technology and content expenses consist principally of payroll and related expenses for employees involved in research and development, including application development, editorial content, merchandising selection, and systems and telecommunications support, as well as costs associated with infrastructure. In 2005, we added a significant number of computer scientists and software engineers to our staff so that we can continue to enhance the customer experience on our websites and those websites powered by us, improve our process efficiency, and continue to invest in several areas of technology, including seller platforms, search, web services and digital initiatives. We expect the year-over-year percentage growth in technology and content, excluding stock-based compensation, to decrease substantially in the back half of 2006. A significant majority of our technology costs are incurred in the U.S. and most of them are allocated to our North America segment. Certain costs relating to the development of internal-use software and website development, including software to upgrade and enhance our websites and processes supporting our business, are capitalized and depreciated over two years. In Q1 2006 and Q1 2005, we capitalized $26 million (including $1 million of stock-based compensation) and $18 million (including $2 million of stock-based compensation) of costs associated with internal-use software and website development, which are partially offset by amortization of previously capitalized amounts of $18 million and $10 million. General and Administrative General and administrative costs decreased primarily due to a prior year charge of $8 million relating to litigation matters, offset partially by increases in payroll and related expenses. We expect absolute amounts spent in general and administrative to increase over time. Stock-Based Compensation Stock-based compensation was $11 million, down from $19 million. The decrease in stock-based compensation is primarily attributable to a cumulative forfeiture adjustment benefit in Q1 2006, partially offset by general growth in stock unit grants corresponding with an increase in employees. As of January 1, 2005, we adopted SFAS 123(R), which requires measurement of compensation cost for stock-based awards at grant date fair value. The fair value of restricted stock and restricted stock units is determined based on the number of shares granted and the quoted price of our common stock, while the fair value of stock options is determined using a Black-Scholes valuation model. The fair value is recognized as an expense over the service period, net of estimated forfeitures, using the accelerated method under SFAS 123(R). The adoption of SFAS 123(R) in first quarter 2005 resulted in a cumulative benefit from accounting change of $26 million, which reflects the net cumulative impact of estimating forfeitures in the determination of period expense, rather than recording forfeitures when they occur as previously permitted. Stock-based awards generally vest over service periods of between two and five years. Payroll tax expense resulting from exercises of stock-based awards is a cash expense and is not categorized as stock-based compensation. We granted stock awards, substantially all of which have been restricted stock units since October 2002, of 1 million shares in the quarter. Our annual stock awards are granted in the second quarter. As of March 31, 2006, there were 21 million shares underlying outstanding stock awards, consisting of 11 million shares underlying stock options with a $15 weighted-average exercise price and 10 million shares underlying restricted stock units. As of March 31, 2005, there were 24 million stock awards outstanding. As of March 31, 2006, there were 438 million common shares and stock-based awards outstanding, up 1% from 434 million as of March 31, 2005. This total includes all stock-based awards outstanding, without regard for estimated forfeitures, consisting of vested and unvested awards and in-the-money and out-of-the-money stock options. Other Operating Expense Other operating expense primarily includes costs related to intangibles amortization. We acquired one company during Q1 2006 for a purchase price of $47 million, including a $28 million cash payment in Q1 2006 and a $19 million amount due in 2007. The excess of purchase price over the fair value of the net assets acquired was $33 million and is classified as goodwill on our consolidated balance sheets. Acquired other intangibles totaled $14 million and have estimated useful lives of between one and ten years. The results of operations of the acquired business have been included in our consolidated results from the closing date forward. The effect of this acquisition on consolidated net sales and operating income during Q1 2006 was not significant. Remeasurements and Other The remeasurement of our 6.875% PEACS and intercompany balances can result in significant gains and charges associated with the effect of movements in currency exchange rates. Remeasurement of the principal amount of our 6.875% PEACS from Euros to U.S. dollars resulted in a foreign-currency loss of $11 million, compared with a gain of $35 million. Remeasurement of foreign-currency intercompany balances that are to be repaid among subsidiaries represented a $15 million gain, compared with a loss of $14 million. We recorded a charge of approximately $6 million related to the EUR 250 million partial redemption of our 6.875% PEACS in Q1 2006. /li> Income Taxes Our tax provision for interim periods is determined using an estimate of the annual effective tax rate. Our effective tax rate for financial reporting purposes was 47% in Q1 2006. The effective tax rate was higher than the 35% statutory rate, resulting from steps we initiated to establish our European headquarters in Luxembourg, which we expect will benefit our effective tax rate over time. Our 2006 effective tax rate is subject to significant potential volatility due to several factors, including the accurate prediction of our taxable income and the taxable jurisdictions to which it relates. We expect cash taxes paid in 2006 to be approximately $25 million compared with $12 million in 2005. We endeavor to optimize our global taxes on a cash basis, rather than on a financial reporting basis. Foreign Exchange Our financial reporting currency is the U.S. dollar, and changes in exchange rates significantly affect our reported results and consolidated trends. For example, during Q1 2006 our consolidated revenue and operating income were negatively affected by the strengthening of the U.S. dollar in comparison to the currencies of internationally-focused websites, but our consolidated revenue and operating income from Q2 2002 through Q2 2005 benefited from weakness in the U.S. dollar in comparison to the same currencies. The effect on our consolidated statements of operations from year-over-year changes in exchange rates versus the U.S. dollar throughout the period is as follows: Three Months Ended March 31, -------------------------------------------------- 2006 2005 ------------------------ ------------------------ At At Prior Exchange Prior Exchange Year Rate Year Rate Rates Effect As Rates Effect As (1) (2) Reported (1) (2) Reported ------- -------- -------- ------- -------- -------- (in millions, except per share amounts) Net sales $2,373 $ (94) $2,279 $1,872 $ 30 $1,902 Gross profit 566 (19) 547 452 6 458 Operating expenses 452 (11) 441 346 4 350 Income from operations 114 (8) 106 105 3 108 Net interest expense and other (8) 1 (7) (18) 4 (14) Remeasurements and other (3) (7) 4 (3) (5) 19 14 Net income 53 (2) 51 65 13 78 Diluted earnings per share $ 0.12 -- $ 0.12 $ 0.15 $0.03 $ 0.18 (1) Represents the outcome that would have resulted had currency exchange rates in the current period been the same as those in effect in the comparable prior year period for operating results, and if we did not incur the variability associated with remeasurements for our 6.875% PEACS and intercompany balances. (2) Represents the increase (decrease) in reported amounts resulting from changes in exchange rates from those in effect in the comparable prior year period for operating results, and if we did not incur the variability associated with remeasurements for our 6.875% PEACS and intercompany balances. (3) Includes foreign-currency gains (losses) on remeasurement of 6.875% PEACS and intercompany balances compared to prior quarter, and realized currency-related gains associated with sales of Euro-denominated investments held by a U.S. subsidiary. Cash Flows and Balance Sheet Operating cash flows and free cash flows can be volatile and are sensitive to many factors, including changes in working capital and timing of capital expenditures. Working capital at any specific point in time is subject to many variables, including seasonality, the timing of expense payments, discounts offered by vendors, vendor payment terms, and fluctuations in foreign exchange rates. Additionally, prior to our adoption of SFAS 123(R), cash retained as a result of excess tax deductions relating to stock-based compensation was presented in operating cash flows, along with other tax cash flows. SFAS 123(R) requires benefits relating to excess stock-based compensation deductions to be presented as financing cash inflows--effectively a reclassification between operating cash flows and financing cash flows. Tax benefits resulting from stock-based compensation deductions in excess of amounts reported for financial reporting purposes--which negatively impacted operating cash flow--were $7 million in Q1 2006 and $13 million for the trailing twelve months, and are expected to increase; such amounts should be less than $100 million in 2006 but are subject to considerable variability. Accordingly, amounts presented for operating cash flows and free cash flows for 2006 will be negatively affected in comparison to prior results; however, there is no change in economic substance resulting from this change in reporting classification. Our cash, cash equivalents and marketable securities of $1.33 billion, at fair value, primarily consist of cash, investment grade securities and AAA-rated money market mutual funds. Included are amounts held in foreign currencies of $558 million, primarily in Euros, British pounds and yen. Accounts receivable, net and other current assets include accounts receivable from merchant partners, vendors and credit card companies, interest receivables and $14 million of prepaid expenses. Fixed assets include assets such as furniture and fixtures, heavy equipment, technology infrastructure, internal-use software and website development, and our DVD rental library. Other assets include, among other things, $9 million of deferred issuance costs on long-term debt, $7 million of certain equity investments, and $23 million of other intangibles, net. Accrued expenses and other current liabilities include, among other things, liabilities for gift certificates, professional fees, marketing activities, workforce costs--including accrued payroll, vacation and other benefits--and unearned revenue of $54 million, which is recorded when payments are received or due in advance of performing our service obligations and is amortized over the service period. Long-term debt and other primarily include the following (in millions): Principal Interest Principal at Maturity Rate Due Date ------------- --------- -------------- Convertible Subordinated Notes $ 900 (1) 4.750% February 2009 Premium Adjustable Convertible Securities ("PEACS") 291 (2) (4) 6.875% February 2010 ------------ $ 1,191 (3) ============ (1) Convertible at the holders' option into our common stock at $78.0275 per share. We have the right to redeem the Convertible Subordinated Notes, in whole or in part, at a redemption price of 101.425% of the principal, which decreases every February 1 by 47.5 basis points until maturity, plus any accrued and unpaid interest. (2) EUR 240 million principal amount, convertible at the holders' option into our common stock at EUR 84.883 per share ($103 per share based on the Euro/U.S. dollar exchange rate as of March 31, 2006). We have the right to redeem the PEACS, in whole or in part, by paying the principal amount, plus any accrued and unpaid interest. We do not hedge any portion of the PEACS. The U.S. dollar equivalent principal, interest and conversion price fluctuate based on the Euro/U.S. dollar exchange ratio. (3) The "if converted" number of shares associated with our convertible debt instruments (approximately 14 million total shares) is excluded from diluted shares as they are antidilutive. (4) As previously announced, in Q1 2006 we redeemed EUR 250 million--or $300 million at the Euro to U.S. dollar exchange rate on the redemption date--in principal amount of our PEACS at par. Certain Definitions and Other We present segment information for North America and International. We measure operating results of our segments using an internal performance measure of direct segment operating expenses that excludes stock-based compensation and other operating expense, each of which is not allocated to segment results. Other centrally-incurred operating costs are fully allocated to segment results. Our operating results, particularly for the International segment, are affected by movements in foreign exchange rates. The North America segment consists of amounts earned from retail sales of consumer products (including from third-party sellers) and subscriptions through North America-focused websites such as www.amazon.com and www.amazon.ca; from North America-focused Syndicated Stores, such as www.borders.com; from our mail-order tool catalog phone orders; from our Amazon Prime membership program; and from non-retail activities such as North America-focused Amazon Enterprise Solutions program, and marketing and promotional agreements. This segment includes export sales from www.amazon.com and www.amazon.ca. The International segment consists of amounts earned from retail sales of consumer products (including from third-party sellers) and subscriptions through internationally focused websites such as www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, and www.joyo.com; from internationally focused Syndicated Stores; from our DVD rental service; and from non-retail activities such as internationally-focused marketing and promotional agreements. This segment includes export sales from these internationally based sites (including export sales from these sites to customers in the U.S. and Canada) but excludes export sales from www.amazon.com and www.amazon.ca. We provide supplemental sales information within each segment for three categories: Media, Electronics and Other General Merchandise, and Other. Media consists of amounts earned from DVD rentals and retail sales from all sellers of books, music, DVD/video, magazine subscriptions, software, video games and video-game consoles. Electronics and Other General Merchandise consists of amounts earned from retail sales from all sellers of items not included in Media, such as electronics and office, camera and photo, toys and baby, tools, home and garden, apparel, sports and outdoors, kitchen and housewares, gourmet food, jewelry, health and personal care, beauty, and musical instruments. The Other category consists of non-retail activities, such as the Amazon Enterprise Solutions program and miscellaneous marketing and promotional activities, such as our co-branded credit card programs. Operating cash flow is net cash provided by (used in) operating activities, including cash outflows for interest and excluding proceeds from the exercise of stock-based employee awards. Free cash flow is operating cash flow less cash outflows for purchases of fixed assets, including internal-use software and website development. Operating cycle is number of days of sales in inventory plus number of days of sales in accounts receivable minus accounts payable days. Accounts payable days are calculated as the quotient of accounts payable to cost of sales, multiplied by the number of days in the period. Inventory turns are calculated as the quotient of trailing twelve month cost of sales to average inventory over five quarter ends. Return on invested capital is trailing-twelve-month free cash flow divided by average total assets less current liabilities over five quarter ends. References to customers mean customer accounts, which are unique e-mail addresses, established either when a customer's initial order is shipped or when a customer orders from certain third-party sellers on our websites. Customer accounts include customers of Amazon Marketplace, Auctions and zShops, and our Merchants@ and Syndicated Stores programs, but exclude certain customers, including DVD rental customers, customers associated with certain of our acquisitions (including Joyo.com customers), Amazon Enterprise Solutions program customers, Amazon.com Payments customers, our catalog customers, and the customers of select companies with whom we have a technology alliance or marketing and promotional relationship. Customers are considered active when they have placed an order during the preceding twelve-month period. References to sellers or merchants mean active seller accounts, which are established when a seller receives an order from a customer account. Seller accounts include sellers in Amazon Marketplace, Auctions, zShops, and Merchants@ platforms, but exclude Amazon Enterprise Solutions sellers. Sellers are considered active when they have received an order during the preceding twelve-month period. References to units mean units sold (net of returns and cancellations) by us and by third-party sellers at Amazon.com domains worldwide--such as www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr and www.amazon.ca--and at Syndicated Stores domains, as well as Amazon.com-owned items sold through catalogs and at non-Amazon.com domains, such as books, music and DVD/video items ordered from Amazon.com's store at www.target.com. Units sold do not include units associated with certain of our acquisitions (including Joyo.com units), Amazon.com gift certificates or DVD rentals. CONTACT: Amazon.com Investor RelationsKim Nelson, 206-266-2171ir@amazon.comwww.amazon.com/irorAmazon.com Public RelationsPatty Smith, 206-266-7180SOURCE: Amazon.com, Inc.

<p>SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--April 25, 2006--Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ:AMZN) today announced financial results for its first quarter ended March 31, 2006.</p><p>Operating cash flow grew 38% to $724 million for the trailing twelve months, compared with $523 million for the trailing twelve months ended March 31, 2005. Free cash flow grew 20% to $501 million for the trailing twelve months, compared with $417 million for the trailing twelve months ended March 31, 2005. Operating cash flow and free cash flow include a one-time payment of $40 million in connection with a patent lawsuit settlement in third quarter 2005.</p><p>Common shares outstanding plus shares underlying stock-based awards outstanding totaled 438 million at March 31, 2006, compared with 434 million a year ago.</p><p>Net sales increased 20% to $2.28 billion in the first quarter, compared with $1.90 billion in first quarter 2005. Excluding the $94 million unfavorable impact from year-over-year changes in foreign exchange rates throughout the quarter, net sales grew 25% compared with first quarter 2005.</p><p>Operating income decreased 2% to $106 million in the first quarter, compared with $108 million in first quarter 2005. Excluding the $8 million unfavorable impact from year-over-year changes in foreign exchange rates throughout the quarter, operating income grew 6% compared with first quarter 2005.</p><p>Net income was $51 million in the first quarter, or $0.12 per diluted share, compared with net income of $78 million, or $0.18 per diluted share in first quarter 2005. First quarter 2005 includes a $26 million, or $0.06 per diluted share, gain for the cumulative effect of a change in accounting principle related to the Company's early adoption of SFAS 123(R).</p><p>"We're pleased to see strong quarter-to-quarter sequential growth for new Amazon Prime subscriptions," said Jeff Bezos, founder and CEO of Amazon.com. "This sequential growth comes off our biggest holiday season ever, and one where new subscriptions to Amazon Prime more than doubled from November to December."</p><p>Amazon Prime, Amazon.com's first-ever membership program, was introduced in February 2005. For a flat membership fee of $79 per year, Amazon Prime members get unlimited, express two-day shipping for free, with no minimum purchase requirement on over a million eligible items sold by Amazon.com. Members can order as late as 6:30 p.m. ET and still get their order the next day for only $3.99 per item, and they can share the benefits of Amazon Prime with up to four family members living in their household. Sign up for Amazon Prime at www.amazon.com/prime.</p><p>Highlights</p><ul><li>North America segment sales, representing the Company's U.S. and Canadian sites, were $1.25 billion, up 21% from first quarter 2005.</li><li>International segment sales, representing the Company's U.K., German, Japanese, French and Chinese sites, were $1.03 billion, up 18% from first quarter 2005. Excluding the unfavorable impact from year-over-year changes in foreign exchange rates throughout the quarter, International net sales growth was 29%.</li><li>Worldwide Electronics &amp; Other General Merchandise represented 28% of worldwide net sales, compared with 25% in first quarter 2005.</li><li>Worldwide Other revenue, which includes Amazon Enterprise Solutions, increased 31% to $62 million in first quarter 2006. Additionally, the Company announced new enterprise solutions agreements with Timex and Benefit Cosmetics, a subsidiary of luxury group LVMH Moet Hennessy Louis Vuitton, to provide customized solutions for timex.com, benefitcosmetics.com and benefitcosmetics.co.uk.</li><li>Amazon Web Services launched Amazon S3, a simple storage service for software developers. S3 provides an Application Programming Interface for highly scalable, reliable, low-latency data storage at very low costs. Developers continue to adopt Amazon's web services - over 160,000 have registered to date, up more than 60% year over year.</li><li>The Company introduced "click to call," a new feature for our U.S., U.K., German and French websites that allows customers to be connected quickly with a customer service representative who often already has the customer's account information in front of them, saving the customer time and increasing satisfaction.</li><li>The Company acquired Shopbop.com, a retailer of fashion-forward apparel, shoes and accessories for women, featuring products from more than 75 leading designers including Marc Jacobs, Juicy Couture and True Religion.</li></ul><p>Financial Guidance</p><p>The following forward-looking statements reflect Amazon.com's expectations as of April 25, 2006. Results may be materially affected by many factors, such as fluctuations in foreign exchange rates, changes in global economic conditions and consumer spending, world events, the rate of growth of the Internet and online commerce, and the various factors detailed below.</p><p>Second Quarter 2006 Guidance</p><ul><li>Net sales are expected to be between $2.03 billion and $2.18 billion, or to grow between 16% and 24% compared with second quarter 2005.</li><li>Operating income is expected to be between $32 million and $67 million, or between (69%) decline and (36%) decline, compared with second quarter 2005. This guidance includes $38 million for stock-based compensation and amortization of intangible assets, and it assumes, among other things, that no additional intangible assets are recorded and that there are no further revisions to stock-based compensation estimates.</li></ul><p>Full Year 2006 Expectations</p><ul><li>Net sales are expected to be between $9.95 billion and $10.50 billion, or to grow between 17% and 24% compared with 2005.</li><li>Operating income is expected to be between $390 million and $520 million, or between (10%) decline and 20% growth, compared with 2005. This guidance includes $125 million for stock-based compensation and amortization of intangible assets, and it assumes, among other things, that no additional intangible assets are recorded and that there are no further revisions to stock-based compensation estimates.</li></ul><p>We are appealing a recent court decision that terminates our Toysrus.com contract and are seeking a stay of the termination pending a decision on our appeal. While we believe we will prevail and that Toysrus.com's claims lack merit, the timing and possible outcomes of this litigation are uncertain and possible effects of termination are not reflected in the guidance above. If we do not prevail, operating profit could be negatively impacted by as much as $50 million for the year, including by as much as $25 million for the second quarter.</p><p>A conference call will be webcast live today at 2 p.m. PT/5 p.m. ET, and will be available for at least three months at www.amazon.com/ir. This call will contain forward-looking statements and other material information regarding the Company's financial and operating results.</p><p>These forward-looking statements are inherently difficult to predict. Actual results could differ materially for a variety of reasons, including, in addition to the factors discussed above, the amount that Amazon.com invests in new business opportunities and the timing of those investments, the mix of products sold to customers, the mix of net sales derived from products as compared with services, competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international growth and expansion, the outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, risks of inventory management, seasonality, the degree to which the Company enters into, maintains and develops commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, payments risks, and risks of fulfillment throughput and productivity. Other risks and uncertainties include, among others, risk of future losses, significant indebtedness, system interruptions, consumer trends, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, fraud, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings.</p><p>About Amazon.com</p><p>Amazon.com (NASDAQ:AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened its virtual doors on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and third-party sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished, and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden.</p><p>Amazon.com and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com.</p><p>As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc. and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise.</p><pre> AMAZON.COM, INC. Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (in millions) (unaudited) Three Months Ended Twelve Months Ended March 31, March 31, --------------- ---------------- 2006 2005 2006 2005 ------ ------ ------- -------CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, BEGINNING OF PERIOD $1,013 $1,303 $ 533 $ 769OPERATING ACTIVITIES:Net income 51 78 332 555Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash from operating activities: Depreciation of fixed assets, including internal-use software and website development, and other amortization 40 28 132 86 Stock-based compensation 11 19 79 70 Other operating expense (income) 3 1 9 (7) Losses on sales of marketable securities, net 2 - - 1 Remeasurements and other 3 (14) (26) 8 Non-cash interest expense and other 1 1 5 5 Deferred income taxes 10 50 31 (200) Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle - (26) - (26)Changes in operating assets and liabilities: Inventories 33 72 (143) (110) Accounts receivable, net and other current assets 50 10 (44) (6) Accounts payable (442) (425) 258 117 Accrued expenses and other current liabilities (71) (92) 81 22 Additions to unearned revenue 54 29 181 115 Amortization of previously unearned revenue (48) (25) (171) (107) ------ ------ ------- ------- Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities (303) (294) 724 523INVESTING ACTIVITIES:Purchases of fixed assets, including internal-use software and website development (46) (26) (223) (106)Acquisitions, net of cash acquired (28) (15) (37) (86)Sales and maturities of marketable securities and other investments 288 348 776 1,205Purchases of marketable securities (130) (504) (1,012) (1,583) ------ ------ ------- ------- Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities 84 (197) (496) (570)FINANCING ACTIVITIES:Proceeds from exercises of stock options 7 8 57 54Excess tax benefit on stock awards 7 1 13 1Proceeds from long-term debt and other 3 - 16 -Repayments of long-term debt and capital lease obligations (313) (265) (320) (267) ------ ------ ------- -------Net cash used in financing activities (296) (256) (234) (212)Foreign-currency effect on cash and cash equivalents 9 (23) (20) 23 ------ ------ ------- -------Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents (506) (770) (26) (236) ------ ------ ------- -------CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, END OF PERIOD $ 507 $ 533 $ 507 $ 533 ====== ====== ======= =======SUPPLEMENTAL CASH FLOW INFORMATION:Cash paid for interest $ 63 $ 84 $ 84 $ 106Cash paid for income taxes 5 3 13 7 AMAZON.COM, INC. Consolidated Statements of Operations (in millions, except per share data) (unaudited) Three Months Ended March 31, --------------- 2006 2005 ------ ------Net sales $2,279 $1,902Cost of sales 1,732 1,444 ------ ------Gross profit 547 458Operating expenses(1): Fulfillment 193 166 Marketing 54 45 Technology and content 146 92 General and administrative 45 46 Other operating expense 3 1 ------ ------ Total operating expenses 441 350 ------ ------Income from operations 106 108Interest income 15 9Interest expense (21) (26)Other income (expense), net (1) 3Remeasurements and other (3) 14 ------ ------ Total non-operating expense (10) - ------ ------Income before income taxes 96 108Provision for income taxes 45 56 ------ ------Income before cumulative effect of change in accounting principle 51 52Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle - 26 ------ ------Net income $ 51 $ 78 ====== ======Basic earnings per share: Prior to cumulative effect of change in accounting principle $ 0.12 $ 0.13 Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle - 0.06 ------ ------ $ 0.12 $ 0.19 ====== ======Diluted earnings per share: Prior to cumulative effect of change in accounting principle $ 0.12 $ 0.12 Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle - 0.06 ------ ------ $ 0.12 $ 0.18 ====== ======Weighted average shares used in computation of earnings per share: Basic 417 410 ====== ====== Diluted 426 424 ====== ======(1) Includes stock-based compensation as follows: Fulfillment $ 3 $ 4 Marketing - 1 Technology and content 8 10 General and administrative - 4 AMAZON.COM, INC. Segment Information (in millions) (unaudited) Three Months Ended March 31, ------------------ 2006 2005 ------- -------North America Net sales $ 1,247 $ 1,027 Cost of sales 906 748 ------- ------- Gross profit 341 279 Direct segment operating expenses (1) 279 213 ------- ------- Segment operating income 62 66International Net sales 1,032 875 Cost of sales 826 696 ------- ------- Gross profit 206 179 Direct segment operating expenses (1) 148 117 ------- ------- Segment operating income 58 62Consolidated Net sales 2,279 1,902 Cost of sales 1,732 1,444 ------- ------- Gross profit 547 458 Direct segment operating expenses 427 330 ------- ------- Segment operating income 120 128 Stock-based compensation (11) (19) Other operating expense (3) (1) ------- ------- Income from operations 106 108 Total non-operating expense, net (10) - Provision for income taxes (45) (56) Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle - 26 ------- ------- Net income $ 51 $ 78 ======= =======Segment Highlights: Y/Y net sales growth: North America 21% 21% International 18 28 Consolidated 20 24 Y/Y gross profit growth: North America 22% 23% International 15 33 Consolidated 19 27 Y/Y segment operating income growth: North America (6%) (13%) International (7) 51 Consolidated (7) 10 Net sales mix: North America 55% 54% International 45 46---------------------------------(1) A significant majority of our costs for "Technology andcontent" are incurred in the United States and most of these costs areallocated to our North America segment. AMAZON.COM, INC. Supplemental Net Sales Information (in millions) (unaudited) Three Months Ended March 31, --------------------- 2006 2005 --------- ---------North America Media $ 815 $ 699 Electronics and other general merchandise 374 282 Other 58 46 --------- --------- 1,247 1,027International Media 763 675 Electronics and other general merchandise 265 199 Other 4 1 --------- --------- 1,032 875Consolidated Media 1,578 1,374 Electronics and other general merchandise 639 481 Other 62 47 --------- --------- $ 2,279 $ 1,902 ========= =========Y/Y Net Sales Growth:North America: Media 17% 17% Electronics and other general merchandise 33 25 Other 24 96International: Media 13% 17% Electronics and other general merchandise 33 86 Other 432 74Consolidated: Media 15% 17% Electronics and other general merchandise 33 45 Other 31 95Consolidated Net Sales Mix: Media 69% 72% Electronics and other general merchandise 28 25 Other 3 3 AMAZON.COM, INC. Consolidated Balance Sheets (in millions, except per share data) March 31, December 31, March 31, 2006 2005 2005 ---------- ------- ----------ASSETS (unaudited) (unaudited)Current assets: Cash and cash equivalents $ 507 $ 1,013 $ 533 Marketable securities 827 987 618 ---------- ------- ---------- Cash, cash equivalents, and marketable securities 1,334 2,000 1,151 Inventories 538 566 403 Deferred tax assets, current portion 86 89 68 Accounts receivable, net and other current assets 228 274 171 ---------- ------- ---------- Total current assets 2,186 2,929 1,793Fixed assets, net 361 348 245Deferred tax assets, long-term portion 205 223 239Goodwill 193 159 149Other assets 45 37 46 ---------- ------- ---------- Total assets $ 2,990 $ 3,696 $ 2,472 ========== ======= ==========LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY (DEFICIT)Current liabilities: Accounts payable $ 920 $ 1,366 $ 704 Accrued expenses and other current liabilities 487 563 369 ---------- ------- ---------- Total current liabilities 1,407 1,929 1,073Long-term debt and other 1,259 1,521 1,561Commitments and contingenciesStockholders' Equity (Deficit): Preferred stock, $0.01 par value: Authorized shares -- 500 Issued and outstanding shares -- none - - - Common stock, $0.01 par value: Authorized shares -- 5,000 Issued and outstanding shares -- 417, 416 and 411 4 4 4 Additional paid-in capital 2,287 2,263 2,118 Accumulated other comprehensive income 9 6 24 Accumulated deficit (1,976) (2,027) (2,308) ---------- ------- ---------- Total stockholders' equity (deficit) 324 246 (162) ---------- ------- ---------- Total liabilities and stockholders' equity (deficit) $ 2,990 $ 3,696 $ 2,472 ========== ======= ========== AMAZON.COM, INC. Supplemental Financial Information and Business Metrics (in millions, except per share data) (unaudited)---------------------------------------------------------------------- Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Q1 Y/Y % 2005 2005 2005 2005 2006 Change ---------------------------------------------Cash Flows and SharesOperating cash flow -- trailing twelve months (TTM) (1) $ 523 $ 624 $ 661 $ 733 $ 724 38%Purchase of fixed assets (incl. internal-use software &amp; website development) -- TTM $ 106 $ 138 $ 186 $ 204 $ 223 110%Free cash flow (operating cash flow less purchases of fixed assets) -- TTM (1) $ 417 $ 486 $ 475 $ 529 $ 501 20%Common shares and stock- based awards outstanding 434 438 438 438 438 1%Common shares outstanding 411 412 414 416 417 2%Stock-based awards outstanding 24 26 24 22 21 (14%)Stock-based awards outstanding -- % of common shares outstanding 5.7% 6.3% 5.8% 5.2% 4.9% N/AResults of OperationsWorldwide (WW) net sales $1,902 $ 1,753 $ 1,858 $ 2,977 $ 2,279 20%WW net sales -- Y/Y growth, excluding the effect of foreign exchange rates 22.3% 24.6% 27.6% 21.9% 24.8% N/AWW net sales -- TTM $7,292 $ 7,658 $ 8,054 $ 8,490 $ 8,867 22%WW net sales -- TTM Y/Y growth, excluding the effect of foreign exchange rates 23.9% 24.4% 25.2% 23.7% 24.3% N/AGross profit $ 458 $ 450 $ 463 $ 667 $ 547 19%Gross margin -- % of WW net sales 24.1% 25.7% 24.9% 22.4% 24.0% N/AGross profit -- TTM $1,700 $ 1,809 $ 1,917 $ 2,039 $ 2,128 25%Gross margin -- TTM % of WW net sales 23.3% 23.6% 23.8% 24.0% 24.0% N/AOperating income (1) $ 108 $ 104 $ 55 $ 165 $ 106 (2%)Operating margin -- % of WW net sales (1) 5.7% 6.0% 3.0% 5.5% 4.6% N/AOperating income -- TTM (1) $ 438 $ 456 $ 430 $ 432 $ 430 (2%)Operating margin -- TTM % of WW net sales (1) 6.0% 6.0% 5.3% 5.1% 4.8% N/ANet income (1) (2) $ 78 $ 52 $ 30 $ 199 $ 51 (34%)Net income per diluted share (1) (2) $ 0.18 $ 0.12 $ 0.07 $ 0.47 $ 0.12 (34%)Net income -- TTM (1) (2) $ 555 $ 531 $ 507 $ 359 $ 332 (40%)Net income per diluted share -- TTM (1) (2) $ 1.31 $ 1.25 $ 1.19 $ 0.84 $ 0.78 (40%)SegmentsNorth America Segment: Net sales $1,027 $ 960 $ 1,041 $ 1,683 $ 1,247 21% Net sales -- Y/Y growth, excluding the effect of foreign exchange rates 21.1% 21.0% 27.4% 20.8% 21.3% N/A Net sales -- TTM $4,027 $ 4,195 $ 4,420 $ 4,711 $ 4,931 22% Gross profit $ 279 $ 278 $ 292 $ 418 $ 341 22% Gross margin -- % of North America net sales 27.2% 29.0% 28.1% 24.8% 27.3% N/A Gross profit -- TTM $1,077 $ 1,135 $ 1,204 $ 1,267 $ 1,329 23% Gross margin -- TTM % of North America net sales 26.7% 27.1% 27.2% 26.9% 27.0% N/A Operating income $ 66 $ 72 $ 66 $ 92 $ 62 (6%) Operating margin -- % of North America net sales 6.4% 7.5% 6.4% 5.5% 5.0% N/A Operating income -- TTM $ 311 $ 317 $ 326 $ 296 $ 292 (6%) Operating margin -- TTM % of North America net sales 7.7% 7.6% 7.4% 6.3% 5.9% N/AInternational Segment: Net sales $ 875 $ 793 $ 817 $ 1,294 $ 1,032 18% Net sales -- Y/Y growth, excluding the effect of foreign exchange rates 23.8% 29.3% 27.8% 23.2% 28.9% N/A Net sales -- TTM $3,265 $ 3,463 $ 3,634 $ 3,779 $ 3,936 21% Net sales -- TTM % of WW net sales 44.8% 45.2% 45.1% 44.5% 44.4% N/A Gross profit $ 179 $ 172 $ 171 $ 249 $ 206 15% Gross margin -- % of International net sales 20.5% 21.7% 20.9% 19.3% 20.0% N/A Gross profit -- TTM $ 623 $ 674 $ 713 $ 772 $ 799 28% Gross margin -- TTM % of International net sales 19.1% 19.5% 19.6% 20.4% 20.3% N/A Operating income $ 62 $ 60 $ 55 $ 93 $ 58 (7%) Operating margin -- % of International net sales 7.2% 7.6% 6.7% 7.1% 5.6% N/A Operating income -- TTM $ 190 $ 216 $ 233 $ 270 $ 265 39% Operating margin -- TTM % of International net sales 5.8% 6.2% 6.4% 7.1% 6.7% N/A------------------------ ------ ------- ------- ------- ------------- AMAZON.COM, INC. Supplemental Financial Information and Business Metrics (in millions, except inventory turnover, accounts payable days, and employee data) (unaudited)---------------------------------------------------------------------- Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Q1 Y/Y % 2005 2005 2005 2005 2006 Change ---------------------------------------------Segments (continued)Consolidated Segments: Operating expenses $ 330 $ 318 $ 342 $ 482 $ 427 30% Operating expenses -- TTM $1,198 $ 1,276 $ 1,358 $ 1,473 $ 1,570 31% Operating income $ 128 $ 132 $ 121 $ 185 $ 120 (7%) Operating margin -- % of consolidated sales 6.8% 7.5% 6.5% 6.2% 5.3% N/A Operating income -- TTM $ 502 $ 533 $ 559 $ 566 $ 558 11% Operating margin -- TTM % of consolidated net sales 6.9% 7.0% 6.9% 6.7% 6.3% N/ASupplemental North America Segment Net Sales: Media $ 699 $ 632 $ 684 $ 1,030 $ 815 17% Media -- TTM $2,690 $ 2,780 $ 2,901 $ 3,046 $ 3,163 18% Electronics and other general merchandise $ 282 $ 278 $ 304 $ 580 $ 374 33% Electronics and other general merchandise -- TTM $1,185 $ 1,236 $ 1,311 $ 1,443 $ 1,534 29% Electronics and other general merchandise -- TTM % of North America net sales 29% 29% 30% 31% 31% N/A Other $ 46 $ 50 $ 53 $ 73 $ 58 24% Other -- TTM $ 153 $ 178 $ 208 $ 222 $ 234 53%Supplemental International Segment Net Sales: Media $ 675 $ 614 $ 629 $ 968 $ 763 13% Media -- TTM $2,612 $ 2,730 $ 2,828 $ 2,885 $ 2,972 14% Electronics and other general merchandise $ 199 $ 178 $ 187 $ 321 $ 265 33% Electronics and other general merchandise -- TTM $ 651 $ 730 $ 801 $ 886 $ 952 46% Electronics and other general merchandise -- TTM % of International net sales 20% 21% 22% 23% 24% N/A Other $ 1 $ 1 $ 1 $ 5 $ 4 432% Other -- TTM $ 3 $ 3 $ 4 $ 8 $ 11 317%Supplemental Worldwide Net Sales: Media $1,374 $ 1,246 $ 1,313 $ 1,998 $ 1,578 15% Media -- TTM $5,302 $ 5,510 $ 5,730 $ 5,931 $ 6,135 16% Electronics and other general merchandise $ 481 $ 456 $ 491 $ 901 $ 639 33% Electronics and other general merchandise -- TTM $1,835 $ 1,966 $ 2,113 $ 2,329 $ 2,486 35% Electronics and other general merchandise -- TTM % of WW net sales 25% 26% 26% 27% 28% N/A Other $ 47 $ 51 $ 54 $ 78 $ 62 31% Other -- TTM $ 156 $ 181 $ 211 $ 230 $ 245 58%Balance SheetCash and marketable securities $1,151 $ 1,325 $ 1,419 $ 2,000 $ 1,334 16%Inventory, net -- ending $ 403 $ 383 $ 456 $ 566 $ 538 33%Inventory -- average inventory % of TTM net sales 5.0% 5.0% 5.2% 5.4% 5.3% N/AInventory turnover, average -- TTM 15.5 15.3 14.8 14.1 14.4 (7%)Fixed assets, net $ 245 $ 267 $ 322 $ 348 $ 361 47%Accounts payable days -- ending $ 44 $ 51 $ 58 $ 54 $ 48 9%OtherEmployees (full-time and part-time; excludes contractors &amp; temporary personnel) 9,400 10,200 11,100 12,000 12,400 31%----------------------------------------------------------------------Note: The attached "Financial and Operational Summary" is anintegral part of this Supplemental Financial Information and BusinessMetrics.(1) The Company settled a patent lawsuit on terms including a one-time payment of $40 million in Q3 2005. This negatively impacts TTMoperating cash flow and free cash flow by $40 million for all periodsthat include Q3 2005. The settlement negatively affected Q3 2005operating income by $40 million, and Q3 2005 net income by $20 millionafter tax.(2) Q4 2005 net income includes a tax benefit of $90 millionrelated to determining that certain of our deferred tax assets arerealizable.</pre><center><p>Amazon.com, Inc.Financial and Operational Summary(unaudited)</p></center><p>Quarterly Results of Operations (comparisons are with the equivalent period of the prior year, unless otherwise stated)</p><p>Net Sales</p><ul><li>Shipping revenue was $129 million, up 20% from $108 million.</li><li>Amounts paid in advance for subscription services, including amounts received from online DVD rentals, Amazon Prime and other membership programs, are deferred and recognized as revenue over the subscription term.</li><li>Net sales includes fixed fees, commissions and per-unit fees earned from third-party sellers and similar amounts earned through Amazon Enterprise Solutions.</li></ul><p>Cost of Sales</p><ul><li>Cost of sales consists of the purchase price of products sold by us, inbound and outbound shipping charges, packaging supplies, amortization of our DVD rental library and service costs such as those incurred in operating and staffing our fulfillment and customer service centers on behalf of third parties.</li><li>Inbound shipping charges to receive products from our suppliers are included in inventory cost and recognized as cost of sales upon sale to our customers.</li><li>Outbound shipping costs totaled $197 million, up 21% from $163 million. Net shipping loss was $68 million, up 22% from a net shipping loss of $55 million, resulting primarily from our free shipping offers and Amazon Prime.</li><li>While costs associated with free shipping, including Amazon Prime, are not included in marketing expense, we view our free shipping offers as an effective worldwide marketing tool and intend to continue offering them indefinitely. In Q1 2006 we offered free membership trials for Amazon Prime and expect to continue to offer these trials in the future.</li></ul><p>Operating Expenses</p><ul><li>Depreciation expense for fixed assets, including amortization of internal-use software and website development, was $38 million, up from $23 million. Depreciation is recorded on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives of the assets--generally two years or less for assets such as internal-use software and our DVD rental library, three years for our technology infrastructure, five years for furniture and fixtures, and ten years for heavy equipment. Depreciation expense is generally classified within operating expense categories on the consolidated statements of operations, and certain assets, such as our DVD rental library, are amortized to cost of sales.</li><li>Stock-based compensation was $11 million, a decrease of $8 million year over year. In Q1 2006 we recorded a $13 million benefit, $8 million net of tax or $0.02 per diluted share, representing the cumulative effect of increasing our estimated rate of stock award forfeitures. As a result, the net amount of stock-based compensation classified as general and administrative and marketing on our consolidated statements of operations was insignificant for Q1 2006.</li><li>Operating expenses with and without stock-based compensation are as follows:</li></ul><pre> Three Months Ended Three Months Ended March 31, 2006 March 31, 2005 -------------------------- -------------------------- As Stock-Based As Stock-Based Reported Compensation Net Reported Compensation Net -------- ------------ ---- -------- ------------ ----Operating Expenses: Fulfillment $ 193 $ (3) $190 $ 166 $ (4) $162 Marketing 54 - 54 45 (1) 44 Technology and content 146 (8) 138 92 (10) 82 General and administrative 45 - 45 46 (4) 42 Other operating expense 3 - 3 1 - 1 ------- ------- ---- ------- ------- ---- Total operating expenses $ 441 $ (11) $430 $ 350 $ (19) $331 ======= ======= ==== ======= ======= ====Year-over-year Percentage Growth: Fulfillment 16 % 17 % 29 % 28 % Marketing 21 26 30 28 Technology and content 59 69 57 49 General and administrative (3) 7 57 53Percent of Net Sales: Fulfillment 8.5 % 8.3 % 8.8 % 8.6 % Marketing 2.4 2.4 2.3 2.3 Technology and content 6.4 6.1 4.8 4.3 General and administrative 2.0 2.0 2.4 2.2</pre><p>Fulfillment</p><ul><li>Fulfillment costs represent those costs incurred in operating and staffing our fulfillment and customer service centers, including costs attributable to buying, receiving, inspecting and warehousing inventories; picking, packaging and preparing customer orders for shipment; and payment processing fees and transaction costs, including costs associated with our guarantee of certain third-party seller transactions and responding to inquiries from customers. Fulfillment costs also include amounts paid to third parties who assist us in fulfillment and customer service operations.</li><li>Payment processing fees associated with third-party seller sales are based on the gross purchase price of underlying transactions, and transaction costs, such as our A to Z Guarantee, are higher as a percentage of revenue versus our retail sales. Accordingly, third-party sales have higher fulfillment costs as a percentage of net sales.</li><li>The increase in fulfillment costs in absolute dollars relates to costs from expanding fulfillment capacity; and variable costs corresponding with sales volume and inventory levels; our mix of product sales; and payment processing and related transaction costs, including mix of payment methods and costs from our guarantee for certain third-party seller transactions. First quarter 2005 included a charge of $5 million relating to certain North America fulfillment assets removed from service.</li><li>We expanded our fulfillment capacity in Q1 2006 and throughout 2005 through gains in efficiencies as well as increases in leased warehouse space. We plan to continue expanding our worldwide fulfillment capacity--although to add less space than in 2005--in order to accommodate greater selection and to meet anticipated shipment volumes from sales of our own products as well as sales by third parties for which we provide the fulfillment. We expect absolute amounts spent in fulfillment and fulfillment-related cost of sales to increase over time.</li></ul><p>Marketing</p><ul><li>Marketing costs increased in absolute terms, primarily corresponding with revenue growth as we utilized variable online marketing channels, such as our Associates program, sponsored search and other variable marketing initiatives. To the extent there is increased or decreased competition for these traffic sources, or to the extent our mix of these channels shifts, we would expect to see a corresponding change in our marketing expense or its effect. We expect absolute amounts spent in marketing to increase over time.</li></ul><p>Technology and Content</p><ul><li>Technology and content expenses consist principally of payroll and related expenses for employees involved in research and development, including application development, editorial content, merchandising selection, and systems and telecommunications support, as well as costs associated with infrastructure.</li><li>In 2005, we added a significant number of computer scientists and software engineers to our staff so that we can continue to enhance the customer experience on our websites and those websites powered by us, improve our process efficiency, and continue to invest in several areas of technology, including seller platforms, search, web services and digital initiatives. We expect the year-over-year percentage growth in technology and content, excluding stock-based compensation, to decrease substantially in the back half of 2006.</li><li>A significant majority of our technology costs are incurred in the U.S. and most of them are allocated to our North America segment.</li><li>Certain costs relating to the development of internal-use software and website development, including software to upgrade and enhance our websites and processes supporting our business, are capitalized and depreciated over two years. In Q1 2006 and Q1 2005, we capitalized $26 million (including $1 million of stock-based compensation) and $18 million (including $2 million of stock-based compensation) of costs associated with internal-use software and website development, which are partially offset by amortization of previously capitalized amounts of $18 million and $10 million.</li></ul><p>General and Administrative</p><ul><li>General and administrative costs decreased primarily due to a prior year charge of $8 million relating to litigation matters, offset partially by increases in payroll and related expenses. We expect absolute amounts spent in general and administrative to increase over time.</li></ul><p>Stock-Based Compensation</p><ul><li>Stock-based compensation was $11 million, down from $19 million. The decrease in stock-based compensation is primarily attributable to a cumulative forfeiture adjustment benefit in Q1 2006, partially offset by general growth in stock unit grants corresponding with an increase in employees.</li><li>As of January 1, 2005, we adopted SFAS 123(R), which requires measurement of compensation cost for stock-based awards at grant date fair value. The fair value of restricted stock and restricted stock units is determined based on the number of shares granted and the quoted price of our common stock, while the fair value of stock options is determined using a Black-Scholes valuation model. The fair value is recognized as an expense over the service period, net of estimated forfeitures, using the accelerated method under SFAS 123(R). The adoption of SFAS 123(R) in first quarter 2005 resulted in a cumulative benefit from accounting change of $26 million, which reflects the net cumulative impact of estimating forfeitures in the determination of period expense, rather than recording forfeitures when they occur as previously permitted.</li><li>Stock-based awards generally vest over service periods of between two and five years.</li><li>Payroll tax expense resulting from exercises of stock-based awards is a cash expense and is not categorized as stock-based compensation.</li><li>We granted stock awards, substantially all of which have been restricted stock units since October 2002, of 1 million shares in the quarter. Our annual stock awards are granted in the second quarter.</li><li>As of March 31, 2006, there were 21 million shares underlying outstanding stock awards, consisting of 11 million shares underlying stock options with a $15 weighted-average exercise price and 10 million shares underlying restricted stock units. As of March 31, 2005, there were 24 million stock awards outstanding.</li><li>As of March 31, 2006, there were 438 million common shares and stock-based awards outstanding, up 1% from 434 million as of March 31, 2005. This total includes all stock-based awards outstanding, without regard for estimated forfeitures, consisting of vested and unvested awards and in-the-money and out-of-the-money stock options.</li></ul><p>Other Operating Expense</p><ul><li>Other operating expense primarily includes costs related to intangibles amortization.</li><li>We acquired one company during Q1 2006 for a purchase price of $47 million, including a $28 million cash payment in Q1 2006 and a $19 million amount due in 2007. The excess of purchase price over the fair value of the net assets acquired was $33 million and is classified as goodwill on our consolidated balance sheets. Acquired other intangibles totaled $14 million and have estimated useful lives of between one and ten years. The results of operations of the acquired business have been included in our consolidated results from the closing date forward. The effect of this acquisition on consolidated net sales and operating income during Q1 2006 was not significant.</li></ul><p>Remeasurements and Other</p><ul><li>The remeasurement of our 6.875% PEACS and intercompany balances can result in significant gains and charges associated with the effect of movements in currency exchange rates.</li><li>Remeasurement of the principal amount of our 6.875% PEACS from Euros to U.S. dollars resulted in a foreign-currency loss of $11 million, compared with a gain of $35 million.</li><li>Remeasurement of foreign-currency intercompany balances that are to be repaid among subsidiaries represented a $15 million gain, compared with a loss of $14 million.</li><li>We recorded a charge of approximately $6 million related to the EUR 250 million partial redemption of our 6.875% PEACS in Q1 2006. /li&gt;</li></ul><p>Income Taxes</p><ul><li>Our tax provision for interim periods is determined using an estimate of the annual effective tax rate. Our effective tax rate for financial reporting purposes was 47% in Q1 2006.</li><li>The effective tax rate was higher than the 35% statutory rate, resulting from steps we initiated to establish our European headquarters in Luxembourg, which we expect will benefit our effective tax rate over time. Our 2006 effective tax rate is subject to significant potential volatility due to several factors, including the accurate prediction of our taxable income and the taxable jurisdictions to which it relates.</li><li>We expect cash taxes paid in 2006 to be approximately $25 million compared with $12 million in 2005. We endeavor to optimize our global taxes on a cash basis, rather than on a financial reporting basis.</li></ul><p>Foreign Exchange</p><ul><li>Our financial reporting currency is the U.S. dollar, and changes in exchange rates significantly affect our reported results and consolidated trends. For example, during Q1 2006 our consolidated revenue and operating income were negatively affected by the strengthening of the U.S. dollar in comparison to the currencies of internationally-focused websites, but our consolidated revenue and operating income from Q2 2002 through Q2 2005 benefited from weakness in the U.S. dollar in comparison to the same currencies.</li><li>The effect on our consolidated statements of operations from year-over-year changes in exchange rates versus the U.S. dollar throughout the period is as follows:</li></ul><pre> Three Months Ended March 31, -------------------------------------------------- 2006 2005 ------------------------ ------------------------ At At Prior Exchange Prior Exchange Year Rate Year Rate Rates Effect As Rates Effect As (1) (2) Reported (1) (2) Reported ------- -------- -------- ------- -------- -------- (in millions, except per share amounts)Net sales $2,373 $ (94) $2,279 $1,872 $ 30 $1,902Gross profit 566 (19) 547 452 6 458Operating expenses 452 (11) 441 346 4 350Income from operations 114 (8) 106 105 3 108Net interest expense and other (8) 1 (7) (18) 4 (14)Remeasurements and other (3) (7) 4 (3) (5) 19 14Net income 53 (2) 51 65 13 78Diluted earnings per share $ 0.12 -- $ 0.12 $ 0.15 $0.03 $ 0.18</pre><pre> (1) Represents the outcome that would have resulted had currency exchange rates in the current period been the same as those in effect in the comparable prior year period for operating results, and if we did not incur the variability associated with remeasurements for our 6.875% PEACS and intercompany balances. (2) Represents the increase (decrease) in reported amounts resulting from changes in exchange rates from those in effect in the comparable prior year period for operating results, and if we did not incur the variability associated with remeasurements for our 6.875% PEACS and intercompany balances. (3) Includes foreign-currency gains (losses) on remeasurement of 6.875% PEACS and intercompany balances compared to prior quarter, and realized currency-related gains associated with sales of Euro-denominated investments held by a U.S. subsidiary.</pre><p>Cash Flows and Balance Sheet</p><ul><li>Operating cash flows and free cash flows can be volatile and are sensitive to many factors, including changes in working capital and timing of capital expenditures. Working capital at any specific point in time is subject to many variables, including seasonality, the timing of expense payments, discounts offered by vendors, vendor payment terms, and fluctuations in foreign exchange rates.</li><li>Additionally, prior to our adoption of SFAS 123(R), cash retained as a result of excess tax deductions relating to stock-based compensation was presented in operating cash flows, along with other tax cash flows. SFAS 123(R) requires benefits relating to excess stock-based compensation deductions to be presented as financing cash inflows--effectively a reclassification between operating cash flows and financing cash flows. Tax benefits resulting from stock-based compensation deductions in excess of amounts reported for financial reporting purposes--which negatively impacted operating cash flow--were $7 million in Q1 2006 and $13 million for the trailing twelve months, and are expected to increase; such amounts should be less than $100 million in 2006 but are subject to considerable variability. Accordingly, amounts presented for operating cash flows and free cash flows for 2006 will be negatively affected in comparison to prior results; however, there is no change in economic substance resulting from this change in reporting classification.</li><li>Our cash, cash equivalents and marketable securities of $1.33 billion, at fair value, primarily consist of cash, investment grade securities and AAA-rated money market mutual funds. Included are amounts held in foreign currencies of $558 million, primarily in Euros, British pounds and yen.</li><li>Accounts receivable, net and other current assets include accounts receivable from merchant partners, vendors and credit card companies, interest receivables and $14 million of prepaid expenses.</li><li>Fixed assets include assets such as furniture and fixtures, heavy equipment, technology infrastructure, internal-use software and website development, and our DVD rental library.</li><li>Other assets include, among other things, $9 million of deferred issuance costs on long-term debt, $7 million of certain equity investments, and $23 million of other intangibles, net.</li><li>Accrued expenses and other current liabilities include, among other things, liabilities for gift certificates, professional fees, marketing activities, workforce costs--including accrued payroll, vacation and other benefits--and unearned revenue of $54 million, which is recorded when payments are received or due in advance of performing our service obligations and is amortized over the service period.</li><li>Long-term debt and other primarily include the following (in millions):</li></ul><pre> Principal Interest Principal at Maturity Rate Due Date ------------- --------- --------------Convertible Subordinated Notes $ 900 (1) 4.750% February 2009Premium Adjustable Convertible Securities ("PEACS") 291 (2) (4) 6.875% February 2010 ------------ $ 1,191 (3) ============</pre><pre> (1) Convertible at the holders' option into our common stock at $78.0275 per share. We have the right to redeem the Convertible Subordinated Notes, in whole or in part, at a redemption price of 101.425% of the principal, which decreases every February 1 by 47.5 basis points until maturity, plus any accrued and unpaid interest. (2) EUR 240 million principal amount, convertible at the holders' option into our common stock at EUR 84.883 per share ($103 per share based on the Euro/U.S. dollar exchange rate as of March 31, 2006). We have the right to redeem the PEACS, in whole or in part, by paying the principal amount, plus any accrued and unpaid interest. We do not hedge any portion of the PEACS. The U.S. dollar equivalent principal, interest and conversion price fluctuate based on the Euro/U.S. dollar exchange ratio. (3) The "if converted" number of shares associated with our convertible debt instruments (approximately 14 million total shares) is excluded from diluted shares as they are antidilutive. (4) As previously announced, in Q1 2006 we redeemed EUR 250 million--or $300 million at the Euro to U.S. dollar exchange rate on the redemption date--in principal amount of our PEACS at par.</pre><p>Certain Definitions and Other</p><ul><li>We present segment information for North America and International. We measure operating results of our segments using an internal performance measure of direct segment operating expenses that excludes stock-based compensation and other operating expense, each of which is not allocated to segment results. Other centrally-incurred operating costs are fully allocated to segment results. Our operating results, particularly for the International segment, are affected by movements in foreign exchange rates.</li><li>The North America segment consists of amounts earned from retail sales of consumer products (including from third-party sellers) and subscriptions through North America-focused websites such as www.amazon.com and www.amazon.ca; from North America-focused Syndicated Stores, such as www.borders.com; from our mail-order tool catalog phone orders; from our Amazon Prime membership program; and from non-retail activities such as North America-focused Amazon Enterprise Solutions program, and marketing and promotional agreements. This segment includes export sales from www.amazon.com and www.amazon.ca.</li><li>The International segment consists of amounts earned from retail sales of consumer products (including from third-party sellers) and subscriptions through internationally focused websites such as www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, and www.joyo.com; from internationally focused Syndicated Stores; from our DVD rental service; and from non-retail activities such as internationally-focused marketing and promotional agreements. This segment includes export sales from these internationally based sites (including export sales from these sites to customers in the U.S. and Canada) but excludes export sales from www.amazon.com and www.amazon.ca.</li><li>We provide supplemental sales information within each segment for three categories: Media, Electronics and Other General Merchandise, and Other. Media consists of amounts earned from DVD rentals and retail sales from all sellers of books, music, DVD/video, magazine subscriptions, software, video games and video-game consoles. Electronics and Other General Merchandise consists of amounts earned from retail sales from all sellers of items not included in Media, such as electronics and office, camera and photo, toys and baby, tools, home and garden, apparel, sports and outdoors, kitchen and housewares, gourmet food, jewelry, health and personal care, beauty, and musical instruments. The Other category consists of non-retail activities, such as the Amazon Enterprise Solutions program and miscellaneous marketing and promotional activities, such as our co-branded credit card programs.</li><li>Operating cash flow is net cash provided by (used in) operating activities, including cash outflows for interest and excluding proceeds from the exercise of stock-based employee awards. Free cash flow is operating cash flow less cash outflows for purchases of fixed assets, including internal-use software and website development.</li><li>Operating cycle is number of days of sales in inventory plus number of days of sales in accounts receivable minus accounts payable days. Accounts payable days are calculated as the quotient of accounts payable to cost of sales, multiplied by the number of days in the period. Inventory turns are calculated as the quotient of trailing twelve month cost of sales to average inventory over five quarter ends.</li><li>Return on invested capital is trailing-twelve-month free cash flow divided by average total assets less current liabilities over five quarter ends.</li><li>References to customers mean customer accounts, which are unique e-mail addresses, established either when a customer's initial order is shipped or when a customer orders from certain third-party sellers on our websites. Customer accounts include customers of Amazon Marketplace, Auctions and zShops, and our Merchants@ and Syndicated Stores programs, but exclude certain customers, including DVD rental customers, customers associated with certain of our acquisitions (including Joyo.com customers), Amazon Enterprise Solutions program customers, Amazon.com Payments customers, our catalog customers, and the customers of select companies with whom we have a technology alliance or marketing and promotional relationship. Customers are considered active when they have placed an order during the preceding twelve-month period.</li><li>References to sellers or merchants mean active seller accounts, which are established when a seller receives an order from a customer account. Seller accounts include sellers in Amazon Marketplace, Auctions, zShops, and Merchants@ platforms, but exclude Amazon Enterprise Solutions sellers. Sellers are considered active when they have received an order during the preceding twelve-month period.</li><li>References to units mean units sold (net of returns and cancellations) by us and by third-party sellers at Amazon.com domains worldwide--such as www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr and www.amazon.ca--and at Syndicated Stores domains, as well as Amazon.com-owned items sold through catalogs and at non-Amazon.com domains, such as books, music and DVD/video items ordered from Amazon.com's store at www.target.com. Units sold do not include units associated with certain of our acquisitions (including Joyo.com units), Amazon.com gift certificates or DVD rentals.</li></ul><p>CONTACT: Amazon.com Investor RelationsKim Nelson, 206-266-2171ir@amazon.comwww.amazon.com/irorAmazon.com Public RelationsPatty Smith, 206-266-7180SOURCE: Amazon.com, Inc.</p>

Amazon.com and CustomFlix Launch the Media Gateway Program; Program Digitizes and Unlocks the World's Video Media

/news/news-details/2006/Amazon.com-and-CustomFlix-Launch-the-Media-Gateway-Program-Program-Digitizes-and-Unlocks-the-Worlds-Video-Media/default.aspx

Amazon.com-and-CustomFlix-Launch-the-Media-Gateway-Program-Program-Digitizes-and-Unlocks-the-Worlds-Video-Media

04/24/2006 09:02:00

Amazon.com and CustomFlix Launch the Media Gateway Program; Program Digitizes and Unlocks the World's Video Media

04/24/2006

2006

LAS VEGAS--(BUSINESS WIRE)--April 24, 2006--Leading online retailer Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ: AMZN) and CustomFlix Labs, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Amazon.com, Inc., today announced the introduction of the Media Gateway program, a worldwide initiative to digitize and sell previously unavailable video content on Amazon.com. At the heart of the Media Gateway program is the CustomFlix Future-Proof Archive(TM) service, a secure storage and reformatting platform designed to provide content owners the flexibility to repurpose content into multiple future digital formats. The Future-Proof Archive service currently supports DVD-Video, with additional formats to be announced. The Media Gateway program enables content owners to unlock the hundreds of thousands of hours of content trapped in analog tape formats making it immediately available for sale as physical DVDs, and enabling the content for future inventory-free digital formats. For a limited time, CustomFlix will offer digitization and DVD authoring of qualified content with no up-front investment by the content provider. Amazon.com will then make this content available for sale to tens of millions of Amazon customers and CustomFlix will manufacture DVDs on demand as customers place orders. "The Media Gateway program isn't just about converting tapes into digital masters and DVDs - it's about a whole new way to manage media distribution," said Dana LoPiccolo-Giles, co-founder and Managing Director of CustomFlix. "The real innovation lies in the Future-Proof Archive service. We're digitizing the world's content and storing it in virtually lossless quality, then helping content owners repurpose and deliver their programming in whatever current or future format they select. Once content is added to our Future Proof-Archive service, it will never go out of stock or deteriorate in some antiquated format. Content providers can immediately begin offering their entire catalog for sale to Amazon.com customers and additionally use our service to manufacture and distribute DVDs through other channels. With the Media Gateway program, we are offering maximum flexibility in an uncertain digital media environment." The scope of the Media Gateway program goes beyond the current offering of standard definition DVD-Video. CustomFlix also announced that the Future-Proof Archive service will support the major high definition DVD formats in the future. Additional format support will be announced in the coming months. The Media Gateway program is already in use by many high-profile content providers. Major networks, including NBC Universal, A&E Home Video, and PBS (Public Broadcasting Service), are using the Media Gateway program for digitization and distribution today, with more partners and content being added on a continual basis. "Amazon.com and CustomFlix are creating a real opportunity for the media industry," said Greg Greeley, Vice President of Worldwide Media at Amazon.com. "A vast amount of video content is currently languishing in unusable tape formats, unavailable to viewing audiences, due to the content owner's concerns about expensive up front investments and the uncertainty around future digital formats. The Media Gateway program helps them unlock this opportunity. Content providers can now leverage this program to make their entire library of content immediately available to Amazon.com customers with minimal up front cost. CustomFlix and Amazon.com have already given our retail customers access to thousands of programs they couldn't previously buy. With the introduction of the Media Gateway program we look forward to offering customers the ability to find, discover, and buy a vastly expanded selection of DVDs, all available for shipment within 24 hours, and eligible for Amazon Prime and free Super Saver Shipping." For more information, pricing and details on the Media Gateway program, please visit www.CustomFlix.com/MediaGateway or www.amazon.com/mediagateway About CustomFlix CustomFlix Labs, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Amazon.com, Inc., is the leader in DVD on Demand services for enterprise and independent media content owners. CustomFlix was founded in 2002 with the mission of profitably connecting content owners and filmmakers to a worldwide audience. Today, CustomFlix offers professional digitization into the Future-Proof Archive service, as well as inventory-free physical media distribution via DVD on Demand, adding thousands of hours of media content to Earth's Biggest Selection on Amazon.com. About Amazon.com Amazon.com, Inc., (Nasdaq: AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden. Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com. As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise. This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings. CONTACT: Media:For CustomFlixStacey Hurwitz, 831-457-5925Stacey@CustomFlix.comorFor Amazon.comJani Strand, 206-266-2824jani@amazon.comSOURCE:Amazon.com, Inc.

<p>LAS VEGAS--(BUSINESS WIRE)--April 24, 2006--Leading online retailer Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ: AMZN) and CustomFlix Labs, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Amazon.com, Inc., today announced the introduction of the Media Gateway program, a worldwide initiative to digitize and sell previously unavailable video content on Amazon.com. At the heart of the Media Gateway program is the CustomFlix Future-Proof Archive(TM) service, a secure storage and reformatting platform designed to provide content owners the flexibility to repurpose content into multiple future digital formats. The Future-Proof Archive service currently supports DVD-Video, with additional formats to be announced.</p><p>The Media Gateway program enables content owners to unlock the hundreds of thousands of hours of content trapped in analog tape formats making it immediately available for sale as physical DVDs, and enabling the content for future inventory-free digital formats. For a limited time, CustomFlix will offer digitization and DVD authoring of qualified content with no up-front investment by the content provider. Amazon.com will then make this content available for sale to tens of millions of Amazon customers and CustomFlix will manufacture DVDs on demand as customers place orders.</p><p>"The Media Gateway program isn't just about converting tapes into digital masters and DVDs - it's about a whole new way to manage media distribution," said Dana LoPiccolo-Giles, co-founder and Managing Director of CustomFlix. "The real innovation lies in the Future-Proof Archive service. We're digitizing the world's content and storing it in virtually lossless quality, then helping content owners repurpose and deliver their programming in whatever current or future format they select. Once content is added to our Future Proof-Archive service, it will never go out of stock or deteriorate in some antiquated format. Content providers can immediately begin offering their entire catalog for sale to Amazon.com customers and additionally use our service to manufacture and distribute DVDs through other channels. With the Media Gateway program, we are offering maximum flexibility in an uncertain digital media environment."</p><p>The scope of the Media Gateway program goes beyond the current offering of standard definition DVD-Video. CustomFlix also announced that the Future-Proof Archive service will support the major high definition DVD formats in the future. Additional format support will be announced in the coming months.</p><p>The Media Gateway program is already in use by many high-profile content providers. Major networks, including NBC Universal, A&amp;E Home Video, and PBS (Public Broadcasting Service), are using the Media Gateway program for digitization and distribution today, with more partners and content being added on a continual basis.</p><p>"Amazon.com and CustomFlix are creating a real opportunity for the media industry," said Greg Greeley, Vice President of Worldwide Media at Amazon.com. "A vast amount of video content is currently languishing in unusable tape formats, unavailable to viewing audiences, due to the content owner's concerns about expensive up front investments and the uncertainty around future digital formats. The Media Gateway program helps them unlock this opportunity. Content providers can now leverage this program to make their entire library of content immediately available to Amazon.com customers with minimal up front cost. CustomFlix and Amazon.com have already given our retail customers access to thousands of programs they couldn't previously buy. With the introduction of the Media Gateway program we look forward to offering customers the ability to find, discover, and buy a vastly expanded selection of DVDs, all available for shipment within 24 hours, and eligible for Amazon Prime and free Super Saver Shipping."</p><p>For more information, pricing and details on the Media Gateway program, please visit www.CustomFlix.com/MediaGateway or www.amazon.com/mediagateway</p><p>About CustomFlix</p><p>CustomFlix Labs, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Amazon.com, Inc., is the leader in DVD on Demand services for enterprise and independent media content owners. CustomFlix was founded in 2002 with the mission of profitably connecting content owners and filmmakers to a worldwide audience. Today, CustomFlix offers professional digitization into the Future-Proof Archive service, as well as inventory-free physical media distribution via DVD on Demand, adding thousands of hours of media content to Earth's Biggest Selection on Amazon.com.</p><p>About Amazon.com</p><p>Amazon.com, Inc., (Nasdaq: AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden.</p><p>Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com.</p><p>As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise.</p><p>This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings.</p><p>CONTACT: Media:For CustomFlixStacey Hurwitz, 831-457-5925Stacey@CustomFlix.comorFor Amazon.comJani Strand, 206-266-2824jani@amazon.comSOURCE:Amazon.com, Inc.</p>

CustomFlix Announces On-Demand Solution to the High Definition DVD Format Wars; Amazon.com Subsidiary to Support HD-DVD, Blu-Ray and WMV HD

/news/news-details/2006/CustomFlix-Announces-On-Demand-Solution-to-the-High-Definition-DVD-Format-Wars-Amazon.com-Subsidiary-to-Support-HD-DVD-Blu-Ray-and-WMV-HD/default.aspx

CustomFlix-Announces-On-Demand-Solution-to-the-High-Definition-DVD-Format-Wars-Amazon.com-Subsidiary-to-Support-HD-DVD-Blu-Ray-and-WMV-HD

04/24/2006 09:02:00

CustomFlix Announces On-Demand Solution to the High Definition DVD Format Wars; Amazon.com Subsidiary to Support HD-DVD, Blu-Ray and WMV HD

04/24/2006

2006

LAS VEGAS--(BUSINESS WIRE)--April 24, 2006--CustomFlix Labs, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of leading online retailer Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ: AMZN), today announced upcoming support for all three of the industry's major high definition formats: HD-DVD, Blu-ray, and Windows Media Video High Definition DVD (WMV-HD DVD). This multi-format support is enabled by the CustomFlix Future-Proof Archive(TM) service, a proprietary storage and repurposing platform designed to allow deployment of digitized files in future formats, giving content providers the flexibility and convenience of distributing content in a format the customers choose. CustomFlix also announced that it has teamed up with HDNet to offer a wide range of programs in multiple HD formats on Amazon.com. "By supporting all of the high definition formats, CustomFlix enables content providers to take a format-neutral position and simply let customers decide which format they prefer," said Dana LoPiccolo-Giles, Co-founder and Managing Director of CustomFlix. "Many content providers are taking a cautious approach to HD due to the high costs of pressing discs in multiple high definition formats, plus they risk inventory obsolescence once a winning format emerges. CustomFlix offers a format-agnostic solution to eliminate that risk and accelerate HD release schedules." As proof of this multi-format approach speeding up the release of HD content, CustomFlix announced today that it is teaming up with HDNet to digitize hundreds of HD titles for sale on Amazon.com. This initiative will dramatically increase the number of HD titles available in the U.S. market segment this year. The first HDNet WMV-HD DVD titles produced under this agreement are available now at Amazon.com, with Blu-ray and HD-DVD coming in the near future. "As the first national television network to broadcast all of our programming in the highest quality format of High Definition TV, HDNet has a deep commitment to helping HD become the new viewing standard both in broadcast and on DVD," said Mark Cuban, President and Co-founder of HDNet. "Unfortunately, the disparate HD formats will make establishing a single standard difficult and result in customer confusion. CustomFlix allows customers interested in HD content to simply choose whatever format they want. DVD on Demand was an easy decision for HDNet because discs are produced as customers order, so there won't be any wasted inventory depending on which format becomes more popular for a specific title." Amazon.com currently offers a broad and growing selection of high definition televisions, players, and DVDs with an HD-DVD store at www.amazon.com/hddvd, a Blu-ray store at www.amazon.com/bluray, and sells numerous WMV-HD DVDs. About HDNet Co-founded by Mark Cuban and General Manager Philip Garvin, HDNet (www.hd.net) provides viewers with exciting and topical news, sports, music and entertainment programming. The 24-hour all-high definition network features up to 20 hours of new original programming each week, all produced in the highest quality 1080i HDTV format - more original high-definition programming than any other network. HDNet news and entertainment programming includes original series "HDNet World Report," "Face 2 Face with Roy Firestone," "Sound Off with Matt Pinfield," "Higher Definition," "Deadline!," "HDNet Concert Series," and "True Music." The network also features acclaimed acquired programs such as "Smallville," "Dead Like Me," and "Joan of Arcadia." Live sports productions include National Hockey League and Major League Soccer games and NASCAR Grand National Division auto racing. HDNet Movies, the company's second network, is the exclusive home of day and date movie releases including the Academy Award nominated "Enron: The Smartest Guys in the Room," "The War Within," and "Bubble." HDNet Movies also features a wide selection of major studio theatrical releases - all uncut, unedited, and appearing in their original aspect ratio - as well as features produced and finished in true 1080i high-definition. The HDNet networks are available on Adelphia, Bright House, Charter, DIRECTV, DISH Network, Insight, Mediacom, Time Warner Cable and more than 40 NCTC cable affiliate companies. For more information visit www.hd.net. About CustomFlix CustomFlix Labs, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Amazon.com, Inc., is the leader in DVD on Demand services for enterprise and independent media content owners. CustomFlix was founded in 2002 with the mission of profitably connecting content owners and filmmakers to a worldwide audience. Today, CustomFlix offers professional digitization into the Future-Proof Archive service, as well as inventory-free physical media distribution via DVD on Demand, adding thousands of hours of media content to Earth's Biggest Selection on Amazon.com. About Amazon.com Amazon.com, Inc., (Nasdaq: AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden. Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com. As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise. This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings. CONTACT:Media:For HDNetJeff Cuban, 214-651-8291jcuban@hd.netorFor CustomFlixStacey Hurwitz, 831-457-5925Stacey@CustomFlix.comorFor Amazon.comJani Strand, 206-266-2824jani@amazon.comSOURCE:Amazon.com, Inc.

<p>LAS VEGAS--(BUSINESS WIRE)--April 24, 2006--CustomFlix Labs, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of leading online retailer Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ: AMZN), today announced upcoming support for all three of the industry's major high definition formats: HD-DVD, Blu-ray, and Windows Media Video High Definition DVD (WMV-HD DVD). This multi-format support is enabled by the CustomFlix Future-Proof Archive(TM) service, a proprietary storage and repurposing platform designed to allow deployment of digitized files in future formats, giving content providers the flexibility and convenience of distributing content in a format the customers choose. CustomFlix also announced that it has teamed up with HDNet to offer a wide range of programs in multiple HD formats on Amazon.com.</p><p>"By supporting all of the high definition formats, CustomFlix enables content providers to take a format-neutral position and simply let customers decide which format they prefer," said Dana LoPiccolo-Giles, Co-founder and Managing Director of CustomFlix. "Many content providers are taking a cautious approach to HD due to the high costs of pressing discs in multiple high definition formats, plus they risk inventory obsolescence once a winning format emerges. CustomFlix offers a format-agnostic solution to eliminate that risk and accelerate HD release schedules."</p><p>As proof of this multi-format approach speeding up the release of HD content, CustomFlix announced today that it is teaming up with HDNet to digitize hundreds of HD titles for sale on Amazon.com. This initiative will dramatically increase the number of HD titles available in the U.S. market segment this year. The first HDNet WMV-HD DVD titles produced under this agreement are available now at Amazon.com, with Blu-ray and HD-DVD coming in the near future.</p><p>"As the first national television network to broadcast all of our programming in the highest quality format of High Definition TV, HDNet has a deep commitment to helping HD become the new viewing standard both in broadcast and on DVD," said Mark Cuban, President and Co-founder of HDNet. "Unfortunately, the disparate HD formats will make establishing a single standard difficult and result in customer confusion. CustomFlix allows customers interested in HD content to simply choose whatever format they want. DVD on Demand was an easy decision for HDNet because discs are produced as customers order, so there won't be any wasted inventory depending on which format becomes more popular for a specific title."</p><p>Amazon.com currently offers a broad and growing selection of high definition televisions, players, and DVDs with an HD-DVD store at www.amazon.com/hddvd, a Blu-ray store at www.amazon.com/bluray, and sells numerous WMV-HD DVDs.</p><p>About HDNet</p><p>Co-founded by Mark Cuban and General Manager Philip Garvin, HDNet (www.hd.net) provides viewers with exciting and topical news, sports, music and entertainment programming. The 24-hour all-high definition network features up to 20 hours of new original programming each week, all produced in the highest quality 1080i HDTV format - more original high-definition programming than any other network. HDNet news and entertainment programming includes original series "HDNet World Report," "Face 2 Face with Roy Firestone," "Sound Off with Matt Pinfield," "Higher Definition," "Deadline!," "HDNet Concert Series," and "True Music." The network also features acclaimed acquired programs such as "Smallville," "Dead Like Me," and "Joan of Arcadia." Live sports productions include National Hockey League and Major League Soccer games and NASCAR Grand National Division auto racing. HDNet Movies, the company's second network, is the exclusive home of day and date movie releases including the Academy Award nominated "Enron: The Smartest Guys in the Room," "The War Within," and "Bubble." HDNet Movies also features a wide selection of major studio theatrical releases - all uncut, unedited, and appearing in their original aspect ratio - as well as features produced and finished in true 1080i high-definition. The HDNet networks are available on Adelphia, Bright House, Charter, DIRECTV, DISH Network, Insight, Mediacom, Time Warner Cable and more than 40 NCTC cable affiliate companies.</p><pre> For more information visit www.hd.net. About CustomFlix</pre><p>CustomFlix Labs, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Amazon.com, Inc., is the leader in DVD on Demand services for enterprise and independent media content owners. CustomFlix was founded in 2002 with the mission of profitably connecting content owners and filmmakers to a worldwide audience. Today, CustomFlix offers professional digitization into the Future-Proof Archive service, as well as inventory-free physical media distribution via DVD on Demand, adding thousands of hours of media content to Earth's Biggest Selection on Amazon.com.</p><p>About Amazon.com</p><p>Amazon.com, Inc., (Nasdaq: AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden.</p><p>Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com.</p><p>As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise.</p><p>This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings.</p><p>CONTACT:Media:For HDNetJeff Cuban, 214-651-8291jcuban@hd.netorFor CustomFlixStacey Hurwitz, 831-457-5925Stacey@CustomFlix.comorFor Amazon.comJani Strand, 206-266-2824jani@amazon.comSOURCE:Amazon.com, Inc.</p>

Major Networks Select CustomFlix for DVD Distribution on Amazon.com; Programming from NBC Universal, A&E Home Video and PBS Now Available

/news/news-details/2006/Major-Networks-Select-CustomFlix-for-DVD-Distribution-on-Amazon.com-Programming-from-NBC-Universal-AE-Home-Video-and-PBS-Now-Available/default.aspx

Major-Networks-Select-CustomFlix-for-DVD-Distribution-on-Amazon.com-Programming-from-NBC-Universal-AE-Home-Video-and-PBS-Now-Available

04/24/2006 09:01:00

Major Networks Select CustomFlix for DVD Distribution on Amazon.com; Programming from NBC Universal, A&E Home Video and PBS Now Available

04/24/2006

2006

LAS VEGAS--(BUSINESS WIRE)--April 24, 2006--CustomFlix Labs, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of leading online retailer Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ: AMZN), today announced it has agreements with major television and cable networks, NBC Universal, A&E Home Video, and the PBS (Public Broadcasting Service), to distribute popular broadcast content via DVD on Demand on the Amazon.com website. These agreements will make thousands of previously unavailable DVDs accessible to millions of Amazon customers. "The CustomFlix DVD on Demand service works perfectly for the massive amount of content that network and cable channels have yet to make available on DVD and other digital formats," said Dana LoPiccolo-Giles, co-founder and Managing Director of CustomFlix. "Our service enables content providers to quickly and economically distribute previously unavailable programming to millions of Amazon.com customers. Because we produce discs only when customers order, our providers are not subject to the expense or risk associated with traditional distribution methods." CustomFlix is working with NBC Universal to encode and distribute content from the network's library of popular programming. This includes a wide variety of titles such as the "Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show" and a compilation of popular "Where in the World is Matt Lauer?" segments from the "Today" show. More NBC titles are being added on an ongoing basis, with many DVDs being pre-sold during the initial airing of the broadcast. "Working with CustomFlix enables us to identify key programs, advertise the availability of these programs on DVD, and make them available for purchase while the shows are airing," comments Kim Niemi, Senior Vice President, NBC Universal Television Distribution, Video, Music and Product Development. "The ability to offer our viewers a quick and easy method to purchase NBC Universal programming that wouldn't ordinarily be available through traditional DVD distribution is very exciting." A&E Home Video, the home entertainment distribution arm of A&E Television Networks, is currently selling more than 1,000 titles to Amazon.com customers through the CustomFlix DVD on Demand program. Selected content from the A&E(R) Network, The History Channel(R) and The Biography Channel(R) is now available, including programs such as "Modern Marvels," "Investigative Reports" and the award-winning "Biography(R)" series. The breadth of the A&E Home Video catalog is a natural fit with Amazon.com's mission of providing the Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com customers are able to effectively navigate this wide selection of titles through Amazon's discovery features, such as search, browse, and personalized recommendations. "The A&E Home Video library features a wide range of programs, and is a perfect match for Amazon.com's huge customer base, especially given Amazon's ability to match diverse programs with specific audience interests," said Kate Winn, Vice President of Sales & Marketing for A&E Home Video. "Because we have no inventory costs, it makes economic sense to make a much broader range of titles available than we could through a traditional manufacturing and warehousing approach. The CustomFlix Automated Artwork system allows us to effortlessly add titles without additional design time or costs. We look forward to offering consumers additional titles through the DVD on Demand program." PBS (Public Broadcasting Service) and producers of PBS content, including WGBH Boston Video, have selected CustomFlix for the distribution vehicle for a variety of programs including "American Experience", "Antiques Roadshow", "Frontline" and "Nova". These and many other public television shows are expected to be available soon for sale as DVDs on Amazon.com. "At PBS, we are a community resource, operating in the public interest," said Andrea Downing, Vice President, Consumer Products. "PBS is constantly looking for ways to expand the reach of our programming to enrich people's lives. Working with CustomFlix and Amazon.com provides new opportunities to reach an audience beyond our broadcasts. DVD on Demand offers a unique opportunity, which meets our need for DVDs today, but promises more opportunities in the future. The CustomFlix Future-Proof Archive service provides flexibility by allowing us to reformat our content into future formats without requiring us to pull our original tape masters." DVDs from NBC Universal, A&E Home Video and PBS are available today for purchase at www.amazon.com. About NBC Universal NBC Universal is one of the world's leading media and entertainment companies in the development, production, and marketing of entertainment, news, and information to a global audience. Formed in May 2004 through the combining of NBC and Vivendi Universal Entertainment, NBC Universal owns and operates a valuable portfolio of news and entertainment networks, a premier motion picture company, significant television production operations, a leading television stations group, and world-renowned theme parks. NBC Universal is 80% owned by General Electric, and 20% owned by Vivendi Universal. About A&E Television Networks A&E Television Networks, a joint venture of The Hearst Corporation, ABC, Inc. and NBC Universal, is an award-winning, international media company offering consumers a diverse communications environment ranging from television programming, to home videos/DVDs and music CDs, to Web sites, as well as supporting nationwide educational initiatives. AETN is comprised of A&E Network(R), The History Channel(R), History International(R), The Biography Channel(R), Military History Channel(TM), The History Channel en espanol(TM), Crime & Investigation Network(TM), AETN International, and AETN Consumer Products. The A&E web site is located at www.aetv.com, the Biography web site is located at www.Biography.com and The History Channel(R) web site is located at www.History.com. About PBS PBS is a private, nonprofit media enterprise that serves the nation's 348 public noncommercial television stations, reaching nearly 90 million people each week through on-air and online content. Bringing diverse viewpoints to television and the Internet, PBS provides high-quality documentary and dramatic entertainment, and consistently dominates the most prestigious award competitions. PBS is the leading provider of educational materials for K-12 teachers, and offers a broad array of educational services for adult learners. PBS' premier kids' TV programming and Web site, PBS KIDS Online, PBS KIDS Online pbskids.org, continue to be parents' and teachers' most trusted learning environments for children. More information about PBS is available at pbs.org, one of the leading dot-org Web sites on the Internet. About CustomFlix CustomFlix Labs, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Amazon.com, Inc., is the leader in DVD on Demand services for enterprise and independent media content owners. CustomFlix was founded in 2002 with the mission of profitably connecting content owners and filmmakers to a worldwide audience. Today, CustomFlix offers professional digitization into the Future-Proof Archive service, as well as inventory-free physical media distribution via DVD on Demand, adding thousands of hours of media content to Earth's Biggest Selection on Amazon.com. About Amazon.com Amazon.com, Inc., (Nasdaq: AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden. Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com. As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise. This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings. CONTACT:MEDIA:For NBC UniversalKatrina Florence, 818-777-3233katrina.florence@nbcuni.comorFor A&E Home VideoKerri Tarmey, 212-551-1504Kerri.tarmey@aetn.comorFor PBSAndrea Downing, 703-739-5394adowning@pbs.orgorFor CustomFlixStacey Hurwitz, 831-457-5925Stacey@CustomFlix.comorFor Amazon.comJani Strand, 206-266-2824jani@amazon.comSOURCE:Amazon.com, Inc.

<p>LAS VEGAS--(BUSINESS WIRE)--April 24, 2006--CustomFlix Labs, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of leading online retailer Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ: AMZN), today announced it has agreements with major television and cable networks, NBC Universal, A&amp;E Home Video, and the PBS (Public Broadcasting Service), to distribute popular broadcast content via DVD on Demand on the Amazon.com website. These agreements will make thousands of previously unavailable DVDs accessible to millions of Amazon customers.</p><p>"The CustomFlix DVD on Demand service works perfectly for the massive amount of content that network and cable channels have yet to make available on DVD and other digital formats," said Dana LoPiccolo-Giles, co-founder and Managing Director of CustomFlix. "Our service enables content providers to quickly and economically distribute previously unavailable programming to millions of Amazon.com customers. Because we produce discs only when customers order, our providers are not subject to the expense or risk associated with traditional distribution methods."</p><p>CustomFlix is working with NBC Universal to encode and distribute content from the network's library of popular programming. This includes a wide variety of titles such as the "Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show" and a compilation of popular "Where in the World is Matt Lauer?" segments from the "Today" show. More NBC titles are being added on an ongoing basis, with many DVDs being pre-sold during the initial airing of the broadcast.</p><p>"Working with CustomFlix enables us to identify key programs, advertise the availability of these programs on DVD, and make them available for purchase while the shows are airing," comments Kim Niemi, Senior Vice President, NBC Universal Television Distribution, Video, Music and Product Development. "The ability to offer our viewers a quick and easy method to purchase NBC Universal programming that wouldn't ordinarily be available through traditional DVD distribution is very exciting."</p><p>A&amp;E Home Video, the home entertainment distribution arm of A&amp;E Television Networks, is currently selling more than 1,000 titles to Amazon.com customers through the CustomFlix DVD on Demand program. Selected content from the A&amp;E(R) Network, The History Channel(R) and The Biography Channel(R) is now available, including programs such as "Modern Marvels," "Investigative Reports" and the award-winning "Biography(R)" series. The breadth of the A&amp;E Home Video catalog is a natural fit with Amazon.com's mission of providing the Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com customers are able to effectively navigate this wide selection of titles through Amazon's discovery features, such as search, browse, and personalized recommendations.</p><p>"The A&amp;E Home Video library features a wide range of programs, and is a perfect match for Amazon.com's huge customer base, especially given Amazon's ability to match diverse programs with specific audience interests," said Kate Winn, Vice President of Sales &amp; Marketing for A&amp;E Home Video. "Because we have no inventory costs, it makes economic sense to make a much broader range of titles available than we could through a traditional manufacturing and warehousing approach. The CustomFlix Automated Artwork system allows us to effortlessly add titles without additional design time or costs. We look forward to offering consumers additional titles through the DVD on Demand program."</p><p>PBS (Public Broadcasting Service) and producers of PBS content, including WGBH Boston Video, have selected CustomFlix for the distribution vehicle for a variety of programs including "American Experience", "Antiques Roadshow", "Frontline" and "Nova". These and many other public television shows are expected to be available soon for sale as DVDs on Amazon.com.</p><p>"At PBS, we are a community resource, operating in the public interest," said Andrea Downing, Vice President, Consumer Products. "PBS is constantly looking for ways to expand the reach of our programming to enrich people's lives. Working with CustomFlix and Amazon.com provides new opportunities to reach an audience beyond our broadcasts. DVD on Demand offers a unique opportunity, which meets our need for DVDs today, but promises more opportunities in the future. The CustomFlix Future-Proof Archive service provides flexibility by allowing us to reformat our content into future formats without requiring us to pull our original tape masters."</p><p>DVDs from NBC Universal, A&amp;E Home Video and PBS are available today for purchase at www.amazon.com.</p><p>About NBC Universal</p><p>NBC Universal is one of the world's leading media and entertainment companies in the development, production, and marketing of entertainment, news, and information to a global audience. Formed in May 2004 through the combining of NBC and Vivendi Universal Entertainment, NBC Universal owns and operates a valuable portfolio of news and entertainment networks, a premier motion picture company, significant television production operations, a leading television stations group, and world-renowned theme parks. NBC Universal is 80% owned by General Electric, and 20% owned by Vivendi Universal.</p><p>About A&amp;E Television Networks</p><p>A&amp;E Television Networks, a joint venture of The Hearst Corporation, ABC, Inc. and NBC Universal, is an award-winning, international media company offering consumers a diverse communications environment ranging from television programming, to home videos/DVDs and music CDs, to Web sites, as well as supporting nationwide educational initiatives. AETN is comprised of A&amp;E Network(R), The History Channel(R), History International(R), The Biography Channel(R), Military History Channel(TM), The History Channel en espanol(TM), Crime &amp; Investigation Network(TM), AETN International, and AETN Consumer Products. The A&amp;E web site is located at www.aetv.com, the Biography web site is located at www.Biography.com and The History Channel(R) web site is located at www.History.com.</p><p>About PBS</p><p>PBS is a private, nonprofit media enterprise that serves the nation's 348 public noncommercial television stations, reaching nearly 90 million people each week through on-air and online content. Bringing diverse viewpoints to television and the Internet, PBS provides high-quality documentary and dramatic entertainment, and consistently dominates the most prestigious award competitions. PBS is the leading provider of educational materials for K-12 teachers, and offers a broad array of educational services for adult learners. PBS' premier kids' TV programming and Web site, PBS KIDS Online, PBS KIDS Online pbskids.org, continue to be parents' and teachers' most trusted learning environments for children. More information about PBS is available at pbs.org, one of the leading dot-org Web sites on the Internet.</p><p>About CustomFlix</p><p>CustomFlix Labs, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Amazon.com, Inc., is the leader in DVD on Demand services for enterprise and independent media content owners. CustomFlix was founded in 2002 with the mission of profitably connecting content owners and filmmakers to a worldwide audience. Today, CustomFlix offers professional digitization into the Future-Proof Archive service, as well as inventory-free physical media distribution via DVD on Demand, adding thousands of hours of media content to Earth's Biggest Selection on Amazon.com.</p><p>About Amazon.com</p><p>Amazon.com, Inc., (Nasdaq: AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden.</p><p>Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com.</p><p>As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise.</p><p>This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings.</p><p>CONTACT:MEDIA:For NBC UniversalKatrina Florence, 818-777-3233katrina.florence@nbcuni.comorFor A&amp;E Home VideoKerri Tarmey, 212-551-1504Kerri.tarmey@aetn.comorFor PBSAndrea Downing, 703-739-5394adowning@pbs.orgorFor CustomFlixStacey Hurwitz, 831-457-5925Stacey@CustomFlix.comorFor Amazon.comJani Strand, 206-266-2824jani@amazon.comSOURCE:Amazon.com, Inc.</p>

Amazon.com Premiers Exclusive Pearl Jam Video Footage; Never-Before-Seen In-Studio Video Performance of ''Life Wasted,'' the First Track on the Band's New Self-Titled Album, Available Exclusively on Amazon.com

/news/news-details/2006/Amazon.com-Premiers-Exclusive-Pearl-Jam-Video-Footage-Never-Before-Seen-In-Studio-Video-Performance-of-Life-Wasted-the-First-Track-on-the-Bands-New-Self-Titled-Album-Available-Exclusively-on-Amazon.com/default.aspx

Amazon.com-Premiers-Exclusive-Pearl-Jam-Video-Footage-Never-Before-Seen-In-Studio-Video-Performance-of-Life-Wasted-the-First-Track-on-the-Bands-New-Self-Titled-Album-Available-Exclusively-on-Amazon.com

04/24/2006 08:03:00

Amazon.com Premiers Exclusive Pearl Jam Video Footage; Never-Before-Seen In-Studio Video Performance of ''Life Wasted,'' the First Track on the Band's New Self-Titled Album, Available Exclusively on Amazon.com

04/24/2006

2006

SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--April 24, 2006--Amazon.com (Nasdaq:AMZN) premiered exclusive video footage today of Pearl Jam's in-studio performance of "Life Wasted," the first track off of their latest, self-titled album, to be released May 2. For three weeks starting today, this footage is available exclusively on Amazon.com at www.amazon.com/pearljam. "Life Wasted" is the first of 13 tracks on the new album, which is the band's eighth studio release and their first in nearly four years. "We know that Pearl Jam fans are anxious to hear the new album, so we're very excited to be able to share this exclusive video with them," said Jeff Belle, Amazon.com's vice president of worldwide media buying. In addition to the exclusive video footage of "Life Wasted," Amazon.com customers can also listen to an audio interview with guitarist Stone Gossard as well as view newly released band photographs. And by pre-ordering the album, customers will have access to additional in-studio performances, new documentary interview footage and an audio stream of the single "World Wide Suicide." "Amazon.com's user-friendly environment allows Pearl Jam once again to put their fans first, offering them the opportunity of this unique and up-front experience," said Tom Corson, executive vice president and general manager of J/Arista Records. Pearl Jam's self-titled album will be released on May 2. The album is currently available for pre-order on Amazon.com (www.amazon.com) for $10.98 -- a savings of 42 percent. About Amazon.com, Inc. Amazon.com, Inc., (Nasdaq:AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden. Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com. As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise. Forward-Looking Statement This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings. CONTACT: Amazon.com, SeattleTracy Ogden, 206-266-1379 (Media Relations)ogden@amazon.comSOURCE:Amazon.com, Inc.

<p>SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--April 24, 2006--Amazon.com (Nasdaq:AMZN) premiered exclusive video footage today of Pearl Jam's in-studio performance of "Life Wasted," the first track off of their latest, self-titled album, to be released May 2.</p><p>For three weeks starting today, this footage is available exclusively on Amazon.com at www.amazon.com/pearljam. "Life Wasted" is the first of 13 tracks on the new album, which is the band's eighth studio release and their first in nearly four years.</p><p>"We know that Pearl Jam fans are anxious to hear the new album, so we're very excited to be able to share this exclusive video with them," said Jeff Belle, Amazon.com's vice president of worldwide media buying.</p><p>In addition to the exclusive video footage of "Life Wasted," Amazon.com customers can also listen to an audio interview with guitarist Stone Gossard as well as view newly released band photographs. And by pre-ordering the album, customers will have access to additional in-studio performances, new documentary interview footage and an audio stream of the single "World Wide Suicide."</p><p>"Amazon.com's user-friendly environment allows Pearl Jam once again to put their fans first, offering them the opportunity of this unique and up-front experience," said Tom Corson, executive vice president and general manager of J/Arista Records.</p><p>Pearl Jam's self-titled album will be released on May 2. The album is currently available for pre-order on Amazon.com (www.amazon.com) for $10.98 -- a savings of 42 percent.</p><p>About Amazon.com, Inc.</p><p>Amazon.com, Inc., (Nasdaq:AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden.</p><p>Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com.</p><p>As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise.</p><p>Forward-Looking Statement</p><p>This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings.</p><p>CONTACT: Amazon.com, SeattleTracy Ogden, 206-266-1379 (Media Relations)ogden@amazon.comSOURCE:Amazon.com, Inc.</p>

Benefit Cosmetics Chooses End-to-End E-Commerce and Phone Order Solutions from Amazon Services for United States and United Kingdom

/news/news-details/2006/Benefit-Cosmetics-Chooses-End-to-End-E-Commerce-and-Phone-Order-Solutions-from-Amazon-Services-for-United-States-and-United-Kingdom/default.aspx

Benefit-Cosmetics-Chooses-End-to-End-E-Commerce-and-Phone-Order-Solutions-from-Amazon-Services-for-United-States-and-United-Kingdom

04/19/2006 08:31:00

Benefit Cosmetics Chooses End-to-End E-Commerce and Phone Order Solutions from Amazon Services for United States and United Kingdom

04/19/2006

2006

Amazon Services to provide phone order processing and technology, order fulfillment, and customer service for benefitcosmetics.com and benefitcosmetics.co.uk SEATTLE & SAN FRANCISCO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--April 19, 2006-- Amazon Services, Amazon Services Europe, and Benefit Cosmetics today announced that Benefit Cosmetics has chosen the Amazon Services Enterprise Solution to develop and support new Benefit Cosmetics online and phone order offerings for the United States and United Kingdom. A subsidiary of leading luxury group LVMH Moet Hennessy Louis Vuitton, Benefit Cosmetics is one of the fastest-growing cosmetics companies in the United States and is rapidly expanding its international presence. Under the multiyear agreement, Amazon Services and Amazon Services Europe will provide phone order processing and an end-to-end e-commerce solution for Benefit Cosmetics U.S. and U.K. Web sites, including design and usability, technology platform, order fulfillment, and customer service for orders placed online. Both Web sites and phone order services are scheduled to launch later this year. "Enhancing the presence of Benefit Cosmetics on the Web is an important part of our aggressive growth strategy both nationally and internationally, which is why we chose an e-commerce solution provider with the breadth of experience and capability of Amazon Services," said Benefit Cosmetics General Manager of E-Commerce Neil Kjeldsen. "We can focus on creating great products and store experiences for our customers while Amazon ensures the shopping experience for our customers who shop online is equally compelling." Amazon Services and Amazon Services Europe will provide Benefit Cosmetics with an end-to-end e-commerce solution that includes Amazon technology and e-commerce expertise. Amazon shopping technology such as one-step checkout, Search and Navigation, Personalization, Ordering and Payments, Wish Lists, and Recommendations will be available to Benefit Cosmetics online customers, and order fulfillment and customer service will be operated by Amazon's global network of fulfillment and customer service centers. "We are pleased that Benefit Cosmetics chose Amazon Services to develop and support new end-to-end phone order processing and online offerings for their customers in the U.S. and U.K.," said Amazon Services Enterprise Solutions Vice President Wes Herman. "Through this partnership we believe we can build an online experience that helps Benefit Cosmetics reach even more customers with its unique and dynamic brand and products." About Benefit Cosmetics Benefit Cosmetics (www.benefitcosmetics.com), a division of LVMH, is a major force in the beauty industry. The company has swept the world with one-of-a-kind cosmetics and skin care products, and Benefit goods are cult favorites of celebrities around the world. Viewed as a trend-setting line, it is often imitated but never duplicated by its competitors. Today, Benefit is the fastest growing luxury cosmetic brand in the U.S. with more than 600 counters in ten countries and 5 free-standing boutiques in California. About Amazon Services Amazon Services is a subsidiary of Amazon.com, Inc. (Nasdaq:AMZN) that offers the technical platform, operational capabilities and online retailing expertise that power Amazon.com to other retailers. The company's Amazon Enterprise Solution currently powers the online offerings of world-class brands such as Target Stores, The Bombay Company, National Basketball Association, Bebe Stores and other leading retail sites. About Amazon Services Europe Amazon.com's Luxembourg-based subsidiary, Amazon Services Europe, provides world-class service to retailers and their customers through a suite of innovative service offerings from discovery through delivery. This includes technology, hosting, customer service, direct-to-consumer fulfillment, and transportation solutions that are tailored to support and enhance their brand and customer experience. Forward-Looking Statement This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings. CONTACT: Amazon.comAmazon Media Hotline, 206-266-7180www.amazon.com/prSOURCE: Amazon.com

<p>Amazon Services to provide phone order processing and technology, order fulfillment, and customer service for benefitcosmetics.com and benefitcosmetics.co.uk</p><p>SEATTLE &amp; SAN FRANCISCO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--April 19, 2006-- Amazon Services, Amazon Services Europe, and Benefit Cosmetics today announced that Benefit Cosmetics has chosen the Amazon Services Enterprise Solution to develop and support new Benefit Cosmetics online and phone order offerings for the United States and United Kingdom. A subsidiary of leading luxury group LVMH Moet Hennessy Louis Vuitton, Benefit Cosmetics is one of the fastest-growing cosmetics companies in the United States and is rapidly expanding its international presence. Under the multiyear agreement, Amazon Services and Amazon Services Europe will provide phone order processing and an end-to-end e-commerce solution for Benefit Cosmetics U.S. and U.K. Web sites, including design and usability, technology platform, order fulfillment, and customer service for orders placed online. Both Web sites and phone order services are scheduled to launch later this year.</p><p>"Enhancing the presence of Benefit Cosmetics on the Web is an important part of our aggressive growth strategy both nationally and internationally, which is why we chose an e-commerce solution provider with the breadth of experience and capability of Amazon Services," said Benefit Cosmetics General Manager of E-Commerce Neil Kjeldsen. "We can focus on creating great products and store experiences for our customers while Amazon ensures the shopping experience for our customers who shop online is equally compelling."</p><p>Amazon Services and Amazon Services Europe will provide Benefit Cosmetics with an end-to-end e-commerce solution that includes Amazon technology and e-commerce expertise. Amazon shopping technology such as one-step checkout, Search and Navigation, Personalization, Ordering and Payments, Wish Lists, and Recommendations will be available to Benefit Cosmetics online customers, and order fulfillment and customer service will be operated by Amazon's global network of fulfillment and customer service centers.</p><p>"We are pleased that Benefit Cosmetics chose Amazon Services to develop and support new end-to-end phone order processing and online offerings for their customers in the U.S. and U.K.," said Amazon Services Enterprise Solutions Vice President Wes Herman. "Through this partnership we believe we can build an online experience that helps Benefit Cosmetics reach even more customers with its unique and dynamic brand and products."</p><p>About Benefit Cosmetics</p><p>Benefit Cosmetics (www.benefitcosmetics.com), a division of LVMH, is a major force in the beauty industry. The company has swept the world with one-of-a-kind cosmetics and skin care products, and Benefit goods are cult favorites of celebrities around the world. Viewed as a trend-setting line, it is often imitated but never duplicated by its competitors. Today, Benefit is the fastest growing luxury cosmetic brand in the U.S. with more than 600 counters in ten countries and 5 free-standing boutiques in California.</p><p>About Amazon Services</p><p>Amazon Services is a subsidiary of Amazon.com, Inc. (Nasdaq:AMZN) that offers the technical platform, operational capabilities and online retailing expertise that power Amazon.com to other retailers. The company's Amazon Enterprise Solution currently powers the online offerings of world-class brands such as Target Stores, The Bombay Company, National Basketball Association, Bebe Stores and other leading retail sites.</p><p>About Amazon Services Europe</p><p>Amazon.com's Luxembourg-based subsidiary, Amazon Services Europe, provides world-class service to retailers and their customers through a suite of innovative service offerings from discovery through delivery. This includes technology, hosting, customer service, direct-to-consumer fulfillment, and transportation solutions that are tailored to support and enhance their brand and customer experience.</p><p>Forward-Looking Statement This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings.</p><p>CONTACT: Amazon.comAmazon Media Hotline, 206-266-7180www.amazon.com/prSOURCE: Amazon.com</p>

Amazon.com to Webcast First Quarter 2006 Financial Results Conference Call

/news/news-details/2006/Amazon.com-to-Webcast-First-Quarter-2006-Financial-Results-Conference-Call/default.aspx

Amazon.com-to-Webcast-First-Quarter-2006-Financial-Results-Conference-Call

04/14/2006 16:02:00

Amazon.com to Webcast First Quarter 2006 Financial Results Conference Call

04/14/2006

2006

SEATTLE--April 14, 2006--Amazon.com, Inc. (Nasdaq:AMZN) announced today that it will hold a conference call to discuss its first quarter 2006 financial results on Apr. 25, 2006, at 2:00 p.m. PT/5:00 p.m. ET. The event will be webcast live, and the audio and associated slides will be available for at least three months thereafter at www.amazon.com/ir. CONTACT: Amazon.com Media RelationsPatty Smith, 206-266-7180SOURCE: Amazon.com

<p>SEATTLE--April 14, 2006--Amazon.com, Inc. (Nasdaq:AMZN) announced today that it will hold a conference call to discuss its first quarter 2006 financial results on Apr. 25, 2006, at 2:00 p.m. PT/5:00 p.m. ET.</p><p>The event will be webcast live, and the audio and associated slides will be available for at least three months thereafter at www.amazon.com/ir.</p><p>CONTACT: Amazon.com Media RelationsPatty Smith, 206-266-7180SOURCE: Amazon.com</p>

Timex Chooses Amazon Services to Develop and Manage New Online Offering; Retail Web Site of America's Bestselling Watch Brand to be Powered by Amazon's Technology and E-Commerce Expertise

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Timex-Chooses-Amazon-Services-to-Develop-and-Manage-New-Online-Offering-Retail-Web-Site-of-Americas-Bestselling-Watch-Brand-to-be-Powered-by-Amazons-Technology-and-E-Commerce-Expertise

04/12/2006 08:31:00

Timex Chooses Amazon Services to Develop and Manage New Online Offering; Retail Web Site of America's Bestselling Watch Brand to be Powered by Amazon's Technology and E-Commerce Expertise

04/12/2006

2006

SEATTLE & MIDDLEBURY, Conn.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--April 12, 2006--Amazon Services LLC and Timex today announced that Timex will use the Amazon Services Enterprise Solution to power its new online offering. Timex is America's bestselling watch brand, offering the watch industry's most complete and most broadly distributed line of products. Under their multiyear agreement, Amazon Services will develop and manage a Timex-branded Web site with the Amazon technology and e-commerce expertise offered by Amazon Services. "Partnering with Amazon Services for Timex.com is a great decision for our business and will enable us to deliver a world-class experience to our Web site visitors," said Timex Chief Executive Officer Joe Santana. "This partnership allows us to focus on our business of designing world-renowned watches while Amazon Services focuses on what they do best -- designing and managing an outstanding Web experience," said Gary Druckenmiller, Director, Timex.com and e-business. Amazon Services will host the Timex Web site and use Amazon's technology to give Timex control over their brand, the customer experience, and their online business. Amazon shopping technologies such as one-step checkout, Search and Navigation, Personalization, Ordering and Payments, Wish Lists and Recommendations will also be available to Timex's online customers. "We are pleased that Timex chose Amazon Services to develop and manage a new online offering for their customers," said Amazon Services Enterprise Solutions Vice President Wes Herman. "We look forward to building a Web experience for Timex and its customers that is unsurpassed in the watch business." About Timex Founded in 1854, Timex is a privately owned company with manufacturing plants and company offices in over 80 countries around the world. With more than one billion watches bearing the Timex brand sold worldwide, the Timex Group has been providing innovative, well-designed, and reliable timepieces for over 150 years. For local store information, consumers can call (800) FOR-TIMEX or visit our Web site at www.timex.com. About Amazon Services LLC Amazon Services LLC is a subsidiary of Amazon.com, Inc. (Nasdaq:AMZN) that offers the technical platform, operational capabilities and online retailing expertise that power Amazon.com to other retailers. The company's Amazon Enterprise Solution currently powers the online offerings of world-class brands such as Target Stores, The Bombay Company, National Basketball Association, Bebe Stores, and other leading retail sites. Forward-Looking Statement This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings. CONTACT:Amazon Media Hotline, 206-266-7180Kaplow Communications on behalf of TimexMichelle Daniels, 212-221-1713SOURCE:Amazon.com, Inc.

<p>SEATTLE &amp; MIDDLEBURY, Conn.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--April 12, 2006--Amazon Services LLC and Timex today announced that Timex will use the Amazon Services Enterprise Solution to power its new online offering. Timex is America's bestselling watch brand, offering the watch industry's most complete and most broadly distributed line of products. Under their multiyear agreement, Amazon Services will develop and manage a Timex-branded Web site with the Amazon technology and e-commerce expertise offered by Amazon Services.</p><p>"Partnering with Amazon Services for Timex.com is a great decision for our business and will enable us to deliver a world-class experience to our Web site visitors," said Timex Chief Executive Officer Joe Santana.</p><p>"This partnership allows us to focus on our business of designing world-renowned watches while Amazon Services focuses on what they do best -- designing and managing an outstanding Web experience," said Gary Druckenmiller, Director, Timex.com and e-business.</p><p>Amazon Services will host the Timex Web site and use Amazon's technology to give Timex control over their brand, the customer experience, and their online business. Amazon shopping technologies such as one-step checkout, Search and Navigation, Personalization, Ordering and Payments, Wish Lists and Recommendations will also be available to Timex's online customers.</p><p>"We are pleased that Timex chose Amazon Services to develop and manage a new online offering for their customers," said Amazon Services Enterprise Solutions Vice President Wes Herman. "We look forward to building a Web experience for Timex and its customers that is unsurpassed in the watch business."</p><p>About Timex</p><p>Founded in 1854, Timex is a privately owned company with manufacturing plants and company offices in over 80 countries around the world. With more than one billion watches bearing the Timex brand sold worldwide, the Timex Group has been providing innovative, well-designed, and reliable timepieces for over 150 years. For local store information, consumers can call (800) FOR-TIMEX or visit our Web site at www.timex.com.</p><p>About Amazon Services LLC</p><p>Amazon Services LLC is a subsidiary of Amazon.com, Inc. (Nasdaq:AMZN) that offers the technical platform, operational capabilities and online retailing expertise that power Amazon.com to other retailers. The company's Amazon Enterprise Solution currently powers the online offerings of world-class brands such as Target Stores, The Bombay Company, National Basketball Association, Bebe Stores, and other leading retail sites.</p><p>Forward-Looking Statement</p><p>This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings.</p><p>CONTACT:Amazon Media Hotline, 206-266-7180Kaplow Communications on behalf of TimexMichelle Daniels, 212-221-1713SOURCE:Amazon.com, Inc.</p>

Amazon.com Premieres Exclusive Video Footage from Recording Sessions for New Bruce Springsteen Release, We Shall Overcome:

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Amazon.com-Premieres-Exclusive-Video-Footage-from-Recording-Sessions-for-New-Bruce-Springsteen-Release-We-Shall-Overcome

04/03/2006 08:04:00

Amazon.com Premieres Exclusive Video Footage from Recording Sessions for New Bruce Springsteen Release, We Shall Overcome:

04/03/2006

2006

The Seeger Sessions SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--April 3, 2006--Amazon.com (Nasdaq:AMZN): Never-Before-Seen Video Performance of the Single "John Henry" is Unveiled Today at Amazon.com; Footage Excerpted from the Recording Sessions of We Shall Overcome: The Seeger Sessions, to Be Released April 25 Amazon.com (Nasdaq:AMZN) premiered exclusive video footage today from the making of Bruce Springsteen's latest album, We Shall Overcome: The Seeger Sessions. For one week, starting today, video footage of the track "John Henry" can be seen exclusively at Amazon.com via the Amazon welcome page (www.amazon.com) or at www.amazon.com/brucespringsteen. The track is one of Bruce's interpretations of 15 traditional songs, including two bonus tracks, all of them associated with the legendary guiding light of American folk music, Pete Seeger. "Bruce Springsteen is one of Amazon.com's bestselling musicians of all time," said Jeff Belle, Amazon.com's vice president of worldwide media buying. "We are delighted to share this extraordinary footage with our customers. It is a rare opportunity to watch Springsteen behind the scenes and to experience the passion and dedication that went into the making of this album." By pre-ordering the album, customers will also have access to the in-studio performances of "Pay Me My Money Down" and "Erie Canal" in addition to comments on the making of the album by Bruce Springsteen. We Shall Overcome: The Seeger Sessions will be released on April 25 in DualDisc format, with the full album on one side of the disc and DVD content on the other side. The 30-minute video side of the DualDisc contains extensive behind-the-scenes footage of the recording of the album. In addition, the DualDisc package will contain two bonus tracks and a special booklet including a note from Springsteen. The set is available for advance order at www.amazon.com for $12.98, a savings of 35 percent. About Amazon.com, Inc. Amazon.com, Inc., (Nasdaq:AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden. Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com. As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise. Forward-Looking Statement This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings. CONTACT:Amazon.com Media RelationsTracy Ogden, ogden@amazon.comSOURCE:Amazon.com

<p>The Seeger Sessions</p><p>SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--April 3, 2006--Amazon.com (Nasdaq:AMZN): Never-Before-Seen Video Performance of the Single "John Henry" is Unveiled Today at Amazon.com; Footage Excerpted from the Recording Sessions of We Shall Overcome: The Seeger Sessions, to Be Released April 25</p><p>Amazon.com (Nasdaq:AMZN) premiered exclusive video footage today from the making of Bruce Springsteen's latest album, We Shall Overcome: The Seeger Sessions.</p><p>For one week, starting today, video footage of the track "John Henry" can be seen exclusively at Amazon.com via the Amazon welcome page (www.amazon.com) or at www.amazon.com/brucespringsteen. The track is one of Bruce's interpretations of 15 traditional songs, including two bonus tracks, all of them associated with the legendary guiding light of American folk music, Pete Seeger.</p><p>"Bruce Springsteen is one of Amazon.com's bestselling musicians of all time," said Jeff Belle, Amazon.com's vice president of worldwide media buying. "We are delighted to share this extraordinary footage with our customers. It is a rare opportunity to watch Springsteen behind the scenes and to experience the passion and dedication that went into the making of this album."</p><p>By pre-ordering the album, customers will also have access to the in-studio performances of "Pay Me My Money Down" and "Erie Canal" in addition to comments on the making of the album by Bruce Springsteen.</p><p>We Shall Overcome: The Seeger Sessions will be released on April 25 in DualDisc format, with the full album on one side of the disc and DVD content on the other side. The 30-minute video side of the DualDisc contains extensive behind-the-scenes footage of the recording of the album. In addition, the DualDisc package will contain two bonus tracks and a special booklet including a note from Springsteen. The set is available for advance order at www.amazon.com for $12.98, a savings of 35 percent.</p><p>About Amazon.com, Inc.</p><p>Amazon.com, Inc., (Nasdaq:AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden.</p><p>Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com.</p><p>As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise.</p><p>Forward-Looking Statement</p><p>This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings.</p><p>CONTACT:Amazon.com Media RelationsTracy Ogden, ogden@amazon.comSOURCE:Amazon.com</p>

Amazon.de announces plans to open new fulfillment center in Leipzig

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Amazon.de-announces-plans-to-open-new-fulfillment-center-in-Leipzig

03/21/2006 00:00:00

Amazon.de announces plans to open new fulfillment center in Leipzig

03/21/2006

2006

Munich/Leipzig, March 21, 2006 – Amazon.de today announced plans to open a new fulfilment center in Leipzig, Saxony, in the third quarter of 2006. The new facility will create up to 400 permanent jobs over the next 36 months. The new operation in Leipzig is in addition to Amazon's existing fulfilment center in Bad Hersfeld, and will process the whole range of products available at Amazon.de – from media products to toys, home & garden equipment and consumer electronics. The Bad Hersfeld facility remains unchanged and will continue to serve the millions of Amazon.de customers. "As Amazon.de has grown and we've expanded selection to include product categories with larger-sized items, such as Electronics and Kitchen and Home, we need additional capacity to accommodate these bulkier items," said Paul Niewerth, General Manager Amazon Logistik Bad Hersfeld. "The new centre in Leipzig will help our fulfillment network operate more efficiently while supporting future growth. We're grateful to the City of Leipzig and Deputy Mayor for Economy and Labor Detlef Schubert as well as to the Federal State of Saxony and its President Prof. Dr. Georg Milbradt for making this possible." The Leipzig location was chosen primarily for its central location within Europe and the quality of the workforce. The Leipzig fulfillment center will be over 70,000 square meters – roughly the size of 11 football pitches. Amazon.de will be leasing the building from the international investor and developer Eurinpro. Leipzig Deputy Mayor Detlef Schubert comments, "Leipzig is happy to welcome Amazon.de in our city; their selection of Leipzig is another example of leading global companies choosing our region to do business. We're looking forward to working together with Amazon.de to have the new fulfilment center up and hundreds of people employed in the coming months." Amazon.de is looking for employees with drive, ambition and a passion for ensuring that customers receive a first-class shopping experience. Opportunities exist in different areas as Associates for receiving (goods inward); picking and packing, Teamleader and Management. Candidates interested in applying for positions of Associates for receiving, picking and packing should log onto www.jobimpuuls.de or call 0341/2359965 (PUUL). Candidates interested in Management jobs log onto www.Amazon.de/jobs for further details. About Amazon.de Amazon.de opened its virtual doors in October 1998. Amazon strives to be the world's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online. Amazon.de and sellers list millions of new and used items in categories such as books, CDs, videos and DVDs as well as products for home and garden, consumer electronics and photos, toys, PC and video games, software and computer supplies. Through Amazon Marketplace, zShops and Auctions, any business or individual can sell virtually anything to Amazon.de's millions of customers. Amazon.de offers its customers payment by invoice, a secure credit card payment option, personalized recommendations, and a time saving ordering process using 1-ClickTM technology. Through Amazon Mobil, Amazon.de is accessible via WAP technology at www.amazon.de/mobil. Austrian customers can access the full range of products via www.amazon.at. www.amazon.de is one of the websites operated by Amazon and its affiliates; the others include www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca and www.joyo.com. Amazon.de is the trading name for Amazon.com Int'l Sales, Inc., and Amazon Services Europe S.a.r.l., which are both wholly owned subsidiaries of global online retailer Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ: AMZN) located in Seattle, Wash. As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise.This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings. Amazon.dePublic RelationsChristine HögerMoosacher Straße 5180809 MünchenTelefon: 089/35803-233Telefax: 089/35803-481E-Mail: choeger@amazon.de

<p>Munich/Leipzig, March 21, 2006 – Amazon.de today announced plans to open a new fulfilment center in Leipzig, Saxony, in the third quarter of 2006. The new facility will create up to 400 permanent jobs over the next 36 months.</p><p>The new operation in Leipzig is in addition to Amazon's existing fulfilment center in Bad Hersfeld, and will process the whole range of products available at Amazon.de – from media products to toys, home &amp; garden equipment and consumer electronics. The Bad Hersfeld facility remains unchanged and will continue to serve the millions of Amazon.de customers.</p><p>"As Amazon.de has grown and we've expanded selection to include product categories with larger-sized items, such as Electronics and Kitchen and Home, we need additional capacity to accommodate these bulkier items," said Paul Niewerth, General Manager Amazon Logistik Bad Hersfeld. "The new centre in Leipzig will help our fulfillment network operate more efficiently while supporting future growth. We're grateful to the City of Leipzig and Deputy Mayor for Economy and Labor Detlef Schubert as well as to the Federal State of Saxony and its President Prof. Dr. Georg Milbradt for making this possible."</p><p>The Leipzig location was chosen primarily for its central location within Europe and the quality of the workforce. The Leipzig fulfillment center will be over 70,000 square meters – roughly the size of 11 football pitches. Amazon.de will be leasing the building from the international investor and developer Eurinpro.</p><p>Leipzig Deputy Mayor Detlef Schubert comments, "Leipzig is happy to welcome Amazon.de in our city; their selection of Leipzig is another example of leading global companies choosing our region to do business. We're looking forward to working together with Amazon.de to have the new fulfilment center up and hundreds of people employed in the coming months."</p><p>Amazon.de is looking for employees with drive, ambition and a passion for ensuring that customers receive a first-class shopping experience. Opportunities exist in different areas as Associates for receiving (goods inward); picking and packing, Teamleader and Management.</p><p>Candidates interested in applying for positions of Associates for receiving, picking and packing should log onto www.jobimpuuls.de or call 0341/2359965 (PUUL). Candidates interested in Management jobs log onto www.Amazon.de/jobs for further details.</p><p>About Amazon.de</p><p>Amazon.de opened its virtual doors in October 1998. Amazon strives to be the world's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online. Amazon.de and sellers list millions of new and used items in categories such as books, CDs, videos and DVDs as well as products for home and garden, consumer electronics and photos, toys, PC and video games, software and computer supplies. Through Amazon Marketplace, zShops and Auctions, any business or individual can sell virtually anything to Amazon.de's millions of customers. Amazon.de offers its customers payment by invoice, a secure credit card payment option, personalized recommendations, and a time saving ordering process using 1-ClickTM technology. Through Amazon Mobil, Amazon.de is accessible via WAP technology at www.amazon.de/mobil. Austrian customers can access the full range of products via www.amazon.at. www.amazon.de is one of the websites operated by Amazon and its affiliates; the others include www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca and www.joyo.com. Amazon.de is the trading name for Amazon.com Int'l Sales, Inc., and Amazon Services Europe S.a.r.l., which are both wholly owned subsidiaries of global online retailer Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ: AMZN) located in Seattle, Wash.</p><p>As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise.This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings.</p><p>Amazon.dePublic RelationsChristine HögerMoosacher Straße 5180809 MünchenTelefon: 089/35803-233Telefax: 089/35803-481E-Mail: choeger@amazon.de</p>

Amazon Web Services Launches

/news/news-details/2006/Amazon-Web-Services-Launches/default.aspx

Amazon-Web-Services-Launches

03/14/2006 03:00:00

Amazon Web Services Launches

03/14/2006

2006

S3 Provides Application Programming Interface for Highly Scalable Reliable, Low-Latency Storage at Very Low Costs SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--March 14, 2006-- Amazon Web Services today announced "Amazon S3(TM)," a simple storage service that offers software developers a highly scalable, reliable, and low-latency data storage infrastructure at very low costs. Amazon S3 is available today at http://aws.amazon.com/s3. Amazon S3 is storage for the Internet. It's designed to make web-scale computing easier for developers. Amazon S3 provides a simple web services interface that can be used to store and retrieve any amount of data, at any time, from anywhere on the web. It gives any developer access to the same highly scalable, reliable, fast, inexpensive data storage infrastructure that Amazon uses to run its own global network of web sites. The service aims to maximize benefits of scale and to pass those benefits on to developers. Amazon S3 Functionality Amazon S3 is intentionally built with a minimal feature set. The focus is on simplicity and robustness. Write, read, and delete objects containing from 1 byte to 5 gigabytes of data each. The number of objects that can be stored is unlimited. Each object is stored and retrieved via a unique developer-assigned key. Objects can be made private or public, and rights can be assigned to specific users. Uses standards-based REST and SOAP interfaces designed to work with any Internet-development toolkit. Amazon S3 Design RequirementsAmazon built S3 to fulfill the following design requirements: Scalable: Amazon S3 can scale in terms of storage, request rate, and users to support an unlimited number of web-scale applications. It uses scale as an advantage: adding nodes to the system increases, not decreases, its availability, speed, throughput, capacity, and robustness. Reliable: Store data durably, with 99.99% availability. There can be no single points of failure. All failures must be tolerated or repaired by the system without any downtime. Fast: Amazon S3 must be fast enough to support high-performance applications. Server-side latency must be insignificant relative to Internet latency. Any performance bottlenecks can be fixed by simply adding nodes to the system. Inexpensive: Amazon S3 is built from inexpensive commodity hardware components. As a result, frequent node failure is the norm and must not affect the overall system. It must be hardware-agnostic, so that savings can be captured as Amazon continues to drive down infrastructure costs. Simple: Building highly scalable, reliable, fast, and inexpensive storage is difficult. Doing so in a way that makes it easy to use for any application anywhere is more difficult. Amazon S3 must do both. A forcing function for the design was that a single Amazon S3 distributed system must support the needs of both internal Amazon applications and external developers of any application. This means that it must be fast and reliable enough to run Amazon.com's web sites, while flexible enough that any developer can use it for any data storage need. Amazon S3 Design Principles Amazon used the following principles of distributed system design to meet Amazon S3 requirements: Decentralization: Use fully decentralized techniques to remove scaling bottlenecks and single points of failure. Asynchrony: The system makes progress under all circumstances. Autonomy: The system is designed such that individual components can make decisions based on local information. Local responsibility: Each individual component is responsible for achieving its consistency; this is never the burden of its peers. Controlled concurrency: Operations are designed such that no or limited concurrency control is required. Failure tolerant: The system considers the failure of components to be a normal mode of operation and continues operation with no or minimal interruption. Controlled parallelism: Abstractions used in the system are of such granularity that parallelism can be used to improve performance and robustness of recovery or the introduction of new nodes. Decompose into small, well-understood building blocks: Do not try to provide a single service that does everything for everyone, but instead build small components that can be used as building blocks for other services. Symmetry: Nodes in the system are identical in terms of functionality, and require no or minimal node-specific configuration to function. Simplicity: The system should be made as simple as possible, but no simpler. "Amazon S3 is based on the idea that quality Internet-based storage should be taken for granted," said Andy Jassy, vice president of Amazon Web Services. "It helps free developers from worrying about where they are going to store data, whether it will be safe and secure, if it will be available when they need it, the costs associated with server maintenance, or whether they have enough storage available. Amazon S3 enables developers to focus on innovating with data, rather than figuring out how to store it." S3 lets developers pay only for what they consume and there is no minimum fee. Developers pay just $0.15 per gigabyte of storage per month and $0.20 per gigabyte of data transferred. Early S3 Applications University of California Berkeley "Stardust@Home" Team: The science team at the University of California Berkeley responsible for NASA's "Stardust@Home" project (http://stardustathome.ssl.berkeley.edu/) is using Amazon S3 to store and deliver the 60 million images that represent the data collected from their dust particle aerogel experiment. These images will be delivered to 100,000 volunteers around the world who scan the images looking for dust particles from comet Wild2. "We quickly ran into challenges when we started the project using our own infrastructure," said Andrew Westphal, project director of Stardust@Home. "Using Amazon S3 has allowed us to proceed without having to worry about building out the massive storage infrastructure we realized that we needed to successfully complete the project. The fact that Amazon S3 is an Internet-connected storage service is particularly useful to us as we expect the data examination phase of the project to take only a few months. We can quickly ramp up and back down again without a huge investment." CastingWords: Podcast transcription service provider CastingWords is already using Amazon S3. CastingWords transcribes audio files into high-quality text at a rate of $0.42 per minute of audio. Another Amazon Web Services solution, Amazon Mechanical Turk (http://aws.amazon.com/mturk), lets CastingWords access a network of humans to transcribe the podcasts inexpensively, quickly, and with high quality. CastingWords uses Amazon S3 to store and retrieve the original audio files and the transcribed texts. "Amazon S3 provides CastingWords with easy-to-use, reliable storage that allows us to concentrate on building our business and not worry about storage solutions. Its reliability and Internet accessibility mean that it's always there when and where we need it," said CastingWords founder Nathan McFarland. "It is simple to use and it works so well that it eliminated one of the many things we have to think about, which is huge when starting a small business." FilmmakerLIVE.com: Developer of storyboarding software for the motion picture industry, FilmmakerLIVE.com is using Amazon S3 to store and share digital storyboard elements with its customers around the world. After only a few weeks of using Amazon S3, the company realized it could also help other filmmakers and entrepreneurs take advantage of Amazon's economies of scale that Amazon S3 offers. FilmmakerLIVE.com's development manager Don Alvarez is currently building this new service, which he expects to announce this summer. "Building a data center that meets the needs of online filmmakers is serious business when you consider the redundant hardware, racks of hard drives, filtered power lines, 24x7 monitoring, and all the other necessary components," said Alvarez. "With Amazon S3, we have instant access to a virtual data center that was far beyond anything we could have hoped to build ourselves. The biggest benefit for us is that Amazon S3 lets us concentrate our resources on what we do best, building tools for filmmakers."

<p>S3 Provides Application Programming Interface for Highly Scalable Reliable, Low-Latency Storage at Very Low Costs</p><p>SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--March 14, 2006-- Amazon Web Services today announced "Amazon S3(TM)," a simple storage service that offers software developers a highly scalable, reliable, and low-latency data storage infrastructure at very low costs. Amazon S3 is available today at http://aws.amazon.com/s3.</p><p>Amazon S3 is storage for the Internet. It's designed to make web-scale computing easier for developers. Amazon S3 provides a simple web services interface that can be used to store and retrieve any amount of data, at any time, from anywhere on the web. It gives any developer access to the same highly scalable, reliable, fast, inexpensive data storage infrastructure that Amazon uses to run its own global network of web sites. The service aims to maximize benefits of scale and to pass those benefits on to developers.</p><p>Amazon S3 Functionality</p><p>Amazon S3 is intentionally built with a minimal feature set. The focus is on simplicity and robustness.</p><ul><ul><li>Write, read, and delete objects containing from 1 byte to 5 gigabytes of data each. The number of objects that can be stored is unlimited.</li></ul></ul><ul><ul><li>Each object is stored and retrieved via a unique developer-assigned key.</li></ul></ul><ul><ul><li>Objects can be made private or public, and rights can be assigned to specific users.</li></ul></ul><ul><ul><li>Uses standards-based REST and SOAP interfaces designed to work with any Internet-development toolkit.</li></ul></ul><p>Amazon S3 Design RequirementsAmazon built S3 to fulfill the following design requirements:</p><ul><ul><li>Scalable: Amazon S3 can scale in terms of storage, request rate, and users to support an unlimited number of web-scale applications. It uses scale as an advantage: adding nodes to the system increases, not decreases, its availability, speed, throughput, capacity, and robustness.</li></ul></ul><ul><ul><li>Reliable: Store data durably, with 99.99% availability. There can be no single points of failure. All failures must be tolerated or repaired by the system without any downtime.</li></ul></ul><ul><ul><li>Fast: Amazon S3 must be fast enough to support high-performance applications. Server-side latency must be insignificant relative to Internet latency. Any performance bottlenecks can be fixed by simply adding nodes to the system.</li></ul></ul><ul><ul><li>Inexpensive: Amazon S3 is built from inexpensive commodity hardware components. As a result, frequent node failure is the norm and must not affect the overall system. It must be hardware-agnostic, so that savings can be captured as Amazon continues to drive down infrastructure costs.</li></ul></ul><ul><ul><li>Simple: Building highly scalable, reliable, fast, and inexpensive storage is difficult. Doing so in a way that makes it easy to use for any application anywhere is more difficult. Amazon S3 must do both.</li></ul></ul><p>A forcing function for the design was that a single Amazon S3 distributed system must support the needs of both internal Amazon applications and external developers of any application. This means that it must be fast and reliable enough to run Amazon.com's web sites, while flexible enough that any developer can use it for any data storage need.</p><p>Amazon S3 Design Principles</p><p>Amazon used the following principles of distributed system design to meet Amazon S3 requirements:</p><ul><ul><li>Decentralization: Use fully decentralized techniques to remove scaling bottlenecks and single points of failure.</li></ul></ul><ul><ul><li>Asynchrony: The system makes progress under all circumstances.</li></ul></ul><ul><ul><li>Autonomy: The system is designed such that individual components can make decisions based on local information.</li></ul></ul><ul><ul><li>Local responsibility: Each individual component is responsible for achieving its consistency; this is never the burden of its peers.</li></ul></ul><ul><ul><li>Controlled concurrency: Operations are designed such that no or limited concurrency control is required.</li></ul></ul><ul><ul><li>Failure tolerant: The system considers the failure of components to be a normal mode of operation and continues operation with no or minimal interruption.</li></ul></ul><ul><ul><li>Controlled parallelism: Abstractions used in the system are of such granularity that parallelism can be used to improve performance and robustness of recovery or the introduction of new nodes.</li></ul></ul><ul><ul><li>Decompose into small, well-understood building blocks: Do not try to provide a single service that does everything for everyone, but instead build small components that can be used as building blocks for other services.</li></ul></ul><ul><ul><li>Symmetry: Nodes in the system are identical in terms of functionality, and require no or minimal node-specific configuration to function.</li></ul></ul><ul><li>Simplicity: The system should be made as simple as possible, but no simpler.</li></ul><p>"Amazon S3 is based on the idea that quality Internet-based storage should be taken for granted," said Andy Jassy, vice president of Amazon Web Services. "It helps free developers from worrying about where they are going to store data, whether it will be safe and secure, if it will be available when they need it, the costs associated with server maintenance, or whether they have enough storage available. Amazon S3 enables developers to focus on innovating with data, rather than figuring out how to store it."</p><p>S3 lets developers pay only for what they consume and there is no minimum fee. Developers pay just $0.15 per gigabyte of storage per month and $0.20 per gigabyte of data transferred.</p><p>Early S3 Applications</p><p>University of California Berkeley "Stardust@Home" Team: The science team at the University of California Berkeley responsible for NASA's "Stardust@Home" project (http://stardustathome.ssl.berkeley.edu/) is using Amazon S3 to store and deliver the 60 million images that represent the data collected from their dust particle aerogel experiment. These images will be delivered to 100,000 volunteers around the world who scan the images looking for dust particles from comet Wild2.</p><p>"We quickly ran into challenges when we started the project using our own infrastructure," said Andrew Westphal, project director of Stardust@Home. "Using Amazon S3 has allowed us to proceed without having to worry about building out the massive storage infrastructure we realized that we needed to successfully complete the project. The fact that Amazon S3 is an Internet-connected storage service is particularly useful to us as we expect the data examination phase of the project to take only a few months. We can quickly ramp up and back down again without a huge investment."</p><p>CastingWords: Podcast transcription service provider CastingWords is already using Amazon S3. CastingWords transcribes audio files into high-quality text at a rate of $0.42 per minute of audio. Another Amazon Web Services solution, Amazon Mechanical Turk (http://aws.amazon.com/mturk), lets CastingWords access a network of humans to transcribe the podcasts inexpensively, quickly, and with high quality. CastingWords uses Amazon S3 to store and retrieve the original audio files and the transcribed texts.</p><p>"Amazon S3 provides CastingWords with easy-to-use, reliable storage that allows us to concentrate on building our business and not worry about storage solutions. Its reliability and Internet accessibility mean that it's always there when and where we need it," said CastingWords founder Nathan McFarland. "It is simple to use and it works so well that it eliminated one of the many things we have to think about, which is huge when starting a small business."</p><p>FilmmakerLIVE.com: Developer of storyboarding software for the motion picture industry, FilmmakerLIVE.com is using Amazon S3 to store and share digital storyboard elements with its customers around the world. After only a few weeks of using Amazon S3, the company realized it could also help other filmmakers and entrepreneurs take advantage of Amazon's economies of scale that Amazon S3 offers. FilmmakerLIVE.com's development manager Don Alvarez is currently building this new service, which he expects to announce this summer.</p><p>"Building a data center that meets the needs of online filmmakers is serious business when you consider the redundant hardware, racks of hard drives, filtered power lines, 24x7 monitoring, and all the other necessary components," said Alvarez. "With Amazon S3, we have instant access to a virtual data center that was far beyond anything we could have hoped to build ourselves. The biggest benefit for us is that Amazon S3 lets us concentrate our resources on what we do best, building tools for filmmakers."</p>

Amazon.com to Webcast Investor Conference Presentation

/news/news-details/2006/Amazon.com-to-Webcast-Investor-Conference-Presentation-03-03-2006/default.aspx

Amazon.com-to-Webcast-Investor-Conference-Presentation-03-03-2006

03/03/2006 16:02:00

Amazon.com to Webcast Investor Conference Presentation

03/03/2006

2006

SEATTLE, Mar 03, 2006 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ:AMZN) announced today that the Company will be speaking at the Bear Stearns 12th Annual Retail, Restaurants & Consumer Conference on March 7, 2006. The presentation and Q&A will be webcast live at 8:15 a.m. PT/11:15 a.m. ET. The audio and associated slides will be available for at least three months thereafter, at www.amazon.com/ir. SOURCE: Amazon.com, Inc. Amazon.com, Inc.Patty Smith, 206-266-7180

<p>SEATTLE, Mar 03, 2006 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ:AMZN) announced today that the Company will be speaking at the Bear Stearns 12th Annual Retail, Restaurants &amp; Consumer Conference on March 7, 2006.</p><p>The presentation and Q&amp;A will be webcast live at 8:15 a.m. PT/11:15 a.m. ET. The audio and associated slides will be available for at least three months thereafter, at www.amazon.com/ir.</p><p>SOURCE: Amazon.com, Inc.</p><p>Amazon.com, Inc.Patty Smith, 206-266-7180</p>

Amazon.com Acquires Shopbop.com

/news/news-details/2006/Amazon.com-Acquires-Shopbop.com/default.aspx

Amazon.com-Acquires-Shopbop.com

02/27/2006 08:02:00

Amazon.com Acquires Shopbop.com

02/27/2006

2006

SEATTLE, Feb 27, 2006 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- Leading online retailer Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ:AMZN) today announced it has acquired Shopbop.com (www.shopbop.com), a retailer of fashion-forward apparel, shoes and accessories for women. Terms of the deal were not disclosed. Shopbop.com is located in Madison, Wisconsin, and features products from more than 75 leading designers including Marc Jacobs, Juicy Couture and True Religion. Founded in 1999 as a single brick-and-mortar store, the Shopbop.com site sells a wide array of apparel, accessories and shoes to consumers around the world, and is a popular destination for fashion-savvy consumers. Shopbop.com will continue to operate as a stand-alone site and will be run as a complement to Amazon's existing Apparel & Accessories Store (www.amazon.com/apparel). All aspects of Shopbop.com's customer experience will remain intact and their operations will remain in Madison. "All of us at Shopbop.com have worked hard to make our company a leading destination for fashion consumers," said Bob Lamey, CEO of Shopbop.com. "We're very happy to have the support, experience and resources of Amazon to take the Shopbop brand and business to new levels." "We're incredibly happy to have Shopbop.com become part of the Amazon family," said Russ Grandinetti, vice president for Amazon's Apparel and Accessories. "We look forward to introducing their incredible brand and store to Amazon's tens of millions of customers." About Shopbop.com Based in Madison, WI, Shopbop.com is a premier online shopping boutique for the fashion-savvy female. Carrying everything a woman needs for her wardrobe from dresses to denim; swimwear to shoes -- Shopbop.com has over 75 different designer labels such as Juicy Couture, Seven for all Mankind, Catherine Malandrino and Diane Von Furstenberg. Shopbop.com has become recognized by consumers and the media as an excellent one-stop fashion resource. Unique site features such as the How to Buy Jeans Guide, Look Book and Season Trend Previews are highlights on this easy to navigate site. About Amazon.com Amazon.com, Inc., (Nasdaq:AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden. Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com. As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise. This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings. SOURCE: Amazon.com Amazon.com Media Relations, 206-266-7180

<p>SEATTLE, Feb 27, 2006 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- Leading online retailer Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ:AMZN) today announced it has acquired Shopbop.com (www.shopbop.com), a retailer of fashion-forward apparel, shoes and accessories for women. Terms of the deal were not disclosed.</p><p>Shopbop.com is located in Madison, Wisconsin, and features products from more than 75 leading designers including Marc Jacobs, Juicy Couture and True Religion. Founded in 1999 as a single brick-and-mortar store, the Shopbop.com site sells a wide array of apparel, accessories and shoes to consumers around the world, and is a popular destination for fashion-savvy consumers.</p><p>Shopbop.com will continue to operate as a stand-alone site and will be run as a complement to Amazon's existing Apparel &amp; Accessories Store (www.amazon.com/apparel). All aspects of Shopbop.com's customer experience will remain intact and their operations will remain in Madison.</p><p>"All of us at Shopbop.com have worked hard to make our company a leading destination for fashion consumers," said Bob Lamey, CEO of Shopbop.com. "We're very happy to have the support, experience and resources of Amazon to take the Shopbop brand and business to new levels."</p><p>"We're incredibly happy to have Shopbop.com become part of the Amazon family," said Russ Grandinetti, vice president for Amazon's Apparel and Accessories. "We look forward to introducing their incredible brand and store to Amazon's tens of millions of customers."</p><p>About Shopbop.com</p><p>Based in Madison, WI, Shopbop.com is a premier online shopping boutique for the fashion-savvy female. Carrying everything a woman needs for her wardrobe from dresses to denim; swimwear to shoes -- Shopbop.com has over 75 different designer labels such as Juicy Couture, Seven for all Mankind, Catherine Malandrino and Diane Von Furstenberg. Shopbop.com has become recognized by consumers and the media as an excellent one-stop fashion resource. Unique site features such as the How to Buy Jeans Guide, Look Book and Season Trend Previews are highlights on this easy to navigate site.</p><p>About Amazon.com</p><p>Amazon.com, Inc., (Nasdaq:AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden.</p><p>Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com.</p><p>As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise.</p><p>This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, payments, fraud, consumer trends, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and all subsequent filings.</p><p>SOURCE: Amazon.com</p><pre>Amazon.com Media Relations, 206-266-7180</pre>

Amazon.com Jewelry Sales up More Than 100 Percent in Fourth Quarter 2005

/news/news-details/2006/Amazon.com-Jewelry-Sales-up-More-Than-100-Percent-in-Fourth-Quarter-2005/default.aspx

Amazon.com-Jewelry-Sales-up-More-Than-100-Percent-in-Fourth-Quarter-2005

02/07/2006 09:03:00

Amazon.com Jewelry Sales up More Than 100 Percent in Fourth Quarter 2005

02/07/2006

2006

SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Feb. 7, 2006--Amazon.com, Inc. (Nasdaq:AMZN) today announced that fourth quarter 2005 jewelry sales increased more than 100 percent year-over-year. In addition to increased selection and lower prices, the company attributes the growth to various enhancements to the Jewelry & Watches store throughout the year, including the addition of loose diamonds, more than 1,000 new watch styles, Amazon Diamond Search and Create Your Own Ring. "Now more than two years after launch, growth in the Amazon.com Jewelry & Watches store is stronger than ever," said Steven Goldsmith, vice president, Amazon.com Jewelry & Watches. "Customers love Amazon.com's outstanding selection and low prices, as well as helpful online shopping features such as Create Your Own Ring." Throughout 2005, Amazon.com focused on increasing selection, lowering prices, and delivering best-of-breed online shopping features for customers, including: Loose Diamonds: A selection of thousands of loose diamonds that range in size from .05 to more than five carats and come in round, princess, emerald, marquise, radiant, pear and oval cuts, giving diamond shoppers immediate access to a large selection of loose diamonds, especially hard-to-find stones. Just in time for Valentine's Day, the store features a large selection of heart-shaped stones ranging in price from $1,760 to $14,970. The product page for each diamond includes in-depth information such as table, depth, symmetry and polish, as well as cut, clarity, color and carat weight. Amazon Diamond Search: A proprietary tool that enables customers to search thousands of individual stones based on multiple diamond attributes, including shape, price, carat, cut, color and clarity. Amazon Diamond Search was developed by Amazon's technical, usability and jewelry experts to offer customers one of the most effective and customer-friendly diamond search features on the Internet. Create Your Own Ring: A versatile, easy-to-use online tool that enables customers to easily choose from thousands of loose diamonds and more than 200 setting styles to create a diamond ring that suits both their tastes and budget. Using Create Your Own Ring, customers can quickly and easily select from a large inventory of loose diamonds of various shapes and sizes, virtually set their stone of choice into their preferred setting style, and see a visual representation of the ring before they buy it. World-Class Watch Selection: One of the largest selections of new watches anywhere, with thousands of styles and hundreds of brands, including Timex, Casio, Citizen, Movado, TAG Heuer, Omega, Fossil, Tissot, Invicta, Bulova and Swiss Army (www.amazon.com/watches). Prices range from $10 to $100,000. The Amazon retail business leverages the efficiencies of its business model to offer customers consistently low prices -- often more than 50 percent lower than regular retail prices. Each piece of jewelry sold by Amazon.com is inspected by jewelry professionals to verify quality attributes and ensure an excellent product. Customers will find detailed product specifications about the gemstones, settings and metal stamps. A Learning Center provides buying guides for pearls, diamonds, precious metals and watches. Loose stones are independently certified to be a specific cut, clarity, color, shape and weight. Finally, the store provides all of the tools and helpful information that Amazon.com customers know and love, such as Customer Reviews, Top Sellers lists, So You'd Like To guides, and Listmania lists. About Amazon.com Amazon.com, Inc., (Nasdaq:AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden. Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com. As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise. Forward-Looking Statement This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to potential future losses, significant amount of indebtedness, competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions, and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, consumer trends, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, fraud, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2004, and all subsequent filings. CONTACT:Amazon.com, SeattleMedia Relations, 206-266-7180SOURCE:Amazon.com

<p>SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Feb. 7, 2006--Amazon.com, Inc. (Nasdaq:AMZN) today announced that fourth quarter 2005 jewelry sales increased more than 100 percent year-over-year. In addition to increased selection and lower prices, the company attributes the growth to various enhancements to the Jewelry &amp; Watches store throughout the year, including the addition of loose diamonds, more than 1,000 new watch styles, Amazon Diamond Search and Create Your Own Ring.</p><p>"Now more than two years after launch, growth in the Amazon.com Jewelry &amp; Watches store is stronger than ever," said Steven Goldsmith, vice president, Amazon.com Jewelry &amp; Watches. "Customers love Amazon.com's outstanding selection and low prices, as well as helpful online shopping features such as Create Your Own Ring."</p><p>Throughout 2005, Amazon.com focused on increasing selection, lowering prices, and delivering best-of-breed online shopping features for customers, including:</p><p>Loose Diamonds: A selection of thousands of loose diamonds that range in size from .05 to more than five carats and come in round, princess, emerald, marquise, radiant, pear and oval cuts, giving diamond shoppers immediate access to a large selection of loose diamonds, especially hard-to-find stones. Just in time for Valentine's Day, the store features a large selection of heart-shaped stones ranging in price from $1,760 to $14,970. The product page for each diamond includes in-depth information such as table, depth, symmetry and polish, as well as cut, clarity, color and carat weight.</p><p>Amazon Diamond Search: A proprietary tool that enables customers to search thousands of individual stones based on multiple diamond attributes, including shape, price, carat, cut, color and clarity. Amazon Diamond Search was developed by Amazon's technical, usability and jewelry experts to offer customers one of the most effective and customer-friendly diamond search features on the Internet.</p><p>Create Your Own Ring: A versatile, easy-to-use online tool that enables customers to easily choose from thousands of loose diamonds and more than 200 setting styles to create a diamond ring that suits both their tastes and budget. Using Create Your Own Ring, customers can quickly and easily select from a large inventory of loose diamonds of various shapes and sizes, virtually set their stone of choice into their preferred setting style, and see a visual representation of the ring before they buy it.</p><p>World-Class Watch Selection: One of the largest selections of new watches anywhere, with thousands of styles and hundreds of brands, including Timex, Casio, Citizen, Movado, TAG Heuer, Omega, Fossil, Tissot, Invicta, Bulova and Swiss Army (www.amazon.com/watches). Prices range from $10 to $100,000. The Amazon retail business leverages the efficiencies of its business model to offer customers consistently low prices -- often more than 50 percent lower than regular retail prices.</p><p>Each piece of jewelry sold by Amazon.com is inspected by jewelry professionals to verify quality attributes and ensure an excellent product. Customers will find detailed product specifications about the gemstones, settings and metal stamps. A Learning Center provides buying guides for pearls, diamonds, precious metals and watches. Loose stones are independently certified to be a specific cut, clarity, color, shape and weight. Finally, the store provides all of the tools and helpful information that Amazon.com customers know and love, such as Customer Reviews, Top Sellers lists, So You'd Like To guides, and Listmania lists.</p><p>About Amazon.com</p><p>Amazon.com, Inc., (Nasdaq:AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden.</p><p>Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com.</p><p>As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise.</p><p>Forward-Looking Statement</p><p>This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to potential future losses, significant amount of indebtedness, competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions, and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, consumer trends, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, fraud, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2004, and all subsequent filings.</p><p>CONTACT:Amazon.com, SeattleMedia Relations, 206-266-7180SOURCE:Amazon.com</p>

A9.COM Names David Tennenhouse Chief Executive Officer

/news/news-details/2006/A9.COM-Names-David-Tennenhouse-Chief-Executive-Officer/default.aspx

A9.COM-Names-David-Tennenhouse-Chief-Executive-Officer

02/07/2006 00:00:00

A9.COM Names David Tennenhouse Chief Executive Officer

02/07/2006

2006

Palo Alto, Calif. – February 7, 2006 – A9.com, Inc., a subsidiary of Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ: AMZN), today named Dr. David Tennenhouse the company's new Chief Executive Officer. Tennenhouse is a renowned technologist and seasoned executive. He joins A9.com from Intel Corporation where he served as Vice President of the Corporate Technology Group and Director of Research. In addition to building Intel Research, he developed Intel's proactive computing vision, drove several Intel Capital Investments and laid the technical ground work for its new Digital Health Group. Prior to joining Intel, Tennenhouse was Director of the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) Information Technology Office where he guided programs in several areas, including search, datamining, information management, machine learning and distributed computing. Additionally, Tennenhouse held positions at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in the Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, and the Sloan School of Management. "I am excited to lead this terrific team of innovators," said Tennenhouse. "In a short period of time, A9.com has earned a reputation for developing unique and creative solutions to difficult search problems. Our team is committed to making major leaps forward in empowering people to find the information and products they are looking for." Tennenhouse earned his bachelor's and master's degrees in engineering from the University of Toronto and completed his Ph.D. at the Computer Laboratory of the University of Cambridge. He is a fellow of the IEEE, an active member of numerous professional organizations, boards, and committees, and the author of numerous journal articles, research papers, and book chapters. A9.com launched its site on September 2004 to make searching the Internet more effective. Today, A9.com helps users discover deep information from more than 200 available sources, and with the A9 Toolbar makes it easy for users to manage and organize the information they discover. In January 2005, A9.com transformed traditional Yellow Pages by introducing A9.com Yellow Pages and its "BlockView" technology that lets users virtually walk streets and see businesses from street-level. In addition to street-level images of more than a million businesses in 35 U.S. cities, A9.com Yellow Pages uses features on Amazon.com that allow users to review, rate, provide more information, create lists, and get recommendations on more than 14 million U.S. businesses. A9.com Maps brings traditional maps to life by combining driving directions and other convenient mapping tools with BlockView images of millions of places and their surroundings into a single interface. About A9.com, Inc. A9.com, Inc., a separately branded and operated subsidiary of Amazon.com, Inc., opened its Palo Alto, California office in October 2003 to research and build innovative search technologies. About Amazon.com, Inc. Amazon.com, Inc., (NASDAQ: AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden. Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com. As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise. Forward-Looking Statement This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to potential future losses, significant amount of indebtedness, competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions, and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, consumer trends, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, fraud, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2004, and all subsequent filings. Media ContactE-mail: media@a9.comAmazon/A9 Media Hotline: 206-266-7180

<p>Palo Alto, Calif. – February 7, 2006 – A9.com, Inc., a subsidiary of Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ: AMZN), today named Dr. David Tennenhouse the company's new Chief Executive Officer.</p><p>Tennenhouse is a renowned technologist and seasoned executive. He joins A9.com from Intel Corporation where he served as Vice President of the Corporate Technology Group and Director of Research. In addition to building Intel Research, he developed Intel's proactive computing vision, drove several Intel Capital Investments and laid the technical ground work for its new Digital Health Group.</p><p>Prior to joining Intel, Tennenhouse was Director of the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) Information Technology Office where he guided programs in several areas, including search, datamining, information management, machine learning and distributed computing. Additionally, Tennenhouse held positions at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in the Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, and the Sloan School of Management.</p><p>"I am excited to lead this terrific team of innovators," said Tennenhouse. "In a short period of time, A9.com has earned a reputation for developing unique and creative solutions to difficult search problems. Our team is committed to making major leaps forward in empowering people to find the information and products they are looking for."</p><p>Tennenhouse earned his bachelor's and master's degrees in engineering from the University of Toronto and completed his Ph.D. at the Computer Laboratory of the University of Cambridge. He is a fellow of the IEEE, an active member of numerous professional organizations, boards, and committees, and the author of numerous journal articles, research papers, and book chapters.</p><p>A9.com launched its site on September 2004 to make searching the Internet more effective. Today, A9.com helps users discover deep information from more than 200 available sources, and with the A9 Toolbar makes it easy for users to manage and organize the information they discover. In January 2005, A9.com transformed traditional Yellow Pages by introducing A9.com Yellow Pages and its "BlockView" technology that lets users virtually walk streets and see businesses from street-level. In addition to street-level images of more than a million businesses in 35 U.S. cities, A9.com Yellow Pages uses features on Amazon.com that allow users to review, rate, provide more information, create lists, and get recommendations on more than 14 million U.S. businesses. A9.com Maps brings traditional maps to life by combining driving directions and other convenient mapping tools with BlockView images of millions of places and their surroundings into a single interface.</p><p>About A9.com, Inc.</p><p>A9.com, Inc., a separately branded and operated subsidiary of Amazon.com, Inc., opened its Palo Alto, California office in October 2003 to research and build innovative search technologies.</p><p>About Amazon.com, Inc.</p><p>Amazon.com, Inc., (NASDAQ: AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden.</p><p>Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com.</p><p>As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise.</p><p>Forward-Looking Statement</p><p>This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to potential future losses, significant amount of indebtedness, competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions, and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, consumer trends, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, fraud, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2004, and all subsequent filings.</p><p>Media ContactE-mail: media@a9.comAmazon/A9 Media Hotline: 206-266-7180</p>

Amazon.com Announces Partial Redemption of 6.875% Convertible Subordinated Notes

/news/news-details/2006/Amazon.com-Announces-Partial-Redemption-of-6.875-Convertible-Subordinated-Notes/default.aspx

Amazon.com-Announces-Partial-Redemption-of-6.875-Convertible-Subordinated-Notes

02/02/2006 16:05:00

Amazon.com Announces Partial Redemption of 6.875% Convertible Subordinated Notes

02/02/2006

2006

SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Feb. 2, 2006--Amazon.com, Inc. (Nasdaq:AMZN) announced that on March 7, 2006, it will redeem EUR 250,000,000 in principal amount of its outstanding 6.875% Convertible Subordinated Notes due 2010 ("PEACS"). For the PEACS, the CUSIP number is 023135AG1 and the ISIN number is US023135AG10. The PEACS to be redeemed will be selected by lot in accordance with the procedures of The Depository Trust Company, the registered holder of the PEACS. After completion of the redemption of EUR 250,000,000 in principal amount of the PEACS, there will be EUR 240,000,000 aggregate principal amount of PEACS outstanding. The PEACS will be redeemed at a redemption price of 100% of the principal amount at maturity, plus accrued and unpaid interest from February 16 through March 6, 2006. The right to convert the PEACS to be redeemed into common stock of Amazon.com will expire on March 6, 2006. The current conversion price of the PEACS is EUR 84.883. Copies of the notice of redemption may be obtained from The Bank of New York, the trustee and paying agent for the PEACS, by calling Bondholder Relations at 1-800-254-2826. About Amazon.com Amazon.com, Inc., (Nasdaq:AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden. Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com. As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise. Forward Looking Statement This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to potential future losses, significant amount of indebtedness, competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions, and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, consumer trends, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, fraud, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2004, and all subsequent filings. CONTACT: Amazon.com Public RelationsPatty Smith, 206-266-7180SOURCE: Amazon.com

<p>SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Feb. 2, 2006--Amazon.com, Inc. (Nasdaq:AMZN) announced that on March 7, 2006, it will redeem EUR 250,000,000 in principal amount of its outstanding 6.875% Convertible Subordinated Notes due 2010 ("PEACS"). For the PEACS, the CUSIP number is 023135AG1 and the ISIN number is US023135AG10. The PEACS to be redeemed will be selected by lot in accordance with the procedures of The Depository Trust Company, the registered holder of the PEACS. After completion of the redemption of EUR 250,000,000 in principal amount of the PEACS, there will be EUR 240,000,000 aggregate principal amount of PEACS outstanding.</p><p>The PEACS will be redeemed at a redemption price of 100% of the principal amount at maturity, plus accrued and unpaid interest from February 16 through March 6, 2006.</p><p>The right to convert the PEACS to be redeemed into common stock of Amazon.com will expire on March 6, 2006. The current conversion price of the PEACS is EUR 84.883.</p><p>Copies of the notice of redemption may be obtained from The Bank of New York, the trustee and paying agent for the PEACS, by calling Bondholder Relations at 1-800-254-2826.</p><p>About Amazon.com</p><p>Amazon.com, Inc., (Nasdaq:AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden.</p><p>Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com.</p><p>As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise.</p><p>Forward Looking Statement</p><p>This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to potential future losses, significant amount of indebtedness, competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions, and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, consumer trends, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, fraud, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2004, and all subsequent filings.</p><p>CONTACT: Amazon.com Public RelationsPatty Smith, 206-266-7180SOURCE: Amazon.com</p>

Amazon.com Announces Free Cash Flow Surpassed $500 Million for the First Time;

/news/news-details/2006/Amazon.com-Announces-Free-Cash-Flow-Surpassed-500-Million-for-the-First-Time/default.aspx

Amazon.com-Announces-Free-Cash-Flow-Surpassed-500-Million-for-the-First-Time

02/06/2006 16:03:00

Amazon.com Announces Free Cash Flow Surpassed $500 Million for the First Time;

02/06/2006

2006

Customers Joined Amazon Prime at an Accelerated Rate SEATTLE, Feb 02, 2006 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ:AMZN) today announced financial results for its fourth quarter and year ended December 31, 2005. Operating cash flow grew 29% to $733 million in 2005, compared with $566 million in 2004. Free cash flow grew 11% to $529 million in 2005, compared with $477 million in 2004. Operating and free cash flow includes a one-time payment of $40 million in connection with a patent lawsuit settlement in third quarter 2005. Common shares outstanding plus shares underlying stock-based awards outstanding totaled 438 million on December 31, 2005, compared with 434 million a year ago. Net sales increased 17% to $2.98 billion in the fourth quarter, compared with $2.54 billion in fourth quarter 2004. Excluding the $121 million unfavorable impact from year-over-year changes in foreign exchange rates throughout the quarter, net sales grew 22% compared with fourth quarter 2004. Operating income increased 1% to $165 million in the fourth quarter, compared with $162 million in fourth quarter 2004. Excluding the $12 million unfavorable impact from year-over-year changes in foreign exchange rates throughout the quarter, operating income grew 9% compared with fourth quarter 2004. Net income was $199 million in the fourth quarter, or $0.47 per diluted share, compared with net income of $347 million, or $0.82 per diluted share in fourth quarter 2004, which includes a $38 million income tax benefit in the fourth quarter, compared with a $239 million income tax benefit in fourth quarter 2004, primarily related to determining certain deferred tax assets are realizable. "Subscriptions to Amazon Prime more than doubled from November to December," said Jeff Bezos, founder and CEO of Amazon.com. "Amazon Prime members get 'all-you-can-eat' two-day shipping for free." Amazon Prime, Amazon.com's first-ever membership program, was introduced in February 2005. For a flat membership fee of $79 per year, Amazon Prime members get unlimited, express two-day shipping for free, with no minimum purchase requirement, on over a million eligible items sold by Amazon.com. Members can order as late as 6:30 p.m. ET and still get their order the next day for only $3.99 per item, and they can share the benefits of Amazon Prime with up to four family members living in their household. Sign up for Amazon Prime at www.amazon.com/prime. Full Year 2005 Net sales grew 23% to $8.49 billion in 2005, compared with $6.92 billion in 2004. Excluding the $73 million unfavorable impact from year-over-year changes in foreign exchange rates throughout the year, net sales grew 24% compared with 2004. Operating income was $432 million in 2005, compared with $440 million in 2004. Operating income for 2005 includes the $40 million negative impact of the legal settlement and an $8 million unfavorable impact from year-over-year changes in foreign exchange rates throughout the year. Net income was $359 million in 2005, or $0.84 per diluted share, compared with net income of $588 million, or $1.39 per diluted share, in 2004. Net income for 2005 includes a $95 million income tax expense, compared with a $233 million income tax benefit in 2004. Amazon.com also announced today that on March 7, 2006 it will redeem EUR 250 million ($304 million at the Euro to U.S. dollar exchange rate on January 31, 2006) in principal amount of its outstanding 6.875% Convertible Subordinated Notes due 2010, plus accrued and unpaid interest from and including February 16, 2006 to March 6, 2006, under its previously announced $500 million debt repurchase authorization. No premium payment is required to redeem these notes. Highlights North America segment sales, representing the Company's U.S. and Canadian sites, were $1.68 billion, up 21% from fourth quarter 2004. North America Media sales surpassed $1 billion for the first time in the fourth quarter. International segment sales, representing the Company's U.K., German, French, Japanese and Chinese sites, were $1.29 billion, up 13% from fourth quarter 2004. Excluding the unfavorable impact from year-over-year changes in foreign exchange rates throughout the quarter, net sales grew 23%. International segment sales accounted for 45% of worldwide net sales in 2005, up from 44% in 2004. Worldwide Other revenue, which includes the Amazon Enterprise Solutions program (formerly known as Merchant.com), increased 74% to $230 million in 2005. Worldwide Electronics & Other General Merchandise sales grew 38% to $2.3 billion in 2005, and increased to 27% of worldwide net sales, up from 24% in 2004. The Company's Japan site -- Amazon.co.jp -- became Amazon.com's sixth site to launch Search Inside the Book, enabling customers to preview the text inside over 160,000 books. Building on its successful Search Inside the Book technology, the Company announced it is currently developing two new innovative programs -- Amazon Pages and Amazon Upgrade -- to benefit readers, authors and publishers that will enable customers to purchase online access to any page, section or chapter of a book, as well as the book in its entirety. Amazon.com's China site -- Joyo.com -- in a long-term test lowered the order size threshold for customers to qualify for free shipping to RMB 99 from RMB 200 and now offers more than 300,000 book, music, video and DVD titles, making it the largest Chinese bookstore in the world. Financial Guidance The following forward-looking statements reflect Amazon.com's expectations as of February 2, 2006. Results may be materially affected by many factors, such as fluctuations in foreign exchange rates, changes in global economic conditions and consumer spending, world events, the rate of growth of the Internet and online commerce, and the various factors detailed below. First Quarter 2006 Guidance Net sales are expected to be between $2.14 billion and $2.29 billion, or grow between 13% and 20%, compared with first quarter 2005. Operating income is expected to be between $70 million and $105 million, or decline between (35%) and (3%), compared with first quarter 2005. This guidance includes $30 million for stock-based compensation and amortization of intangible assets, and assumes, among other things, that no additional intangible assets are recorded, and that there are no further revisions to stock-based compensation or restructuring-related estimates. Full Year 2006 Expectations Net sales are expected to be between $9.85 billion and $10.45 billion, or grow between 16% and 23%, compared with 2005. Operating income is expected to be between $370 million and $510 million, or between (14%) decline and 18% growth, compared with 2005. This guidance includes $135 million for stock-based compensation and amortization of intangible assets, and assumes, among other things, that no additional intangible assets are recorded and that there are no changes to stock-based compensation or restructuring-related estimates. A conference call will be webcast live today at 2 p.m. PT/5 p.m. ET and will be available for at least three months at www.amazon.com/ir. This call will contain forward-looking statements and other material information regarding the Company's financial and operating results. These forward-looking statements are inherently difficult to predict. Actual results could differ materially for a variety of reasons, including, in addition to the factors discussed above, the amount that Amazon.com invests in new business opportunities and the timing of those investments, the mix of products sold to customers, the mix of net sales derived from products as compared with services, competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international growth and expansion, the outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, risks of inventory management, seasonality, the degree to which the Company enters into, maintains and develops commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, and risks of fulfillment throughput and productivity. Other risks and uncertainties include, among others, risk of future losses, significant indebtedness, system interruptions, consumer trends, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, fraud, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2004, and all subsequent filings. About Amazon.com Amazon.com (NASDAQ:AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened its virtual doors on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and third-party sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished, and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden. Amazon.com and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com. As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc. and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise. AMAZON.COM, INC. Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (in millions) (unaudited) Three Months Twelve Months Ended Ended December 31, December 31, ---------------- ---------------- 2005 2004 2005 2004 -------- ------ -------- ------- CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, BEGINNING OF PERIOD $ 600 $ 746 $ 1,303 $ 1,102 OPERATING ACTIVITIES: Net income 199 347 359 588 Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities: Depreciation of fixed assets, including internal-use software and website development, and other amortization 36 21 121 76 Stock-based compensation 16 20 87 58 Other operating expense (income) 4 (5) 7 (8) Gains on sales of marketable securities, net (1) - (1) (1) Remeasurements and other (4) 32 (42) 1 Non-cash interest expense and other 1 1 5 5 Deferred income taxes (46) (244) 70 (257) Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle - - (26) - Changes in operating assets and liabilities: Inventories (114) (108) (104) (169) Accounts receivable, net and other current assets (91) 7 (84) (2) Accounts payable 499 424 274 286 Accrued expenses and other current liabilities 131 68 60 (14) Additions to unearned revenue 61 25 156 110 Amortization of previously unearned revenue (61) (31) (149) (107) ------- ------ ------- ------- Net cash provided by operating activities 630 557 733 566 INVESTING ACTIVITIES: Purchases of fixed assets, including internal-use software and website development (55) (36) (204) (89) Acquisitions, net of cash acquired - - (24) (71) Sales and maturities of marketable securities and other investments 183 419 836 1,427 Purchases of marketable securities (358) (448) (1,386) (1,584) ------- ------ ------- ------- Net cash used in investing activities (230) (65) (778) (317) FINANCING ACTIVITIES: Proceeds from exercises of stock options and other 24 18 66 60 Proceeds from long-term debt and other - - 11 - Repayments of long-term debt and capital lease obligations - (1) (270) (157) ------- ------ ------- ------- Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities 24 17 (193) (97) Foreign-currency effect on cash and cash equivalents (11) 48 (52) 49 ------- ------ ------- ------- Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents 413 557 (290) 201 ------- ------ ------- ------- CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, END OF PERIOD $ 1,013 $1,303 $ 1,013 $ 1,303 ======= ====== ======= ======= SUPPLEMENTAL CASH FLOW INFORMATION: Cash paid for interest $ - $ - $ 105 $ 108 Cash paid for income taxes 1 1 12 4 AMAZON.COM, INC. Consolidated Statements of Operations (in millions, except per share data) (unaudited) Three Months Twelve Months Ended Ended December 31, December 31, --------------- --------------- 2005 2004 2005 2004 ------- ------ ------- ------ Net sales $ 2,977 $2,541 $8,490 $6,921 Cost of sales 2,310 1,997 6,451 5,319 ------- ------ ------ ------ Gross profit 667 544 2,039 1,602 Operating expenses (1): Fulfillment 249 208 745 601 Marketing 68 60 198 162 Technology and content 132 84 451 283 General and administrative 49 35 166 124 Other operating expense (income) 4 (5) 47 (8) ------- ------ ------ ------ Total operating expenses 502 382 1,607 1,162 ------- ------ ------ ------ Income from operations 165 162 432 440 Interest income 14 10 44 28 Interest expense (22) (27) (92) (107) Other income (expense), net - (5) 2 (5) Remeasurements and other 4 (32) 42 (1) ------- ------ ------ ------ Total non-operating income (expense) (4) (54) (4) (85) ------- ------ ------ ------ Income before income taxes 161 108 428 355 Provision (benefit) for income taxes (38) (239) 95 (233) ------- ------ ------ ------ Income before cumulative effect of change in accounting principle 199 347 333 588 Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle - - 26 - ------- ------ ------ ------ Net income $ 199 $ 347 $ 359 $ 588 ======= ====== ====== ====== Basic earnings per share: Prior to cumulative effect of change in accounting principle $ 0.48 $ 0.85 $ 0.81 $ 1.45 Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle - - 0.06 - ------- ------ ------ ------ $ 0.48 $ 0.85 $ 0.87 $ 1.45 ======= ====== ====== ====== Diluted earnings per share: Prior to cumulative effect of change in accounting principle $ 0.47 $ 0.82 $ 0.78 $ 1.39 Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle - - 0.06 - ------- ------ ------ ------ $ 0.47 $ 0.82 $ 0.84 $ 1.39 ======= ====== ====== ====== Weighted average shares used in computation of earnings per share: Basic 415 408 412 406 ======= ====== ====== ====== Diluted 426 425 426 425 ======= ====== ====== ====== (1) Includes stock-based compensation as follows: Fulfillment $ 3 $ 4 $ 16 $ 10 Marketing 1 1 6 4 Technology and content 9 11 45 32 General and administrative 3 4 20 12 ------- ------ ------ ------ $ 16 $ 20 $ 87 $ 58 ======= ====== ====== ====== AMAZON.COM, INC. Segment Information (in millions) (unaudited) Three Months Twelve Months Ended Ended December 31, December 31, --------------- --------------- 2005 2004 2005 2004 ------ ------ ------ ------ North America Net sales $1,683 $1,392 $4,711 $3,847 Cost of sales 1,265 1,038 3,444 2,823 ------ ------ ------ ------ Gross profit 418 354 1,267 1,024 Direct segment operating expenses (1) 326 232 971 703 ------ ------ ------ ------ Segment operating income 92 122 296 321 International Net sales 1,294 1,149 3,779 3,074 Cost of sales 1,045 959 3,007 2,496 ------ ------ ------ ------ Gross profit 249 190 772 578 Direct segment operating expenses (1) 156 135 502 409 ------ ------ ------ ------ Segment operating income 93 55 270 169 Consolidated Net sales 2,977 2,541 8,490 6,921 Cost of sales 2,310 1,997 6,451 5,319 ------ ------ ------ ------ Gross profit 667 544 2,039 1,602 Direct segment operating expenses 482 367 1,473 1,112 ------ ------ ------ ------ Segment operating income 185 177 566 490 Stock-based compensation (16) (20) (87) (58) Other operating income (expense) (4) 5 (47) 8 ------ ------ ------ ------ Income from operations 165 162 432 440 Total non-operating income (expense), net (4) (54) (4) (85) Benefit (provision) for income taxes 38 239 (95) 233 Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle - - 26 - ------ ------ ------ ------ Net income $ 199 $ 347 $ 359 $ 588 ====== ====== ====== ====== Segment Highlights: Y/Y net sales growth: North America 21% 22% 22% 18% International 13 43 23 53 Consolidated 17 31 23 31 Y/Y gross profit growth: North America 18% 23% 24% 18% International 31 37 33 48 Consolidated 23 28 27 27 Y/Y segment operating income growth: North America (24%) 7% (8%) 13% International 67 43 59 116 Consolidated 4 16 16 36 Net sales mix: North America 57% 55% 55% 56% International 43 45 45 44 (1) A significant majority of our costs for "Technology and content" are incurred in the United States and most of these costs are allocated to our North America segment. AMAZON.COM, INC. Supplemental Net Sales Information (in millions) (unaudited) Three Months Twelve Months Ended Ended December 31, December 31, --------------- --------------- 2005 2004 2005 2004 ------- ------ ------ ------- North America Media $1,030 $ 885 $3,046 $2,589 Electronics and other general merchandise 580 449 1,443 1,128 Other 73 58 222 130 ------ ------ ------ ------ 1,683 1,392 4,711 3,847 International Media 968 911 2,885 2,513 Electronics and other general merchandise 321 237 886 559 Other 5 1 8 2 ------ ------ ------ ------ 1,294 1,149 3,779 3,074 Consolidated Media 1,998 1,796 5,931 5,102 Electronics and other general merchandise 901 686 2,329 1,687 Other 78 59 230 132 ------ ------ ------ ------ $2,977 $2,541 $8,490 $6,921 ====== ====== ====== ====== Y/Y Net Sales Growth: North America: Media 16% 18% 18% 14% Electronics and other general merchandise 29 27 28 28 Other 25 51 71 18 International: Media 6% 33% 15% 41% Electronics and other general merchandise 36 96 59 149 Other 565 169 234 98 Consolidated: Media 11% 25% 16% 26% Electronics and other general merchandise 31 45 38 53 Other 32 52 74 19 Consolidated Net Sales Mix: Media 67% 71% 70% 74% Electronics and other general merchandise 30 27 27 24 Other 3 2 3 2 AMAZON.COM, INC. Consolidated Balance Sheets (in millions, except per share data) (unaudited) December 31, December 31, 2005 2004 ----------- ----------- ASSETS Current assets: Cash and cash equivalents $ 1,013 $ 1,303 Marketable securities 987 476 ----------- ----------- Cash, cash equivalents, and marketable securities 2,000 1,779 Inventories 566 480 Deferred tax assets, current portion 89 81 Accounts receivable, net and other current assets 274 199 ----------- ----------- Total current assets 2,929 2,539 Fixed assets, net 348 246 Deferred tax assets, long-term portion 223 282 Goodwill 159 139 Other assets 37 42 ----------- ----------- Total assets $ 3,696 $ 3,248 =========== =========== LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY (DEFICIT) Current liabilities: Accounts payable $ 1,366 $ 1,142 Accrued expenses and other current liabilities 563 478 ----------- ----------- Total current liabilities 1,929 1,620 Long-term debt and other 1,521 1,855 Commitments and contingencies Stockholders' Equity (Deficit): Preferred stock, $0.01 par value: Authorized shares -- 500 Issued and outstanding shares -- none - - Common stock, $0.01 par value: Authorized shares -- 5,000 Issued and outstanding shares -- 416 and 410 shares 4 4 Additional paid-in capital 2,263 2,123 Accumulated other comprehensive income 6 32 Accumulated deficit (2,027) (2,386) ----------- ----------- Total stockholders' equity (deficit) 246 (227) ----------- ----------- Total liabilities and stockholders' equity (deficit) $ 3,696 $ 3,248 =========== =========== AMAZON.COM, INC. Supplemental Financial Information and Business Metrics (in millions, except per share data) (unaudited) Y/Y % Q4 2004 Q1 2005 Q2 2005 Q3 2005 Q4 2005 Change ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Cash Flows and Shares Operating cash flow -- trailing twelve months (TTM)(1) $ 566 $ 523 $ 624 $ 661 $ 733 29% Purchase of fixed assets (incl. internal-use software & website development) -- TTM $ 89 $ 106 $ 138 $ 186 $ 204 129% Free cash flow (operating cash flow less purchases of fixed assets) -- TTM(1) $ 477 $ 417 $ 486 $ 475 $ 529 11% Common shares and stock-based awards outstanding 434 434 438 438 438 1% Common shares outstanding 410 411 412 414 416 2% Stock-based awards outstanding 25 24 26 24 22 (12%) Stock-based awards outstanding -- % of common shares outstanding 6.0% 5.7% 6.3% 5.8% 5.2% N/A Results of Operations Worldwide (WW) net sales $2,541 $1,902 $1,753 $1,858 $2,977 17% WW net sales -- Y/Y growth, excluding the effect of foreign exchange rates 26.2% 22.3% 24.6% 27.6% 21.9% N/A WW net sales -- TTM $6,921 $7,292 $7,658 $8,054 $8,490 23% WW net sales -- TTM Y/Y growth, excluding the effect of foreign exchange rates 26.3% 23.9% 24.4% 25.2% 23.7% N/A Gross profit $ 544 $ 458 $ 450 $ 463 $ 667 23% Gross margin -- % of WW net sales 21.4% 24.1% 25.7% 24.9% 22.4% N/A Gross profit -- TTM $1,602 $1,700 $1,809 $1,917 $2,039 27% Gross margin -- TTM % of WW net sales 23.1% 23.3% 23.6% 23.8% 24.0% N/A Operating income(1) $ 162 $ 108 $ 104 $ 55 $ 165 1% Operating margin -- % of WW net sales(1) 6.4% 5.7% 6.0% 3.0% 5.5% N/A Operating income -- TTM(1) $ 440 $ 438 $ 456 $ 430 $ 432 (2%) Operating margin -- TTM % of WW net sales(1) 6.4% 6.0% 6.0% 5.3% 5.1% N/A Net income(1)(2) $ 347 $ 78 $ 52 $ 30 $ 199 (43%) Net income per diluted share(1)(2) $ 0.82 $ 0.18 $ 0.12 $ 0.07 $ 0.47 (43%) Net income -- TTM (1)(2) $ 588 $ 555 $ 531 $ 507 $ 359 (39%) Net income per diluted share -- TTM(1)(2) $ 1.39 $ 1.31 $ 1.25 $ 1.19 $ 0.84 (39%) Segments North America Segment: Net sales $1,392 $1,027 $ 960 $1,041 $1,683 21% Net sales -- Y/Y growth, excluding the effect of foreign exchange rates 21.8% 21.1% 21.0% 27.4% 20.8% N/A Net sales -- TTM $3,847 $4,027 $4,195 $4,420 $4,711 22% Gross profit $ 354 $ 279 $ 278 $ 292 $ 418 18% Gross margin -- % of North America net sales 25.5% 27.2% 29.0% 28.1% 24.8% N/A Gross profit -- TTM $1,024 $1,077 $1,135 $1,204 $1,267 24% Gross margin -- TTM % of North America net sales 26.6% 26.7% 27.1% 27.2% 26.9% N/A Operating income $ 122 $ 66 $ 72 $ 66 $ 92 (24%) Operating margin -- % of North America net sales 8.8% 6.4% 7.5% 6.4% 5.5% N/A Operating income -- TTM $ 321 $ 311 $ 317 $ 326 $ 296 (8%) Operating margin -- TTM % of North America net sales 8.3% 7.7% 7.6% 7.4% 6.3% N/A International Segment: Net sales $1,149 $ 875 $ 793 $ 817 $1,294 13% Net sales -- Y/Y growth, excluding the effect of foreign exchange rates 32.5% 23.8% 29.3% 27.8% 23.2% N/A Net sales -- TTM $3,074 $3,265 $3,463 $3,634 $3,779 23% Net sales -- TTM % of WW net sales 44.4% 44.8% 45.2% 45.1% 44.5% N/A Gross profit $ 190 $ 179 $ 172 $ 171 $ 249 31% Gross margin -- % of International net sales 16.5% 20.5% 21.7% 20.9% 19.3% N/A Gross profit -- TTM $ 578 $ 623 $ 674 $ 713 $ 772 33% Gross margin -- TTM % of International net sales 18.8% 19.1% 19.5% 19.6% 20.4% N/A Operating income $ 55 $ 62 $ 60 $ 55 $ 93 67% Operating margin -- % of International net sales 4.8% 7.2% 7.6% 6.7% 7.1% N/A Operating income -- TTM $ 169 $ 190 $ 216 $ 233 $ 270 59% Operating margin -- TTM % of International net sales 5.5% 5.8% 6.2% 6.4% 7.1% N/A ---------------------------------------------------------------------- AMAZON.COM, INC. Supplemental Financial Information and Business Metrics (in millions, except inventory turnover, accounts payable days, and employee data) (unaudited) Y/Y % Q4 2004 Q1 2005 Q2 2005 Q3 2005 Q4 2005 Change ------------------------------------------------- Segments (continued) Consolidated Segments: Operating expenses $ 367 $ 330 $ 318 $ 342 $ 482 31% Operating expenses -- TTM $1,112 $1,198 $ 1,276 $ 1,358 $ 1,473 32% Operating income $ 177 $ 128 $ 132 $ 121 $ 185 4% Operating margin -- % of consolidated sales 7.0% 6.8% 7.5% 6.5% 6.2% N/A Operating income -- TTM $ 490 $ 502 $ 533 $ 559 $ 566 16% Operating margin -- TTM % of consolidated net sales 7.1% 6.9% 7.0% 6.9% 6.7% N/A Supplemental North America Segment Net Sales: Media $ 885 $ 699 $ 632 $ 684 $ 1,030 16% Media -- TTM $2,589 $2,690 $ 2,780 $ 2,901 $ 3,046 18% Electronics and other general merchandise $ 449 $ 282 $ 278 $ 304 $ 580 29% Electronics and other general merchandise -- TTM $1,128 $1,185 $ 1,236 $ 1,311 $ 1,443 28% Electronics and other general merchandise -- TTM % of North America net sales 29% 29% 29% 30% 31% N/A Other $ 58 $ 46 $ 50 $ 53 $ 73 25% Other -- TTM $ 130 $ 153 $ 178 $ 208 $ 222 71% Supplemental International Segment Net Sales: Media $ 911 $ 675 $ 614 $ 629 $ 968 6% Media -- TTM $2,513 $2,612 $ 2,730 $ 2,828 $ 2,885 15% Electronics and other general merchandise $ 237 $ 199 $ 178 $ 187 $ 321 36% Electronics and other general merchandise -- TTM $ 559 $ 651 $ 730 $ 801 $ 886 59% Electronics and other general merchandise -- TTM % of International net sales 18% 20% 21% 22% 23% N/A Other $ 1 $ 1 $ 1 $ 1 $ 5 565% Other -- TTM $ 2 $ 3 $ 3 $ 4 $ 8 234% Supplemental Worldwide Net Sales: Media $1,796 $1,374 $ 1,246 $ 1,313 $ 1,998 11% Media -- TTM $5,102 $5,302 $ 5,510 $ 5,730 $ 5,931 16% Electronics and other general merchandise $ 686 $ 481 $ 456 $ 491 $ 901 31% Electronics and other general merchandise -- TTM $1,687 $1,835 $ 1,966 $ 2,113 $ 2,329 38% Electronics and other general merchandise -- TTM % of WW net sales 24% 25% 26% 26% 27% N/A Other $ 59 $ 47 $ 51 $ 54 $ 78 32% Other -- TTM $ 132 $ 156 $ 181 $ 211 $ 230 74% Balance Sheet Cash and marketable securities $1,779 $1,151 $ 1,325 $ 1,419 $ 2,000 12% Inventory, net -- ending $ 480 $ 403 $ 383 $ 456 $ 566 18% Inventory -- average inventory % of TTM net sales 4.9% 5.0% 5.0% 5.2% 5.4% N/A Inventory turnover, average -- TTM 15.7 15.5 15.3 14.8 14.1 (10%) Fixed assets, net $ 246 $ 245 $ 267 $ 322 $ 348 41% Accounts payable days -- ending 53 44 51 58 54 3% Other Employees (full-time and part-time; excludes contractors & temporary personnel) 9,000 9,400 10,200 11,100 12,000 33% ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Note: The attached "Financial and Operational Summary" is an integral part of this Supplemental Financial Information and Business Metrics. (1) In Q3 2005, the Company settled a patent lawsuit on terms including a one-time payment of $40 million in Q3 2005. This negatively impacted Q3 and Q4 2005 TTM operating cash flow and free cash flow by $40 million, Q3 2005 operating income by $40 million, and Q3 2005 net income by $20 million after tax. (2) Q4 2005 and Q4 2004 net income includes tax benefits of $90 million and $244 million, both related to determinations that certain of our deferred tax assets are realizable; Net income includes a $56 million tax expense for Q1 2005, a $56 million tax expense for Q2 2005, and a $21 million tax expense for Q3 2005, primarily due to taxable income resulting from the transfer of certain operating assets from U.S. to international locations. Amazon.com, Inc. Financial and Operational Summary (unaudited) Quarterly Results of Operations (comparisons are with the equivalent period of the prior year, unless otherwise stated) Net Sales Shipping revenue was $188 million, up 21% from $156 million. Amounts paid in advance for subscription services, including amounts received from online DVD rentals, Amazon Prime and other membership programs, are deferred and recognized as revenue over the subscription term. Net sales includes fixed fees, commissions and per-unit fees earned from third-party sellers and similar amounts earned through Amazon Enterprise Solutions. Cost of Sales Cost of sales consists of the purchase price of products sold by us, inbound and outbound shipping charges, packaging supplies, amortization of our DVD rental library and service costs such as those incurred in operating and staffing our fulfillment and customer service centers on behalf of third-party sellers. Inbound shipping charges to receive products from our suppliers are included in our inventory and recognized as "Cost of sales" upon sale to our customers. Outbound shipping-related costs totaled $280 million, up 20% from $234 million. Net shipping loss was $91 million, up 17% from a net shipping loss of $78 million, resulting primarily from our free shipping offers and Amazon Prime. While costs associated with free shipping, including Amazon Prime, are not included in marketing expense, we view our free shipping offers as an effective worldwide marketing tool and intend to continue offering them indefinitely. In Q4 2005 we offered free membership trials for Amazon Prime and expect to continue to offer these trials in the future. Operating Expenses Depreciation expense for fixed assets, including amortization of internal-use software and website development, was $35 million, up from $21 million. Depreciation is recorded on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives of the assets--generally two years or less for assets such as internal-use software and our DVD rental library, three years for our technology infrastructure, five years for furniture and fixtures, and ten years for heavy equipment. Depreciation expense is generally classified within the corresponding operating expense categories on the consolidated statements of operations, and certain assets, such as our DVD rental library, are amortized to "Cost of sales." Stock-based compensation decreased $3 million to $16 million. We chose to early-adopt SFAS 123(R), the new accounting rules on stock-based compensation, effective January 1, 2005. Stock-based compensation would have been $32 million under our prior accounting method, up $12 million from Q4 2004. In Q4 2005 we recorded a $10 million benefit representing the cumulative effect of slightly increasing the rate of forfeitures expected over the life of issued stock awards based on our historical experience. In accordance with SAB 107, issued March 2005, we present stock-based compensation within the same operating expense line items as cash compensation. Operating expenses with and without stock-based compensation are as follows: Q4 2005 Q4 2004 --------------------------- --------------------------- As Stock-Based As Stock-Based Reported Compensation Net Reported Compensation Net -------- ------------------ -------- ------------------ (in millions) Operating Expenses: Fulfillment $ 249 $ (3) $ 246 $ 208 $ (4) $ 204 Marketing 68 (1) 67 60 (1) 59 Technology and content 132 (9) 123 84 (11) 73 General and administrative 49 (3) 46 35 (4) 31 Other operating expense (income) 4 - 4 (5) - (5) ----- ---------- ----- ----- ---------- ----- Total operating expenses $ 502 $ (16) $ 486 $ 382 $ (20) $ 362 ===== ========== ===== ===== ========== ===== Year-over-year Percentage Growth: Fulfillment 20% 21% 29% 29% Marketing 13 15 45 44 Technology and content 58 69 37 41 General and administrative 37 42 38 38 Percent of Net Sales: Fulfillment 8.4% 8.3% 8.2% 8.0% Marketing 2.3 2.2 2.3 2.3 Technology and content 4.5 4.1 3.3 2.9 General and administrative 1.6 1.5 1.4 1.2 Fulfillment Marketing Technology and Content Fulfillment costs include those costs incurred in operating and staffing our fulfillment and customer service centers, including costs attributable to buying, receiving, inspecting and warehousing inventories; picking, packaging and preparing customer orders for shipment; and payment processing fees and transaction costs, including costs associated with our guarantee of certain third-party seller transactions. Fulfillment costs also include amounts paid to third parties who assist us in fulfillment and customer service operations. Payment processing fees associated with third-party seller sales are based on the gross purchase price of underlying transactions, and transaction costs, such as our A to Z Guarantee, are higher as a percentage of revenue versus our retail sales. Accordingly third-party sales have higher fulfillment costs as a percentage of net sales. Fulfillment costs increased in absolute dollars from the prior year due to variable costs corresponding with sales and inventory volumes, our mix of product sales, payment processing and transaction costs, including costs of our guarantee of certain third-party seller transactions. Additionally, we expanded our fulfillment capacity in 2005 through gains in efficiencies as well as increases in leased warehouse space. We plan to continue expanding our worldwide fulfillment capacity in 2006 -- although to add less space than in 2005 -- in order to accommodate greater selection and to meet anticipated shipment volumes from sales of our own products as well as sales by third parties for whom we provide the fulfillment. We expect absolute amounts spent in fulfillment and fulfillment-related cost of sales to increase over time. Marketing efforts include targeted online marketing channels, such as our Associates and Syndicated Stores programs, sponsored search, portal advertising, e-mail campaigns and other initiatives. Technology and content expenses consist principally of payroll and related expenses for employees involved in the research and development of our websites, including application development, editorial content, merchandising selection, and systems and telecommunications support and infrastructure. Our spending in technology and content has significantly increased, corresponding with our focus on several initiatives. We have added a significant number of computer scientists and software engineers to our staff so that we can continue to enhance the customer experience on our websites and those websites powered by us, improve our process efficiency and continue to invest in several areas of technology, including seller platforms, search, web services and digital initiatives. We intend to continue investing in areas of technology and content, and we expect absolute dollars spent in technology and content to increase over time as we continue to add computer scientists and software engineers to our staff. A significant majority of our technology costs are incurred in the U.S. and most of them are allocated to our North America segment. Certain costs relating to the development of internal-use software and website development, including software to upgrade and enhance our websites and processes supporting our business, are capitalized and depreciated over two years. We capitalized $25 million of internal-use software and website development costs, including $2 million associated with stock-based compensation, which is excluded from purchases of fixed assets on our consolidated statements of cash flows since it is stock based rather than cash -- compared with $16 million a year ago. These amounts were partially offset by amortization of previously capitalized amounts of $15 million and $8 million. Fixed assets associated with capitalized internal-use software and website development and content, net of accumulated depreciation, were $87 million and $47 million at December 31, 2005 and 2004, respectively. General and Administrative General and administrative costs increased primarily due to payroll and related expenses, professional fees and legal costs. We expect absolute dollars spent in general and administrative to increase over time. Stock-Based Compensation Prior to January 1, 2005, we accounted for stock-based awards under the intrinsic value method, which resulted in compensation expense for restricted stock and restricted stock units at grant date fair value based on the number of shares granted and the quoted price of our common stock, and for stock options to the extent option exercise prices were set below market prices on the date of grant. Also, stock-based awards subject to an exchange offer, other modifications, or performance criteria were subject to variable accounting treatment. As of January 1, 2005, we adopted SFAS 123(R), which requires measurement of compensation cost for stock-based awards at grant date fair value. The fair value of restricted stock and restricted stock units is determined based on the number of shares granted and the quoted price of our common stock, while the fair value of stock options is determined using a Black-Scholes valuation model. The fair value is recognized as an expense over the service period, net of estimated forfeitures, using the accelerated method under SFAS 123(R). Because we implemented SFAS 123(R), we no longer have stock awards subject to variable accounting treatment. Stock-based awards generally vest over service periods of between two and five years. Payroll tax expense resulting from exercises of stock-based awards is a cash expense and is not categorized as stock-based compensation. We granted stock awards, substantially all of which have been restricted stock units since October 2002, of 1 million shares in the quarter. Our annual stock awards are granted in the second quarter. At December 31, 2005, there were 22 million stock awards outstanding, consisting of 12 million stock options with a $14 weighted-average exercise price and 10 million restricted stock units. At December 31, 2004 there were 25 million stock awards outstanding. At December 31, 2005, there were 438 million common shares and stock-based awards outstanding, up 1% from 434 million at December 31, 2004. This total includes all stock-based awards outstanding, without regard for estimated forfeitures, consisting of vested and unvested awards and in-the-money and out-of-the-money stock options. Other Operating Expense (Income) Other operating expense (income) includes costs related to a lawsuit settlement and amortization of intangibles of $2 million. We acquired certain companies during 2005 for an aggregate cash purchase price of $29 million. The excess of purchase price over the fair value of the net assets acquired was $19 million and is classified as "Goodwill" on our consolidated balance sheets. Acquired other intangibles totaled $10 million and have estimated useful lives of between one and three years. The results of operations of each of the acquired businesses have been included in our consolidated results as of the closing date of acquisition. The effect of these acquisitions on consolidated net sales and operating income was not significant for Q4 2005. Remeasurements and Other The remeasurement of our 6.875% PEACS and intercompany balances can result in significant gains and charges associated with the effect of movements in currency exchange rates. Remeasurement of the principal amount of our 6.875% PEACS from euros to U.S. dollars resulted in a foreign-currency gain of $9 million, compared with a loss of $77 million. Remeasurement of foreign-currency intercompany balances that are to be repaid among subsidiaries represented a $7 million loss, compared with a gain of $44 million. We realized a $2 million gain primarily associated with the sale of an equity investment. Income Taxes and Deferred Tax Assets The Q4 2005 tax provision includes a tax benefit of $90 million, representing $0.21 of diluted earnings per share, resulting from a determination that certain of our deferred tax assets are realizable. Without this benefit our effective tax rate for financial reporting purposes would have been 43% in 2005, higher than the 35% statutory rate, associated with taxable income resulting from the Q1 2005 transfer of certain operating assets from the U.S. to international locations in connection with the establishment of our European headquarters in Luxembourg. We intend to perform similar asset transfers in 2006 to finalize our European headquarters transition, which we expect to result in an effective tax rate for financial reporting purposes significantly higher than the 35% statutory rate in 2006 and to beneficially impact our effective tax rate over time. Our 2006 effective tax rate is subject to significant potential volatility due to several factors, including the accurate prediction of our taxable income and the taxable jurisdictions to which it relates. Since we have deferred tax assets related to our Net Operating Losses ("NOLs"), these asset transfers will not have a significant effect on cash taxes paid in 2006, which we expect to be approximately $25 million compared with $12 million in 2005. We are not endeavoring to optimize our global taxes on a financial reporting basis; instead we endeavor to optimize our global taxes on a cash basis. At December 31, 2005, our net deferred tax assets, net of deferred tax liabilities, are $291 million, which includes $123 million relating to NOLs that are primarily attributed to stock-based compensation, the majority of which begin to expire in 2016, with the remaining portion relating to temporary differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities and their tax bases. We allocate our valuation allowance to current and long-term deferred tax assets on a pro-rata basis. Foreign Exchange Our financial reporting currency is the U.S. dollar, and changes in exchange rates significantly affect our reported results and consolidated trends. For example, during Q4 2005 our consolidated revenue and operating income were negatively affected by the strengthening of the U.S. dollar in comparison to the currencies of internationally focused websites, but our consolidated revenue and operating income from Q2 2002 through Q2 2005 have benefited from weakness in the U.S. dollar in comparison to the same currencies. The effect on our consolidated statements of operations from year-over-year changes in exchange rates versus the U.S. dollar throughout the period is as follows: Q4 2005 Q4 2004 ---------------------------- --------------------------- Exchange At Prior Exchange At Prior As Rate Year As Rate Year Reported Effect(2) Rates(1) Reported Effect(2) Rates(1) -------- --------- --------- -------- --------- -------- Net sales $ 2,977 $ (121) $ 3,098 $ 2,541 $ 85 $ 2,456 Gross profit 667 (23) 690 544 14 530 Operating expenses 502 (12) 514 382 9 373 Income from operations 165 (12) 177 162 5 157 Net interest expense and other (8) 3 (11) (22) (5) (17) Remeasurements and other(3) 4 3 1 (32) (33) 1 Net income 199 (8) 207 347 (32) 379 Diluted earnings per share $ 0.47 $ (0.02) $ 0.49 $ 0.82 $ (0.08) $ 0.90 (1) Represents the outcome that would have resulted had currency exchange rates in the current period been the same as those in effect in the comparable prior year period for operating results, and if we did not incur the variability associated with remeasurements for our 6.875% PEACS and intercompany balances.(2) Represents the increase (decrease) in reported amounts resulting from changes in exchange rates from those in effect in the comparable prior year period for operating results, and if we did not incur the variability associated with remeasurements for our 6.875% PEACS and intercompany balances.(3) Includes foreign-currency gains (losses) on remeasurement of 6.875% PEACS and intercompany balances compared to prior quarter, and realized currency-related gains associated with sales of euro-denominated investments held by a U.S. subsidiary. Cash Flows and Balance Sheet Operating cash flows and free cash flows can be volatile and are sensitive to many factors, including changes in working capital and timing of capital expenditures. Working capital at any specific point in time is subject to many variables, including seasonality, the timing of expense payments, discounts offered by vendors, vendor payment terms, and fluctuations in foreign exchange rates. Additionally, prior to our adoption of SFAS 123(R), cash retained as a result of excess tax deductions relating to stock-based compensation was presented in operating cash flows, along with other tax cash flows. SFAS 123(R) requires benefits relating to excess stock-based compensation deductions to be presented as financing cash inflows -- effectively a reclassification between operating cash flows and financing cash flows. Tax benefits resulting from stock-based compensation deductions in excess of amounts reported for financial reporting purposes -- which negatively impacted operating cash flow -- were $3 million in Q4 2005 and are expected to increase substantially and may be up to $100 million in 2006, subject to considerable variability. Accordingly, amounts presented for operating cash flows and free cash flows for 2006 will be negatively effected in comparison to prior results; however, there is no change in economic substance resulting from this change in reporting classification. Our cash, cash equivalents and marketable securities of $2 billion, at fair value, primarily consist of cash, investment grade securities and AAA-rated money market mutual funds. Included are amounts held in foreign currencies of $905 million, primarily in euros, British pounds and yen. "Accounts receivable, net and other current assets" includes accounts receivable from merchant partners, vendors and credit card companies, interest receivables and $15 million of prepaid expenses. "Fixed assets" include assets such as furniture and fixtures, heavy equipment, technology infrastructure, internal-use software and website development and our DVD rental library. "Other assets" includes, among other things, $13 million of deferred issuance costs on long-term debt, $8 million of certain equity investments, and $11 million of other intangibles, net. "Accrued expenses and other current liabilities" includes, among other things, liabilities for gift certificates, professional fees, marketing activities, workforce costs -- including accrued payroll, vacation and other benefits -- and unearned revenue of $48 million which is recorded when payments are received in advance of performing our service obligations and is amortized over the service period. "Long-term debt and other" primarily includes the following (in millions): Principal Interest Principal at Maturity Rate Due Date ----------- --------- ----------- Convertible Subordinated Notes February $ 900 (1) 4.750% 2009 Premium Adjustable Convertible February Securities ("PEACS") 580 (2)(4) 6.875% 2010 ----------- $ 1,480 (3) =========== (1) Convertible at the holders' option into our common stock at $78.0275 per share. We have the right to redeem the Convertible Subordinated Notes, in whole or in part, at a redemption price of 101.425% of the principal, which decreases every February 1 by 47.5 basis points until maturity, plus any accrued and unpaid interest.(2) EUR 490 million principal amount, convertible at the holders' option into our common stock at EUR 84.883 per share ($101 per share based on the euro/U.S. dollar exchange rate as of December 31, 2005). We have the right to redeem the PEACS, in whole or in part, by paying the principal amount, plus any accrued and unpaid interest. We do not hedge any portion of the PEACS. The U.S. dollar equivalent principal, interest, and conversion price fluctuates based on the euro/U.S. dollar exchange ratio. Due to fluctuations in this exchange ratio, our principal debt obligation since issuance in February 2000 has increased by $97 million as of December 31, 2005.(3) The "if converted" number of shares associated with our convertible debt instruments (approximately 17 million total shares) is excluded from diluted shares as their effect is antidilutive.(4) Under our previously announced $500 million debt repurchase authorization, on March 7, 2006 we will be redeeming EUR 250 million -- or $304 million at the Euro to U.S. dollar exchange rate on January 31, 2006 -- in principal amount of our PEACS at par, plus accrued and unpaid interest from and including February 16, 2006 to March 6, 2006. We expect to record a charge of approximately $6 million related to the redemption, including $2 million in unamortized deferred debt issuance costs, which will be classified in "Remeasurements and other" in Q1 2006. Certain Definitions and Other We present segment information along two lines: North America and International. We measure operating results of our segments using an internal performance measure of direct segment operating expenses that excludes stock-based compensation and other operating expenses (income), each of which is not allocated to segment results. Other centrally incurred operating costs are fully allocated to segment results. Our operating results, particularly for the International segment, are affected by movements in foreign exchange rates. The North America segment consists of amounts earned from retail sales of consumer products (including from third-party sellers) and subscriptions through North America-focused websites such as www.amazon.com and www.amazon.ca; from North America-focused Syndicated Stores, such as www.cdnow.com; from our mail-order tool catalog phone orders; from our Amazon Prime membership program; and from non-retail activities such as North America-focused Amazon Enterprise Solutions program, marketing, and promotional agreements. This segment includes export sales from www.amazon.com and www.amazon.ca. The International segment consists of amounts earned from retail sales of consumer products (including from third-party sellers) and subscriptions through internationally focused websites such as www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, and, since September 2004, www.joyo.com; from internationally focused Syndicated Stores; from our DVD rental service; and from non-retail activities such as internationally focused marketing and promotional agreements. This segment includes export sales from these internationally based sites (including export sales from these sites to customers in the U.S. and Canada) but excludes export sales from www.amazon.com and www.amazon.ca. We provide supplemental sales information within each segment for three categories: "Media," "Electronics and Other General Merchandise," and "Other." Media consists of amounts earned from DVD rentals and retail sales from all sellers of books, music, DVD/video, magazine subscriptions, software, video games and video-game consoles. Electronics and Other General Merchandise consists of amounts earned from retail sales from all sellers of items not included in Media, such as electronics and office, camera and photo, toys and baby, tools, home and garden, apparel, sports and outdoors, kitchen and housewares, gourmet food, jewelry, health and personal care, beauty, and musical instruments. The Other category consists of non-retail activities, such as the Amazon Enterprise Solutions program and miscellaneous marketing and promotional activities, such as our co-branded credit card programs. Operating cash flow is net cash provided by (used in) operating activities, including cash outflows for interest and excluding proceeds from the exercise of stock-based employee awards. Free cash flow is operating cash flow less cash outflows for purchases of fixed assets, including internal-use software and website development. Operating cycle is number of days of sales in inventory plus number of days of sales in accounts receivable minus accounts payable days. Accounts payable days are calculated as the quotient of accounts payable to cost of sales, multiplied by the number of days in the period. Inventory turns are calculated as the quotient of cost of sales to average inventory over five quarter ends. Return on invested capital is free cash flow divided by average total assets less current liabilities over five quarter ends. References to customers mean customer accounts, which are unique e-mail addresses, established either when a customer's initial order is shipped or when a customer orders from certain third-party sellers on our websites. Customer accounts include customers of Amazon Marketplace, Auctions and zShops, and our Merchants@ and Syndicated Stores programs, but exclude certain customers, including DVD rental customers, customers associated with certain of our acquisitions (including Joyo.com customers), Amazon Enterprise Solutions program customers, Amazon.com Payments customers, our catalog customers, and the customers of select companies with whom we have a technology alliance or marketing and promotional relationship. A customer is considered active when they have placed an order during the preceding twelve-month period. References to sellers or merchants mean active seller accounts, which are established when a seller receives an order from a customer account. Seller accounts include sellers in Amazon Marketplace, Auctions, zShops, and Merchants@ platforms, but exclude Amazon Enterprise Solutions sellers. A seller is considered active when they have received an order during the preceding twelve-month period. References to units mean units sold (net of returns and cancellations) by us and third-party sellers at Amazon.com domains worldwide -- such as www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr and www.amazon.ca -- and at Syndicated Stores domains, as well as Amazon.com-owned items sold through catalogs and at non-Amazon.com domains, such as books, music and DVD/video items ordered from Amazon.com's store at www.target.com. Units sold do not include units associated with certain of our acquisitions (including Joyo.com units), Amazon.com gift certificates or DVD rentals. SOURCE:Amazon.comAmazon.comTim Stone, 206-266-2171 (Investor Relations)ir@amazon.comwww.amazon.com/irPatty Smith, 206-266-7180 (Public Relations)

<p>Customers Joined Amazon Prime at an Accelerated Rate</p><p>SEATTLE, Feb 02, 2006 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ:AMZN) today announced financial results for its fourth quarter and year ended December 31, 2005.</p><p>Operating cash flow grew 29% to $733 million in 2005, compared with $566 million in 2004. Free cash flow grew 11% to $529 million in 2005, compared with $477 million in 2004. Operating and free cash flow includes a one-time payment of $40 million in connection with a patent lawsuit settlement in third quarter 2005.</p><p>Common shares outstanding plus shares underlying stock-based awards outstanding totaled 438 million on December 31, 2005, compared with 434 million a year ago.</p><p>Net sales increased 17% to $2.98 billion in the fourth quarter, compared with $2.54 billion in fourth quarter 2004. Excluding the $121 million unfavorable impact from year-over-year changes in foreign exchange rates throughout the quarter, net sales grew 22% compared with fourth quarter 2004.</p><p>Operating income increased 1% to $165 million in the fourth quarter, compared with $162 million in fourth quarter 2004. Excluding the $12 million unfavorable impact from year-over-year changes in foreign exchange rates throughout the quarter, operating income grew 9% compared with fourth quarter 2004.</p><p>Net income was $199 million in the fourth quarter, or $0.47 per diluted share, compared with net income of $347 million, or $0.82 per diluted share in fourth quarter 2004, which includes a $38 million income tax benefit in the fourth quarter, compared with a $239 million income tax benefit in fourth quarter 2004, primarily related to determining certain deferred tax assets are realizable.</p><p>"Subscriptions to Amazon Prime more than doubled from November to December," said Jeff Bezos, founder and CEO of Amazon.com. "Amazon Prime members get 'all-you-can-eat' two-day shipping for free."</p><p>Amazon Prime, Amazon.com's first-ever membership program, was introduced in February 2005. For a flat membership fee of $79 per year, Amazon Prime members get unlimited, express two-day shipping for free, with no minimum purchase requirement, on over a million eligible items sold by Amazon.com. Members can order as late as 6:30 p.m. ET and still get their order the next day for only $3.99 per item, and they can share the benefits of Amazon Prime with up to four family members living in their household. Sign up for Amazon Prime at www.amazon.com/prime.</p><p>Full Year 2005</p><p>Net sales grew 23% to $8.49 billion in 2005, compared with $6.92 billion in 2004. Excluding the $73 million unfavorable impact from year-over-year changes in foreign exchange rates throughout the year, net sales grew 24% compared with 2004.</p><p>Operating income was $432 million in 2005, compared with $440 million in 2004. Operating income for 2005 includes the $40 million negative impact of the legal settlement and an $8 million unfavorable impact from year-over-year changes in foreign exchange rates throughout the year.</p><p>Net income was $359 million in 2005, or $0.84 per diluted share, compared with net income of $588 million, or $1.39 per diluted share, in 2004. Net income for 2005 includes a $95 million income tax expense, compared with a $233 million income tax benefit in 2004.</p><p>Amazon.com also announced today that on March 7, 2006 it will redeem EUR 250 million ($304 million at the Euro to U.S. dollar exchange rate on January 31, 2006) in principal amount of its outstanding 6.875% Convertible Subordinated Notes due 2010, plus accrued and unpaid interest from and including February 16, 2006 to March 6, 2006, under its previously announced $500 million debt repurchase authorization. No premium payment is required to redeem these notes.</p><p>Highlights</p><ul><ul><li>North America segment sales, representing the Company's U.S. and Canadian sites, were $1.68 billion, up 21% from fourth quarter 2004.</li></ul></ul><ul><ul><li>North America Media sales surpassed $1 billion for the first time in the fourth quarter.</li></ul></ul><ul><ul><li>International segment sales, representing the Company's U.K., German, French, Japanese and Chinese sites, were $1.29 billion, up 13% from fourth quarter 2004. Excluding the unfavorable impact from year-over-year changes in foreign exchange rates throughout the quarter, net sales grew 23%.</li></ul></ul><ul><ul><li>International segment sales accounted for 45% of worldwide net sales in 2005, up from 44% in 2004.</li></ul></ul><ul><ul><li>Worldwide Other revenue, which includes the Amazon Enterprise Solutions program (formerly known as Merchant.com), increased 74% to $230 million in 2005.</li></ul></ul><ul><ul><li>Worldwide Electronics &amp; Other General Merchandise sales grew 38% to $2.3 billion in 2005, and increased to 27% of worldwide net sales, up from 24% in 2004.</li></ul></ul><ul><ul><li>The Company's Japan site -- Amazon.co.jp -- became Amazon.com's sixth site to launch Search Inside the Book, enabling customers to preview the text inside over 160,000 books.</li></ul></ul><ul><ul><li>Building on its successful Search Inside the Book technology, the Company announced it is currently developing two new innovative programs -- Amazon Pages and Amazon Upgrade -- to benefit readers, authors and publishers that will enable customers to purchase online access to any page, section or chapter of a book, as well as the book in its entirety.</li></ul></ul><ul><li>Amazon.com's China site -- Joyo.com -- in a long-term test lowered the order size threshold for customers to qualify for free shipping to RMB 99 from RMB 200 and now offers more than 300,000 book, music, video and DVD titles, making it the largest Chinese bookstore in the world.</li></ul><p>Financial Guidance</p><ul><ul><li>The following forward-looking statements reflect Amazon.com's expectations as of February 2, 2006. Results may be materially affected by many factors, such as fluctuations in foreign exchange rates, changes in global economic conditions and consumer spending, world events, the rate of growth of the Internet and online commerce, and the various factors detailed below.</li></ul></ul><p>First Quarter 2006 Guidance</p><ul><ul><li>Net sales are expected to be between $2.14 billion and $2.29 billion, or grow between 13% and 20%, compared with first quarter 2005.</li></ul></ul><ul><li>Operating income is expected to be between $70 million and $105 million, or decline between (35%) and (3%), compared with first quarter 2005. This guidance includes $30 million for stock-based compensation and amortization of intangible assets, and assumes, among other things, that no additional intangible assets are recorded, and that there are no further revisions to stock-based compensation or restructuring-related estimates.</li></ul><p>Full Year 2006 Expectations</p><ul><ul><li>Net sales are expected to be between $9.85 billion and $10.45 billion, or grow between 16% and 23%, compared with 2005.</li></ul></ul><ul><ul><li>Operating income is expected to be between $370 million and $510 million, or between (14%) decline and 18% growth, compared with 2005. This guidance includes $135 million for stock-based compensation and amortization of intangible assets, and assumes, among other things, that no additional intangible assets are recorded and that there are no changes to stock-based compensation or restructuring-related estimates.</li></ul></ul><ul><ul><li>A conference call will be webcast live today at 2 p.m. PT/5 p.m. ET and will be available for at least three months at www.amazon.com/ir. This call will contain forward-looking statements and other material information regarding the Company's financial and operating results.</li></ul></ul><ul><ul><li>These forward-looking statements are inherently difficult to predict. Actual results could differ materially for a variety of reasons, including, in addition to the factors discussed above, the amount that Amazon.com invests in new business opportunities and the timing of those investments, the mix of products sold to customers, the mix of net sales derived from products as compared with services, competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international growth and expansion, the outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, risks of inventory management, seasonality, the degree to which the Company enters into, maintains and develops commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, and risks of fulfillment throughput and productivity. Other risks and uncertainties include, among others, risk of future losses, significant indebtedness, system interruptions, consumer trends, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, fraud, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2004, and all subsequent filings.</li></ul></ul><p>About Amazon.com</p><p>Amazon.com (NASDAQ:AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened its virtual doors on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and third-party sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished, and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden.</p><p>Amazon.com and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com.</p><p>As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc. and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise.</p><pre>AMAZON.COM, INC. Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (in millions) (unaudited) Three Months Twelve Months Ended Ended December 31, December 31, ---------------- ---------------- 2005 2004 2005 2004 -------- ------ -------- -------CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, BEGINNING OF PERIOD $ 600 $ 746 $ 1,303 $ 1,102OPERATING ACTIVITIES:Net income 199 347 359 588Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities: Depreciation of fixed assets, including internal-use software and website development, and other amortization 36 21 121 76 Stock-based compensation 16 20 87 58 Other operating expense (income) 4 (5) 7 (8) Gains on sales of marketable securities, net (1) - (1) (1) Remeasurements and other (4) 32 (42) 1 Non-cash interest expense and other 1 1 5 5 Deferred income taxes (46) (244) 70 (257) Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle - - (26) -Changes in operating assets and liabilities: Inventories (114) (108) (104) (169) Accounts receivable, net and other current assets (91) 7 (84) (2) Accounts payable 499 424 274 286 Accrued expenses and other current liabilities 131 68 60 (14) Additions to unearned revenue 61 25 156 110 Amortization of previously unearned revenue (61) (31) (149) (107) ------- ------ ------- ------- Net cash provided by operating activities 630 557 733 566INVESTING ACTIVITIES:Purchases of fixed assets, including internal-use software and website development (55) (36) (204) (89)Acquisitions, net of cash acquired - - (24) (71)Sales and maturities of marketable securities and other investments 183 419 836 1,427Purchases of marketable securities (358) (448) (1,386) (1,584) ------- ------ ------- ------- Net cash used in investing activities (230) (65) (778) (317)FINANCING ACTIVITIES:Proceeds from exercises of stock options and other 24 18 66 60Proceeds from long-term debt and other - - 11 -Repayments of long-term debt and capital lease obligations - (1) (270) (157) ------- ------ ------- ------- Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities 24 17 (193) (97)Foreign-currency effect on cash and cash equivalents (11) 48 (52) 49 ------- ------ ------- ------- Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents 413 557 (290) 201 ------- ------ ------- -------CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, END OF PERIOD $ 1,013 $1,303 $ 1,013 $ 1,303 ======= ====== ======= =======SUPPLEMENTAL CASH FLOW INFORMATION:Cash paid for interest $ - $ - $ 105 $ 108Cash paid for income taxes 1 1 12 4 AMAZON.COM, INC. Consolidated Statements of Operations (in millions, except per share data) (unaudited) Three Months Twelve Months Ended Ended December 31, December 31, --------------- --------------- 2005 2004 2005 2004 ------- ------ ------- ------Net sales $ 2,977 $2,541 $8,490 $6,921Cost of sales 2,310 1,997 6,451 5,319 ------- ------ ------ ------Gross profit 667 544 2,039 1,602Operating expenses (1): Fulfillment 249 208 745 601 Marketing 68 60 198 162 Technology and content 132 84 451 283 General and administrative 49 35 166 124 Other operating expense (income) 4 (5) 47 (8) ------- ------ ------ ------ Total operating expenses 502 382 1,607 1,162 ------- ------ ------ ------Income from operations 165 162 432 440Interest income 14 10 44 28Interest expense (22) (27) (92) (107)Other income (expense), net - (5) 2 (5)Remeasurements and other 4 (32) 42 (1) ------- ------ ------ ------ Total non-operating income (expense) (4) (54) (4) (85) ------- ------ ------ ------Income before income taxes 161 108 428 355Provision (benefit) for income taxes (38) (239) 95 (233) ------- ------ ------ ------Income before cumulative effect of change in accounting principle 199 347 333 588Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle - - 26 - ------- ------ ------ ------Net income $ 199 $ 347 $ 359 $ 588 ======= ====== ====== ======Basic earnings per share: Prior to cumulative effect of change in accounting principle $ 0.48 $ 0.85 $ 0.81 $ 1.45 Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle - - 0.06 - ------- ------ ------ ------ $ 0.48 $ 0.85 $ 0.87 $ 1.45 ======= ====== ====== ======Diluted earnings per share: Prior to cumulative effect of change in accounting principle $ 0.47 $ 0.82 $ 0.78 $ 1.39 Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle - - 0.06 - ------- ------ ------ ------ $ 0.47 $ 0.82 $ 0.84 $ 1.39 ======= ====== ====== ======Weighted average shares used in computation of earnings per share: Basic 415 408 412 406 ======= ====== ====== ====== Diluted 426 425 426 425 ======= ====== ====== ======(1) Includes stock-based compensation as follows: Fulfillment $ 3 $ 4 $ 16 $ 10 Marketing 1 1 6 4 Technology and content 9 11 45 32 General and administrative 3 4 20 12 ------- ------ ------ ------ $ 16 $ 20 $ 87 $ 58 ======= ====== ====== ====== AMAZON.COM, INC. Segment Information (in millions) (unaudited) Three Months Twelve Months Ended Ended December 31, December 31, --------------- --------------- 2005 2004 2005 2004 ------ ------ ------ ------North America Net sales $1,683 $1,392 $4,711 $3,847 Cost of sales 1,265 1,038 3,444 2,823 ------ ------ ------ ------ Gross profit 418 354 1,267 1,024 Direct segment operating expenses (1) 326 232 971 703 ------ ------ ------ ------ Segment operating income 92 122 296 321International Net sales 1,294 1,149 3,779 3,074 Cost of sales 1,045 959 3,007 2,496 ------ ------ ------ ------ Gross profit 249 190 772 578 Direct segment operating expenses (1) 156 135 502 409 ------ ------ ------ ------ Segment operating income 93 55 270 169Consolidated Net sales 2,977 2,541 8,490 6,921 Cost of sales 2,310 1,997 6,451 5,319 ------ ------ ------ ------ Gross profit 667 544 2,039 1,602 Direct segment operating expenses 482 367 1,473 1,112 ------ ------ ------ ------ Segment operating income 185 177 566 490 Stock-based compensation (16) (20) (87) (58) Other operating income (expense) (4) 5 (47) 8 ------ ------ ------ ------ Income from operations 165 162 432 440 Total non-operating income (expense), net (4) (54) (4) (85) Benefit (provision) for income taxes 38 239 (95) 233 Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle - - 26 - ------ ------ ------ ------ Net income $ 199 $ 347 $ 359 $ 588 ====== ====== ====== ======Segment Highlights: Y/Y net sales growth: North America 21% 22% 22% 18% International 13 43 23 53 Consolidated 17 31 23 31 Y/Y gross profit growth: North America 18% 23% 24% 18% International 31 37 33 48 Consolidated 23 28 27 27 Y/Y segment operating income growth: North America (24%) 7% (8%) 13% International 67 43 59 116 Consolidated 4 16 16 36 Net sales mix: North America 57% 55% 55% 56% International 43 45 45 44(1) A significant majority of our costs for "Technology and content" are incurred in the United States and most of these costs are allocated to our North America segment. AMAZON.COM, INC. Supplemental Net Sales Information (in millions) (unaudited) Three Months Twelve Months Ended Ended December 31, December 31, --------------- --------------- 2005 2004 2005 2004 ------- ------ ------ -------North America Media $1,030 $ 885 $3,046 $2,589 Electronics and other general merchandise 580 449 1,443 1,128 Other 73 58 222 130 ------ ------ ------ ------ 1,683 1,392 4,711 3,847International Media 968 911 2,885 2,513 Electronics and other general merchandise 321 237 886 559 Other 5 1 8 2 ------ ------ ------ ------ 1,294 1,149 3,779 3,074Consolidated Media 1,998 1,796 5,931 5,102 Electronics and other general merchandise 901 686 2,329 1,687 Other 78 59 230 132 ------ ------ ------ ------ $2,977 $2,541 $8,490 $6,921 ====== ====== ====== ======Y/Y Net Sales Growth: North America: Media 16% 18% 18% 14% Electronics and other general merchandise 29 27 28 28 Other 25 51 71 18International: Media 6% 33% 15% 41% Electronics and other general merchandise 36 96 59 149 Other 565 169 234 98Consolidated: Media 11% 25% 16% 26% Electronics and other general merchandise 31 45 38 53 Other 32 52 74 19Consolidated Net Sales Mix: Media 67% 71% 70% 74% Electronics and other general merchandise 30 27 27 24 Other 3 2 3 2 AMAZON.COM, INC. Consolidated Balance Sheets (in millions, except per share data) (unaudited) December 31, December 31, 2005 2004 ----------- -----------ASSETSCurrent assets: Cash and cash equivalents $ 1,013 $ 1,303 Marketable securities 987 476 ----------- ----------- Cash, cash equivalents, and marketable securities 2,000 1,779 Inventories 566 480 Deferred tax assets, current portion 89 81 Accounts receivable, net and other current assets 274 199 ----------- ----------- Total current assets 2,929 2,539Fixed assets, net 348 246Deferred tax assets, long-term portion 223 282Goodwill 159 139Other assets 37 42 ----------- ----------- Total assets $ 3,696 $ 3,248 =========== ===========LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY (DEFICIT)Current liabilities: Accounts payable $ 1,366 $ 1,142 Accrued expenses and other current liabilities 563 478 ----------- ----------- Total current liabilities 1,929 1,620Long-term debt and other 1,521 1,855Commitments and contingenciesStockholders' Equity (Deficit): Preferred stock, $0.01 par value: Authorized shares -- 500 Issued and outstanding shares -- none - - Common stock, $0.01 par value: Authorized shares -- 5,000 Issued and outstanding shares -- 416 and 410 shares 4 4 Additional paid-in capital 2,263 2,123 Accumulated other comprehensive income 6 32 Accumulated deficit (2,027) (2,386) ----------- ----------- Total stockholders' equity (deficit) 246 (227) ----------- ----------- Total liabilities and stockholders' equity (deficit) $ 3,696 $ 3,248 =========== =========== AMAZON.COM, INC. Supplemental Financial Information and Business Metrics (in millions, except per share data) (unaudited) Y/Y % Q4 2004 Q1 2005 Q2 2005 Q3 2005 Q4 2005 Change----------------------------------------------------------------------Cash Flows and SharesOperating cash flow -- trailing twelve months (TTM)(1) $ 566 $ 523 $ 624 $ 661 $ 733 29%Purchase of fixed assets (incl. internal-use software &amp; website development) -- TTM $ 89 $ 106 $ 138 $ 186 $ 204 129%Free cash flow (operating cash flow less purchases of fixed assets) -- TTM(1) $ 477 $ 417 $ 486 $ 475 $ 529 11%Common shares and stock-based awards outstanding 434 434 438 438 438 1%Common shares outstanding 410 411 412 414 416 2%Stock-based awards outstanding 25 24 26 24 22 (12%)Stock-based awards outstanding -- % of common shares outstanding 6.0% 5.7% 6.3% 5.8% 5.2% N/AResults of OperationsWorldwide (WW) net sales $2,541 $1,902 $1,753 $1,858 $2,977 17%WW net sales -- Y/Y growth, excluding the effect of foreign exchange rates 26.2% 22.3% 24.6% 27.6% 21.9% N/AWW net sales -- TTM $6,921 $7,292 $7,658 $8,054 $8,490 23%WW net sales -- TTM Y/Y growth, excluding the effect of foreign exchange rates 26.3% 23.9% 24.4% 25.2% 23.7% N/AGross profit $ 544 $ 458 $ 450 $ 463 $ 667 23%Gross margin -- % of WW net sales 21.4% 24.1% 25.7% 24.9% 22.4% N/AGross profit -- TTM $1,602 $1,700 $1,809 $1,917 $2,039 27%Gross margin -- TTM % of WW net sales 23.1% 23.3% 23.6% 23.8% 24.0% N/AOperating income(1) $ 162 $ 108 $ 104 $ 55 $ 165 1%Operating margin -- % of WW net sales(1) 6.4% 5.7% 6.0% 3.0% 5.5% N/AOperating income -- TTM(1) $ 440 $ 438 $ 456 $ 430 $ 432 (2%)Operating margin -- TTM % of WW net sales(1) 6.4% 6.0% 6.0% 5.3% 5.1% N/ANet income(1)(2) $ 347 $ 78 $ 52 $ 30 $ 199 (43%)Net income per diluted share(1)(2) $ 0.82 $ 0.18 $ 0.12 $ 0.07 $ 0.47 (43%)Net income -- TTM (1)(2) $ 588 $ 555 $ 531 $ 507 $ 359 (39%)Net income per diluted share -- TTM(1)(2) $ 1.39 $ 1.31 $ 1.25 $ 1.19 $ 0.84 (39%)SegmentsNorth America Segment: Net sales $1,392 $1,027 $ 960 $1,041 $1,683 21% Net sales -- Y/Y growth, excluding the effect of foreign exchange rates 21.8% 21.1% 21.0% 27.4% 20.8% N/A Net sales -- TTM $3,847 $4,027 $4,195 $4,420 $4,711 22% Gross profit $ 354 $ 279 $ 278 $ 292 $ 418 18% Gross margin -- % of North America net sales 25.5% 27.2% 29.0% 28.1% 24.8% N/A Gross profit -- TTM $1,024 $1,077 $1,135 $1,204 $1,267 24% Gross margin -- TTM % of North America net sales 26.6% 26.7% 27.1% 27.2% 26.9% N/A Operating income $ 122 $ 66 $ 72 $ 66 $ 92 (24%) Operating margin -- % of North America net sales 8.8% 6.4% 7.5% 6.4% 5.5% N/A Operating income -- TTM $ 321 $ 311 $ 317 $ 326 $ 296 (8%) Operating margin -- TTM % of North America net sales 8.3% 7.7% 7.6% 7.4% 6.3% N/AInternational Segment: Net sales $1,149 $ 875 $ 793 $ 817 $1,294 13% Net sales -- Y/Y growth, excluding the effect of foreign exchange rates 32.5% 23.8% 29.3% 27.8% 23.2% N/A Net sales -- TTM $3,074 $3,265 $3,463 $3,634 $3,779 23% Net sales -- TTM % of WW net sales 44.4% 44.8% 45.2% 45.1% 44.5% N/A Gross profit $ 190 $ 179 $ 172 $ 171 $ 249 31% Gross margin -- % of International net sales 16.5% 20.5% 21.7% 20.9% 19.3% N/A Gross profit -- TTM $ 578 $ 623 $ 674 $ 713 $ 772 33% Gross margin -- TTM % of International net sales 18.8% 19.1% 19.5% 19.6% 20.4% N/A Operating income $ 55 $ 62 $ 60 $ 55 $ 93 67% Operating margin -- % of International net sales 4.8% 7.2% 7.6% 6.7% 7.1% N/A Operating income -- TTM $ 169 $ 190 $ 216 $ 233 $ 270 59% Operating margin -- TTM % of International net sales 5.5% 5.8% 6.2% 6.4% 7.1% N/A---------------------------------------------------------------------- AMAZON.COM, INC. Supplemental Financial Information and Business Metrics (in millions, except inventory turnover, accounts payable days, and employee data) (unaudited) Y/Y % Q4 2004 Q1 2005 Q2 2005 Q3 2005 Q4 2005 Change -------------------------------------------------Segments (continued)Consolidated Segments: Operating expenses $ 367 $ 330 $ 318 $ 342 $ 482 31% Operating expenses -- TTM $1,112 $1,198 $ 1,276 $ 1,358 $ 1,473 32% Operating income $ 177 $ 128 $ 132 $ 121 $ 185 4% Operating margin -- % of consolidated sales 7.0% 6.8% 7.5% 6.5% 6.2% N/A Operating income -- TTM $ 490 $ 502 $ 533 $ 559 $ 566 16% Operating margin -- TTM % of consolidated net sales 7.1% 6.9% 7.0% 6.9% 6.7% N/ASupplemental North America Segment Net Sales: Media $ 885 $ 699 $ 632 $ 684 $ 1,030 16% Media -- TTM $2,589 $2,690 $ 2,780 $ 2,901 $ 3,046 18% Electronics and other general merchandise $ 449 $ 282 $ 278 $ 304 $ 580 29% Electronics and other general merchandise -- TTM $1,128 $1,185 $ 1,236 $ 1,311 $ 1,443 28% Electronics and other general merchandise -- TTM % of North America net sales 29% 29% 29% 30% 31% N/A Other $ 58 $ 46 $ 50 $ 53 $ 73 25% Other -- TTM $ 130 $ 153 $ 178 $ 208 $ 222 71%Supplemental International Segment Net Sales: Media $ 911 $ 675 $ 614 $ 629 $ 968 6% Media -- TTM $2,513 $2,612 $ 2,730 $ 2,828 $ 2,885 15% Electronics and other general merchandise $ 237 $ 199 $ 178 $ 187 $ 321 36% Electronics and other general merchandise -- TTM $ 559 $ 651 $ 730 $ 801 $ 886 59% Electronics and other general merchandise -- TTM % of International net sales 18% 20% 21% 22% 23% N/A Other $ 1 $ 1 $ 1 $ 1 $ 5 565% Other -- TTM $ 2 $ 3 $ 3 $ 4 $ 8 234%Supplemental Worldwide Net Sales: Media $1,796 $1,374 $ 1,246 $ 1,313 $ 1,998 11% Media -- TTM $5,102 $5,302 $ 5,510 $ 5,730 $ 5,931 16% Electronics and other general merchandise $ 686 $ 481 $ 456 $ 491 $ 901 31% Electronics and other general merchandise -- TTM $1,687 $1,835 $ 1,966 $ 2,113 $ 2,329 38% Electronics and other general merchandise -- TTM % of WW net sales 24% 25% 26% 26% 27% N/A Other $ 59 $ 47 $ 51 $ 54 $ 78 32% Other -- TTM $ 132 $ 156 $ 181 $ 211 $ 230 74%Balance SheetCash and marketable securities $1,779 $1,151 $ 1,325 $ 1,419 $ 2,000 12%Inventory, net -- ending $ 480 $ 403 $ 383 $ 456 $ 566 18%Inventory -- average inventory % of TTM net sales 4.9% 5.0% 5.0% 5.2% 5.4% N/AInventory turnover, average -- TTM 15.7 15.5 15.3 14.8 14.1 (10%)Fixed assets, net $ 246 $ 245 $ 267 $ 322 $ 348 41%Accounts payable days -- ending 53 44 51 58 54 3%OtherEmployees (full-time and part-time; excludes contractors &amp; temporary personnel) 9,000 9,400 10,200 11,100 12,000 33%----------------------------------------------------------------------Note: The attached "Financial and Operational Summary" is anintegral part of this Supplemental Financial Information and BusinessMetrics.(1) In Q3 2005, the Company settled a patent lawsuit on terms including a one-time payment of $40 million in Q3 2005. This negatively impacted Q3 and Q4 2005 TTM operating cash flow and free cash flow by $40 million, Q3 2005 operating income by $40 million, and Q3 2005 net income by $20 million after tax.(2) Q4 2005 and Q4 2004 net income includes tax benefits of $90 million and $244 million, both related to determinations that certain of our deferred tax assets are realizable; Net income includes a $56 million tax expense for Q1 2005, a $56 million tax expense for Q2 2005, and a $21 million tax expense for Q3 2005, primarily due to taxable income resulting from the transfer of certain operating assets from U.S. to international locations.</pre><p>Amazon.com, Inc. Financial and Operational Summary (unaudited)</p><p>Quarterly Results of Operations (comparisons are with the equivalent period of the prior year, unless otherwise stated)</p><p>Net Sales</p><ul><ul><li>Shipping revenue was $188 million, up 21% from $156 million.</li><li>Amounts paid in advance for subscription services, including amounts received from online DVD rentals, Amazon Prime and other membership programs, are deferred and recognized as revenue over the subscription term.</li></ul></ul><ul><ul><li>Net sales includes fixed fees, commissions and per-unit fees earned from third-party sellers and similar amounts earned through Amazon Enterprise Solutions.</li></ul></ul><p>Cost of Sales</p><ul><ul><li>Cost of sales consists of the purchase price of products sold by us, inbound and outbound shipping charges, packaging supplies, amortization of our DVD rental library and service costs such as those incurred in operating and staffing our fulfillment and customer service centers on behalf of third-party sellers.</li></ul></ul><ul><ul><li>Inbound shipping charges to receive products from our suppliers are included in our inventory and recognized as "Cost of sales" upon sale to our customers.</li></ul></ul><ul><ul><li>Outbound shipping-related costs totaled $280 million, up 20% from $234 million. Net shipping loss was $91 million, up 17% from a net shipping loss of $78 million, resulting primarily from our free shipping offers and Amazon Prime.</li></ul></ul><ul><ul><li>While costs associated with free shipping, including Amazon Prime, are not included in marketing expense, we view our free shipping offers as an effective worldwide marketing tool and intend to continue offering them indefinitely. In Q4 2005 we offered free membership trials for Amazon Prime and expect to continue to offer these trials in the future.</li></ul></ul><p>Operating Expenses</p><ul><ul><li>Depreciation expense for fixed assets, including amortization of internal-use software and website development, was $35 million, up from $21 million. Depreciation is recorded on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives of the assets--generally two years or less for assets such as internal-use software and our DVD rental library, three years for our technology infrastructure, five years for furniture and fixtures, and ten years for heavy equipment. Depreciation expense is generally classified within the corresponding operating expense categories on the consolidated statements of operations, and certain assets, such as our DVD rental library, are amortized to "Cost of sales."</li></ul></ul><ul><ul><li>Stock-based compensation decreased $3 million to $16 million. We chose to early-adopt SFAS 123(R), the new accounting rules on stock-based compensation, effective January 1, 2005. Stock-based compensation would have been $32 million under our prior accounting method, up $12 million from Q4 2004. In Q4 2005 we recorded a $10 million benefit representing the cumulative effect of slightly increasing the rate of forfeitures expected over the life of issued stock awards based on our historical experience. In accordance with SAB 107, issued March 2005, we present stock-based compensation within the same operating expense line items as cash compensation. Operating expenses with and without stock-based compensation are as follows:</li></ul></ul><pre>Q4 2005 Q4 2004 --------------------------- --------------------------- As Stock-Based As Stock-Based Reported Compensation Net Reported Compensation Net -------- ------------------ -------- ------------------ (in millions)Operating Expenses: Fulfillment $ 249 $ (3) $ 246 $ 208 $ (4) $ 204 Marketing 68 (1) 67 60 (1) 59 Technology and content 132 (9) 123 84 (11) 73 General and administrative 49 (3) 46 35 (4) 31 Other operating expense (income) 4 - 4 (5) - (5) ----- ---------- ----- ----- ---------- ----- Total operating expenses $ 502 $ (16) $ 486 $ 382 $ (20) $ 362 ===== ========== ===== ===== ========== =====Year-over-year Percentage Growth: Fulfillment 20% 21% 29% 29% Marketing 13 15 45 44 Technology and content 58 69 37 41 General and administrative 37 42 38 38Percent of Net Sales: Fulfillment 8.4% 8.3% 8.2% 8.0% Marketing 2.3 2.2 2.3 2.3 Technology and content 4.5 4.1 3.3 2.9 General and administrative 1.6 1.5 1.4 1.2</pre><p>Fulfillment</p><p>Marketing</p><p>Technology and Content</p><ul><ul><li>Fulfillment costs include those costs incurred in operating and staffing our fulfillment and customer service centers, including costs attributable to buying, receiving, inspecting and warehousing inventories; picking, packaging and preparing customer orders for shipment; and payment processing fees and transaction costs, including costs associated with our guarantee of certain third-party seller transactions. Fulfillment costs also include amounts paid to third parties who assist us in fulfillment and customer service operations.</li></ul></ul><ul><ul><li>Payment processing fees associated with third-party seller sales are based on the gross purchase price of underlying transactions, and transaction costs, such as our A to Z Guarantee, are higher as a percentage of revenue versus our retail sales. Accordingly third-party sales have higher fulfillment costs as a percentage of net sales.</li></ul></ul><ul><li>Fulfillment costs increased in absolute dollars from the prior year due to variable costs corresponding with sales and inventory volumes, our mix of product sales, payment processing and transaction costs, including costs of our guarantee of certain third-party seller transactions. Additionally, we expanded our fulfillment capacity in 2005 through gains in efficiencies as well as increases in leased warehouse space. We plan to continue expanding our worldwide fulfillment capacity in 2006 -- although to add less space than in 2005 -- in order to accommodate greater selection and to meet anticipated shipment volumes from sales of our own products as well as sales by third parties for whom we provide the fulfillment. We expect absolute amounts spent in fulfillment and fulfillment-related cost of sales to increase over time.<ul><li>Marketing efforts include targeted online marketing channels, such as our Associates and Syndicated Stores programs, sponsored search, portal advertising, e-mail campaigns and other initiatives.</li></ul></li><li>Technology and content expenses consist principally of payroll and related expenses for employees involved in the research and development of our websites, including application development, editorial content, merchandising selection, and systems and telecommunications support and infrastructure.</li><li>Our spending in technology and content has significantly increased, corresponding with our focus on several initiatives. We have added a significant number of computer scientists and software engineers to our staff so that we can continue to enhance the customer experience on our websites and those websites powered by us, improve our process efficiency and continue to invest in several areas of technology, including seller platforms, search, web services and digital initiatives. We intend to continue investing in areas of technology and content, and we expect absolute dollars spent in technology and content to increase over time as we continue to add computer scientists and software engineers to our staff.</li><li>A significant majority of our technology costs are incurred in the U.S. and most of them are allocated to our North America segment.</li><li>Certain costs relating to the development of internal-use software and website development, including software to upgrade and enhance our websites and processes supporting our business, are capitalized and depreciated over two years. We capitalized $25 million of internal-use software and website development costs, including $2 million associated with stock-based compensation, which is excluded from purchases of fixed assets on our consolidated statements of cash flows since it is stock based rather than cash -- compared with $16 million a year ago. These amounts were partially offset by amortization of previously capitalized amounts of $15 million and $8 million. Fixed assets associated with capitalized internal-use software and website development and content, net of accumulated depreciation, were $87 million and $47 million at December 31, 2005 and 2004, respectively.</li></ul><p>General and Administrative</p><ul><li>General and administrative costs increased primarily due to payroll and related expenses, professional fees and legal costs. We expect absolute dollars spent in general and administrative to increase over time.</li></ul><p>Stock-Based Compensation</p><ul><li>Prior to January 1, 2005, we accounted for stock-based awards under the intrinsic value method, which resulted in compensation expense for restricted stock and restricted stock units at grant date fair value based on the number of shares granted and the quoted price of our common stock, and for stock options to the extent option exercise prices were set below market prices on the date of grant. Also, stock-based awards subject to an exchange offer, other modifications, or performance criteria were subject to variable accounting treatment.</li><li>As of January 1, 2005, we adopted SFAS 123(R), which requires measurement of compensation cost for stock-based awards at grant date fair value. The fair value of restricted stock and restricted stock units is determined based on the number of shares granted and the quoted price of our common stock, while the fair value of stock options is determined using a Black-Scholes valuation model. The fair value is recognized as an expense over the service period, net of estimated forfeitures, using the accelerated method under SFAS 123(R). Because we implemented SFAS 123(R), we no longer have stock awards subject to variable accounting treatment.</li><li>Stock-based awards generally vest over service periods of between two and five years.</li><li>Payroll tax expense resulting from exercises of stock-based awards is a cash expense and is not categorized as stock-based compensation.</li><li>We granted stock awards, substantially all of which have been restricted stock units since October 2002, of 1 million shares in the quarter. Our annual stock awards are granted in the second quarter.</li><li>At December 31, 2005, there were 22 million stock awards outstanding, consisting of 12 million stock options with a $14 weighted-average exercise price and 10 million restricted stock units. At December 31, 2004 there were 25 million stock awards outstanding.</li><li>At December 31, 2005, there were 438 million common shares and stock-based awards outstanding, up 1% from 434 million at December 31, 2004. This total includes all stock-based awards outstanding, without regard for estimated forfeitures, consisting of vested and unvested awards and in-the-money and out-of-the-money stock options.</li></ul><p>Other Operating Expense (Income)</p><ul><li>Other operating expense (income) includes costs related to a lawsuit settlement and amortization of intangibles of $2 million.</li><li>We acquired certain companies during 2005 for an aggregate cash purchase price of $29 million. The excess of purchase price over the fair value of the net assets acquired was $19 million and is classified as "Goodwill" on our consolidated balance sheets. Acquired other intangibles totaled $10 million and have estimated useful lives of between one and three years. The results of operations of each of the acquired businesses have been included in our consolidated results as of the closing date of acquisition. The effect of these acquisitions on consolidated net sales and operating income was not significant for Q4 2005.</li><li>Remeasurements and Other</li><li>The remeasurement of our 6.875% PEACS and intercompany balances can result in significant gains and charges associated with the effect of movements in currency exchange rates.</li><li>Remeasurement of the principal amount of our 6.875% PEACS from euros to U.S. dollars resulted in a foreign-currency gain of $9 million, compared with a loss of $77 million.</li><li>Remeasurement of foreign-currency intercompany balances that are to be repaid among subsidiaries represented a $7 million loss, compared with a gain of $44 million.</li><li>We realized a $2 million gain primarily associated with the sale of an equity investment.</li></ul><p>Income Taxes and Deferred Tax Assets</p><ul><li>The Q4 2005 tax provision includes a tax benefit of $90 million, representing $0.21 of diluted earnings per share, resulting from a determination that certain of our deferred tax assets are realizable. Without this benefit our effective tax rate for financial reporting purposes would have been 43% in 2005, higher than the 35% statutory rate, associated with taxable income resulting from the Q1 2005 transfer of certain operating assets from the U.S. to international locations in connection with the establishment of our European headquarters in Luxembourg.</li><li>We intend to perform similar asset transfers in 2006 to finalize our European headquarters transition, which we expect to result in an effective tax rate for financial reporting purposes significantly higher than the 35% statutory rate in 2006 and to beneficially impact our effective tax rate over time. Our 2006 effective tax rate is subject to significant potential volatility due to several factors, including the accurate prediction of our taxable income and the taxable jurisdictions to which it relates.</li><li>Since we have deferred tax assets related to our Net Operating Losses ("NOLs"), these asset transfers will not have a significant effect on cash taxes paid in 2006, which we expect to be approximately $25 million compared with $12 million in 2005. We are not endeavoring to optimize our global taxes on a financial reporting basis; instead we endeavor to optimize our global taxes on a cash basis.</li><li>At December 31, 2005, our net deferred tax assets, net of deferred tax liabilities, are $291 million, which includes $123 million relating to NOLs that are primarily attributed to stock-based compensation, the majority of which begin to expire in 2016, with the remaining portion relating to temporary differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities and their tax bases.</li><li>We allocate our valuation allowance to current and long-term deferred tax assets on a pro-rata basis.</li></ul><p>Foreign Exchange</p><ul><li>Our financial reporting currency is the U.S. dollar, and changes in exchange rates significantly affect our reported results and consolidated trends. For example, during Q4 2005 our consolidated revenue and operating income were negatively affected by the strengthening of the U.S. dollar in comparison to the currencies of internationally focused websites, but our consolidated revenue and operating income from Q2 2002 through Q2 2005 have benefited from weakness in the U.S. dollar in comparison to the same currencies.</li><li>The effect on our consolidated statements of operations from year-over-year changes in exchange rates versus the U.S. dollar throughout the period is as follows:</li></ul><pre>Q4 2005 Q4 2004 ---------------------------- --------------------------- Exchange At Prior Exchange At Prior As Rate Year As Rate Year Reported Effect(2) Rates(1) Reported Effect(2) Rates(1) -------- --------- --------- -------- --------- --------Net sales $ 2,977 $ (121) $ 3,098 $ 2,541 $ 85 $ 2,456Gross profit 667 (23) 690 544 14 530Operating expenses 502 (12) 514 382 9 373Income from operations 165 (12) 177 162 5 157Net interest expense and other (8) 3 (11) (22) (5) (17)Remeasurements and other(3) 4 3 1 (32) (33) 1Net income 199 (8) 207 347 (32) 379Diluted earnings per share $ 0.47 $ (0.02) $ 0.49 $ 0.82 $ (0.08) $ 0.90</pre><p>(1) Represents the outcome that would have resulted had currency exchange rates in the current period been the same as those in effect in the comparable prior year period for operating results, and if we did not incur the variability associated with remeasurements for our 6.875% PEACS and intercompany balances.(2) Represents the increase (decrease) in reported amounts resulting from changes in exchange rates from those in effect in the comparable prior year period for operating results, and if we did not incur the variability associated with remeasurements for our 6.875% PEACS and intercompany balances.(3) Includes foreign-currency gains (losses) on remeasurement of 6.875% PEACS and intercompany balances compared to prior quarter, and realized currency-related gains associated with sales of euro-denominated investments held by a U.S. subsidiary.</p><p>Cash Flows and Balance Sheet</p><ul><ul><li>Operating cash flows and free cash flows can be volatile and are sensitive to many factors, including changes in working capital and timing of capital expenditures. Working capital at any specific point in time is subject to many variables, including seasonality, the timing of expense payments, discounts offered by vendors, vendor payment terms, and fluctuations in foreign exchange rates. Additionally, prior to our adoption of SFAS 123(R), cash retained as a result of excess tax deductions relating to stock-based compensation was presented in operating cash flows, along with other tax cash flows. SFAS 123(R) requires benefits relating to excess stock-based compensation deductions to be presented as financing cash inflows -- effectively a reclassification between operating cash flows and financing cash flows. Tax benefits resulting from stock-based compensation deductions in excess of amounts reported for financial reporting purposes -- which negatively impacted operating cash flow -- were $3 million in Q4 2005 and are expected to increase substantially and may be up to $100 million in 2006, subject to considerable variability. Accordingly, amounts presented for operating cash flows and free cash flows for 2006 will be negatively effected in comparison to prior results; however, there is no change in economic substance resulting from this change in reporting classification.</li></ul></ul><ul><ul><li>Our cash, cash equivalents and marketable securities of $2 billion, at fair value, primarily consist of cash, investment grade securities and AAA-rated money market mutual funds. Included are amounts held in foreign currencies of $905 million, primarily in euros, British pounds and yen.</li></ul></ul><ul><ul><li>"Accounts receivable, net and other current assets" includes accounts receivable from merchant partners, vendors and credit card companies, interest receivables and $15 million of prepaid expenses.</li></ul></ul><ul><ul><li>"Fixed assets" include assets such as furniture and fixtures, heavy equipment, technology infrastructure, internal-use software and website development and our DVD rental library.</li></ul></ul><ul><ul><li>"Other assets" includes, among other things, $13 million of deferred issuance costs on long-term debt, $8 million of certain equity investments, and $11 million of other intangibles, net.</li></ul></ul><ul><ul><li>"Accrued expenses and other current liabilities" includes, among other things, liabilities for gift certificates, professional fees, marketing activities, workforce costs -- including accrued payroll, vacation and other benefits -- and unearned revenue of $48 million which is recorded when payments are received in advance of performing our service obligations and is amortized over the service period.</li></ul></ul><ul><li>"Long-term debt and other" primarily includes the following (in millions):</li></ul><pre>Principal Interest Principal at Maturity Rate Due Date ----------- --------- -----------Convertible Subordinated Notes February $ 900 (1) 4.750% 2009Premium Adjustable Convertible February Securities ("PEACS") 580 (2)(4) 6.875% 2010 ----------- $ 1,480 (3) ===========</pre><p>(1) Convertible at the holders' option into our common stock at $78.0275 per share. We have the right to redeem the Convertible Subordinated Notes, in whole or in part, at a redemption price of 101.425% of the principal, which decreases every February 1 by 47.5 basis points until maturity, plus any accrued and unpaid interest.(2) EUR 490 million principal amount, convertible at the holders' option into our common stock at EUR 84.883 per share ($101 per share based on the euro/U.S. dollar exchange rate as of December 31, 2005). We have the right to redeem the PEACS, in whole or in part, by paying the principal amount, plus any accrued and unpaid interest. We do not hedge any portion of the PEACS. The U.S. dollar equivalent principal, interest, and conversion price fluctuates based on the euro/U.S. dollar exchange ratio. Due to fluctuations in this exchange ratio, our principal debt obligation since issuance in February 2000 has increased by $97 million as of December 31, 2005.(3) The "if converted" number of shares associated with our convertible debt instruments (approximately 17 million total shares) is excluded from diluted shares as their effect is antidilutive.(4) Under our previously announced $500 million debt repurchase authorization, on March 7, 2006 we will be redeeming EUR 250 million -- or $304 million at the Euro to U.S. dollar exchange rate on January 31, 2006 -- in principal amount of our PEACS at par, plus accrued and unpaid interest from and including February 16, 2006 to March 6, 2006. We expect to record a charge of approximately $6 million related to the redemption, including $2 million in unamortized deferred debt issuance costs, which will be classified in "Remeasurements and other" in Q1 2006.</p><p>Certain Definitions and Other</p><ul><ul><li>We present segment information along two lines: North America and International. We measure operating results of our segments using an internal performance measure of direct segment operating expenses that excludes stock-based compensation and other operating expenses (income), each of which is not allocated to segment results. Other centrally incurred operating costs are fully allocated to segment results. Our operating results, particularly for the International segment, are affected by movements in foreign exchange rates.</li></ul></ul><ul><ul><li>The North America segment consists of amounts earned from retail sales of consumer products (including from third-party sellers) and subscriptions through North America-focused websites such as www.amazon.com and www.amazon.ca; from North America-focused Syndicated Stores, such as www.cdnow.com; from our mail-order tool catalog phone orders; from our Amazon Prime membership program; and from non-retail activities such as North America-focused Amazon Enterprise Solutions program, marketing, and promotional agreements. This segment includes export sales from www.amazon.com and www.amazon.ca.</li></ul></ul><ul><ul><li>The International segment consists of amounts earned from retail sales of consumer products (including from third-party sellers) and subscriptions through internationally focused websites such as www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, and, since September 2004, www.joyo.com; from internationally focused Syndicated Stores; from our DVD rental service; and from non-retail activities such as internationally focused marketing and promotional agreements. This segment includes export sales from these internationally based sites (including export sales from these sites to customers in the U.S. and Canada) but excludes export sales from www.amazon.com and www.amazon.ca.</li></ul></ul><ul><ul><li>We provide supplemental sales information within each segment for three categories: "Media," "Electronics and Other General Merchandise," and "Other." Media consists of amounts earned from DVD rentals and retail sales from all sellers of books, music, DVD/video, magazine subscriptions, software, video games and video-game consoles. Electronics and Other General Merchandise consists of amounts earned from retail sales from all sellers of items not included in Media, such as electronics and office, camera and photo, toys and baby, tools, home and garden, apparel, sports and outdoors, kitchen and housewares, gourmet food, jewelry, health and personal care, beauty, and musical instruments. The Other category consists of non-retail activities, such as the Amazon Enterprise Solutions program and miscellaneous marketing and promotional activities, such as our co-branded credit card programs.</li></ul></ul><ul><ul><li>Operating cash flow is net cash provided by (used in) operating activities, including cash outflows for interest and excluding proceeds from the exercise of stock-based employee awards. Free cash flow is operating cash flow less cash outflows for purchases of fixed assets, including internal-use software and website development.</li></ul></ul><ul><ul><li>Operating cycle is number of days of sales in inventory plus number of days of sales in accounts receivable minus accounts payable days. Accounts payable days are calculated as the quotient of accounts payable to cost of sales, multiplied by the number of days in the period. Inventory turns are calculated as the quotient of cost of sales to average inventory over five quarter ends.</li></ul></ul><ul><ul><li>Return on invested capital is free cash flow divided by average total assets less current liabilities over five quarter ends.</li></ul></ul><ul><ul><li>References to customers mean customer accounts, which are unique e-mail addresses, established either when a customer's initial order is shipped or when a customer orders from certain third-party sellers on our websites. Customer accounts include customers of Amazon Marketplace, Auctions and zShops, and our Merchants@ and Syndicated Stores programs, but exclude certain customers, including DVD rental customers, customers associated with certain of our acquisitions (including Joyo.com customers), Amazon Enterprise Solutions program customers, Amazon.com Payments customers, our catalog customers, and the customers of select companies with whom we have a technology alliance or marketing and promotional relationship. A customer is considered active when they have placed an order during the preceding twelve-month period.</li><li>References to sellers or merchants mean active seller</li></ul></ul><ul><ul><li>accounts, which are established when a seller receives an order from a customer account. Seller accounts include sellers in Amazon Marketplace, Auctions, zShops, and Merchants@ platforms, but exclude Amazon Enterprise Solutions sellers. A seller is considered active when they have received an order during the preceding twelve-month period.</li></ul></ul><ul><li>References to units mean units sold (net of returns and cancellations) by us and third-party sellers at Amazon.com domains worldwide -- such as www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr and www.amazon.ca -- and at Syndicated Stores domains, as well as Amazon.com-owned items sold through catalogs and at non-Amazon.com domains, such as books, music and DVD/video items ordered from Amazon.com's store at www.target.com. Units sold do not include units associated with certain of our acquisitions (including Joyo.com units), Amazon.com gift certificates or DVD rentals.</li></ul><p>SOURCE:Amazon.comAmazon.comTim Stone, 206-266-2171 (Investor Relations)ir@amazon.comwww.amazon.com/irPatty Smith, 206-266-7180 (Public Relations)</p>

Amazon.com Launches ''Amazon Connect'' Enabling Customers to Receive Messages Directly from Authors

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Amazon.com-Launches-Amazon-Connect-Enabling-Customers-to-Receive-Messages-Directly-from-Authors

02/01/2006 09:02:00

Amazon.com Launches ''Amazon Connect'' Enabling Customers to Receive Messages Directly from Authors

02/01/2006

2006

SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Feb. 1, 2006--Amazon.com, Inc. (Nasdaq: AMZN) today announced the launch of its latest innovation for customers, Amazon Connect, a new program in which authors can post messages directly to their readers via the Amazon.com home page. Authors interested in joining the Amazon Connect program can visit www.amazon.com/connect. Many authors operate their own Web sites, but their readers may not frequently visit those sites. With Amazon Connect, a customer is automatically presented with author posts directly on that customer's Amazon.com home page. To ensure that author posts are relevant, the posts are shown only to customers who have purchased that author's work in the past, or to those who explicitly sign up to receive that author's posts. The posts are prominently displayed in standard blog format (reverse chronological order). "We invite authors to communicate with their readers in a way that hasn't before been possible," said Jeff Bezos, Amazon.com's founder and CEO. "Amazon Connect brings the author's message to the reader instead of waiting for the reader to find the message." "Amazon Connect creates a relationship with my readers that didn't exist before," said author James Patterson. "Communicating directly with my readers about anything I want, whenever I want, is extremely powerful." More than 1,000 authors are enrolled in the program to date, including Marcus Buckingham, Michael Covel, Robert Crais, Nelson DeMille, Anita Diamant, Frank Gallinelli, Caroline Myss, Karen Katz, Elizabeth Kostova, John Lithgow, Elizabeth Pantley, James Patterson, Jodi Picoult, Ann Rule, Karma Wilson and Meg Wolitzer. Authors can post as often as they like, and their posts will appear to Amazon.com customers immediately. Author posts can be anything from current musings or information about upcoming projects to reading recommendations. Promotional posts are not allowed. Recent posts include insights into the frustrations and joys of the writing process, tips for aspiring writers, opinions on popular culture, and even favorite travel destinations and recipes. In addition to the Amazon.com home page, posts will appear on book detail pages, a blog page and on a special author profile page that features the author's three most recent posts and entire bibliography. In addition, customers can sign up to receive posts from authors whose books they have not previously purchased on Amazon. A few recent posts: From: Brad Thor (Author of popular thrillers including "Blowback" and "State of the Union") The New Scot Harvath Thriller 3:00:49 PM PST, January 12, 2006 My family knows me as the king of mixed metaphors and in that context I wanted to report that I have been busier than a one legged man in a paper hanging contest. In addition to collecting military t-shirts banned on bases for being inappropriate, i.e. Guns don't kill people. I kill people... The Road to Paradise begins with me... and my current favorite - It's God's job to forgive Bin Laden, we're just here to arrange the meeting... I have been hard at work finishing my latest Scot Harvath adventure, Takedown. This novel has been a lot of fun to write and part of that fun has come from the many generous people I have been able to work with. The partial list includes members of the NYPD's Emergency Service Unit, several United States Marines, a couple of particularly talented Army Special Forces pals, some new friends at the U.S. Secret Service, and quite a few folks in the intelligence community who have loved the premise of this new book since day one. Writing Takedown has not only been a lot of fun, it has also been very challenging. I wanted to do a thriller set primarily in the United States, but as an "international" thriller writer a few exotic foreign locations still managed to find their way into the plot. I also am a big fan of the film, The Dirty Dozen, and wanted to create a novel with an ensemble cast of characters. With that cast, I wanted to explore what it means to be a patriot and how people with completely differing opinions can still be considered as such. Examining the idea of loyalty and how people view their country and the war on terror has provided a lot of grist for the mill. So, that's a quick update from my desk here as I roll toward the editing process. I should have more for you soon. In the meantime, I hope you are finding lots of good books to keep you company until Takedown arrives. If you are looking for suggestions, please visit my Amazon author page for a list of several of my favorites reads. Best regards, Brad Thor From: Caroline Myss (Author of more than 50 books on health, healing and spirituality, including "The Creation of Health" and "Advanced Energy Anatomy: The Science of Co-Creation and Your Power of Choice") OPENING NIGHT 4:24 PM PST, January 16, 2006 Hello Everyone - I am just delighted to be able to have a direct line of communication with all of you. It's my pleasure to respond to your letters and your questions and to open lines of discussion on matters appropriate to my work. I also want to thank Amazon.com for this opportunity. As I sit here in my office at home, I am reminded at how extraordinary technology has become. I admit to a personal agenda, which is to be a source of encouragement and support to any and all of my readers in this world that grows ever more intense. If I could place one jewel of inspiration in your soul this evening as I write this to you from my office, it is to tell you that every thing you do, say, think, feel, and all of your actions - are channels for grace in this world. You are a channel for and of grace. I wish people could experience the truth of that statement for just one second. Treasure your life and the gift of life on this planet. We are all we have... I look forward to hearing from you and it is my absolutely pleasure to be in touch with you via Amazon.com. Blessings - Caroline Myss From: Robert Crais (Author of action, adventure and suspense novels including "The Two Minute Rule" and "The Forgotten Man") Hello! 1:41:33 PM PST, January 26, 2006 This is seriously cool, gang -- a place on Amazon where you and I can get to know each other. I have a new book coming soon, and a website, and all manner of neat stuff to share, so let's get this dance started. .. Most of you probably know me from the Elvis Cole novels. My new book, THE TWO MINUTE RULE, is not part of the series, but it began as an Elvis Cole novel. I was thinking about the nature of Elvis's clients -- the people who come to him for help. When you are the victim of a crime, you go to the police, right? But what if you couldn't go to the police? I realized only one type of person could be so totally alienated from society; completely outside the system and friendless -- a criminal. That's when I met Max Holman, the main character in my new book, and realized this wasn't an Elvis Cole novel. The real power of the story is Holman's isolation. He's a criminal, he's broke, and he is the ultimate outsider. So how does a man like Holman catch his son's killer when he believes the killer is a cop? You can find out more about THE TWO MINUTE RULE here on Amazon, and you can also visit my website, www.robertcrais.com, where you'll find my tour schedule. Maybe I'll be coming to a city near you. By the way, are there any other VERONICA MARS fans in the house? I LOVE that show. RC From: Michael Bar-Zohar (Author of historical, non-fiction works including "Massacre in Munich: The Manhunt for the Killers Behind the 1972 Olympics Massacre" and "Lionhearts: Heroes of Israel") The tragedy of Ariel Sharon 10:58:47 AM PST, January 16, 2006 Israel's Prime Minister, Ariel Sharon, is lying unconscious in his hospital room, immersed in a deep coma. I know Sharon well for many years, since he was introduced to me by David Ben-Gurion, the founding father of Israel. I spent about fifteen years of my life working with Ben-Gurion and writing his biography. In 1973 Ben-Gurion suffered a massive stroke. I hurried to the hospital where he was lying and was let into a quiet, white room. Ben-Gurion was lying quietly in his bed. He couldn't speak, he just looked at me with his deep, wise eyes. He communicated with me by tightening his grip on my hand. I was looking at the quiet, calm face of the father of my nation, the man who made me and so many homeless Jews a people again; and I thought of his moral testament to all of us. "The existence of Israel," he told me over and over again," depends on her force - and on her righteousness. We must be a light into the nations." I had never met another statesman or political leader for whom moral values were so important, who believed that his nation will have the right to exist only if it sticks to those moral percepts, given to us all, Jews and Christians and Muslims, in the Bible. I don't know if we have succeeded to accomplish this moral commandment of Israel's Old Man. But I see it as a call to my generation and those who will come after me - to try to build a country worthy of the teachings of Israel's ancient prophets. Amazon Connect posts will appear in Amazon customers' personal log or "Plog" in the center column of the Amazon.com home page. Each customer's Plog is different (hence the name), and just like a blog, Plog posts are sorted in reverse chronological order. Each post also gives customers the opportunity to provide feedback to the sender or to respond with their own comments. This feedback loop means that each customer's Plog becomes even more relevant and interesting over time. A Plog will appear only if the customer is logged on to Amazon.com, and if posts relevant to that customer's purchase history have been submitted. In the future, Plogs will also help customers discover products that have just been released, track changes to orders and much more. Amazon Connect and Plog are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates. About Amazon.com Amazon.com, Inc., (Nasdaq: AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden. Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com. As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise. Forward Looking Statement This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to potential future losses, significant amount of indebtedness, competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions, and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, consumer trends, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, fraud, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2004, and all subsequent filings. CONTACT:Amazon.comMedia Relations, 206-266-7180SOURCE:Amazon.com

<p>SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Feb. 1, 2006--Amazon.com, Inc. (Nasdaq: AMZN) today announced the launch of its latest innovation for customers, Amazon Connect, a new program in which authors can post messages directly to their readers via the Amazon.com home page. Authors interested in joining the Amazon Connect program can visit www.amazon.com/connect.</p><p>Many authors operate their own Web sites, but their readers may not frequently visit those sites. With Amazon Connect, a customer is automatically presented with author posts directly on that customer's Amazon.com home page. To ensure that author posts are relevant, the posts are shown only to customers who have purchased that author's work in the past, or to those who explicitly sign up to receive that author's posts. The posts are prominently displayed in standard blog format (reverse chronological order).</p><p>"We invite authors to communicate with their readers in a way that hasn't before been possible," said Jeff Bezos, Amazon.com's founder and CEO. "Amazon Connect brings the author's message to the reader instead of waiting for the reader to find the message."</p><p>"Amazon Connect creates a relationship with my readers that didn't exist before," said author James Patterson. "Communicating directly with my readers about anything I want, whenever I want, is extremely powerful."</p><p>More than 1,000 authors are enrolled in the program to date, including Marcus Buckingham, Michael Covel, Robert Crais, Nelson DeMille, Anita Diamant, Frank Gallinelli, Caroline Myss, Karen Katz, Elizabeth Kostova, John Lithgow, Elizabeth Pantley, James Patterson, Jodi Picoult, Ann Rule, Karma Wilson and Meg Wolitzer. Authors can post as often as they like, and their posts will appear to Amazon.com customers immediately.</p><p>Author posts can be anything from current musings or information about upcoming projects to reading recommendations. Promotional posts are not allowed. Recent posts include insights into the frustrations and joys of the writing process, tips for aspiring writers, opinions on popular culture, and even favorite travel destinations and recipes. In addition to the Amazon.com home page, posts will appear on book detail pages, a blog page and on a special author profile page that features the author's three most recent posts and entire bibliography. In addition, customers can sign up to receive posts from authors whose books they have not previously purchased on Amazon.</p><p>A few recent posts:</p><p>From: Brad Thor (Author of popular thrillers including "Blowback" and "State of the Union")</p><p>The New Scot Harvath Thriller</p><p>3:00:49 PM PST, January 12, 2006</p><p>My family knows me as the king of mixed metaphors and in that context I wanted to report that I have been busier than a one legged man in a paper hanging contest. In addition to collecting military t-shirts banned on bases for being inappropriate, i.e. Guns don't kill people. I kill people... The Road to Paradise begins with me... and my current favorite - It's God's job to forgive Bin Laden, we're just here to arrange the meeting... I have been hard at work finishing my latest Scot Harvath adventure, Takedown.</p><p>This novel has been a lot of fun to write and part of that fun has come from the many generous people I have been able to work with. The partial list includes members of the NYPD's Emergency Service Unit, several United States Marines, a couple of particularly talented Army Special Forces pals, some new friends at the U.S. Secret Service, and quite a few folks in the intelligence community who have loved the premise of this new book since day one.</p><p>Writing Takedown has not only been a lot of fun, it has also been very challenging. I wanted to do a thriller set primarily in the United States, but as an "international" thriller writer a few exotic foreign locations still managed to find their way into the plot. I also am a big fan of the film, The Dirty Dozen, and wanted to create a novel with an ensemble cast of characters. With that cast, I wanted to explore what it means to be a patriot and how people with completely differing opinions can still be considered as such. Examining the idea of loyalty and how people view their country and the war on terror has provided a lot of grist for the mill.</p><p>So, that's a quick update from my desk here as I roll toward the editing process. I should have more for you soon. In the meantime, I hope you are finding lots of good books to keep you company until Takedown arrives. If you are looking for suggestions, please visit my Amazon author page for a list of several of my favorites reads.</p><p>Best regards,</p><p>Brad Thor</p><p>From: Caroline Myss (Author of more than 50 books on health, healing and spirituality, including "The Creation of Health" and "Advanced Energy Anatomy: The Science of Co-Creation and Your Power of Choice")</p><p>OPENING NIGHT</p><p>4:24 PM PST, January 16, 2006</p><p>Hello Everyone -</p><p>I am just delighted to be able to have a direct line of communication with all of you. It's my pleasure to respond to your letters and your questions and to open lines of discussion on matters appropriate to my work. I also want to thank Amazon.com for this opportunity.</p><p>As I sit here in my office at home, I am reminded at how extraordinary technology has become. I admit to a personal agenda, which is to be a source of encouragement and support to any and all of my readers in this world that grows ever more intense. If I could place one jewel of inspiration in your soul this evening as I write this to you from my office, it is to tell you that every thing you do, say, think, feel, and all of your actions - are channels for grace in this world. You are a channel for and of grace. I wish people could experience the truth of that statement for just one second. Treasure your life and the gift of life on this planet. We are all we have...</p><p>I look forward to hearing from you and it is my absolutely pleasure to be in touch with you via Amazon.com.</p><p>Blessings -</p><p>Caroline Myss</p><p>From: Robert Crais (Author of action, adventure and suspense novels including "The Two Minute Rule" and "The Forgotten Man")</p><p>Hello!</p><p>1:41:33 PM PST, January 26, 2006</p><p>This is seriously cool, gang -- a place on Amazon where you and I can get to know each other. I have a new book coming soon, and a website, and all manner of neat stuff to share, so let's get this dance started. ..</p><p>Most of you probably know me from the Elvis Cole novels. My new book, THE TWO MINUTE RULE, is not part of the series, but it began as an Elvis Cole novel. I was thinking about the nature of Elvis's clients -- the people who come to him for help. When you are the victim of a crime, you go to the police, right? But what if you couldn't go to the police? I realized only one type of person could be so totally alienated from society; completely outside the system and friendless -- a criminal. That's when I met Max Holman, the main character in my new book, and realized this wasn't an Elvis Cole novel. The real power of the story is Holman's isolation. He's a criminal, he's broke, and he is the ultimate outsider. So how does a man like Holman catch his son's killer when he believes the killer is a cop?</p><p>You can find out more about THE TWO MINUTE RULE here on Amazon, and you can also visit my website, www.robertcrais.com, where you'll find my tour schedule. Maybe I'll be coming to a city near you.</p><p>By the way, are there any other VERONICA MARS fans in the house? I LOVE that show.</p><p>RC</p><p>From: Michael Bar-Zohar (Author of historical, non-fiction works including "Massacre in Munich: The Manhunt for the Killers Behind the 1972 Olympics Massacre" and "Lionhearts: Heroes of Israel")</p><p>The tragedy of Ariel Sharon</p><p>10:58:47 AM PST, January 16, 2006</p><p>Israel's Prime Minister, Ariel Sharon, is lying unconscious in his hospital room, immersed in a deep coma. I know Sharon well for many years, since he was introduced to me by David Ben-Gurion, the founding father of Israel. I spent about fifteen years of my life working with Ben-Gurion and writing his biography.</p><p>In 1973 Ben-Gurion suffered a massive stroke. I hurried to the hospital where he was lying and was let into a quiet, white room. Ben-Gurion was lying quietly in his bed. He couldn't speak, he just looked at me with his deep, wise eyes. He communicated with me by tightening his grip on my hand. I was looking at the quiet, calm face of the father of my nation, the man who made me and so many homeless Jews a people again; and I thought of his moral testament to all of us. "The existence of Israel," he told me over and over again," depends on her force - and on her righteousness. We must be a light into the nations." I had never met another statesman or political leader for whom moral values were so important, who believed that his nation will have the right to exist only if it sticks to those moral percepts, given to us all, Jews and Christians and Muslims, in the Bible. I don't know if we have succeeded to accomplish this moral commandment of Israel's Old Man. But I see it as a call to my generation and those who will come after me - to try to build a country worthy of the teachings of Israel's ancient prophets.</p><p>Amazon Connect posts will appear in Amazon customers' personal log or "Plog" in the center column of the Amazon.com home page. Each customer's Plog is different (hence the name), and just like a blog, Plog posts are sorted in reverse chronological order. Each post also gives customers the opportunity to provide feedback to the sender or to respond with their own comments. This feedback loop means that each customer's Plog becomes even more relevant and interesting over time. A Plog will appear only if the customer is logged on to Amazon.com, and if posts relevant to that customer's purchase history have been submitted. In the future, Plogs will also help customers discover products that have just been released, track changes to orders and much more.</p><p>Amazon Connect and Plog are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates.</p><p>About Amazon.com</p><p>Amazon.com, Inc., (Nasdaq: AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden.</p><p>Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com.</p><p>As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise.</p><p>Forward Looking Statement</p><p>This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to potential future losses, significant amount of indebtedness, competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions, and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, consumer trends, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, fraud, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2004, and all subsequent filings.</p><p>CONTACT:Amazon.comMedia Relations, 206-266-7180SOURCE:Amazon.com</p>

Highlights of ''Amazon Fishbowl with Bill Maher'' Preview Show at Sundance Now Available on Amazon.com

/news/news-details/2006/Highlights-of-Amazon-Fishbowl-with-Bill-Maher-Preview-Show-at-Sundance-Now-Available-on-Amazon.com/default.aspx

Highlights-of-Amazon-Fishbowl-with-Bill-Maher-Preview-Show-at-Sundance-Now-Available-on-Amazon.com

01/24/2006 08:31:00

Highlights of ''Amazon Fishbowl with Bill Maher'' Preview Show at Sundance Now Available on Amazon.com

01/24/2006

2006

Attention Photo Editors and Broadcasters: Photos Now Available on Wires and Satellite Feeds of B-Roll Scheduled for Today WHAT: Amazon.com delivered a sneak preview of its new original program, "Amazon Fishbowl with Bill Maher," on Sunday to a live audience in Park City, Utah, during the Sundance Film Festival. Highlights from the show, as well as the full-length interview between Bill Maher and Stephen King, are now available for viewing from the Amazon.com homepage and at the Amazon Entertainment homepage (http://www.amazon.com/entertainment).Amazon.com previewed the show at Sundance and is offering a video stream of the highlights to all its customers now. Beginning Thursday, June 1, at 8 p.m. Pacific Time, and for 12 consecutive Thursday nights through the summer, "Amazon Fishbowl with Bill Maher" will stream live on the Amazon.com homepage. The 30-minute program will feature live performances by renowned musicians and thought-provoking interviews with authors, directors, and actors. See full news release at http://www.amazon.com/pr.WHO: Host Bill Maher interviewed bestselling author Stephen King (his only broadcast interview for his new book, "Cell," which releases today), musician Rob Thomas, and author Armistead Maupin who adapted his own novel into the screenplay for "The Night Listener," a Sundance debut film. Thomas also performed two songs for the live audience.WHEN: Highlights of the show are available today, January 24.WHERE: Photographs from the event are now available at www.wirepix.com/newsphotos, and satellite feeds of b-roll are scheduled for today (details below):Tues January 24,200610:00-10:30 AM EST1:00-1:30 PM ESTIA5 / (C) BAND TR 19. DL freq 4080 V SOURCE: Amazon.com Amazon Media Hotline206-266-7180orhttp://www.amazon.com/pr

<p>Attention Photo Editors and Broadcasters: Photos Now Available on Wires and Satellite Feeds of B-Roll Scheduled for Today</p><p>WHAT: Amazon.com delivered a sneak preview of its new original program, "Amazon Fishbowl with Bill Maher," on Sunday to a live audience in Park City, Utah, during the Sundance Film Festival. Highlights from the show, as well as the full-length interview between Bill Maher and Stephen King, are now available for viewing from the Amazon.com homepage and at the Amazon Entertainment homepage (http://www.amazon.com/entertainment).Amazon.com previewed the show at Sundance and is offering a video stream of the highlights to all its customers now. Beginning Thursday, June 1, at 8 p.m. Pacific Time, and for 12 consecutive Thursday nights through the summer, "Amazon Fishbowl with Bill Maher" will stream live on the Amazon.com homepage. The 30-minute program will feature live performances by renowned musicians and thought-provoking interviews with authors, directors, and actors. See full news release at http://www.amazon.com/pr.WHO: Host Bill Maher interviewed bestselling author Stephen King (his only broadcast interview for his new book, "Cell," which releases today), musician Rob Thomas, and author Armistead Maupin who adapted his own novel into the screenplay for "The Night Listener," a Sundance debut film. Thomas also performed two songs for the live audience.WHEN: Highlights of the show are available today, January 24.WHERE: Photographs from the event are now available at www.wirepix.com/newsphotos, and satellite feeds of b-roll are scheduled for today (details below):Tues January 24,200610:00-10:30 AM EST1:00-1:30 PM ESTIA5 / (C) BAND TR 19. DL freq 4080 V</p><p>SOURCE: Amazon.com</p><p>Amazon Media Hotline206-266-7180orhttp://www.amazon.com/pr</p>

ADVISORY/Highlights of ''Amazon Fishbowl with Bill Maher'' Preview Show at Sundance Now Available on Amazon.com

/news/news-details/2006/ADVISORY-Highlights-of-Amazon-Fishbowl-with-Bill-Maher-Preview-Show-at-Sundance-Now-Available-on-Amazon.com/default.aspx

ADVISORY-Highlights-of-Amazon-Fishbowl-with-Bill-Maher-Preview-Show-at-Sundance-Now-Available-on-Amazon.com

01/24/2006 00:00:00

ADVISORY/Highlights of ''Amazon Fishbowl with Bill Maher'' Preview Show at Sundance Now Available on Amazon.com

01/24/2006

2006

--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Attention Photo Editors and Broadcasters: Photos Now Available on Wires and Satellite Feeds of B-Roll Scheduled for Today WHAT: Amazon.com delivered a sneak preview of its new original program, "Amazon Fishbowl with Bill Maher," on Sunday to a live audience in Park City, Utah, during the Sundance Film Festival. Highlights from the show, as well as the full-length interview between Bill Maher and Stephen King, are now available for viewing from the Amazon.com homepage and at the Amazon Entertainment homepage (http://www.amazon.com/entertainment). Amazon.com previewed the show at Sundance and is offering a video stream of the highlights to all its customers now. Beginning Thursday, June 1, at 8 p.m. Pacific Time, and for 12 consecutive Thursday nights through the summer, "Amazon Fishbowl with Bill Maher" will stream live on the Amazon.com homepage. The 30-minute program will feature live performances by renowned musicians and thought-provoking interviews with authors, directors, and actors. See full news release at http://www.amazon.com/pr. WHO: Host Bill Maher interviewed bestselling author Stephen King (his only broadcast interview for his new book, "Cell," which releases today), musician Rob Thomas, and author Armistead Maupin who adapted his own novel into the screenplay for "The Night Listener," a Sundance debut film. Thomas also performed two songs for the live audience. WHEN: Highlights of the show are available today, January 24. WHERE: Photographs from the event are now available at www.wirepix.com/newsphotos, and satellite feeds of b-roll are scheduled for today (details below): Tues January 24,2006 10:00-10:30 AM EST 1:00-1:30 PM EST IA5 / (C) BAND TR 19. DL freq 4080 V CONTACT:Amazon Media Hotline206-266-7180orhttp://www.amazon.com/prSOURCE: Amazon.com

<p>--(BUSINESS WIRE)--</p><p>Attention Photo Editors and Broadcasters: Photos Now Available</p><p>on Wires and Satellite Feeds of B-Roll Scheduled for Today</p><pre>WHAT: Amazon.com delivered a sneak preview of its new original program, "Amazon Fishbowl with Bill Maher," on Sunday to a live audience in Park City, Utah, during the Sundance Film Festival. Highlights from the show, as well as the full-length interview between Bill Maher and Stephen King, are now available for viewing from the Amazon.com homepage and at the Amazon Entertainment homepage (http://www.amazon.com/entertainment). Amazon.com previewed the show at Sundance and is offering a video stream of the highlights to all its customers now. Beginning Thursday, June 1, at 8 p.m. Pacific Time, and for 12 consecutive Thursday nights through the summer, "Amazon Fishbowl with Bill Maher" will stream live on the Amazon.com homepage. The 30-minute program will feature live performances by renowned musicians and thought-provoking interviews with authors, directors, and actors. See full news release at http://www.amazon.com/pr.WHO: Host Bill Maher interviewed bestselling author Stephen King (his only broadcast interview for his new book, "Cell," which releases today), musician Rob Thomas, and author Armistead Maupin who adapted his own novel into the screenplay for "The Night Listener," a Sundance debut film. Thomas also performed two songs for the live audience.WHEN: Highlights of the show are available today, January 24.WHERE: Photographs from the event are now available at www.wirepix.com/newsphotos, and satellite feeds of b-roll are scheduled for today (details below): Tues January 24,2006 10:00-10:30 AM EST 1:00-1:30 PM EST IA5 / (C) BAND TR 19. DL freq 4080 V</pre><p>CONTACT:Amazon Media Hotline206-266-7180orhttp://www.amazon.com/prSOURCE: Amazon.com</p>

Amazon.com to Webcast Fourth Quarter 2005 Financial Results Conference Call

/news/news-details/2006/Amazon.com-to-Webcast-Fourth-Quarter-2005-Financial-Results-Conference-Call/default.aspx

Amazon.com-to-Webcast-Fourth-Quarter-2005-Financial-Results-Conference-Call

01/20/2006 16:02:00

Amazon.com to Webcast Fourth Quarter 2005 Financial Results Conference Call

01/20/2006

2006

SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Jan. 20, 2006--Amazon.com, Inc. (Nasdaq:AMZN) announced today that it will hold a conference call to discuss its fourth quarter 2005 financial results on Feb. 2, 2006, at 2:00 p.m. PT/5:00 p.m. ET. The event will be webcast live, and the audio and associated slides will be available for at least three months thereafter at www.amazon.com/ir. CONTACT:Amazon.com Media RelationsPatty Smith, 206-266-7180SOURCE:Amazon.com

<p>SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Jan. 20, 2006--Amazon.com, Inc. (Nasdaq:AMZN) announced today that it will hold a conference call to discuss its fourth quarter 2005 financial results on Feb. 2, 2006, at 2:00 p.m. PT/5:00 p.m. ET.</p><p>The event will be webcast live, and the audio and associated slides will be available for at least three months thereafter at www.amazon.com/ir.</p><p>CONTACT:Amazon.com Media RelationsPatty Smith, 206-266-7180SOURCE:Amazon.com</p>

Amazon.com to Launch Weekly Original Series "Amazon Fishbowl with Bill Maher''

/news/news-details/2006/Amazon.com-to-Launch-Weekly-Original-Series-Amazon-Fishbowl-with-Bill-Maher/default.aspx

Amazon.com-to-Launch-Weekly-Original-Series-Amazon-Fishbowl-with-Bill-Maher

01/19/2006 08:02:00

Amazon.com to Launch Weekly Original Series "Amazon Fishbowl with Bill Maher''

01/19/2006

2006

Highlights of preview show featuring musical performance by Rob Thomas, interview with Stephen King, and more to premiere on Amazon.com beginning Tuesday, January 24 SEATTLE--Jan. 19, 2006-- Amazon.com (Nasdaq:AMZN) today announced "Amazon Fishbowl with Bill Maher" -- a weekly original series that will stream live every Thursday night on the Amazon.com homepage beginning June 1. Sponsored by UPS and hosted by comedian Bill Maher, "Amazon Fishbowl with Bill Maher" is a 30-minute program featuring live performances by renowned musicians and thought-provoking interviews with authors, directors, and actors. "'Amazon Fishbowl with Bill Maher' has a simple, yet powerful mission -- to help our customers discover new books, films, and music, and to help the creators of these works find new audiences," said Kathy Savitt, Amazon.com Vice President for Strategic Communications, Content, and Initiatives. "We believe that Bill Maher's interviews with some of the world's most renowned and up-and-coming artists and entertainers will offer customers unique insight into the motivations and inspirations behind the books, films, and music they love." Amazon.com will preview "Amazon Fishbowl with Bill Maher" at the Sundance Film Festival this weekend and will offer customers highlights of the show on Amazon.com beginning Tuesday, January 24. Maher's guests for the Sundance preview show include musician Rob Thomas and bestselling author Stephen King, as well as writer Armistead Maupin and actress Toni Collette from "The Night Listener," a Sundance debut film. King's latest novel, "Cell," is scheduled for release on January 24. The show's theme song, which was written and recorded by Amazon customer-favorite musician John Hiatt, will also debut at the Sundance preview. "Amazon has included me in an opportunity to provide top-shelf television-style programming live on the world's computer screens," said Maher. "To hold forth with the industry's very best actors, directors, musicians, authors -- I'm thrilled to be on the cutting edge of this." Produced and distributed exclusively by Amazon.com, "Amazon Fishbowl with Bill Maher" will be streamed live for 12 Thursday nights this summer through a high-definition media player on Amazon.com. In addition to musical performances and interviews, every episode will feature a surprise UPS Special Delivery to a randomly selected customer. Last summer, UPS helped Amazon.com celebrate its 10th anniversary by surprising dozens of customers across the country who opened their doors to find a UPS driver alongside their favorite stars, such as Harrison Ford, Michael J. Fox, Nick Lachey, and Jeff Bridges. Amazon.com and UPS will make more UPS Special Deliveries this summer, and the "Amazon Fishbowl with Bill Maher" video crew will capture the action for viewers. Journalists who are interested in receiving more information or attending the Sundance preview of "Amazon Fishbowl with Bill Maher" can submit an inquiry via http://www.amazon.com/pr or the Amazon.com Media Hotline at 206-266-7180. About Amazon.com Amazon.com, Inc., a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as beauty, health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden. Amazon.com and its affiliates operate seven retail Web sites: www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com. As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise. Amazon.com Forward Looking Statement This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to potential future losses, significant amount of indebtedness, competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions, and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, consumer trends, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, fraud, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2004, and all subsequent filings. CONTACT: Amazon.comAmazon.com Media Hotline, 206-266-7180SOURCE: Amazon.com

<p>Highlights of preview show featuring musical performance by Rob Thomas, interview with Stephen King, and more to premiere on Amazon.com beginning Tuesday, January 24</p><p>SEATTLE--Jan. 19, 2006-- Amazon.com (Nasdaq:AMZN) today announced "Amazon Fishbowl with Bill Maher" -- a weekly original series that will stream live every Thursday night on the Amazon.com homepage beginning June 1. Sponsored by UPS and hosted by comedian Bill Maher, "Amazon Fishbowl with Bill Maher" is a 30-minute program featuring live performances by renowned musicians and thought-provoking interviews with authors, directors, and actors.</p><p>"'Amazon Fishbowl with Bill Maher' has a simple, yet powerful mission -- to help our customers discover new books, films, and music, and to help the creators of these works find new audiences," said Kathy Savitt, Amazon.com Vice President for Strategic Communications, Content, and Initiatives. "We believe that Bill Maher's interviews with some of the world's most renowned and up-and-coming artists and entertainers will offer customers unique insight into the motivations and inspirations behind the books, films, and music they love."</p><p>Amazon.com will preview "Amazon Fishbowl with Bill Maher" at the Sundance Film Festival this weekend and will offer customers highlights of the show on Amazon.com beginning Tuesday, January 24. Maher's guests for the Sundance preview show include musician Rob Thomas and bestselling author Stephen King, as well as writer Armistead Maupin and actress Toni Collette from "The Night Listener," a Sundance debut film. King's latest novel, "Cell," is scheduled for release on January 24. The show's theme song, which was written and recorded by Amazon customer-favorite musician John Hiatt, will also debut at the Sundance preview.</p><p>"Amazon has included me in an opportunity to provide top-shelf television-style programming live on the world's computer screens," said Maher. "To hold forth with the industry's very best actors, directors, musicians, authors -- I'm thrilled to be on the cutting edge of this."</p><p>Produced and distributed exclusively by Amazon.com, "Amazon Fishbowl with Bill Maher" will be streamed live for 12 Thursday nights this summer through a high-definition media player on Amazon.com. In addition to musical performances and interviews, every episode will feature a surprise UPS Special Delivery to a randomly selected customer. Last summer, UPS helped Amazon.com celebrate its 10th anniversary by surprising dozens of customers across the country who opened their doors to find a UPS driver alongside their favorite stars, such as Harrison Ford, Michael J. Fox, Nick Lachey, and Jeff Bridges. Amazon.com and UPS will make more UPS Special Deliveries this summer, and the "Amazon Fishbowl with Bill Maher" video crew will capture the action for viewers.</p><p>Journalists who are interested in receiving more information or attending the Sundance preview of "Amazon Fishbowl with Bill Maher" can submit an inquiry via http://www.amazon.com/pr or the Amazon.com Media Hotline at 206-266-7180.</p><p>About Amazon.com</p><p>Amazon.com, Inc., a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as beauty, health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden.</p><p>Amazon.com and its affiliates operate seven retail Web sites: www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com.</p><p>As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise.</p><p>Amazon.com Forward Looking Statement</p><p>This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to potential future losses, significant amount of indebtedness, competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions, and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, consumer trends, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, fraud, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2004, and all subsequent filings.</p><p>CONTACT: Amazon.comAmazon.com Media Hotline, 206-266-7180SOURCE: Amazon.com</p>

"Alexa Top Site" Web Service Now Available for Developers Through Amazon Web Services

/news/news-details/2006/Alexa-Top-Site-Web-Service-Now-Available-for-Developers-Through-Amazon-Web-Services/default.aspx

Alexa-Top-Site-Web-Service-Now-Available-for-Developers-Through-Amazon-Web-Services

01/13/2006 08:31:00

"Alexa Top Site" Web Service Now Available for Developers Through Amazon Web Services

01/13/2006

2006

New web service allows software and web developers to incorporate lists of web sites, ranked in order of Alexa Traffic Rank, directly into their applications SAN FRANCISCO, Jan 13, 2006 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- Alexa Internet, a subsidiary of Amazon.com, Inc. (Nasdaq:AMZN), today launched the Alexa Top Sites web service on the Amazon Web Services web site. The Alexa Top Sites web service provides software and web developers with programmatic access to lists of web sites ordered by Alexa Traffic Rank, which represents one of the largest, most up-to-date and global samples of Internet usage available. This data can be used by developers for a wide-range of products and services like prioritizing aggregated information on a web site and building products that help businesses make decisions such as where to most effectively advertise. Developers can sign up and get started using Alexa Top Sites today at the Amazon Web Services web site http://aws.amazon.com. "Alexa is constantly looking at the enormous amount of information we collect about the web to find sets of data that we believe will help developers build products for the customers they already have or want to have in the future," said Alexa Product Manager Geoff Mack. "The new Alexa Top Sites web service is the latest result of this effort. Developers can now build web applications and products using one of the world's most credible samples of web usage. We can't wait to see what developers build with this data." Using the Alexa Top Sites web service, developers can programmatically request, receive, and incorporate into their applications Alexa Traffic Rankings on a worldwide basis or by specific country. In addition to its Alexa Traffic Rank, the service provides information about each site's number of page views per million users, average page views per user, and the number of Alexa users. Whether seeking the top 100,000 web sites in the world, or the top 1,000 in the U.S., the Alexa Top Sites web service allows developers to programmatically receive rankings for web sites in over 70 countries. Developers can request any set of rankings they would like, and will be charged a fee of only $0.0025 per web site URL they request and receive from the web service. Alexa Traffic Rankings are based on the anonymous usage patterns of millions of Alexa Toolbar users based around the world. Site rankings are updated daily and based on a combined measure of reach and page views computed over a rolling three-month period. Reach is determined by the number of unique Alexa users who visit a site on a given day; page views are the total number of pages viewed by Alexa users. The site with the highest combination of reach and page views is ranked first. More information on how Alexa Traffic Rankings are computed is available at http://pages.alexa.com/prod_serv/traffic_learn_more.html. Today's release of the Alexa Top Sites web service marks the first time that Alexa's Traffic Rankings have been available programmatically as complete lists. Alexa Traffic Rankings can be seen on a per-site basis on the Alexa Toolbar under "Site Info," the Alexa web site under the "Traffic Rankings" tab, using the Alexa Web Information web service, or in list form via email for a fee. Before today's launch, developers seeking programmatic access to a ranked list needed to request Alexa Traffic Ranking data on a per-site basis and compile the rankings themselves. Alexa Top Sites is available through Amazon Web Services, which exposes Amazon technology and product data that enables developers to build innovative and entrepreneurial applications. "We are excited to have another compelling web service from Alexa available to the Amazon Web Services community of developers," said Adam Selipsky, Vice President of Product Management and Developer Relations for Amazon Web Services. "This is the latest example of powerful and low cost offerings being built by Amazon and its subsidiaries, and offered through Amazon Web Services." About Alexa Internet Founded in April 1996 and acquired by Amazon.com in 1999, Alexa Internet provides dynamic data about the Web. Alexa's services include Web site traffic information, statistics, and other tools to make timely and intelligent business and consumer decisions.

<p>New web service allows software and web developers to incorporate lists of web sites, ranked in order of Alexa Traffic Rank, directly into their applications</p><p>SAN FRANCISCO, Jan 13, 2006 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- Alexa Internet, a subsidiary of Amazon.com, Inc. (Nasdaq:AMZN), today launched the Alexa Top Sites web service on the Amazon Web Services web site. The Alexa Top Sites web service provides software and web developers with programmatic access to lists of web sites ordered by Alexa Traffic Rank, which represents one of the largest, most up-to-date and global samples of Internet usage available. This data can be used by developers for a wide-range of products and services like prioritizing aggregated information on a web site and building products that help businesses make decisions such as where to most effectively advertise. Developers can sign up and get started using Alexa Top Sites today at the Amazon Web Services web site http://aws.amazon.com.</p><p>"Alexa is constantly looking at the enormous amount of information we collect about the web to find sets of data that we believe will help developers build products for the customers they already have or want to have in the future," said Alexa Product Manager Geoff Mack. "The new Alexa Top Sites web service is the latest result of this effort. Developers can now build web applications and products using one of the world's most credible samples of web usage. We can't wait to see what developers build with this data."</p><p>Using the Alexa Top Sites web service, developers can programmatically request, receive, and incorporate into their applications Alexa Traffic Rankings on a worldwide basis or by specific country. In addition to its Alexa Traffic Rank, the service provides information about each site's number of page views per million users, average page views per user, and the number of Alexa users. Whether seeking the top 100,000 web sites in the world, or the top 1,000 in the U.S., the Alexa Top Sites web service allows developers to programmatically receive rankings for web sites in over 70 countries. Developers can request any set of rankings they would like, and will be charged a fee of only $0.0025 per web site URL they request and receive from the web service.</p><p>Alexa Traffic Rankings are based on the anonymous usage patterns of millions of Alexa Toolbar users based around the world. Site rankings are updated daily and based on a combined measure of reach and page views computed over a rolling three-month period. Reach is determined by the number of unique Alexa users who visit a site on a given day; page views are the total number of pages viewed by Alexa users. The site with the highest combination of reach and page views is ranked first. More information on how Alexa Traffic Rankings are computed is available at http://pages.alexa.com/prod_serv/traffic_learn_more.html.</p><p>Today's release of the Alexa Top Sites web service marks the first time that Alexa's Traffic Rankings have been available programmatically as complete lists. Alexa Traffic Rankings can be seen on a per-site basis on the Alexa Toolbar under "Site Info," the Alexa web site under the "Traffic Rankings" tab, using the Alexa Web Information web service, or in list form via email for a fee. Before today's launch, developers seeking programmatic access to a ranked list needed to request Alexa Traffic Ranking data on a per-site basis and compile the rankings themselves.</p><p>Alexa Top Sites is available through Amazon Web Services, which exposes Amazon technology and product data that enables developers to build innovative and entrepreneurial applications. "We are excited to have another compelling web service from Alexa available to the Amazon Web Services community of developers," said Adam Selipsky, Vice President of Product Management and Developer Relations for Amazon Web Services. "This is the latest example of powerful and low cost offerings being built by Amazon and its subsidiaries, and offered through Amazon Web Services."</p><p>About Alexa Internet</p><p>Founded in April 1996 and acquired by Amazon.com in 1999, Alexa Internet provides dynamic data about the Web. Alexa's services include Web site traffic information, statistics, and other tools to make timely and intelligent business and consumer decisions.</p>

Joyo.com Now Largest Chinese Bookstore in the World

/news/news-details/2006/Joyo.com-Now-Largest-Chinese-Bookstore-in-the-World/default.aspx

Joyo.com-Now-Largest-Chinese-Bookstore-in-the-World

01/10/2006 00:00:00

Joyo.com Now Largest Chinese Bookstore in the World

01/10/2006

2006

BEIJING--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Jan. 10, 2006--(Nasdaq:AMZN) Leading online retailer Joyo.com has announced that it now offers more than 300,000 book, music, video and DVD titles, making it the largest Chinese bookstore in the world. With more than 34 categories of books, ranging from "English/Foreign Language Learning" to "Economics/Business Management" and "Science/Nature," Joyo.com has more than 100,000 titles of books available for immediate delivery. In addition, Joyo.com also offers free shipping on qualifying purchases of RMB 99. "At Joyo.com, we want to provide our customers the best selection possible," said Wang Hanhua, managing director of Joyo.com. "From bestsellers by Liu Xinwu, to hard-to-find titles and specialty books, Joyo.com now offers its customers the best collection of Chinese books in the world. Customers can expect us to add even more selection in the weeks and months to come." In 2004, Amazon.com acquired Joyo.com Limited, which operates the Joyo.com Web site in cooperation with Chinese subsidiaries and affiliates. What does Joyo's mammoth selection look like?-- Assuming an average height of 23 centimeters in length, 300,000 titles would be over 68 kilometers high if stacked end to end -- more than 138 times as high as the Shanghai World Financial Center (492 meters);-- If you were to read one book, listen to one CD, or watch one DVD from Joyo.com's current collection each week, it would take you 5,769 years to finish them all. In addition to its extensive selection of books, music, and video/DVD, Joyo.com has recently expanded other categories of products, including Wireless and Digital Cameras, Toys & Gifts and Health & Personal Care. About Joyo.com Joyo.com was founded in May 2000 and is now the largest retailer of Chinese books in the world. In addition, Joyo.com offers its customers a wide selection of music, videos and DVDs, software, wireless and digital cameras, toys and gifts, health and personal care items, among other products, as well as free shipping on qualifying purchases over RMB 99. Joyo.com is headquartered in Beijing. About Amazon.com Amazon.com, Inc., (Nasdaq:AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as beauty, health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden. Amazon.com and its affiliates operate seven retail Web sites: www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com. As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise. Forward-Looking Statement This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to potential future losses, significant amount of indebtedness, competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions, and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, consumer trends, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, fraud, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2004, and all subsequent filings. CONTACT:Amazon.com, SeattlePatty Smith, 206-266-7180SOURCE:Joyo.com

<p>BEIJING--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Jan. 10, 2006--(Nasdaq:AMZN) Leading online retailer Joyo.com has announced that it now offers more than 300,000 book, music, video and DVD titles, making it the largest Chinese bookstore in the world. With more than 34 categories of books, ranging from "English/Foreign Language Learning" to "Economics/Business Management" and "Science/Nature," Joyo.com has more than 100,000 titles of books available for immediate delivery. In addition, Joyo.com also offers free shipping on qualifying purchases of RMB 99.</p><p>"At Joyo.com, we want to provide our customers the best selection possible," said Wang Hanhua, managing director of Joyo.com. "From bestsellers by Liu Xinwu, to hard-to-find titles and specialty books, Joyo.com now offers its customers the best collection of Chinese books in the world. Customers can expect us to add even more selection in the weeks and months to come."</p><p>In 2004, Amazon.com acquired Joyo.com Limited, which operates the Joyo.com Web site in cooperation with Chinese subsidiaries and affiliates.</p><p>What does Joyo's mammoth selection look like?-- Assuming an average height of 23 centimeters in length, 300,000 titles would be over 68 kilometers high if stacked end to end -- more than 138 times as high as the Shanghai World Financial Center (492 meters);-- If you were to read one book, listen to one CD, or watch one DVD from Joyo.com's current collection each week, it would take you 5,769 years to finish them all.</p><p>In addition to its extensive selection of books, music, and video/DVD, Joyo.com has recently expanded other categories of products, including Wireless and Digital Cameras, Toys &amp; Gifts and Health &amp; Personal Care.</p><p>About Joyo.com</p><p>Joyo.com was founded in May 2000 and is now the largest retailer of Chinese books in the world. In addition, Joyo.com offers its customers a wide selection of music, videos and DVDs, software, wireless and digital cameras, toys and gifts, health and personal care items, among other products, as well as free shipping on qualifying purchases over RMB 99. Joyo.com is headquartered in Beijing.</p><p>About Amazon.com</p><p>Amazon.com, Inc., (Nasdaq:AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as beauty, health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden.</p><p>Amazon.com and its affiliates operate seven retail Web sites: www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.ca, and www.joyo.com.</p><p>As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise.</p><p>Forward-Looking Statement</p><p>This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to potential future losses, significant amount of indebtedness, competition, management of growth, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions, and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, consumer trends, inventory, limited operating history, government regulation and taxation, fraud, and new business areas. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2004, and all subsequent filings.</p><p>CONTACT:Amazon.com, SeattlePatty Smith, 206-266-7180SOURCE:Joyo.com</p>

Amazon.com Announces ''Best of 2007'' Lists

/news/news-details/2007/Amazon.com-Announces-Best-of-2007-Lists/default.aspx

Amazon.com-Announces-Best-of-2007-Lists

12/28/2007 06:02:00

Amazon.com Announces ''Best of 2007'' Lists

12/28/2007

2007

SEATTLE, Dec 28, 2007 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- Amazon.com (NASDAQ:AMZN) today released its "Best of 2007" lists, which include the bestselling, most positively reviewed, most-wished-for and favorite gift products as determined by Amazon.com customers in 2007. Bestselling Products The following is a list of the bestselling products on Amazon.com in 2007 by total units sold: -- Books: "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows" by J.K. Rowling -- Music: "Noel" by Josh Groban -- DVD: "Planet Earth: The Complete BBC Series" -- Electronics: Canon PowerShot A570IS 7.1MP digital camera -- Home & Garden: Pyrex storage sets -- Health & Personal Care: Omron HJ-112 digital premium pedometer -- Grocery: Senseo Douwe Egberts dark roast coffee pods -- Gourmet: Starbucks assortment gift basket by Wine Country Gift Baskets -- Computers: Nokia Internet tablet PC -- Software: Microsoft Office Home and Student 2007 -- Video Games: Nintendo Wii -- Apparel & Accessories: Kenneth Cole Reaction men's Eden wool peacoat -- Shoes and handbags (Amazon.com and Endless.com): Jessica Simpson women's Henri2 pump -- Sports & Outdoors: Perfect Pushup -- Home Improvement: Black & Decker 8-inch auto wrench -- Automotive: Actron AutoScanner diagnostic code scanner -- Jewelry: Sterling silver open double flower pendant -- Watches: LEGO kids' watch -- Beauty: Bare Escentuals Mineral Veil -- Baby: Munchkin Mozart Cube -- Toys: Jakks EyeClops Bionic Eye Most-Loved Products The following is a list of products that were reviewed most positively by Amazon.com customers in 2007: -- Books: "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows" by J.K. Rowling -- Music: "One Chance" by Paul Potts -- DVD: "Planet Earth: The Complete BBC Series" -- Electronics: Garmin nuvi 350 3.5-inch portable GPS navigator -- Home & Garden: KitchenAid Artisan Series 5-quart mixer -- Health & Personal Care: Farouk CHI 1-inch ceramic flat hairstyling iron -- Grocery: McCann's Steel Cut Oatmeal -- Gourmet: Tuscan whole milk, 1 gallon -- Computers: Apple MacBook Pro notebook PC -- Software: Apple Mac OS X version 10.5 Leopard -- Video Games: Nintendo Wii -- Apparel & Accessories: Chrome Metal Silver Mirrored Aviator Sunglasses -- Shoes and handbags (Amazon.com and Endless.com): FEED bag -- Sports & Outdoors: Perfect Pushup -- Home Improvement: Toro Ultra 12 amp electric blower/vacuum -- Automotive: Actron PocketScan diagnostic code reader -- Jewelry: Sterling silver open double flower pendant -- Watches: Invicta men's Pro Diver Collection automatic watch -- Beauty: Bare Escentuals Get Started Kit -- Baby: Fisher-Price Rainforest Jumperoo -- Toys: Blokus Strategy board game Most-Wished-For Products The following is a list of products that appeared most often on the Wish Lists of Amazon.com customers in 2007: -- Books: "I Am America (And So Can You)" by Stephen Colbert -- Music: "Noel" by Josh Groban -- DVD: "Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix" (two-disc Special Edition) -- Electronics: Apple 4 GB iPod nano (3rd Generation) -- Home & Garden: Silpat nonstick silicone baking mat -- Health & Personal Care: Accutire programmable digital tire gauge -- Grocery: Numi's Bouquet bamboo gift set -- Gourmet: Starbucks assortment gift basket by Wine Country Gift Basket -- Computers: Asus Eee 4G-Galaxy 7-inch PC mobile Internet device -- Software: Adobe Photoshop Elements 6 -- Video Games: Nintendo Wii -- Apparel & Accessories: Red Moon women's long-sleeve cashmere jersey V-neck sweater -- Shoes and handbags (Amazon.com and Endless.com): FEED bag -- Sports & Outdoors: Suunto T6 Wristop personal trainer with heart rate monitor -- Home Improvement: Leatherman Skeletool CX multitool -- Automotive: Accutire MS-4350B programmable digital tire gauge -- Jewelry: Sterling silver open double flower pendant -- Watches: Bulova women's diamond chronograph watch -- Beauty: Bare Escentuals Get Started Eyes -- Baby: The First Years Sure To Comfort newborn to toddler tub -- Toys: Magnetix I-Coaster Most Popular Gift Products The following is a list of products most frequently purchased as gifts by Amazon.com customers in 2007: -- Books: "Eat, Pray, Love" by Elizabeth Gilbert -- Music: "Noel" by Josh Groban -- DVD: "Planet Earth: The Complete BBC Series" -- Electronics: Apple 4 GB iPod nano (3rd Generation) -- Home & Garden: George Foreman Next Grilleration removable-plate grill -- Health & Personal Care: Omron Pocket Pedometer -- Grocery: Numi's Bouquet bamboo gift set -- Gourmet: "Soup's On" gift basket by Wine Country Gift Baskets -- Computers: Apple MacBook notebook PC -- Software: Adobe Photoshop Elements 6 -- Video Games: Super Mario Galaxy -- Apparel & Accessories: V Fraas women's cashmere knit scarf and glove set -- Shoes and handbags (Amazon.com and Endless.com): Slippers International women's Fluff Scuff slipper -- Sports & Outdoors: Garrity Power Lite 3 LED crank light -- Home Improvement: Black & Decker 8-inch auto wrench -- Automotive: LifeHammer original emergency hammer -- Jewelry: 14k gold, round diamond stud earrings -- Watches: Movado Women's Amorosa watch -- Beauty: Burt's Bees Head to Toe Starter Kit -- Baby: Mozart Magic Cube -- Toys: IlluStory Make Your Own Story Kit About Amazon.com Amazon.com, Inc., (Nasdaq:AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com, Inc. seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden. Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and the Joyo Amazon websites at www.joyo.cn and www.amazon.cn. As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise. Forward-Looking Statements This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, new products, services and technologies, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, government regulation and taxation, payments and fraud. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2006, and all subsequent filings. SOURCE: Amazon.com, Inc. Amazon.comAmazon Media Hotline, 206-266-7180

<p>SEATTLE, Dec 28, 2007 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- Amazon.com (NASDAQ:AMZN) today released its "Best of 2007" lists, which include the bestselling, most positively reviewed, most-wished-for and favorite gift products as determined by Amazon.com customers in 2007.</p><p>Bestselling Products</p><p>The following is a list of the bestselling products on Amazon.com in 2007 by total units sold:</p><p>-- Books: "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows" by J.K. Rowling</p><p>-- Music: "Noel" by Josh Groban</p><p>-- DVD: "Planet Earth: The Complete BBC Series"</p><p>-- Electronics: Canon PowerShot A570IS 7.1MP digital camera</p><p>-- Home &amp; Garden: Pyrex storage sets</p><p>-- Health &amp; Personal Care: Omron HJ-112 digital premium pedometer</p><p>-- Grocery: Senseo Douwe Egberts dark roast coffee pods</p><p>-- Gourmet: Starbucks assortment gift basket by Wine Country Gift Baskets</p><p>-- Computers: Nokia Internet tablet PC</p><p>-- Software: Microsoft Office Home and Student 2007</p><p>-- Video Games: Nintendo Wii</p><p>-- Apparel &amp; Accessories: Kenneth Cole Reaction men's Eden wool peacoat</p><p>-- Shoes and handbags (Amazon.com and Endless.com): Jessica Simpson women's Henri2 pump</p><p>-- Sports &amp; Outdoors: Perfect Pushup</p><p>-- Home Improvement: Black &amp; Decker 8-inch auto wrench</p><p>-- Automotive: Actron AutoScanner diagnostic code scanner</p><p>-- Jewelry: Sterling silver open double flower pendant</p><p>-- Watches: LEGO kids' watch</p><p>-- Beauty: Bare Escentuals Mineral Veil</p><p>-- Baby: Munchkin Mozart Cube</p><p>-- Toys: Jakks EyeClops Bionic Eye</p><p>Most-Loved Products</p><p>The following is a list of products that were reviewed most positively by Amazon.com customers in 2007:</p><p>-- Books: "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows" by J.K. Rowling</p><p>-- Music: "One Chance" by Paul Potts</p><p>-- DVD: "Planet Earth: The Complete BBC Series"</p><p>-- Electronics: Garmin nuvi 350 3.5-inch portable GPS navigator</p><p>-- Home &amp; Garden: KitchenAid Artisan Series 5-quart mixer</p><p>-- Health &amp; Personal Care: Farouk CHI 1-inch ceramic flat hairstyling iron</p><p>-- Grocery: McCann's Steel Cut Oatmeal</p><p>-- Gourmet: Tuscan whole milk, 1 gallon</p><p>-- Computers: Apple MacBook Pro notebook PC</p><p>-- Software: Apple Mac OS X version 10.5 Leopard</p><p>-- Video Games: Nintendo Wii</p><p>-- Apparel &amp; Accessories: Chrome Metal Silver Mirrored Aviator Sunglasses</p><p>-- Shoes and handbags (Amazon.com and Endless.com): FEED bag</p><p>-- Sports &amp; Outdoors: Perfect Pushup</p><p>-- Home Improvement: Toro Ultra 12 amp electric blower/vacuum</p><p>-- Automotive: Actron PocketScan diagnostic code reader</p><p>-- Jewelry: Sterling silver open double flower pendant</p><p>-- Watches: Invicta men's Pro Diver Collection automatic watch</p><p>-- Beauty: Bare Escentuals Get Started Kit</p><p>-- Baby: Fisher-Price Rainforest Jumperoo</p><p>-- Toys: Blokus Strategy board game</p><p>Most-Wished-For Products</p><p>The following is a list of products that appeared most often on the Wish Lists of Amazon.com customers in 2007:</p><p>-- Books: "I Am America (And So Can You)" by Stephen Colbert</p><p>-- Music: "Noel" by Josh Groban</p><p>-- DVD: "Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix" (two-disc Special Edition)</p><p>-- Electronics: Apple 4 GB iPod nano (3rd Generation)</p><p>-- Home &amp; Garden: Silpat nonstick silicone baking mat</p><p>-- Health &amp; Personal Care: Accutire programmable digital tire gauge</p><p>-- Grocery: Numi's Bouquet bamboo gift set</p><p>-- Gourmet: Starbucks assortment gift basket by Wine Country Gift Basket</p><p>-- Computers: Asus Eee 4G-Galaxy 7-inch PC mobile Internet device</p><p>-- Software: Adobe Photoshop Elements 6</p><p>-- Video Games: Nintendo Wii</p><p>-- Apparel &amp; Accessories: Red Moon women's long-sleeve cashmere jersey V-neck sweater</p><p>-- Shoes and handbags (Amazon.com and Endless.com): FEED bag</p><p>-- Sports &amp; Outdoors: Suunto T6 Wristop personal trainer with heart rate monitor</p><p>-- Home Improvement: Leatherman Skeletool CX multitool</p><p>-- Automotive: Accutire MS-4350B programmable digital tire gauge</p><p>-- Jewelry: Sterling silver open double flower pendant</p><p>-- Watches: Bulova women's diamond chronograph watch</p><p>-- Beauty: Bare Escentuals Get Started Eyes</p><p>-- Baby: The First Years Sure To Comfort newborn to toddler tub</p><p>-- Toys: Magnetix I-Coaster</p><p>Most Popular Gift Products</p><p>The following is a list of products most frequently purchased as gifts by Amazon.com customers in 2007:</p><p>-- Books: "Eat, Pray, Love" by Elizabeth Gilbert</p><p>-- Music: "Noel" by Josh Groban</p><p>-- DVD: "Planet Earth: The Complete BBC Series"</p><p>-- Electronics: Apple 4 GB iPod nano (3rd Generation)</p><p>-- Home &amp; Garden: George Foreman Next Grilleration removable-plate grill</p><p>-- Health &amp; Personal Care: Omron Pocket Pedometer</p><p>-- Grocery: Numi's Bouquet bamboo gift set</p><p>-- Gourmet: "Soup's On" gift basket by Wine Country Gift Baskets</p><p>-- Computers: Apple MacBook notebook PC</p><p>-- Software: Adobe Photoshop Elements 6</p><p>-- Video Games: Super Mario Galaxy</p><p>-- Apparel &amp; Accessories: V Fraas women's cashmere knit scarf and glove set</p><p>-- Shoes and handbags (Amazon.com and Endless.com): Slippers International women's Fluff Scuff slipper</p><p>-- Sports &amp; Outdoors: Garrity Power Lite 3 LED crank light</p><p>-- Home Improvement: Black &amp; Decker 8-inch auto wrench</p><p>-- Automotive: LifeHammer original emergency hammer</p><p>-- Jewelry: 14k gold, round diamond stud earrings</p><p>-- Watches: Movado Women's Amorosa watch</p><p>-- Beauty: Burt's Bees Head to Toe Starter Kit</p><p>-- Baby: Mozart Magic Cube</p><p>-- Toys: IlluStory Make Your Own Story Kit</p><p>About Amazon.com</p><p>Amazon.com, Inc., (Nasdaq:AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com, Inc. seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden.</p><p>Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and the Joyo Amazon websites at www.joyo.cn and www.amazon.cn.</p><p>As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise.</p><p>Forward-Looking Statements</p><p>This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, new products, services and technologies, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, government regulation and taxation, payments and fraud. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2006, and all subsequent filings.</p><p>SOURCE: Amazon.com, Inc.</p><p>Amazon.comAmazon Media Hotline, 206-266-7180</p>

Amazon MP3 Adds Music Audio Downloads from Warner Music Group

/news/news-details/2007/Amazon-MP3-Adds-Music-Audio-Downloads-from-Warner-Music-Group/default.aspx

Amazon-MP3-Adds-Music-Audio-Downloads-from-Warner-Music-Group

12/27/2007 09:02:00

Amazon MP3 Adds Music Audio Downloads from Warner Music Group

12/27/2007

2007

Customers Can Now Choose from More Than 2.9 Million MP3 Songs on Amazon MP3, Including Music from Warner Music's Renowned Catalog of Artists SEATTLE & NEW YORK, Dec 27, 2007 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- Amazon.com (NASDAQ:AMZN) and Warner Music Group (NYSE:WMG) today announced that DRM-free music audio downloads from Warner Music Group are now available to customers on Amazon MP3, Amazon's a la carte MP3 digital music store where every song and album is playable on virtually any personal digital music capable device. Beginning today, songs from WMG's digital audio catalog will be available for purchase and download from Amazon MP3. In addition, Amazon and WMG will make available to consumers digital music products such as album bundles containing exclusive tracks. "Our customers are delighted with our DRM-free MP3 service. We have received thousands of emails from our customers since our September launch thanking us for offering the biggest selection of high-quality MP3 audio downloads which play on virtually any music device they own today or will own in the future," said Bill Carr, Amazon.com Vice President of Digital Music. "With the addition of great Warner Music Group content, our customers will discover even more of the music they love on Amazon MP3." "Consumers want flexibility with respect to what they can do with music once they purchase it, and we want them to have that flexibility, which is why we're pleased to offer our artists' music on Amazon MP3," said Michael Nash, Senior Vice President, Digital Strategy and Business Development for Warner Music Group. "We believe that giving consumers the assurance that the music they purchase can be played on any device they own will only encourage more sales of music. Amazon shares our vision with respect to offering feature-rich music based digital products, and we look forward to making available an array of exciting new digital products over time that will transform the relationship between and among consumers, labels and artists." About Amazon MP3 Launched in September 2007, Amazon MP3 (www.amazon.com/mp3) offers Earth's biggest selection of a la carte DRM-free MP3 music downloads with more than 2.9 million songs from over 33,000 record labels. -- Every song and album in the Amazon.com digital music store is available exclusively in the MP3 format without digital rights management (DRM) software. Amazon's DRM-free MP3 format enables customers to play their music on virtually any personal digital music capable device--including PCs, Macs(TM), iPods(TM), iPhones(TM), Zunes(TM), Zens(TM)--and to burn songs to CDs for these customers' personal use. -- Most songs available on Amazon MP3 are priced from 89 cents to 99 cents, with more than 1 million of the over 2.9 million songs priced at 89 cents. The top 100 best-selling songs are 89 cents, unless marked otherwise. Most albums are priced from $5.99 to $9.99. The top 100 best-selling albums are $8.99 or less, unless marked otherwise.(a) -- Every song on Amazon MP3 is encoded at 256 kilobits per second, which gives customers high audio quality at a manageable file size. -- Buying and downloading MP3s from Amazon MP3 is easy. Customers can purchase downloads using Amazon 1-Click(R) shopping, and, with the Amazon MP3 Downloader, seamlessly add their MP3s to their iTunes or Windows Media Player libraries. (a)Taxes may apply in certain jurisdictions. About Warner Music Group Warner Music Group became the only stand-alone music company to be publicly traded in the United States in May 2005. With its broad roster of new stars and legendary artists, Warner Music Group is home to a collection of the best-known record labels in the music industry, including Asylum, Atlantic, Bad Boy, Cordless, East West, Elektra, Lava, Nonesuch, Reprise, Rhino, Roadrunner, Rykodisc, Sire, Warner Bros. and Word. Warner Music International, a leading company in national and international repertoire, operates through numerous international affiliates and licensees in more than 50 countries. Warner Music Group also includes Warner/Chappell Music, one of the world's leading music publishers, with a catalog of more than one million copyrights worldwide. About Amazon.com Amazon.com, Inc., (NASDAQ:AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com, Inc. seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden. Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and the Joyo Amazon websites at www.joyo.cn and www.amazon.cn. As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise. Forward-Looking Statements This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, new products, services and technologies, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, government regulation and taxation, payments and fraud. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2006, and all subsequent filings. SOURCE: Amazon.com, Inc. and Warner Music Group Amazon.comAmazon.com Media Hotline, 206-266-7180http://www.amazon.com/prorWarner Music GroupWill Tanous, 212-275-2244will.tanous@wmg.com

<center>Customers Can Now Choose from More Than 2.9 Million MP3 Songs on Amazon MP3, Including Music from Warner Music's Renowned Catalog of Artists</center><p>SEATTLE &amp; NEW YORK, Dec 27, 2007 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- Amazon.com (NASDAQ:AMZN) and Warner Music Group (NYSE:WMG) today announced that DRM-free music audio downloads from Warner Music Group are now available to customers on Amazon MP3, Amazon's a la carte MP3 digital music store where every song and album is playable on virtually any personal digital music capable device. Beginning today, songs from WMG's digital audio catalog will be available for purchase and download from Amazon MP3. In addition, Amazon and WMG will make available to consumers digital music products such as album bundles containing exclusive tracks.</p><p>"Our customers are delighted with our DRM-free MP3 service. We have received thousands of emails from our customers since our September launch thanking us for offering the biggest selection of high-quality MP3 audio downloads which play on virtually any music device they own today or will own in the future," said Bill Carr, Amazon.com Vice President of Digital Music. "With the addition of great Warner Music Group content, our customers will discover even more of the music they love on Amazon MP3."</p><p>"Consumers want flexibility with respect to what they can do with music once they purchase it, and we want them to have that flexibility, which is why we're pleased to offer our artists' music on Amazon MP3," said Michael Nash, Senior Vice President, Digital Strategy and Business Development for Warner Music Group. "We believe that giving consumers the assurance that the music they purchase can be played on any device they own will only encourage more sales of music. Amazon shares our vision with respect to offering feature-rich music based digital products, and we look forward to making available an array of exciting new digital products over time that will transform the relationship between and among consumers, labels and artists."</p><p>About Amazon MP3</p><p>Launched in September 2007, Amazon MP3 (www.amazon.com/mp3) offers Earth's biggest selection of a la carte DRM-free MP3 music downloads with more than 2.9 million songs from over 33,000 record labels.</p><p>-- Every song and album in the Amazon.com digital music store is available exclusively in the MP3 format without digital rights management (DRM) software. Amazon's DRM-free MP3 format enables customers to play their music on virtually any personal digital music capable device--including PCs, Macs(TM), iPods(TM), iPhones(TM), Zunes(TM), Zens(TM)--and to burn songs to CDs for these customers' personal use.</p><p>-- Most songs available on Amazon MP3 are priced from 89 cents to 99 cents, with more than 1 million of the over 2.9 million songs priced at 89 cents. The top 100 best-selling songs are 89 cents, unless marked otherwise. Most albums are priced from $5.99 to $9.99. The top 100 best-selling albums are $8.99 or less, unless marked otherwise.(a)</p><p>-- Every song on Amazon MP3 is encoded at 256 kilobits per second, which gives customers high audio quality at a manageable file size.</p><p>-- Buying and downloading MP3s from Amazon MP3 is easy. Customers can purchase downloads using Amazon 1-Click(R) shopping, and, with the Amazon MP3 Downloader, seamlessly add their MP3s to their iTunes or Windows Media Player libraries.</p><p>(a)Taxes may apply in certain jurisdictions.</p><p>About Warner Music Group</p><p>Warner Music Group became the only stand-alone music company to be publicly traded in the United States in May 2005. With its broad roster of new stars and legendary artists, Warner Music Group is home to a collection of the best-known record labels in the music industry, including Asylum, Atlantic, Bad Boy, Cordless, East West, Elektra, Lava, Nonesuch, Reprise, Rhino, Roadrunner, Rykodisc, Sire, Warner Bros. and Word. Warner Music International, a leading company in national and international repertoire, operates through numerous international affiliates and licensees in more than 50 countries. Warner Music Group also includes Warner/Chappell Music, one of the world's leading music publishers, with a catalog of more than one million copyrights worldwide.</p><p>About Amazon.com</p><p>Amazon.com, Inc., (NASDAQ:AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com, Inc. seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden.</p><p>Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and the Joyo Amazon websites at www.joyo.cn and www.amazon.cn.</p><p>As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise.</p><p>Forward-Looking Statements</p><p>This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, new products, services and technologies, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, government regulation and taxation, payments and fraud. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2006, and all subsequent filings.</p><p>SOURCE: Amazon.com, Inc. and Warner Music Group</p><p>Amazon.comAmazon.com Media Hotline, 206-266-7180http://www.amazon.com/prorWarner Music GroupWill Tanous, 212-275-2244will.tanous@wmg.com</p>

Amazon.com Wraps Up Its 13th Holiday With Best Season Ever

/news/news-details/2007/Amazon.com-Wraps-Up-Its-13th-Holiday-With-Best-Season-Ever/default.aspx

Amazon.com-Wraps-Up-Its-13th-Holiday-With-Best-Season-Ever

12/26/2007 06:01:00

Amazon.com Wraps Up Its 13th Holiday With Best Season Ever

12/26/2007

2007

SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Dec. 26, 2007--Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ:AMZN) today announced the 2007 holiday season finished as its best ever, with its busiest day being December 10. On that day, Amazon customers ordered more than 5.4 million items, which is 62.5 items per second. In addition, the company wrapped up its second year of Amazon Customers Vote, with more than 4.6 million votes cast during the promotion. "We are very grateful to our customers," said Jeff Bezos, founder and CEO of Amazon.com. "On behalf of Amazon.com employees around the globe, we wish everyone happy holidays and best wishes for 2008." Amazon Worldwide 2007 Holiday Facts (Includes www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.co.jp, and www.amazon.ca) -- Amazon shipped more than 99 percent of orders in time to meet holiday deadlines worldwide.-- On the peak day this season, Amazon's worldwide fulfillment network shipped over 3.9 million units.-- Amazon shipped to over 200 countries.-- One of our most remote shipments was "Full Metal Panic Fumoffu - Full Metal Pandemonium" (Vol. 1) DVD and "Full Metal Panic Fumoffu - Full Metal Fracas" (Vol. 2) DVD delivered to Barrow, Alaska.-- Amazon shipped over 160,000 shipments to APO/FPO addresses. Amazon.com 2007 Holiday Facts (www.amazon.com Only) -- Amazon.com sold Nintendo Wii systems at approximately 17 per second when they were in stock.-- Amazon.com sold enough high-def DVD players to cover seven football fields.-- If you lined up all of the GPS units Amazon.com sold this holiday, they would make a trail from New York to Philadelphia; however, a new trail wouldn't be necessary with the use of a GPS.-- Amazon.com sold enough auto wrenches to stretch all the way around the Daytona 500 track.-- Amazon.com sold enough Hannah Montana wigs to outfit the entire audience at her December 20th show in Providence, RI.-- Amazon.com's One-Day Shipping was extended an extra day through Sunday, December 23rd for Prime members this holiday season.-- The last Prime order placed on December 23 in time for Christmas delivery contained "Futurama, Vol. 1" DVD, "Lost in Translation" DVD, "A Charlie Brown Christmas" CD, "The Fountainhead" by Ayn Rand paperback, "Bridge Over Troubled Water" CD, and "Pulp Fiction" (Two-Disc Collector's Edition) DVD delivered to Herndon, VA on December 24th. Amazon.com's Hot Holiday Best Sellers (Nov. 15 through Dec. 19 Based on Units Ordered) -- In Toys, top sellers included Jakks EyeClops Bionic Eye, IlluStory Make Your Own Story Kit and Spinmaster Air Hogs Havoc Heli.-- Top sellers in video games and hardware included Nintendo Wii, "Super Mario Galaxy" and "Call of Duty 4."-- In DVDs, top sellers included "Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix," "Planet Earth: The Complete BBC Series" and "Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End."-- Top sellers in books included "Eat, Pray, Love" by Elizabeth Gilbert, "The Dangerous Book for Boys" by Conn Iggulden and Hal Iggulden and "I Am America (And So Can You)" by Stephen Colbert.-- In music, top sellers included "Noel" by Josh Groban, "Raising Sand" by Robert Plant and Alison Krauss and "As I Am" by Alicia Keys.-- Top sellers in consumer electronics included the Garmin GPS, Canon PowerShot digital Elph cameras and Samsung LCD HDTVs.-- Top sellers in the Beauty Store included Burt's Bees Head to Toe Starter Kit, Imju Fiberwig mascara and Bare Escentuals Get Started Kit.-- In PCs, the top sellers included Apple MacBook, Nokia Internet Tablet PC and HP Pavilion Entertainment Notebook PC.-- Popular shoes and handbags at Amazon.com and Endless.com included the FEED bag, FRYE women's Campus tall boot and FRYE women's Adrienne Button tall boot.-- Top sellers in apparel and accessories included Kenneth Cole Reaction men's Eden wool pea coat, Gruppo Italiano women's cashmere-lined leather glove and Red Moon women's long sleeve cashmere turtleneck.-- The top-selling products in Amazon's Automotive Parts & Accessories Store included Black & Decker Simple Start battery booster, Actron diagnostic code scanner and Highland waterproof car top carrier.-- Top sellers in home improvement included Black & Decker auto wrench, Black & Decker Gecko grip level and Leatherman Micra multitool.-- The top-selling items in the Sports and Outdoors Store included the Ripstik caster board, Perfect Pushup and Bowflex Series 7 treadmill.-- Jewelry top sellers included sterling silver open double flower pendant, sterling silver Filigree circle pendant and 14k yellow gold four prong oval peridot stud earrings.-- Top-selling watches included the Timex heart rate monitor watch, LEGO Kids' Star Wars Darth Vader watch and Skagen women's Silver Dial mesh bracelet watch.-- The top-selling home and garden items included KitchenAid stand mixers (various colors), Pinzon Microtech throw (various colors) and Foreman removable-plate grills.-- Top-selling items in the Baby Store included Munchkin Mozart Magic Cube, Lamaze Spin & Explore Garden Gym and Lamaze Musical Inchworm.-- Top-selling items in Amazon's Grocery Store included Numi's Bouquet bamboo gift set, Lavazza Crema e Aroma coffee beans and Senseo Douwe Egberts dark roast coffee pods.-- Top-selling items in Amazon's Gourmet Food Store included Soup's On gift basket by Wine Country Gift Baskets, Starbucks assortment gift basket by Wine Country Gift Baskets, and Fireworks popcorn and seasoning set.-- Top-sellers in health and personal care included the Braun Pulsonic system with LCD screen, Farouk CHI ceramic flat hairstyling iron and Homedics Therapist Select quad-roller massaging cushion with heat. About Amazon.com Amazon.com, Inc., (Nasdaq:AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com, Inc. seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden. Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and the Joyo Amazon websites at www.joyo.cn and www.amazon.cn. As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise. Forward-Looking Statements This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, new products, services and technologies, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, government regulation and taxation, payments and fraud. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2006, and all subsequent filings. CONTACT: Amazon Media Hotline206-266-7180SOURCE: Amazon.com, Inc.

<p>SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Dec. 26, 2007--Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ:AMZN) today announced the 2007 holiday season finished as its best ever, with its busiest day being December 10. On that day, Amazon customers ordered more than 5.4 million items, which is 62.5 items per second. In addition, the company wrapped up its second year of Amazon Customers Vote, with more than 4.6 million votes cast during the promotion.</p><p>"We are very grateful to our customers," said Jeff Bezos, founder and CEO of Amazon.com. "On behalf of Amazon.com employees around the globe, we wish everyone happy holidays and best wishes for 2008."</p><p>Amazon Worldwide 2007 Holiday Facts (Includes www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.co.jp, and www.amazon.ca)</p><p>-- Amazon shipped more than 99 percent of orders in time to meet holiday deadlines worldwide.-- On the peak day this season, Amazon's worldwide fulfillment network shipped over 3.9 million units.-- Amazon shipped to over 200 countries.-- One of our most remote shipments was "Full Metal Panic Fumoffu - Full Metal Pandemonium" (Vol. 1) DVD and "Full Metal Panic Fumoffu - Full Metal Fracas" (Vol. 2) DVD delivered to Barrow, Alaska.-- Amazon shipped over 160,000 shipments to APO/FPO addresses.</p><p>Amazon.com 2007 Holiday Facts (www.amazon.com Only)</p><p>-- Amazon.com sold Nintendo Wii systems at approximately 17 per second when they were in stock.-- Amazon.com sold enough high-def DVD players to cover seven football fields.-- If you lined up all of the GPS units Amazon.com sold this holiday, they would make a trail from New York to Philadelphia; however, a new trail wouldn't be necessary with the use of a GPS.-- Amazon.com sold enough auto wrenches to stretch all the way around the Daytona 500 track.-- Amazon.com sold enough Hannah Montana wigs to outfit the entire audience at her December 20th show in Providence, RI.-- Amazon.com's One-Day Shipping was extended an extra day through Sunday, December 23rd for Prime members this holiday season.-- The last Prime order placed on December 23 in time for Christmas delivery contained "Futurama, Vol. 1" DVD, "Lost in Translation" DVD, "A Charlie Brown Christmas" CD, "The Fountainhead" by Ayn Rand paperback, "Bridge Over Troubled Water" CD, and "Pulp Fiction" (Two-Disc Collector's Edition) DVD delivered to Herndon, VA on December 24th.</p><p>Amazon.com's Hot Holiday Best Sellers (Nov. 15 through Dec. 19 Based on Units Ordered)</p><p>-- In Toys, top sellers included Jakks EyeClops Bionic Eye, IlluStory Make Your Own Story Kit and Spinmaster Air Hogs Havoc Heli.-- Top sellers in video games and hardware included Nintendo Wii, "Super Mario Galaxy" and "Call of Duty 4."-- In DVDs, top sellers included "Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix," "Planet Earth: The Complete BBC Series" and "Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End."-- Top sellers in books included "Eat, Pray, Love" by Elizabeth Gilbert, "The Dangerous Book for Boys" by Conn Iggulden and Hal Iggulden and "I Am America (And So Can You)" by Stephen Colbert.-- In music, top sellers included "Noel" by Josh Groban, "Raising Sand" by Robert Plant and Alison Krauss and "As I Am" by Alicia Keys.-- Top sellers in consumer electronics included the Garmin GPS, Canon PowerShot digital Elph cameras and Samsung LCD HDTVs.-- Top sellers in the Beauty Store included Burt's Bees Head to Toe Starter Kit, Imju Fiberwig mascara and Bare Escentuals Get Started Kit.-- In PCs, the top sellers included Apple MacBook, Nokia Internet Tablet PC and HP Pavilion Entertainment Notebook PC.-- Popular shoes and handbags at Amazon.com and Endless.com included the FEED bag, FRYE women's Campus tall boot and FRYE women's Adrienne Button tall boot.-- Top sellers in apparel and accessories included Kenneth Cole Reaction men's Eden wool pea coat, Gruppo Italiano women's cashmere-lined leather glove and Red Moon women's long sleeve cashmere turtleneck.-- The top-selling products in Amazon's Automotive Parts &amp; Accessories Store included Black &amp; Decker Simple Start battery booster, Actron diagnostic code scanner and Highland waterproof car top carrier.-- Top sellers in home improvement included Black &amp; Decker auto wrench, Black &amp; Decker Gecko grip level and Leatherman Micra multitool.-- The top-selling items in the Sports and Outdoors Store included the Ripstik caster board, Perfect Pushup and Bowflex Series 7 treadmill.-- Jewelry top sellers included sterling silver open double flower pendant, sterling silver Filigree circle pendant and 14k yellow gold four prong oval peridot stud earrings.-- Top-selling watches included the Timex heart rate monitor watch, LEGO Kids' Star Wars Darth Vader watch and Skagen women's Silver Dial mesh bracelet watch.-- The top-selling home and garden items included KitchenAid stand mixers (various colors), Pinzon Microtech throw (various colors) and Foreman removable-plate grills.-- Top-selling items in the Baby Store included Munchkin Mozart Magic Cube, Lamaze Spin &amp; Explore Garden Gym and Lamaze Musical Inchworm.-- Top-selling items in Amazon's Grocery Store included Numi's Bouquet bamboo gift set, Lavazza Crema e Aroma coffee beans and Senseo Douwe Egberts dark roast coffee pods.-- Top-selling items in Amazon's Gourmet Food Store included Soup's On gift basket by Wine Country Gift Baskets, Starbucks assortment gift basket by Wine Country Gift Baskets, and Fireworks popcorn and seasoning set.-- Top-sellers in health and personal care included the Braun Pulsonic system with LCD screen, Farouk CHI ceramic flat hairstyling iron and Homedics Therapist Select quad-roller massaging cushion with heat.</p><p>About Amazon.com</p><p>Amazon.com, Inc., (Nasdaq:AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com, Inc. seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden.</p><p>Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and the Joyo Amazon websites at www.joyo.cn and www.amazon.cn.</p><p>As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise.</p><p>Forward-Looking Statements</p><p>This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, new products, services and technologies, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, government regulation and taxation, payments and fraud. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2006, and all subsequent filings.</p><p>CONTACT: Amazon Media Hotline206-266-7180SOURCE: Amazon.com, Inc.</p>

Amazon.fr annonce un noël record

/news/news-details/2007/Amazon.fr-annonce-un-nol-record/default.aspx

Amazon.fr-annonce-un-nol-record

12/26/2007 00:00:00

Amazon.fr annonce un noël record

12/26/2007

2007

PARIS - le 26 décembre 2007 - Amazon.fr annonce aujourd'hui que le site a connu cette année le meilleur noël de ses 7 années d'existence en France. Et ce grâce à la fidélité de ses clients. Cette année, Amazon.fr a proposé une plus large sélection d'articles avec trois nouveaux magasins lancés en 2007 - Jeux & Jouets, Cuisine & Maison et Montres & Bijoux. " Nous sommes particulièrement ravis d'avoir pu offrir cette année à nos clients une sélection extrêmement large de cadeaux pour noël " précise Xavier Garambois, directeur général d'Amazon.fr. "Nous tenons à remercier tous nos clients d'avoir fait de ce noël le meilleur qu'Amazon.fr ait connu depuis sa création, et nous nous attacherons à assurer notre qualité de service pour 2008, comme nous l'avons fait pour 2007." Parmi les faits marquants d'Amazon.fr pour ce noël, il est important de noter les éléments suivants : Les internautes, qui souhaitaient être livrés à temps pour noël, ont pu passer leur commande jusqu'au 22 décembre à 10h00 Nous nous réjouissons du succès de notre magasin Jeux & Jouets pour son premier noël. Le choix de plus de 25 000 références que nous avons proposé a fait la joie de nos clients Le produit le plus vendu sur Amazon.fr toutes catégories de produits confondues est le Picoo-Z de Silverlit 100% de nos livraisons ont été réalisées dans les délais annoncés Meilleures ventes de noël sur Amazon.fr Les meilleures ventes de produits pour noël sur Amazon.fr et par catégorie de produits sont les suivantes (chiffres basés sur le nombre d'unités vendues depuis le 1er novembre) : Livres "Chagrin d'école" de Daniel Pennac "XIII, Tome 18 : La version irlandaise" de Jean Van Hamme et William Vance "Une vie" de Simone Veil "XIII, Tome 19 : Le dernier round" de Jean Van Hamme et William Vance "Harry Potter et les reliques de la mort" de J.K. Rowling Musique Yael Naïm / "Yael Naïm" (Warner Music) Amy Winehouse / "Back to Black" (Universal Music) Florent Pagny / "Pagny chante Brel" (Universal Music) Thomas Dutronc / "Comme un manouche sans guitare" (Universal Music) Christophe Maé / "Mon Paradis" (Warner Music) DVD Pirates des Caraibes 3: Jusqu'au bout du monde Shrek, le troisième Twin Peaks, Saison 2 Partie 1 - Coffret 4 DVD Le livre de la jungle - Edition collector 2 DVD La vie des autres Jeux Vidéos Console Nintendo Wii - Pack Sports Super Mario Galaxie pour Nintendo Wii Programme d'entraînement cérébral du Pr Kawashima pour Nintendo DS Console Nintendo DS Lite noire Wiimote blanche Logiciels Norton Internet Security 2008 (3 postes) Kaspersky Anti-virus 7.0 (2 Postes, 1 an) Kaspersky Internet Security 7.0 (2 Postes, 1 an) Jeune Styliste 5 Nature Microsoft Office Famille et Etudiant 2007 CE Canon Ixus 860IS - Canon DIGIC III - 8 Mpix - stabilisé - zoom grand angle - silver Samsung - Moniteur LCD 22" - SyncMaster 2232BW TomTom ONE XL - Europe Panasonic - DMC TZ3EF-K - 7,2 Mpix - zoom optique 10x - stabilisé - grand angle 28mm - noir TELEFUNKEN Digicadre 8001 Jeux & Jouets Picoo-Z de Silverlit Game High school Musical Game Jungle Speed Preschool Aquadoodle Girls Menagerie Petshop Cuisine & Maison Bestron - Dry883 - Coupe Poils Nez, Oreilles - à Piles Figuine - Fi.Choco - Le Maître Chocolatier Vaova - Bm - 450 - Machine à Pain Severin - 3516 - Yaourtière, Blanc / Gris, 13 W, Ronde, 7 Pots Bestron - Dsa9008 - Coupe Poils Nez, Oreilles - à Piles - Wet & Dry Montres & Bijoux Guess - 70607L1 - Montre mode Femme - Quartz analogique - Bracelet en Acier The One - KT102B1 - Montre Homme - Quartz - Système affichage binaire par Led - Bracelet en cuir noir Guess - I70607L2 - montre Femme - Bracelet en Acier Swatch - SUBB111G Evening Only - Analogue - montre Femme - Bracelet en Acier Inoxydable Diesel - DZ7070 - Digital - Montre Homme - Bracelet en cuir noir Produits les plus plébiscités sur Amazon.fr Livres "Chagrin d'école" de Daniel Pennac "Millenium, Tome 1: Les hommes qui n'aimaient pas les femmes" de Stieg Larsson "Une vie" de Simone Veil "A la croisée des mondes : L'intégrale" de Philip Pullman "L'élégance du hérisson" de Muriel Barbery Musique Yael Naïm / "Yael Naïm" (Warner Music) Amy Winehouse / "Back to Black" (Universal Music) Vanessa Paradis / "Divinidylle" (Universal Music) Thomas Dutronc / "Comme un manouche sans guitare" (Universal Music) James Blunt / "All the lost souls" (Warner Music) DVD Pirates des Caraibes 3: Jusqu'au bout du monde Shrek, le troisième Ensemble c'est tout Blade Runner - Coffret ultimate Edition en 5 DVD Le livre de la jungle - Edition collector 2 DVD CE Apple - iPod Touch - 8 Go - Noir MEMUP - Disque dur externe MEMUP - KOOGAR - 500 Go Coskin - Mini Horloge Cadre Photos 1,5" - 72 photos Samsung - Moniteur LCD 22" - SyncMaster 2232BW IISonic - Decodeur TNT Iisonic avec 1 Tuner et 2 péritels Couleur Noir Jeux Vidéos Super Mario Galaxie pour Nintendo Wii Console Nintendo Wii - Pack Sports Programme d'entraînement cérébral du Pr Kawashima pour Nintendo DS " La légende de Zelda " pour Nintendo DS Programme d'entraînement cérébral avancé pour Nintendo DS Logiciels Microsoft Office Famille et Etudiant 2007 + 1 carte Cinémea DUO offerte (3 postes) Norton Internet Security 2008 (3 postes) Tell Me More Performance V9 2008 Anglais (10 niveaux) Il était une Fois la Vie Adibou J'apprends à lire et à compter 6/7ans Jeux & Jouets Picoo-Z de Silverlit Game High school Musical Game Jungle Speed Preschool Aquadoodle Girls Menagerie Petshop Cuisine & Maison Philips LivingColors LED Severin - 3516 - Yaourtière, Blanc / Gris, 13 W, Ronde, 7 Pots Bestron - Dsa2129 - Nettoyeur Visage Figuine - Fi.Choco - Le Maître Chocolatier Figuine - Fi.Df303A - Appareil à Beignets / Donuts Montres & Bijoux Guess - 70607L1 - Montre mode Femme - Quartz analogique - Bracelet en Acier The One - KT102B1 - Montre Homme - Quartz - Système affichage binaire par Led - Bracelet en cuir noir Guess - I70607L2 - montre Femme - Bracelet en Acier Swatch - SUBB111G Evening Only - Analogue - montre Femme - Bracelet en Acier Inoxydable Diesel - DZ7070 - Digital - Montre Homme - Bracelet en cuir noir La plateforme de revente d'Amazon.fr Pour le cas où les cadeaux que vous avez reçus ne vous plaisent pas, les clients d'Amazon.fr peuvent parfaitement les revendre sur Amazon Marketplace (www.amazon.fr/marketplace). Les particuliers n'ont uniquement qu'à remplir une liste des produits à vendre, recevoir les bons de commande, livrer les produits et recevoir le paiement… quoi de plus simple ? À propos du site Amazon.fr Le site Amazon.fr a ouvert ses portes virtuelles en août 2000. Amazon met tout en œuvre pour remplir la mission qu'elle s'est fixée : mettre ses clients au cœur de ses préoccupations. Ils peuvent ainsi à tout moment trouver en ligne ce qu'ils ont envie d'acheter, et y faire de nombreuses découvertes. Amazon.fr et les vendeurs tiers proposent aujourd'hui des millions de produits neufs, d'occasion et de collection en livres en français et en anglais, en CD, vidéos, DVD, logiciels, CD-Rom, jeux vidéo, produits d'électronique grand public et Jeux & Jouets. Chez Amazon.fr, les clients bénéficient de la technologie d'achat en ligne et du savoir-faire du numéro un de cette industrie, tels le paiement sécurisé, les recommandations personnalisées, l'ergonomie et les outils très poussés de recherche ainsi que l'achat rapide et facile grâce à la commande 1-Click . Amazon.com & ses affiliés proposent 7 sites web : www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.ca, et www.joyo.com. Comme mentionné ci-dessus, " Amazon.com ", " nous ", " notre " et les termes similaires incluent Amazon.com, Inc. et ses filiales sauf utilisation différente suivant le contexte. Pour toute demande d'information relative à ce lancement ou pour être mis en contact avec le porte-parole d'Amazon.fr, merci de contacter : Amazon.fr+33 01 56 60 49 00E-mail : presse@amazon.fr

<p>PARIS - le 26 décembre 2007 - Amazon.fr annonce aujourd'hui que le site a connu cette année le meilleur noël de ses 7 années d'existence en France. Et ce grâce à la fidélité de ses clients. Cette année, Amazon.fr a proposé une plus large sélection d'articles avec trois nouveaux magasins lancés en 2007 - Jeux &amp; Jouets, Cuisine &amp; Maison et Montres &amp; Bijoux.</p><p>" Nous sommes particulièrement ravis d'avoir pu offrir cette année à nos clients une sélection extrêmement large de cadeaux pour noël " précise Xavier Garambois, directeur général d'Amazon.fr. "Nous tenons à remercier tous nos clients d'avoir fait de ce noël le meilleur qu'Amazon.fr ait connu depuis sa création, et nous nous attacherons à assurer notre qualité de service pour 2008, comme nous l'avons fait pour 2007."</p><p>Parmi les faits marquants d'Amazon.fr pour ce noël, il est important de noter les éléments suivants :</p><ul>Les internautes, qui souhaitaient être livrés à temps pour noël, ont pu passer leur commande jusqu'au 22 décembre à 10h00Nous nous réjouissons du succès de notre magasin Jeux &amp; Jouets pour son premier noël. Le choix de plus de 25 000 références que nous avons proposé a fait la joie de nos clientsLe produit le plus vendu sur Amazon.fr toutes catégories de produits confondues est le Picoo-Z de Silverlit100% de nos livraisons ont été réalisées dans les délais annoncés</ul><p>Meilleures ventes de noël sur Amazon.fr</p><p>Les meilleures ventes de produits pour noël sur Amazon.fr et par catégorie de produits sont les suivantes (chiffres basés sur le nombre d'unités vendues depuis le 1er novembre) :</p><p>Livres</p><ol>"Chagrin d'école" de Daniel Pennac"XIII, Tome 18 : La version irlandaise" de Jean Van Hamme et William Vance"Une vie" de Simone Veil"XIII, Tome 19 : Le dernier round" de Jean Van Hamme et William Vance"Harry Potter et les reliques de la mort" de J.K. Rowling</ol><p>Musique</p><ol>Yael Naïm / "Yael Naïm" (Warner Music)Amy Winehouse / "Back to Black" (Universal Music)Florent Pagny / "Pagny chante Brel" (Universal Music)Thomas Dutronc / "Comme un manouche sans guitare" (Universal Music)Christophe Maé / "Mon Paradis" (Warner Music)</ol><p>DVD</p><ol>Pirates des Caraibes 3: Jusqu'au bout du mondeShrek, le troisièmeTwin Peaks, Saison 2 Partie 1 - Coffret 4 DVDLe livre de la jungle - Edition collector 2 DVDLa vie des autres</ol><p>Jeux Vidéos</p><ol>Console Nintendo Wii - Pack SportsSuper Mario Galaxie pour Nintendo WiiProgramme d'entraînement cérébral du Pr Kawashima pour Nintendo DSConsole Nintendo DS Lite noireWiimote blanche</ol><p>Logiciels</p><ol>Norton Internet Security 2008 (3 postes)Kaspersky Anti-virus 7.0 (2 Postes, 1 an)Kaspersky Internet Security 7.0 (2 Postes, 1 an)Jeune Styliste 5 NatureMicrosoft Office Famille et Etudiant 2007</ol><p>CE</p><ol>Canon Ixus 860IS - Canon DIGIC III - 8 Mpix - stabilisé - zoom grand angle - silverSamsung - Moniteur LCD 22" - SyncMaster 2232BWTomTom ONE XL - EuropePanasonic - DMC TZ3EF-K - 7,2 Mpix - zoom optique 10x - stabilisé - grand angle 28mm - noirTELEFUNKEN Digicadre 8001</ol><p>Jeux &amp; Jouets</p><ol>Picoo-Z de SilverlitGame High school MusicalGame Jungle SpeedPreschool AquadoodleGirls Menagerie Petshop</ol><p>Cuisine &amp; Maison</p><ol>Bestron - Dry883 - Coupe Poils Nez, Oreilles - à PilesFiguine - Fi.Choco - Le Maître ChocolatierVaova - Bm - 450 - Machine à PainSeverin - 3516 - Yaourtière, Blanc / Gris, 13 W, Ronde, 7 PotsBestron - Dsa9008 - Coupe Poils Nez, Oreilles - à Piles - Wet &amp; Dry</ol><p>Montres &amp; Bijoux</p><ol>Guess - 70607L1 - Montre mode Femme - Quartz analogique - Bracelet en AcierThe One - KT102B1 - Montre Homme - Quartz - Système affichage binaire par Led - Bracelet en cuir noirGuess - I70607L2 - montre Femme - Bracelet en AcierSwatch - SUBB111G Evening Only - Analogue - montre Femme - Bracelet en Acier InoxydableDiesel - DZ7070 - Digital - Montre Homme - Bracelet en cuir noir</ol><p>Produits les plus plébiscités sur Amazon.fr</p><p>Livres</p><ol>"Chagrin d'école" de Daniel Pennac"Millenium, Tome 1: Les hommes qui n'aimaient pas les femmes" de Stieg Larsson"Une vie" de Simone Veil"A la croisée des mondes : L'intégrale" de Philip Pullman"L'élégance du hérisson" de Muriel Barbery</ol><p>Musique</p><ol>Yael Naïm / "Yael Naïm" (Warner Music)Amy Winehouse / "Back to Black" (Universal Music)Vanessa Paradis / "Divinidylle" (Universal Music)Thomas Dutronc / "Comme un manouche sans guitare" (Universal Music)James Blunt / "All the lost souls" (Warner Music)</ol><p>DVD</p><ol>Pirates des Caraibes 3: Jusqu'au bout du mondeShrek, le troisièmeEnsemble c'est toutBlade Runner - Coffret ultimate Edition en 5 DVDLe livre de la jungle - Edition collector 2 DVD</ol><p>CE</p><ol>Apple - iPod Touch - 8 Go - NoirMEMUP - Disque dur externe MEMUP - KOOGAR - 500 GoCoskin - Mini Horloge Cadre Photos 1,5" - 72 photosSamsung - Moniteur LCD 22" - SyncMaster 2232BWIISonic - Decodeur TNT Iisonic avec 1 Tuner et 2 péritels Couleur Noir</ol><p>Jeux Vidéos</p><ol>Super Mario Galaxie pour Nintendo WiiConsole Nintendo Wii - Pack SportsProgramme d'entraînement cérébral du Pr Kawashima pour Nintendo DS" La légende de Zelda " pour Nintendo DSProgramme d'entraînement cérébral avancé pour Nintendo DS</ol><p>Logiciels</p><ol>Microsoft Office Famille et Etudiant 2007 + 1 carte Cinémea DUO offerte (3 postes)Norton Internet Security 2008 (3 postes)Tell Me More Performance V9 2008 Anglais (10 niveaux)Il était une Fois la VieAdibou J'apprends à lire et à compter 6/7ans</ol><p>Jeux &amp; Jouets</p><ol>Picoo-Z de SilverlitGame High school MusicalGame Jungle SpeedPreschool AquadoodleGirls Menagerie Petshop</ol><p>Cuisine &amp; Maison</p><ol>Philips LivingColors LEDSeverin - 3516 - Yaourtière, Blanc / Gris, 13 W, Ronde, 7 PotsBestron - Dsa2129 - Nettoyeur VisageFiguine - Fi.Choco - Le Maître ChocolatierFiguine - Fi.Df303A - Appareil à Beignets / Donuts</ol><p>Montres &amp; Bijoux</p><ol>Guess - 70607L1 - Montre mode Femme - Quartz analogique - Bracelet en AcierThe One - KT102B1 - Montre Homme - Quartz - Système affichage binaire par Led - Bracelet en cuir noirGuess - I70607L2 - montre Femme - Bracelet en AcierSwatch - SUBB111G Evening Only - Analogue - montre Femme - Bracelet en Acier InoxydableDiesel - DZ7070 - Digital - Montre Homme - Bracelet en cuir noir</ol><p>La plateforme de revente d'Amazon.fr</p><p>Pour le cas où les cadeaux que vous avez reçus ne vous plaisent pas, les clients d'Amazon.fr peuvent parfaitement les revendre sur Amazon Marketplace (www.amazon.fr/marketplace). Les particuliers n'ont uniquement qu'à remplir une liste des produits à vendre, recevoir les bons de commande, livrer les produits et recevoir le paiement… quoi de plus simple ?</p><p>À propos du site Amazon.fr</p><p>Le site Amazon.fr a ouvert ses portes virtuelles en août 2000. Amazon met tout en œuvre pour remplir la mission qu'elle s'est fixée : mettre ses clients au cœur de ses préoccupations. Ils peuvent ainsi à tout moment trouver en ligne ce qu'ils ont envie d'acheter, et y faire de nombreuses découvertes. Amazon.fr et les vendeurs tiers proposent aujourd'hui des millions de produits neufs, d'occasion et de collection en livres en français et en anglais, en CD, vidéos, DVD, logiciels, CD-Rom, jeux vidéo, produits d'électronique grand public et Jeux &amp; Jouets. Chez Amazon.fr, les clients bénéficient de la technologie d'achat en ligne et du savoir-faire du numéro un de cette industrie, tels le paiement sécurisé, les recommandations personnalisées, l'ergonomie et les outils très poussés de recherche ainsi que l'achat rapide et facile grâce à la commande 1-Click .</p><p>Amazon.com &amp; ses affiliés proposent 7 sites web : www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.ca, et www.joyo.com. Comme mentionné ci-dessus, " Amazon.com ", " nous ", " notre " et les termes similaires incluent Amazon.com, Inc. et ses filiales sauf utilisation différente suivant le contexte.</p><p>Pour toute demande d'information relative à ce lancement ou pour être mis en contact avec le porte-parole d'Amazon.fr, merci de contacter :</p><p>Amazon.fr+33 01 56 60 49 00E-mail : presse@amazon.fr</p>

Amazon.com Plans Move to South Lake Union

/news/news-details/2007/Amazon.com-Plans-Move-to-South-Lake-Union/default.aspx

Amazon.com-Plans-Move-to-South-Lake-Union

12/21/2007 00:00:00

Amazon.com Plans Move to South Lake Union

12/21/2007

2007

City officials, Amazon.com, Vulcan and Schnitzer West work together to create a new headquarters in downtown Seattle SEATTLE - December 21, 2007 - The city of Seattle, Amazon.com, Vulcan Inc. and Schnitzer West today announced that Seattle's South Lake Union neighborhood will be home to Amazon.com's new corporate headquarters. "Amazon.com is one of those great Seattle success stories and I'm pleased the company has decided to stay right here in its hometown," said Seattle Mayor Greg Nickels. "The move also highlights the great things happening in South Lake Union, where we are seeing new jobs, homes and parks transforming this area into a dynamic and diverse neighborhood in the heart of our city. My goal is make Seattle a great place to live and work. This move does both by bringing thousands of jobs to the South Lake Union area -- with room to grow -- and helping to build new affordable homes in our Center City." Amazon.com's new headquarters will include up to 11 new buildings on six blocks in the heart of South Lake Union, located along Terry and Boren Avenues between Mercer and John Streets totaling up to 1.6 million square feet. The company expects to begin moving into its new office space in mid-2010, with full occupancy in 2011. "We're very excited about our move to South Lake Union since it will enable us to serve our customers better by enhancing employee collaboration and productivity," said Tim Halladay, vice president of real estate and finance operations at Amazon.com. Proximity to public transportation was an important factor in Amazon.com's decision to move to South Lake Union. The company's headquarters complex will be on the new Seattle Streetcar line, which also connects riders to the bus tunnel and light rail. As part of South Lake Union's commitment to sustainable development practices that promote the social and economic health of the greater community, Amazon.com's new headquarters will be targeting LEED certification as sustainable, eco-friendly facilities. LEED, which stands for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, is a national industry measurement tool created by the U.S. Green Building Council to define the industry's most environmentally-conscious projects. The Seattle City Council has approved increased building heights allowing construction of three 12-story, 160-foot high buildings in a one and one-half block area of the new headquarters bounded by Terry Avenue, John Street, Boren Avenue and Harrison Street. In addition to providing Amazon.com with better opportunities to consolidate employee workspace and operations into fewer adjacent buildings, the increased building height in this area encourages a more visually appealing skyline and a more efficient use of land that also aligns with the community's vision for the neighborhood's future growth. Vulcan will develop the buildings in the specified one and one-half block area as LEED Silver or Gold certified projects, contribute approximately $6.4 million for affordable housing and other benefits, implement an aggressive transportation management plan to reduce traffic impacts, implement an energy management plan and comply with setback, façade and landscaping requirements. Vulcan and Schnitzer West are joint venture partners for the project's first phase known as Interurban Exchange IV & V and Interurban Exchange II. Vulcan will develop the remaining buildings comprising the new headquarters. About Vulcan Real Estate Vulcan Real Estate directs all real estate activities for Vulcan Inc., a Paul G. Allen company. The company's experienced, talented team of real estate professionals offers a full range of development services from site selection to build-to-suit construction. Its real estate model is based on quality, sustainable development that builds new value across the entire community. To date, Vulcan has delivered nine new commercial/biotech, residential and mixed-use projects in South Lake Union totaling 1.7 million square feet. The company has nearly 1 million square feet currently under construction and another 2.2 million square feet in the pre-development pipeline. Vulcan has been recognized as Developer of the Year by the Washington chapter of the National Association of Industrial and Office Properties for four years in a row (2003-2006) and its 2200 project was also honored in 2007 as a national Urban Land Institute Awards for Excellence winner. For more information, visit www.vulcanrealestate.com. About Schnitzer West Schnitzer West, LLC is one of the West Coast's leading commercial real estate investment and development companies. Formed in 1997 by Managing Investment Partner Dan Ivanoff of Seattle and Schnitzer Investment Corp. of Portland, Schnitzer West has a proven track record. The company is currently expanding to other growing regions in the western United States, including Denver, Northern California and Southern California. Since its inception, Schnitzer West has developed approximately 2 million square feet of Class-A and suburban office, biotech and multi-family property. In addition, the company has acquired and, in most cases, repositioned an additional 1 million square feet of commercial product. It now manages 3 million square feet of commercial property. Schnitzer West was named Developer of the Year for 2000 by the Washington Chapter of the National Association of Industrial and Office Properties. For more information on Schnitzer West: www.schnitzerwest.com. About Amazon.com Amazon.com, Inc., (Nasdaq:AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com, Inc. seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden. Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and the Joyo Amazon websites at www.joyo.cn and www.amazon.cn. Amazon.com Forward-Looking Statements This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from Amazon.com management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, new products, services and technologies, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, government regulation and taxation, payments and fraud. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2006, and all subsequent filings. Media Contacts:Marty McOmber, Seattle Mayor Greg Nickel's Office, (206) 684-8358Patty Smith, Amazon.com, (206) 266-7180Aaron Blank, The Fearey Group for Vulcan Inc., (206) 838-9204

<p><em>City officials, Amazon.com, Vulcan and Schnitzer West work together to create a new headquarters in downtown Seattle</em></p><p>SEATTLE - December 21, 2007 - The city of Seattle, Amazon.com, Vulcan Inc. and Schnitzer West today announced that Seattle's South Lake Union neighborhood will be home to Amazon.com's new corporate headquarters.</p><p>"Amazon.com is one of those great Seattle success stories and I'm pleased the company has decided to stay right here in its hometown," said Seattle Mayor Greg Nickels. "The move also highlights the great things happening in South Lake Union, where we are seeing new jobs, homes and parks transforming this area into a dynamic and diverse neighborhood in the heart of our city. My goal is make Seattle a great place to live and work. This move does both by bringing thousands of jobs to the South Lake Union area -- with room to grow -- and helping to build new affordable homes in our Center City."</p><p>Amazon.com's new headquarters will include up to 11 new buildings on six blocks in the heart of South Lake Union, located along Terry and Boren Avenues between Mercer and John Streets totaling up to 1.6 million square feet. The company expects to begin moving into its new office space in mid-2010, with full occupancy in 2011.</p><p>"We're very excited about our move to South Lake Union since it will enable us to serve our customers better by enhancing employee collaboration and productivity," said Tim Halladay, vice president of real estate and finance operations at Amazon.com.</p><p>Proximity to public transportation was an important factor in Amazon.com's decision to move to South Lake Union. The company's headquarters complex will be on the new Seattle Streetcar line, which also connects riders to the bus tunnel and light rail.</p><p>As part of South Lake Union's commitment to sustainable development practices that promote the social and economic health of the greater community, Amazon.com's new headquarters will be targeting LEED certification as sustainable, eco-friendly facilities. LEED, which stands for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, is a national industry measurement tool created by the U.S. Green Building Council to define the industry's most environmentally-conscious projects.</p><p>The Seattle City Council has approved increased building heights allowing construction of three 12-story, 160-foot high buildings in a one and one-half block area of the new headquarters bounded by Terry Avenue, John Street, Boren Avenue and Harrison Street. In addition to providing Amazon.com with better opportunities to consolidate employee workspace and operations into fewer adjacent buildings, the increased building height in this area encourages a more visually appealing skyline and a more efficient use of land that also aligns with the community's vision for the neighborhood's future growth.</p><p>Vulcan will develop the buildings in the specified one and one-half block area as LEED Silver or Gold certified projects, contribute approximately $6.4 million for affordable housing and other benefits, implement an aggressive transportation management plan to reduce traffic impacts, implement an energy management plan and comply with setback, façade and landscaping requirements.</p><p>Vulcan and Schnitzer West are joint venture partners for the project's first phase known as Interurban Exchange IV &amp; V and Interurban Exchange II. Vulcan will develop the remaining buildings comprising the new headquarters.</p><p>About Vulcan Real Estate</p><p>Vulcan Real Estate directs all real estate activities for Vulcan Inc., a Paul G. Allen company. The company's experienced, talented team of real estate professionals offers a full range of development services from site selection to build-to-suit construction. Its real estate model is based on quality, sustainable development that builds new value across the entire community. To date, Vulcan has delivered nine new commercial/biotech, residential and mixed-use projects in South Lake Union totaling 1.7 million square feet. The company has nearly 1 million square feet currently under construction and another 2.2 million square feet in the pre-development pipeline. Vulcan has been recognized as Developer of the Year by the Washington chapter of the National Association of Industrial and Office Properties for four years in a row (2003-2006) and its 2200 project was also honored in 2007 as a national Urban Land Institute Awards for Excellence winner. For more information, visit www.vulcanrealestate.com.</p><p>About Schnitzer West</p><p>Schnitzer West, LLC is one of the West Coast's leading commercial real estate investment and development companies. Formed in 1997 by Managing Investment Partner Dan Ivanoff of Seattle and Schnitzer Investment Corp. of Portland, Schnitzer West has a proven track record. The company is currently expanding to other growing regions in the western United States, including Denver, Northern California and Southern California. Since its inception, Schnitzer West has developed approximately 2 million square feet of Class-A and suburban office, biotech and multi-family property. In addition, the company has acquired and, in most cases, repositioned an additional 1 million square feet of commercial product. It now manages 3 million square feet of commercial property. Schnitzer West was named Developer of the Year for 2000 by the Washington Chapter of the National Association of Industrial and Office Properties.</p><p>For more information on Schnitzer West: www.schnitzerwest.com.</p><p>About Amazon.com</p><p>Amazon.com, Inc., (Nasdaq:AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com, Inc. seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden.</p><p>Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and the Joyo Amazon websites at www.joyo.cn and www.amazon.cn.</p><p>Amazon.com Forward-Looking Statements</p><p>This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from Amazon.com management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, new products, services and technologies, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, government regulation and taxation, payments and fraud. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2006, and all subsequent filings.</p><p>Media Contacts:Marty McOmber, Seattle Mayor Greg Nickel's Office, (206) 684-8358Patty Smith, Amazon.com, (206) 266-7180Aaron Blank, The Fearey Group for Vulcan Inc., (206) 838-9204</p>

As a Special Holiday Offer, Endless.com, Amazon.com's Shoe and Handbag Website, Extends Free Overnight Shipping Deadline to Sunday, December 23

/news/news-details/2007/As-a-Special-Holiday-Offer-Endless.com-Amazon.coms-Shoe-and-Handbag-Website-Extends-Free-Overnight-Shipping-Deadline-to-Sunday-December-23/default.aspx

As-a-Special-Holiday-Offer-Endless.com-Amazon.coms-Shoe-and-Handbag-Website-Extends-Free-Overnight-Shipping-Deadline-to-Sunday-December-23

12/19/2007 09:02:00

As a Special Holiday Offer, Endless.com, Amazon.com's Shoe and Handbag Website, Extends Free Overnight Shipping Deadline to Sunday, December 23

12/19/2007

2007

Customers Will Also Receive Negative $5 off Free Overnight Shipping with Any Purchase SEATTLE, Dec 19, 2007 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- Endless.com, an Amazon.com, Inc. (Nasdaq:AMZN) retail website, has announced, as a special holiday promotion, that it will extend its free overnight shipping deadline to Sunday, December 23 on all orders placed by 1 p.m. PST. In addition to free overnight shipping, customers will also receive negative five dollars on all orders. "Despite the best laid plans, last-minute shopping always seems inevitable," said Maria Renz, vice president of Endless.com and Amazon.com Shoes. "So we are delighted to extend our shipping deadline to allow our customers the most time possible to shop for family and friends, and still get the gifts in time for Christmas." With over 350 brands to choose from, Endless.com offers customers a plethora of gift-giving ideas such as high-end designer handbags, luxurious slippers for men and women and stylish, yet affordable, kids wear. And for those who need to stock up on last minute holiday cocktail attire, Endless.com also offers an extensive selection of designer clutches and shoes. Some last minute gift ideas include: Rafe Penelope Metallic Handbag, $440 Savanna Austrian Crystal Trapezoid Minaudiere, $700 Donald J Pliner Zelda Foldover Clutch, $410 BALLY Rilko Suede Messenger, $794 SANTI Satin Clutch, $130 Abas Patent Croco Travel Organizer, $135 Robeez Infant/Toddler Snowman Slip On, $25 Western Chief Girls' Cowgirl Backpack, $33 Giesswein Toddler/Youth Rosenheim Slipper, $65 Acorn Men's Dresden Moc Slipper, $83 Amy Jo Gladstone Cashmere Rosebud Slipper, $99 Additional holiday promotions include $20 off on all winter boots for men and women on orders over $100, $10 off on all slippers for orders over $50, 20 percent off all Heelys products for kids, $10 off Robeez orders exceeding $50, and $20 off select handbag brands with purchases exceeding $100. As a standard practice, Endless.com offers free overnight shipping on all items as well as free return shipping, 365-day returns and a 110 percent price guarantee. In addition to over 350 brands to choose from, customers can also shop by price, style, brand, size, heel height and color all at the same time or separately, offering a seamless shopping experience. About Amazon.com Amazon.com, Inc., (Nasdaq:AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com, Inc. seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden. Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and the Joyo Amazon websites at www.joyo.cn and www.amazon.cn. As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise. Forward-Looking Statements This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, new products, services and technologies, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, government regulation and taxation, payments and fraud. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2006, and all subsequent filings. SOURCE: Amazon.com, Inc. Amazon.comFor Media Inquiries, 206-266-7180ogden@amazon.com

<center>Customers Will Also Receive Negative $5 off Free Overnight Shipping with Any Purchase</center><p>SEATTLE, Dec 19, 2007 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- Endless.com, an Amazon.com, Inc. (Nasdaq:AMZN) retail website, has announced, as a special holiday promotion, that it will extend its free overnight shipping deadline to Sunday, December 23 on all orders placed by 1 p.m. PST. In addition to free overnight shipping, customers will also receive negative five dollars on all orders.</p><p>"Despite the best laid plans, last-minute shopping always seems inevitable," said Maria Renz, vice president of Endless.com and Amazon.com Shoes. "So we are delighted to extend our shipping deadline to allow our customers the most time possible to shop for family and friends, and still get the gifts in time for Christmas."</p><p>With over 350 brands to choose from, Endless.com offers customers a plethora of gift-giving ideas such as high-end designer handbags, luxurious slippers for men and women and stylish, yet affordable, kids wear. And for those who need to stock up on last minute holiday cocktail attire, Endless.com also offers an extensive selection of designer clutches and shoes.</p><p>Some last minute gift ideas include:</p><ul>Rafe Penelope Metallic Handbag, $440Savanna Austrian Crystal Trapezoid Minaudiere, $700Donald J Pliner Zelda Foldover Clutch, $410BALLY Rilko Suede Messenger, $794SANTI Satin Clutch, $130Abas Patent Croco Travel Organizer, $135Robeez Infant/Toddler Snowman Slip On, $25Western Chief Girls' Cowgirl Backpack, $33Giesswein Toddler/Youth Rosenheim Slipper, $65Acorn Men's Dresden Moc Slipper, $83Amy Jo Gladstone Cashmere Rosebud Slipper, $99</ul><p>Additional holiday promotions include $20 off on all winter boots for men and women on orders over $100, $10 off on all slippers for orders over $50, 20 percent off all Heelys products for kids, $10 off Robeez orders exceeding $50, and $20 off select handbag brands with purchases exceeding $100.</p><p>As a standard practice, Endless.com offers free overnight shipping on all items as well as free return shipping, 365-day returns and a 110 percent price guarantee. In addition to over 350 brands to choose from, customers can also shop by price, style, brand, size, heel height and color all at the same time or separately, offering a seamless shopping experience.</p><p>About Amazon.com</p><p>Amazon.com, Inc., (Nasdaq:AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com, Inc. seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden.</p><p>Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and the Joyo Amazon websites at www.joyo.cn and www.amazon.cn.</p><p>As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise.</p><p>Forward-Looking Statements</p><p>This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, new products, services and technologies, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, government regulation and taxation, payments and fraud. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2006, and all subsequent filings.</p><p>SOURCE: Amazon.com, Inc.</p><p>Amazon.comFor Media Inquiries, 206-266-7180ogden@amazon.com</p>

Createspace Expands Jon Favreau's "Dinner for Five" Collection Available on Amazon.com with New Custom Compilation DVDs

/news/news-details/2007/Createspace-Expands-Jon-Favreaus-Dinner-for-Five-Collection-Available-on-Amazon.com-with-New-Custom-Compilation-DVDs/default.aspx

Createspace-Expands-Jon-Favreaus-Dinner-for-Five-Collection-Available-on-Amazon.com-with-New-Custom-Compilation-DVDs

12/18/2007 00:00:00

Createspace Expands Jon Favreau's "Dinner for Five" Collection Available on Amazon.com with New Custom Compilation DVDs

12/18/2007

2007

Scotts Valley, Calif. - Dec. 18, 2007 - CreateSpace, part of the Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ: AMZN) group of companies, today announced the availability of several new custom compilations of Jon Favreau's Emmy® nominated "Dinner for Five" series on Amazon.com. These new DVDs, manufactured via the CreateSpace DVD on Demand service, feature compelling scenes that Favreau selected from some of his favorite adventures during the filming of "Dinner for Five." They include "On the Road," "Best of Directors" and "Producers Picks." "We are excited to be working with Jon Favreau again to bring even more of his brilliant series, 'Dinner for Five,' to customers," said Dana LoPiccolo-Giles, co-founder and managing director of CreateSpace. "Now Amazon.com's holiday shoppers can choose from an even larger selection of 'Dinner for Five' DVDs to find the perfect gift for their favorite Favreau fan." "I've really enjoyed working with CreateSpace to develop new 'Dinner for Five' DVDs that resonate with our audience," said Jon Favreau, host and producer of "Dinner for Five." "And, I'm looking forward to expanding the 'Dinner for Five' DVD catalog available only on Amazon.com in the coming months." The new custom compilations available now are a must-have for consummate "Dinner for Five" buffs. The "On the Road" DVD features Favreau's favorite segments as he leaves his home base of Los Angeles and takes "Dinner for Five" to New York City, Lake Placid and Vancouver, B.C. Favreau's "Best of Directors" cut savors his time with some of Hollywood's finest directors such as Martin Scorsese, Peter Bogdanovich, and Frank Darabont. Along with Favreau, Executive Producer Peter Billingsley helped create "Producers Picks," a compilation of the 10 unforgettable moments from the producer's perspective. Also available in December on Amazon.com via CreateSpace is a comprehensive box set of the entire "Dinner for Five" series, as well DVDs of complete Seasons 2, 3 and 4. To purchase any of the "Dinner for Five" DVDs please visit www.amazon.com/dinnerforfive. To learn more about CreateSpace, please visit www.createspace.com. About CreateSpace CreateSpace is a DBA of On-Demand Publishing LLC, a subsidiary of Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ: AMZN). A leader in manufacture-on-demand services for independent creative content owners, CreateSpace was originally founded as CustomFlix Labs, Inc. in 2002 and acquired by Amazon.com Inc. in 2005. The company's mission is to profitably connect its members to a worldwide audience through multiple channels, including Amazon.com. CreateSpace provides inventory-free physical distribution of Books, CDs and DVDs on Demand, and video downloads via Amazon Unbox. About Amazon.com Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ: AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com, Inc. seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden. Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and the Joyo Amazon websites at www.joyo.cn and www.amazon.cn. As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise. Forward-Looking Statements This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, new products, services and technologies, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, government regulation and taxation, payments and fraud. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2006, and all subsequent filings. ### MEDIA CONTACTSFor CreateSpaceStacey HurwitzPhone: 831.430.4026E-Mail: Stacey@CreateSpace.comFor Amazon.comAmazon Media HotlinePhone: 206.266.7180For Fairview EntertainmentIna TreciokasPhone: 323.822.4831E-Mail: ITreciokas@id-pr.com

<p>Scotts Valley, Calif. - Dec. 18, 2007 - CreateSpace, part of the Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ: AMZN) group of companies, today announced the availability of several new custom compilations of Jon Favreau's Emmy® nominated "Dinner for Five" series on Amazon.com. These new DVDs, manufactured via the CreateSpace DVD on Demand service, feature compelling scenes that Favreau selected from some of his favorite adventures during the filming of "Dinner for Five." They include "On the Road," "Best of Directors" and "Producers Picks."</p><p>"We are excited to be working with Jon Favreau again to bring even more of his brilliant series, 'Dinner for Five,' to customers," said Dana LoPiccolo-Giles, co-founder and managing director of CreateSpace. "Now Amazon.com's holiday shoppers can choose from an even larger selection of 'Dinner for Five' DVDs to find the perfect gift for their favorite Favreau fan."</p><p>"I've really enjoyed working with CreateSpace to develop new 'Dinner for Five' DVDs that resonate with our audience," said Jon Favreau, host and producer of "Dinner for Five." "And, I'm looking forward to expanding the 'Dinner for Five' DVD catalog available only on Amazon.com in the coming months."</p><p>The new custom compilations available now are a must-have for consummate "Dinner for Five" buffs. The "On the Road" DVD features Favreau's favorite segments as he leaves his home base of Los Angeles and takes "Dinner for Five" to New York City, Lake Placid and Vancouver, B.C. Favreau's "Best of Directors" cut savors his time with some of Hollywood's finest directors such as Martin Scorsese, Peter Bogdanovich, and Frank Darabont. Along with Favreau, Executive Producer Peter Billingsley helped create "Producers Picks," a compilation of the 10 unforgettable moments from the producer's perspective. Also available in December on Amazon.com via CreateSpace is a comprehensive box set of the entire "Dinner for Five" series, as well DVDs of complete Seasons 2, 3 and 4.</p><p>To purchase any of the "Dinner for Five" DVDs please visit www.amazon.com/dinnerforfive. To learn more about CreateSpace, please visit www.createspace.com.</p><p>About CreateSpace</p><p>CreateSpace is a DBA of On-Demand Publishing LLC, a subsidiary of Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ: AMZN). A leader in manufacture-on-demand services for independent creative content owners, CreateSpace was originally founded as CustomFlix Labs, Inc. in 2002 and acquired by Amazon.com Inc. in 2005. The company's mission is to profitably connect its members to a worldwide audience through multiple channels, including Amazon.com. CreateSpace provides inventory-free physical distribution of Books, CDs and DVDs on Demand, and video downloads via Amazon Unbox.</p><p>About Amazon.com</p><p>Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ: AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com, Inc. seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden.</p><p>Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and the Joyo Amazon websites at www.joyo.cn and www.amazon.cn.</p><p>As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise.</p><p>Forward-Looking Statements</p><p>This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, new products, services and technologies, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, government regulation and taxation, payments and fraud. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2006, and all subsequent filings.</p><p>###</p><p>MEDIA CONTACTSFor CreateSpaceStacey HurwitzPhone: 831.430.4026E-Mail: Stacey@CreateSpace.comFor Amazon.comAmazon Media HotlinePhone: 206.266.7180For Fairview EntertainmentIna TreciokasPhone: 323.822.4831E-Mail: ITreciokas@id-pr.com</p>

Amazon.fr à J.K. Rowling: « Merci »

/news/news-details/2007/Amazon.fr--J.K.-Rowling--Merci-/default.aspx

Amazon.fr--J.K.-Rowling--Merci-

12/14/2007 00:00:00

Amazon.fr à J.K. Rowling: « Merci »

12/14/2007

2007

PARIS - le 14 decembre 2007 - Amazon.fr annonce avoir acheté " The Tales of Beedle the Bard " de J.K. Rowling à une enchère de Sotheby's à Londres. Le livre des cinq contes de fées, qui apparait dans le dernier tome d'Harry Potter, " Harry Potter et les reliques de la mort, " est l'un des sept uniques exemplaires manuscrits. Le livre a été acheté pour £1.950.000, et J.K. Rowling a fait don de cette somme à " The Children's Voice ", une fondation qu'elle a créée pour aider à améliorer la vie des enfants en difficulté à travers l'Europe. " Avant même d'avoir créé sa fondation, J. K. Rowling a offert au monde un cadeau rare et de grande valeur - une nouvelle dimension à la lecture - en particulier chez les enfants, " dit Jeff Bezos, Amazon.com Founder and CEO. " Quand nous livrons Harry Potter, les enfants attendent avec impatience près de la boite de lettre. " " The Tales of Beedle the Bard " est abondamment illustré et écrit à la main par l'auteur elle-même sur l'ensemble des 157 pages. Le livre est relié en maroquin marron et agrémenté de cinq ornements en argent fin poinçonné et pierres semi-précieuses serties. Une des cinq histoires originales du livre, " The Tale of the Three Brothers ", est racontée dans le dernier tome d'Harry Potter, " Harry Potter et les reliques de la mort ". Cet exemplaire de " The Tales of Beedle the Bard " est l'un des sept manuscrits écrits et illustrés de la main de l'auteur. Les six autres exemplaires ont été donnés aux amis de J.K. Rowling qui l'ont accompagnée pendant l'écriture de la série Harry Potter. Les clients d'Amazon dans le monde entier sont invités à visiter www.amazon.fr/beedlebard pour découvrir la présentation des cinq contes de fées, et se joindre à la discussion en ligne, entre fans, sur ce dernier livre et toutes les autres histoires d'Harry Potter. Les clients trouveront aussi un lien vers le site internet de " The Children's Voice " où des dons à cette fondation peuvent être réalisés. A ce jour, Amazon a vendu plus de 12 millions d'exemplaires des sept titres de la série Harry Potter dans le monde entier. A propos du site Amazon.fr Le site Amazon.fr a ouvert ses portes virtuelles en août 2000. Amazon met tout en œuvre pour remplir la mission qu'elle s'est fixée : mettre ses clients au cœur de ses préoccupations. Ils peuvent ainsi à tout moment trouver en ligne ce qu'ils ont envie d'acheter, et y faire de nombreuses découvertes. Amazon.fr et les vendeurs tiers proposent aujourd'hui des millions de produits neufs et d'occasion en français et en anglais, en livres, en CD, vidéos, DVD, logiciels, CD-Rom, jeux vidéo, produits d'électronique grand public et Jeux & Jouets. Chez Amazon.fr, les clients bénéficient de la technologie d'achat en ligne et du savoir-faire du numéro un de cette industrie, tels le paiement sécurisé, les recommandations personnalisées, l'ergonomie et les outils très poussés de recherche ainsi que l'achat rapide et facile grâce au système de commande 1-Click . Amazon.fr est une marque de la société Amazon EU S.a.r.l. et d'Amazon Services Europe S.a.r.l., les 2 sociétés étant filiales à 100% du vendeur en ligne Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ: AMZN) basé à Seattle, Wash. À propos d'Amazon.com Amazon.com, Inc., (NASDAQ: AMZN), société du classement Fortune 500 basée à Seattle, a ouvert ses portes virtuelles en juillet 1995 et propose aujourd'hui la sélection de produits la plus importante du monde. Amazon.com ambitionne d'être la société la plus " orientée client " du monde, chez laquelle les clients peuvent trouver, découvrir et acquérir tout ce qu'ils peuvent espérer acheter un jour en ligne. De plus, Amazon.com s'efforce de constamment proposer les prix les moins chers pour ses clients. Enfin, Amazon.com et ses vendeurs tiers proposent des millions de produits neufs ou d'occasion dans des catégories comme Santé & Soins de la Personne, Montres & Bijoux, Epicerie, Sport & Plein-Air, Appareils & Accessoires, Livres, Musique, DVD, produits d'électronique grand public, Jouets & Bébés, et Maison & Jardin. Amazon.fr est une marque de la société Amazon EU S.A.R.L. et d'Amazon Services Europe S.a.r.l., les 2 sociétés étant filiales à 100% du vendeur en ligne Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ: AMZN) basé à Seattle, Wash. Amazon.com & ses affiliés proposent 7 sites web : www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.ca, et les sites Amazon Joyo www.joyo.com et www.amazon.cn. Comme mentionné ci-dessus, " Amazon.com ", " nous ", " notre " et les termes similaires incluent Amazon.com, Inc. et ses filiales sauf utilisation différente suivant le contexte. Pour toute demande d'information relative à ce lancement ou pour être mis en contact avec le porte-parole d'Amazon.fr, merci de contacter : Amazon.frStephanie Mantello Ward+33 (0)1 56 60 49 00E-mail : stepward@amazon.fr

<p>PARIS - le 14 decembre 2007 - Amazon.fr annonce avoir acheté " The Tales of Beedle the Bard " de J.K. Rowling à une enchère de Sotheby's à Londres. Le livre des cinq contes de fées, qui apparait dans le dernier tome d'Harry Potter, " Harry Potter et les reliques de la mort, " est l'un des sept uniques exemplaires manuscrits. Le livre a été acheté pour £1.950.000, et J.K. Rowling a fait don de cette somme à " The Children's Voice ", une fondation qu'elle a créée pour aider à améliorer la vie des enfants en difficulté à travers l'Europe.</p><p>" Avant même d'avoir créé sa fondation, J. K. Rowling a offert au monde un cadeau rare et de grande valeur - une nouvelle dimension à la lecture - en particulier chez les enfants, " dit Jeff Bezos, Amazon.com Founder and CEO. " Quand nous livrons Harry Potter, les enfants attendent avec impatience près de la boite de lettre. "</p><p>" The Tales of Beedle the Bard " est abondamment illustré et écrit à la main par l'auteur elle-même sur l'ensemble des 157 pages. Le livre est relié en maroquin marron et agrémenté de cinq ornements en argent fin poinçonné et pierres semi-précieuses serties. Une des cinq histoires originales du livre, " The Tale of the Three Brothers ", est racontée dans le dernier tome d'Harry Potter, " Harry Potter et les reliques de la mort ". Cet exemplaire de " The Tales of Beedle the Bard " est l'un des sept manuscrits écrits et illustrés de la main de l'auteur. Les six autres exemplaires ont été donnés aux amis de J.K. Rowling qui l'ont accompagnée pendant l'écriture de la série Harry Potter.</p><p>Les clients d'Amazon dans le monde entier sont invités à visiter www.amazon.fr/beedlebard pour découvrir la présentation des cinq contes de fées, et se joindre à la discussion en ligne, entre fans, sur ce dernier livre et toutes les autres histoires d'Harry Potter. Les clients trouveront aussi un lien vers le site internet de " The Children's Voice " où des dons à cette fondation peuvent être réalisés.</p><p>A ce jour, Amazon a vendu plus de 12 millions d'exemplaires des sept titres de la série Harry Potter dans le monde entier.</p><p>A propos du site Amazon.fr</p><p>Le site Amazon.fr a ouvert ses portes virtuelles en août 2000. Amazon met tout en œuvre pour remplir la mission qu'elle s'est fixée : mettre ses clients au cœur de ses préoccupations. Ils peuvent ainsi à tout moment trouver en ligne ce qu'ils ont envie d'acheter, et y faire de nombreuses découvertes. Amazon.fr et les vendeurs tiers proposent aujourd'hui des millions de produits neufs et d'occasion en français et en anglais, en livres, en CD, vidéos, DVD, logiciels, CD-Rom, jeux vidéo, produits d'électronique grand public et Jeux &amp; Jouets. Chez Amazon.fr, les clients bénéficient de la technologie d'achat en ligne et du savoir-faire du numéro un de cette industrie, tels le paiement sécurisé, les recommandations personnalisées, l'ergonomie et les outils très poussés de recherche ainsi que l'achat rapide et facile grâce au système de commande 1-Click .</p><p>Amazon.fr est une marque de la société Amazon EU S.a.r.l. et d'Amazon Services Europe S.a.r.l., les 2 sociétés étant filiales à 100% du vendeur en ligne Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ: AMZN) basé à Seattle, Wash.</p><p>À propos d'Amazon.com</p><p>Amazon.com, Inc., (NASDAQ: AMZN), société du classement Fortune 500 basée à Seattle, a ouvert ses portes virtuelles en juillet 1995 et propose aujourd'hui la sélection de produits la plus importante du monde. Amazon.com ambitionne d'être la société la plus " orientée client " du monde, chez laquelle les clients peuvent trouver, découvrir et acquérir tout ce qu'ils peuvent espérer acheter un jour en ligne. De plus, Amazon.com s'efforce de constamment proposer les prix les moins chers pour ses clients. Enfin, Amazon.com et ses vendeurs tiers proposent des millions de produits neufs ou d'occasion dans des catégories comme Santé &amp; Soins de la Personne, Montres &amp; Bijoux, Epicerie, Sport &amp; Plein-Air, Appareils &amp; Accessoires, Livres, Musique, DVD, produits d'électronique grand public, Jouets &amp; Bébés, et Maison &amp; Jardin. Amazon.fr est une marque de la société Amazon EU S.A.R.L. et d'Amazon Services Europe S.a.r.l., les 2 sociétés étant filiales à 100% du vendeur en ligne Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ: AMZN) basé à Seattle, Wash.</p><p>Amazon.com &amp; ses affiliés proposent 7 sites web : www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.ca, et les sites Amazon Joyo www.joyo.com et www.amazon.cn.</p><p>Comme mentionné ci-dessus, " Amazon.com ", " nous ", " notre " et les termes similaires incluent Amazon.com, Inc. et ses filiales sauf utilisation différente suivant le contexte.</p><p><em>Pour toute demande d'information relative à ce lancement ou pour être mis en contact avec le porte-parole d'Amazon.fr, merci de contacter :</em></p><p>Amazon.frStephanie Mantello Ward+33 (0)1 56 60 49 00E-mail : stepward@amazon.fr</p>

Amazon.com to J.K. Rowling: ''Thank You''

/news/news-details/2007/Amazon.com-to-J.K.-Rowling-Thank-You/default.aspx

Amazon.com-to-J.K.-Rowling-Thank-You

12/13/2007 18:17:00

Amazon.com to J.K. Rowling: ''Thank You''

12/13/2007

2007

SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Dec. 13, 2007--Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ:AMZN) today announced it has purchased J.K. Rowling's "The Tales of Beedle the Bard" at an auction held by Sotheby's in London. The book of five wizarding fairy tales, referenced in the last book of the Harry Potter series, "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows," is one of only seven handmade copies in existence. The book was purchased for GBP 1,950,000, and Ms. Rowling is donating the proceeds to The Children's Voice campaign, a charity she co-founded to help improve the lives of institutionalized children across Europe. "Even before establishing her charity, J.K. Rowling had done the world a rare and immeasurably valuable service--enlarging forever our concept of the way books can touch people--and in particular children--in modern times," said Jeff Bezos, Amazon.com Founder and CEO. "When we deliver Harry Potter, kids are camped out at the post box, and the drivers get hugs." "The Tales of Beedle the Bard" is handwritten, extensively illustrated, and autographed by the author. It is written in an Italian handmade notebook, bound in brown Moroccan leather and embellished with five individually hand-chased hallmarked sterling silver ornaments and mounted moonstones. It is 157 pages long. One of the five original stories included in the book, "The Tale of the Three Brothers," is told in the final Harry Potter novel, "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows." This copy of "The Tales of Beedle the Bard" purchased today is one of only seven copies handwritten and illustrated by the author. The six other copies have been given to friends of Ms. Rowling in appreciation of the support they provided her throughout the writing of the Harry Potter series. Amazon customers around the world are invited to visit http://www.amazon.com/beedlebard to read editorial reviews of the five fairy tales, and to join the online discussion of these and other Harry Potter stories with other fans of the bestselling series. For the curious of mind, Amazon editors will be taking questions about the tales from all comers on our discussion boards, starting immediately. Customers will also find a link to The Children's Voice website, where donations to this charity can be made. To date, Amazon has sold more than 12 million copies of the seven Harry Potter titles worldwide. About Amazon.com Amazon.com, Inc., (Nasdaq:AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com, Inc. seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden. Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and the Joyo Amazon websites at www.joyo.cn and www.amazon.cn. As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise. Forward-Looking Statements This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, new products, services and technologies, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, government regulation and taxation, payments and fraud. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2006, and all subsequent filings. CONTACT: Amazon.com Media Relations Hotline, 206-266-7180 www.amazon.com/pr SOURCE: Amazon.com, Inc.

<p>SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Dec. 13, 2007--Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ:AMZN) today announced it has purchased J.K. Rowling's "The Tales of Beedle the Bard" at an auction held by Sotheby's in London. The book of five wizarding fairy tales, referenced in the last book of the Harry Potter series, "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows," is one of only seven handmade copies in existence. The book was purchased for GBP 1,950,000, and Ms. Rowling is donating the proceeds to The Children's Voice campaign, a charity she co-founded to help improve the lives of institutionalized children across Europe.</p><p>"Even before establishing her charity, J.K. Rowling had done the world a rare and immeasurably valuable service--enlarging forever our concept of the way books can touch people--and in particular children--in modern times," said Jeff Bezos, Amazon.com Founder and CEO. "When we deliver Harry Potter, kids are camped out at the post box, and the drivers get hugs."</p><p>"The Tales of Beedle the Bard" is handwritten, extensively illustrated, and autographed by the author. It is written in an Italian handmade notebook, bound in brown Moroccan leather and embellished with five individually hand-chased hallmarked sterling silver ornaments and mounted moonstones. It is 157 pages long. One of the five original stories included in the book, "The Tale of the Three Brothers," is told in the final Harry Potter novel, "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows." This copy of "The Tales of Beedle the Bard" purchased today is one of only seven copies handwritten and illustrated by the author. The six other copies have been given to friends of Ms. Rowling in appreciation of the support they provided her throughout the writing of the Harry Potter series.</p><p>Amazon customers around the world are invited to visit http://www.amazon.com/beedlebard to read editorial reviews of the five fairy tales, and to join the online discussion of these and other Harry Potter stories with other fans of the bestselling series. For the curious of mind, Amazon editors will be taking questions about the tales from all comers on our discussion boards, starting immediately. Customers will also find a link to The Children's Voice website, where donations to this charity can be made. To date, Amazon has sold more than 12 million copies of the seven Harry Potter titles worldwide.</p><p>About Amazon.com</p><p>Amazon.com, Inc., (Nasdaq:AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com, Inc. seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden.</p><p>Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and the Joyo Amazon websites at www.joyo.cn and www.amazon.cn.</p><p>As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise.</p><p>Forward-Looking Statements</p><p>This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, new products, services and technologies, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, government regulation and taxation, payments and fraud. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2006, and all subsequent filings.</p><pre> CONTACT: Amazon.com Media Relations Hotline, 206-266-7180 www.amazon.com/pr SOURCE: Amazon.com, Inc.</pre>

Amazon.com Enhances Payment Options with Bill Me Later

/news/news-details/2007/Amazon.com-Enhances-Payment-Options-with-Bill-Me-Later/default.aspx

Amazon.com-Enhances-Payment-Options-with-Bill-Me-Later

12/11/2007 09:02:00

Amazon.com Enhances Payment Options with Bill Me Later

12/11/2007

2007

SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Dec. 11, 2007--Amazon.com (NASDAQ:AMZN) today announced it has signed an agreement with Bill Me Later, Inc., a leading provider of alternative payment technologies, to make the Bill Me Later payment option available on the Amazon.com website. The company also announced it is making an equity investment in Bill Me Later, Inc. "Bill Me Later has developed a very customer-centric method to make online shopping even easier," said Matt Swann, vice president of payments at Amazon.com. "We are pleased to make the convenience of Bill Me Later available to our tens of millions of Amazon customers." Bill Me Later is among the most widely adopted alternative payment technologies for the largest online retailers. Bill Me Later enables consumers to shop online without using a credit card and helps retailers simplify the payment experience. "Amazon.com and Bill Me Later share the same commitment to making shopping easy for consumers," said Gary Marino, CEO of Bill Me Later. "Just as Amazon invented a new and better way for people to shop online, Bill Me Later has created a new and better way for people to pay for purchases online." The terms of Amazon's investment have not been disclosed. The transaction, which is subject to customary closing conditions, is expected to close in the first quarter of 2008. About Bill Me Later Bill Me Later is a technology company helping to connect leading merchants with high value customers by improving the purchase experience. Bill Me Later's payment and marketing technology solutions help establish and maintain trusted relationships between hundreds of top tier retailers and high value customers at the point-of-sale. The solutions are the first new payment methods since credit cards to be so broadly available within the United States. For more information, visit www.billmelater.com. About Amazon.com Amazon.com, Inc., (Nasdaq:AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com, Inc. seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden. Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and the Joyo Amazon websites at www.joyo.cn and www.amazon.cn. As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise. Forward-Looking Statements This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, new products, services and technologies, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, government regulation and taxation, payments and fraud. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2006, and all subsequent filings. CONTACT:Schwartz Communications (for Bill Me Later)781-684-0770billmelater@schwartz-pr.comorAmazon.comMedia Relations Hotline, 206-266-7180SOURCE: Amazon.com

<p>SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Dec. 11, 2007--Amazon.com (NASDAQ:AMZN) today announced it has signed an agreement with Bill Me Later, Inc., a leading provider of alternative payment technologies, to make the Bill Me Later payment option available on the Amazon.com website. The company also announced it is making an equity investment in Bill Me Later, Inc.</p><p>"Bill Me Later has developed a very customer-centric method to make online shopping even easier," said Matt Swann, vice president of payments at Amazon.com. "We are pleased to make the convenience of Bill Me Later available to our tens of millions of Amazon customers."</p><p>Bill Me Later is among the most widely adopted alternative payment technologies for the largest online retailers. Bill Me Later enables consumers to shop online without using a credit card and helps retailers simplify the payment experience.</p><p>"Amazon.com and Bill Me Later share the same commitment to making shopping easy for consumers," said Gary Marino, CEO of Bill Me Later. "Just as Amazon invented a new and better way for people to shop online, Bill Me Later has created a new and better way for people to pay for purchases online."</p><p>The terms of Amazon's investment have not been disclosed. The transaction, which is subject to customary closing conditions, is expected to close in the first quarter of 2008.</p><p>About Bill Me Later</p><p>Bill Me Later is a technology company helping to connect leading merchants with high value customers by improving the purchase experience. Bill Me Later's payment and marketing technology solutions help establish and maintain trusted relationships between hundreds of top tier retailers and high value customers at the point-of-sale. The solutions are the first new payment methods since credit cards to be so broadly available within the United States. For more information, visit www.billmelater.com.</p><p>About Amazon.com</p><p>Amazon.com, Inc., (Nasdaq:AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com, Inc. seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden.</p><p>Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and the Joyo Amazon websites at www.joyo.cn and www.amazon.cn.</p><p>As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise.</p><p>Forward-Looking Statements</p><p>This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, new products, services and technologies, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, government regulation and taxation, payments and fraud. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2006, and all subsequent filings.</p><p>CONTACT:Schwartz Communications (for Bill Me Later)781-684-0770billmelater@schwartz-pr.comorAmazon.comMedia Relations Hotline, 206-266-7180SOURCE: Amazon.com</p>

Huge Holiday Savings at the Amazon.com Toy Store

/news/news-details/2007/Huge-Holiday-Savings-at-the-Amazon.com-Toy-Store/default.aspx

Huge-Holiday-Savings-at-the-Amazon.com-Toy-Store

12/07/2007 09:01:00

Huge Holiday Savings at the Amazon.com Toy Store

12/07/2007

2007

Incredible Deals for Holiday Toy Shoppers Begin Today SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Dec. 7, 2007--Amazon.com (NASDAQ:AMZN): Holiday shoppers looking for the season's must-have toys at great prices can find them at the Amazon.com Toy store (www.amazon.com/toys). "December Deals" offers customers incredible savings on over 2,300 of the holiday's hottest toys, including over 200 items at a 60 percent discount. The following are a selection of Amazon.com best-selling toys at amazing deals: -- Jakks EyeClops Bionic Eye - List Price: $49.99, Amazon Price: $34.99 (Savings 30%) -- Spinmaster Air Hogs Havoc Heli - List Price: $39.99, Amazon Price: $27.53 (Savings 31%) -- Webkinz Reindeer - List Price: $19.99, Amazon Price: $13.50 (Savings 32%) -- MGA Bratz The Movie Mansion - List Price $99.99, Amazon Price $39.99 (Savings 60%) -- Leapfrog Fridge Farm Magnetic Animal Set - List Price $15.99, Amazon Price $11.99 (Savings 25%) -- Fisher Price Sesame Street Pizza Party Elmo - List Price $29.99, Amazon Price $10.99 (Savings 63%) -- Mattel Disney Pixar's Cars Mack Truck Play Set - List Price $19.99, Amazon Price $11.99 (Savings 40%) Customers can also visit The Holiday Toy List (www.amazon.com/holidaytoylist), where innovative navigation tools and videos on every product page help customers navigate over 450 of this year's top toys, video games and sporting goods. Customers can quickly narrow and expand search results by age, gender, price, category, favorite characters and preferred brands simultaneously. Additionally, each product page features video content from the manufacturers demonstrating the toys in action that customers can email to family and friends as well as options for customers to upload their own video reviews or download a PDF of The Holiday Toy List. To ensure gifts arrive by December 24, the following guidelines apply (for items with 24-hour availability): -- Dec. 17: Last day to order items using FREE Super Saver Shipping on qualifying orders over $25 -- Dec. 18: Last day to order items using Guaranteed Standard Shipping -- Dec. 19: Last full day to order items using Two-Day Shipping (free with Amazon Prime) -- Dec. 20: Last day to order items using Two-Day Shipping - Order as late as 3 p.m. PST (precise cut-off time varies by item) (free with Amazon Prime) -- Dec. 21: Last full day to order items using One-Day Shipping (just $3.99 per item with Amazon Prime) -- Dec. 22: Last day to order items using One-Day Shipping - Order as late as 3 p.m. PST (precise cut-off time varies by item) (just $3.99 per item with Amazon Prime) Please note Product prices and availability are subject to change. Prices and availability are accurate at the initial issuance of this release; however, they may differ from those you see when you visit Amazon.com. The term "Savings" represents the difference between the List Price and the Amazon Price. About Amazon.com Amazon.com, Inc., (Nasdaq: AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com, Inc. seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden. Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and the Joyo Amazon websites at www.joyo.cn and www.amazon.cn. As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise. Forward-Looking Statements This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, new products, services and technologies, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, government regulation and taxation, payments and fraud. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2006, and all subsequent filings. CONTACT: Amazon.com, Inc. Amazon Media Hotline, 206-266-7180 www.amazon.com/pr SOURCE: Amazon.com, Inc.

<p>Incredible Deals for Holiday Toy Shoppers Begin Today</p><p>SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Dec. 7, 2007--Amazon.com (NASDAQ:AMZN): Holiday shoppers looking for the season's must-have toys at great prices can find them at the Amazon.com Toy store (www.amazon.com/toys). "December Deals" offers customers incredible savings on over 2,300 of the holiday's hottest toys, including over 200 items at a 60 percent discount. The following are a selection of Amazon.com best-selling toys at amazing deals:</p><p>-- Jakks EyeClops Bionic Eye - List Price: $49.99, Amazon Price: $34.99 (Savings 30%)</p><p>-- Spinmaster Air Hogs Havoc Heli - List Price: $39.99, Amazon Price: $27.53 (Savings 31%)</p><p>-- Webkinz Reindeer - List Price: $19.99, Amazon Price: $13.50 (Savings 32%)</p><p>-- MGA Bratz The Movie Mansion - List Price $99.99, Amazon Price $39.99 (Savings 60%)</p><p>-- Leapfrog Fridge Farm Magnetic Animal Set - List Price $15.99, Amazon Price $11.99 (Savings 25%)</p><p>-- Fisher Price Sesame Street Pizza Party Elmo - List Price $29.99, Amazon Price $10.99 (Savings 63%)</p><p>-- Mattel Disney Pixar's Cars Mack Truck Play Set - List Price $19.99, Amazon Price $11.99 (Savings 40%)</p><p>Customers can also visit The Holiday Toy List (www.amazon.com/holidaytoylist), where innovative navigation tools and videos on every product page help customers navigate over 450 of this year's top toys, video games and sporting goods. Customers can quickly narrow and expand search results by age, gender, price, category, favorite characters and preferred brands simultaneously. Additionally, each product page features video content from the manufacturers demonstrating the toys in action that customers can email to family and friends as well as options for customers to upload their own video reviews or download a PDF of The Holiday Toy List.</p><p>To ensure gifts arrive by December 24, the following guidelines apply (for items with 24-hour availability):</p><p>-- Dec. 17: Last day to order items using FREE Super Saver Shipping on qualifying orders over $25</p><p>-- Dec. 18: Last day to order items using Guaranteed Standard Shipping</p><p>-- Dec. 19: Last full day to order items using Two-Day Shipping (free with Amazon Prime)</p><p>-- Dec. 20: Last day to order items using Two-Day Shipping - Order as late as 3 p.m. PST (precise cut-off time varies by item) (free with Amazon Prime)</p><p>-- Dec. 21: Last full day to order items using One-Day Shipping (just $3.99 per item with Amazon Prime)</p><p>-- Dec. 22: Last day to order items using One-Day Shipping - Order as late as 3 p.m. PST (precise cut-off time varies by item) (just $3.99 per item with Amazon Prime)</p><p>Please note</p><p>Product prices and availability are subject to change. Prices and availability are accurate at the initial issuance of this release; however, they may differ from those you see when you visit Amazon.com. The term "Savings" represents the difference between the List Price and the Amazon Price.</p><p>About Amazon.com</p><p>Amazon.com, Inc., (Nasdaq: AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com, Inc. seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden.</p><p>Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and the Joyo Amazon websites at www.joyo.cn and www.amazon.cn.</p><p>As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise.</p><p>Forward-Looking Statements</p><p>This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, new products, services and technologies, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, government regulation and taxation, payments and fraud. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2006, and all subsequent filings.</p><pre> CONTACT: Amazon.com, Inc. Amazon Media Hotline, 206-266-7180 www.amazon.com/pr SOURCE: Amazon.com, Inc.</pre>

Ooyala Wins Amazon Web Services Start-Up Challenge, Receives $100,000 in Cash and Services Credits Plus Investment Offer from Amazon.com

/news/news-details/2007/Ooyala-Wins-Amazon-Web-Services-Start-Up-Challenge-Receives-100000-in-Cash-and-Services-Credits-Plus-Investment-Offer-from-Amazon.com/default.aspx

Ooyala-Wins-Amazon-Web-Services-Start-Up-Challenge-Receives-100000-in-Cash-and-Services-Credits-Plus-Investment-Offer-from-Amazon.com

12/07/2007 02:04:00

Ooyala Wins Amazon Web Services Start-Up Challenge, Receives $100,000 in Cash and Services Credits Plus Investment Offer from Amazon.com

12/07/2007

2007

Over 900 Business Plan Entries Submitted by Developers Building Their Products and Services Using the AWS Platform SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Dec. 7, 2007--Amazon Web Services LLC, a subsidiary of Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ: AMZN), today announced that Ooyala is the winner of the Amazon Web Services Start-Up Challenge. Ooyala is a video company delivering a high-quality interactive video experience with monetization and analytics tools for video publishers and advertisers. As the grand prize winner, Ooyala will receive $50,000 in cash, $50,000 in Amazon Web Service credits and an investment offer from Amazon.com. Today's announcement at a celebration in Seattle capped off an exciting final round of the contest in which seven finalists presented their businesses to judges from Amazon.com and venture capital firms. Ooyala has built a platform to deliver video content for publishers and targeted advertising via an interactive video experience. Ooyala is built on Amazon Web Services including Amazon EC2, used for video and analytics processing, and Amazon S3 for content storage and delivery. Ooyala leverages Amazon FPS to process both content and ad serving payments. Amazon Mechanical Turk and Amazon SQS are also utilized by Ooyala. "When we started Ooyala, we were warned that we would spend most of our time in datacenters at 2 a.m. making sure everything worked," said Sean Knapp, Founder and President of Technology for Ooyala. "Very few companies in the world can provide the infrastructure services Amazon can provide. Why would you do it yourself? AWS has enabled Ooyala to build, deploy and scale our product in record time, raising the bar for rapid innovation." "We were amazed both by the number of entries we received and the creativity of the developers and start-ups who entered. Our finalists ranged from healthcare technology to insurance applications to web and video analytics. It was difficult to narrow such a qualified field and select a single winner," said Adam Selipsky, Vice President of Product Management and Developer Relations, Amazon Web Services. "Ooyala is a wonderful example of the innovation and potential we see in so many of the companies adopting AWS." The Start-Up Challenge began on September 12th with a call for entries. Over 900 applications were reviewed and seven finalists were chosen. Videos of each finalist were then produced and posted to the AWS website where developers casted their votes for the best idea. For the Final Round, AWS flew finalists to Amazon headquarters in Seattle to present their ideas to a judging panel of representatives from Amazon.com. To complete the competition, finalists participated in "Fast Pitch" sessions where they each had 15 minutes to present their ideas to representatives from venture capital firms. At the end of the day, the judges selected the winner who was announced at an awards dinner. Details on the six remaining finalists for the Amazon Web Services Start-Up Challenge follow. Brainscape, a product of the Neuroinformatics Research Group, is an engine for measuring the networks in the brain. Researchers are using Brainscape to discover new brain networks and measure the effects of new drugs in clinical trials. Soon, doctors will be using Brainscape to diagnose disease and aid in treatment. The team at the Neuroinformatics Research Group is building their tools on AWS to meet their computing and storage needs. Brainscape is currently using Amazon EC2 to build dynamic computing clusters and Amazon SQS to distribute jobs on those clusters. Commerce360 uses advanced mathematics and statistical analysis in their ClickEquations product to optimize paid search campaigns and deliver improved campaign efficiency and performance for advertisers. ClickEquations utilizes Amazon S3, Amazon EC2 and Amazon SQS to store, process and queue data analysis and campaign management. Justin.tv operates a massively scalable live video platform serving about 500,000 video streams per day. Their custom server software, Python Media Server, has been written from scratch to perform optimally on lightweight Amazon EC2 instances. The end result is that live video publishers have a free, easy-to-use, and completely scalable platform for hosting any type of live video broadcast. MileMeter is an innovative insurance start-up that will offer "auto insurance buy the mile". With MileMeter, drivers will be able to pre-pay auto insurance based on the number of odometer miles. Their utility pricing model will reward low-mileage drivers with fair and affordable insurance. Using AWS, MileMeter will have a scalable infrastructure to expand as their business grows. UserTesting.com provides quick and cheap website usability testing. For as little as $19, website owners can access a network of pre-screened testers who are articulate and observant and who meet specified demographics. Testers perform common tasks on a website while they have their screen activity and verbal comments recorded for the website owner to review. UserTesting.com will use Amazon Mechanical Turk to find testers and use Amazon S3 and Amazon EC2 to process and store the resulting flash videos. WeoGeo creates a one-stop marketplace for mapping using Amazon EC2 and Amazon S3. WeoGeo supplies surveyors, engineers, cartographers, and scientists with the ability to conveniently store, discover, and exchange high-resolution CAD and GIS mapping products. Map providers easily list their products for sale and buyers quickly find the maps they need.

<p>Over 900 Business Plan Entries Submitted by Developers Building</p><p>Their Products and Services Using the AWS Platform</p><p>SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Dec. 7, 2007--Amazon Web Services LLC, a subsidiary of Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ: AMZN), today announced that Ooyala is the winner of the Amazon Web Services Start-Up Challenge. Ooyala is a video company delivering a high-quality interactive video experience with monetization and analytics tools for video publishers and advertisers. As the grand prize winner, Ooyala will receive $50,000 in cash, $50,000 in Amazon Web Service credits and an investment offer from Amazon.com. Today's announcement at a celebration in Seattle capped off an exciting final round of the contest in which seven finalists presented their businesses to judges from Amazon.com and venture capital firms.</p><p>Ooyala has built a platform to deliver video content for publishers and targeted advertising via an interactive video experience. Ooyala is built on Amazon Web Services including Amazon EC2, used for video and analytics processing, and Amazon S3 for content storage and delivery. Ooyala leverages Amazon FPS to process both content and ad serving payments. Amazon Mechanical Turk and Amazon SQS are also utilized by Ooyala.</p><p>"When we started Ooyala, we were warned that we would spend most of our time in datacenters at 2 a.m. making sure everything worked," said Sean Knapp, Founder and President of Technology for Ooyala. "Very few companies in the world can provide the infrastructure services Amazon can provide. Why would you do it yourself? AWS has enabled Ooyala to build, deploy and scale our product in record time, raising the bar for rapid innovation."</p><p>"We were amazed both by the number of entries we received and the creativity of the developers and start-ups who entered. Our finalists ranged from healthcare technology to insurance applications to web and video analytics. It was difficult to narrow such a qualified field and select a single winner," said Adam Selipsky, Vice President of Product Management and Developer Relations, Amazon Web Services. "Ooyala is a wonderful example of the innovation and potential we see in so many of the companies adopting AWS."</p><p>The Start-Up Challenge began on September 12th with a call for entries. Over 900 applications were reviewed and seven finalists were chosen. Videos of each finalist were then produced and posted to the AWS website where developers casted their votes for the best idea. For the Final Round, AWS flew finalists to Amazon headquarters in Seattle to present their ideas to a judging panel of representatives from Amazon.com. To complete the competition, finalists participated in "Fast Pitch" sessions where they each had 15 minutes to present their ideas to representatives from venture capital firms. At the end of the day, the judges selected the winner who was announced at an awards dinner.</p><p>Details on the six remaining finalists for the Amazon Web Services Start-Up Challenge follow.</p><p>Brainscape, a product of the Neuroinformatics Research Group, is an engine for measuring the networks in the brain. Researchers are using Brainscape to discover new brain networks and measure the effects of new drugs in clinical trials. Soon, doctors will be using Brainscape to diagnose disease and aid in treatment. The team at the Neuroinformatics Research Group is building their tools on AWS to meet their computing and storage needs. Brainscape is currently using Amazon EC2 to build dynamic computing clusters and Amazon SQS to distribute jobs on those clusters.</p><p>Commerce360 uses advanced mathematics and statistical analysis in their ClickEquations product to optimize paid search campaigns and deliver improved campaign efficiency and performance for advertisers. ClickEquations utilizes Amazon S3, Amazon EC2 and Amazon SQS to store, process and queue data analysis and campaign management.</p><p>Justin.tv operates a massively scalable live video platform serving about 500,000 video streams per day. Their custom server software, Python Media Server, has been written from scratch to perform optimally on lightweight Amazon EC2 instances. The end result is that live video publishers have a free, easy-to-use, and completely scalable platform for hosting any type of live video broadcast.</p><p>MileMeter is an innovative insurance start-up that will offer "auto insurance buy the mile". With MileMeter, drivers will be able to pre-pay auto insurance based on the number of odometer miles. Their utility pricing model will reward low-mileage drivers with fair and affordable insurance. Using AWS, MileMeter will have a scalable infrastructure to expand as their business grows.</p><p>UserTesting.com provides quick and cheap website usability testing. For as little as $19, website owners can access a network of pre-screened testers who are articulate and observant and who meet specified demographics. Testers perform common tasks on a website while they have their screen activity and verbal comments recorded for the website owner to review. UserTesting.com will use Amazon Mechanical Turk to find testers and use Amazon S3 and Amazon EC2 to process and store the resulting flash videos.</p><p>WeoGeo creates a one-stop marketplace for mapping using Amazon EC2 and Amazon S3. WeoGeo supplies surveyors, engineers, cartographers, and scientists with the ability to conveniently store, discover, and exchange high-resolution CAD and GIS mapping products. Map providers easily list their products for sale and buyers quickly find the maps they need.</p>

Amazon Customers Set Gift Expectations High This Holiday Season

/news/news-details/2007/Amazon-Customers-Set-Gift-Expectations-High-This-Holiday-Season/default.aspx

Amazon-Customers-Set-Gift-Expectations-High-This-Holiday-Season

12/05/2007 21:09:00

Amazon Customers Set Gift Expectations High This Holiday Season

12/05/2007

2007

Leading Online Retailer Responds by Discounting High-Quality, High-Demand Products SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Dec. 5, 2007--At the halfway point of this year's holiday shopping season, results show that Amazon.com (NASDAQ:AMZN) customers have high expectations for gifts and are seeking primarily high-quality, brand-name items. In response, Amazon.com is discounting many of the site's most desired products, offering customers great value for their shopping dollar. According to Amazon's Most Wished For items (products that appear most frequently on customer Wish Lists), customers are seeking consumer electronics, toys, kitchenware, and watches from high-quality, well-known brands. Across all categories offered on Amazon.com, customers are using product ratings and customer reviews to determine the highest-quality items that fit their shopping budget. "It is no coincidence that the Most Wished For items on Amazon.com also happen to be very high-quality items," said Craig Berman, Amazon.com spokesperson. "Customers want products that are stylish, durable and perform exceptionally well, and we are pleased to offer many of these popular and desirable products at greatly discounted prices as we head into our busiest time of the year." The Most Wished For list is available at: www.amazon.com/most-wished-for. The following are a selection of amazing deals on the Most Wished For items of the season: Toys & Games (www.amazon.com/toys)-- Jakks EyeClops Bionic Eye - List Price: $49.99, Amazon Price: $34.99 (Savings: 30%) -- Mattel High School Musical DVD Board Game 2 - List Price: $29.95, Amazon Price: $9.99 (Savings: 67%) -- Lego Star Wars Death Star II - List Price: $269.99, Amazon Price: $149.99 (Savings: 44%)-- Barbie Girls 1GB MP3 Player - List Price: $99.99, Amazon Price: $49.99 (Savings: 50%)-- Cranium - List Price: $24.99, Amazon Price: $11.99 (Savings: 52%) -- Barbie Mattel Barbie as The Island Princess Princess Rosella Doll - List Price: $29.95, Amazon Price: $16.75 (Savings: 44%) -- DreamLife Superstar TV Plug-In Game - List Price: $37.99, Amazon Price: $24.99 (Savings: 34%)Electronics (www.amazon.com/electronics) -- Apple 16 GB iPod touch - List Price: $399.00, Amazon Price: $379.00 (Savings: 5%)-- Garmin nuvi 350 3.5-Inch Portable GPS Navigator - List Price: $969.22, Amazon Price: $304.36 (Savings: 69%) -- Canon PowerShot SD800 IS 7.1MP Digital Elph Camera - List Price: $449.99, Amazon Price: $239.94, (Savings: 47%) -- Canon Digital Rebel XTi 10.1MP Digital SLR Camera - List Price: $1,400.00, Amazon Price: $610.99 (Savings: 56%) -- Samsung LNT4661F 46" 1080p LCD HDTV - List Price: $2,199.99, Amazon Price: $1,599.98 (Savings: 27%)-- Toshiba REGZA 32HL67U 32" 720p LCD HDTV - List Price: $899.99, Amazon Price: $730.65 (Savings: 19%)-- SanDisk SDMX4-4096 Sansa e260 4 GB MP3 Player - List Price: $249.99, Amazon Price: $106.94 (Savings: 57%)Software (www.amazon.com/software)-- Apple Mac OS X Version 10.5 Leopard - List Price: $129.00, Amazon Price: $109.99 (Savings: 15%)-- Adobe Photoshop Elements 6 - List Price: $99.99, Amazon Price: $77.99 (Savings: 22% + Mail-In Rebate: $20.00)-- Microsoft Office Professional 2007 FULL VERSION - List Price $499.95, Amazon Price $374.99 (Savings: 25%)Home & Garden (www.amazon.com/home)-- KitchenAid Professional 600 Series 6-Quart Stand Mixer - List Price: $499.99, Amazon Price: $259.99 (Savings: 48%)-- Dirt Devil 0213CHM Kone Cordless Hand Vacuum - List Price: $59.95, Amazon Price: $35.99 (Savings: 40%)-- Calphalon Commercial Hard Anodized 9-Piece Set - List Price: $492.00, Amazon Price: $199.99 (Savings: 59%)-- Pinzon Bamboo Cotton Bath Towel - List Price: $40.00, Amazon Price: $19.99 (Savings: 50%)-- La Crosse Technology WS-9035U Wireless Weather Station and Wind Sensor - List Price: $179.95, Amazon Price: $79.99 (Savings 56%)-- Chicago Cutlery Insignia2 18-Piece Block Set - List Price: $149.99, Amazon Price: $79.99 (Savings: 47%)-- Zojirushi Mr. Bento Stainless-Steel Lined Lunch Jar - List Price: $64.00, Amazon Price: $36.68 (Savings: 43%)-- Silpat 11-5/8-by-16-1/2-Inch Nonstick Silicone Baking Mat - List Price: $24.99, Amazon Price: $12.99 (Savings: 48%)Jewelry (www.amazon.com/jewelry)-- 14k White Gold, Princess-Cut, Diamond Classic 4-Prong Pendant (1/10 cttw) - List Price: $114.00, Amazon Price: $59.00 (Savings: 48%) -- 10k White Gold Diamond Flower Tennis Bracelet (1/2 cttw) - List Price: $449.00, Amazon Price: $269.99 (Savings: 40%)-- 14k White Gold Black Diamond Ring (1/3 cttw) - List Price: $364.95, Amazon Price: $189.99 (Savings: 47%)-- 14k White Gold, Round, Diamond Stud Earrings (1/3 cttw) - List Price: $129.00, Amazon Price: $49.99 (Savings: 61%)Watches (www.amazon.com/watches)-- Skagen Women's Silver Dial Mesh Bracelet Watch - List Price: $100.00, Amazon Price: $56.00 (Savings: 44%)-- Bulova Women's Diamond Chronograph Watch #96R19 - List Price: $499.00, Amazon Price: $239.50 (Savings: 52%)-- Invicta Men's Pro Diver Collection Automatic Watch #8926 - List Price: $285.00, Amazon Price: $82.99 (Savings: 71%)-- Invicta Women's II Collection Limited Edition Diamond Chronograph Watch #4718 - List Price: $895.00, Amazon Price: $225.00 (Savings: 75%) -- Lego Kids Watch #5900100 - List Price: $24.99, Amazon Price: $14.99 (Savings: 40%) DVD (www.amazon.com/dvd) -- "The Sopranos: Season 6, Part 2" - List Price: $99.98, Amazon Price: $54.99 (Savings: 45%)-- "Planet Earth" - List Price: $79.98, Amazon Price: $54.99 (Savings: 31%)-- "The War" - List Price: $129.99, Amazon Price: $79.99 (Savings: 38%)-- "Sex and the City: The Complete Series" (Collector's Giftset) - List Price: $299.98, Amazon Price: $154.99 (Savings: 48%)-- "Friends: The Complete Series Collection" - List Price: $299.98, Amazon Price: $162.99 (Savings: 46%) Music (www.amazon.com/music)-- "Noel" by Josh Groban - List Price: $18.98, Amazon Price: $9.99 (Savings: 47%)-- "Raising Sand" by Robert Plant and Alison Krauss - List Price: $18.98, Amazon Price: $11.99 (Savings: 37%) -- "As I Am" by Alicia Keys - List Price: $18.98, Amazon Price: $9.99 (Savings: 47%)-- "Carnival Ride" by Carrie Underwood - List Price: $18.97, Amazon Price: $9.99 (Savings: 47%)-- "Taking Chances" by Celine Dion - List Price: $18.98, Amazon Price: $9.99 (Savings: 47%)Sports & Outdoor (www.amazon.com/sports) -- Razor E300 Electric Scooter - List Price: $229.99, Amazon Price: $174.99 (Savings: 24%)-- Victorinox Swiss Army Golf Tool with Callaway Golf Balls - List Price: $64.00, Amazon Price: $32.00 (Savings: 50%)-- Columbia Bugaboo Four to Five-Person Family Dome Tent - List Price: $169.99, Amazon Price: $109.99 (Savings: 35%) -- Victorinox Swiss Army Champion Plus - List Price: $76.00, Amazon Price: $29.95 (Savings: 61%) -- Razor Pocket Rocket Miniature Electric Bike - List Price: $229.99, Amazon Price: $149.22 (Savings: 35%)Automotive (www.amazon.com/auto)-- Accutire MS-4350B Programmable Digital Tire Gauge - List Price: $19.99, Amazon Price: $11.99 (Savings: 40%)-- Actron CP9135 AutoScanner Diagnostic Code Scanner - List Price: $179.99, Amazon Price: $69.99 (Savings: 61%) -- Black & Decker BB7B Simple Start 12-Volt Battery Booster - List Price: $76.00 Amazon Price: $42.50 (Savings: 44%)Home Improvement (www.amazon.com/hi) -- Denali 115-Piece Home Repair Tool Kit - List Price: $79.99, Amazon Price: $39.99 (Savings: 50%)-- Racor Ceiling Mounted Bike Lift #PBH-1R - List Price: $54.99, Amazon Price: $19.99 (Savings: 64%) -- Black & Decker AAW100 8-Inch Auto Wrench - List Price $50.38, Amazon Price: $25.99 (Savings: 48%) -- Black & Decker BDSL10 36" Gecko Grip Level with Accu Mark - List Price: $39.59, Amazon Price: $24.99 (Savings: 37%) -- Black & Decker VPX903X1 VPX Starter Set with Power Screwdriver, Cut Saw, Flashlight, and VPX Battery with Charger - List Price: $182.26, Amazon Price $89.99 (Savings: 51%) Holiday Shipping Amazon.com is the home of great shipping options. For convenient and effortless shopping, customers can take advantage of a popular program called Amazon Prime(TM). For $79 a year, customers receive FREE Two-Day Express Shipping on qualifying items. Amazon Prime benefits can be extended to up to four family members living in the same household, and there is no minimum purchase required and no need to consolidate orders. Prime Members can ship eligible items to any valid address in the continental United States, and are not limited to shipping exclusively to their home billing address. Some restrictions apply; see www.amazon.com/prime for details. In addition, customers can save money and, with some advance planning, still enable their packages to arrive on time for the holidays by using Amazon.com's convenient FREE Super Saver Shipping available on orders over $25. Some restrictions apply; see www.amazon.com/supersavershipping for details. For delivery by December 24, the following guidelines apply (for items with 24-hour availability): -- Dec. 17: Last day to order items using FREE Super Saver Shipping on qualifying orders over $25-- Dec. 18: Last day to order items using Guaranteed Standard Shipping -- Dec. 19: Last full day to order items using Two-Day Shipping (free with Amazon Prime) -- Dec. 20: Last day to order items using Two-Day Shipping - Order as late as 3 p.m. PST (precise cut-off time varies by item) (free with Amazon Prime) -- Dec. 21: Last full day to order items using One-Day Shipping (just $3.99 per item with Amazon Prime)-- Dec. 22: Last day to order items using One-Day Shipping - Order as late as 3 p.m. PST (varies by item) (just $3.99 per item with Amazon Prime)  Please note Product prices and availability are subject to change. Prices and availability are accurate at the initial issuance of this release; however, they may differ from those you see when you visit Amazon.com. The term "List Price" represents the full retail price listed on the product itself, suggested by the manufacturer or supplier, or estimated in accordance with standard industry practice. It is a comparative price estimate and may or may not represent the prevailing price in every area on any particular day. The term "Savings" represents the difference between the List Price and the Amazon Price. About Amazon.com Amazon.com, Inc., (Nasdaq: AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com, Inc. seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden. Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and the Joyo Amazon websites at www.joyo.cn and www.amazon.cn. As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise. Forward-Looking Statements This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, new products, services and technologies, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, government regulation and taxation, payments and fraud. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2006, and all subsequent filings. CONTACT: Amazon Media Hotline, 206-266-7180www.amazon.com/prSOURCE: Amazon.com

<p>Leading Online Retailer Responds by Discounting High-Quality, High-Demand Products</p><p>SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Dec. 5, 2007--At the halfway point of this year's holiday shopping season, results show that Amazon.com (NASDAQ:AMZN) customers have high expectations for gifts and are seeking primarily high-quality, brand-name items. In response, Amazon.com is discounting many of the site's most desired products, offering customers great value for their shopping dollar.</p><p>According to Amazon's Most Wished For items (products that appear most frequently on customer Wish Lists), customers are seeking consumer electronics, toys, kitchenware, and watches from high-quality, well-known brands. Across all categories offered on Amazon.com, customers are using product ratings and customer reviews to determine the highest-quality items that fit their shopping budget.</p><p>"It is no coincidence that the Most Wished For items on Amazon.com also happen to be very high-quality items," said Craig Berman, Amazon.com spokesperson. "Customers want products that are stylish, durable and perform exceptionally well, and we are pleased to offer many of these popular and desirable products at greatly discounted prices as we head into our busiest time of the year."</p><p>The Most Wished For list is available at: www.amazon.com/most-wished-for. The following are a selection of amazing deals on the Most Wished For items of the season:</p><p>Toys &amp; Games (www.amazon.com/toys)-- Jakks EyeClops Bionic Eye - List Price: $49.99, Amazon Price: $34.99 (Savings: 30%) -- Mattel High School Musical DVD Board Game 2 - List Price: $29.95, Amazon Price: $9.99 (Savings: 67%) -- Lego Star Wars Death Star II - List Price: $269.99, Amazon Price: $149.99 (Savings: 44%)-- Barbie Girls 1GB MP3 Player - List Price: $99.99, Amazon Price: $49.99 (Savings: 50%)-- Cranium - List Price: $24.99, Amazon Price: $11.99 (Savings: 52%) -- Barbie Mattel Barbie as The Island Princess Princess Rosella Doll - List Price: $29.95, Amazon Price: $16.75 (Savings: 44%) -- DreamLife Superstar TV Plug-In Game - List Price: $37.99, Amazon Price: $24.99 (Savings: 34%)Electronics (www.amazon.com/electronics) -- Apple 16 GB iPod touch - List Price: $399.00, Amazon Price: $379.00 (Savings: 5%)-- Garmin nuvi 350 3.5-Inch Portable GPS Navigator - List Price: $969.22, Amazon Price: $304.36 (Savings: 69%) -- Canon PowerShot SD800 IS 7.1MP Digital Elph Camera - List Price: $449.99, Amazon Price: $239.94, (Savings: 47%) -- Canon Digital Rebel XTi 10.1MP Digital SLR Camera - List Price: $1,400.00, Amazon Price: $610.99 (Savings: 56%) -- Samsung LNT4661F 46" 1080p LCD HDTV - List Price: $2,199.99, Amazon Price: $1,599.98 (Savings: 27%)-- Toshiba REGZA 32HL67U 32" 720p LCD HDTV - List Price: $899.99, Amazon Price: $730.65 (Savings: 19%)-- SanDisk SDMX4-4096 Sansa e260 4 GB MP3 Player - List Price: $249.99, Amazon Price: $106.94 (Savings: 57%)Software (www.amazon.com/software)-- Apple Mac OS X Version 10.5 Leopard - List Price: $129.00, Amazon Price: $109.99 (Savings: 15%)-- Adobe Photoshop Elements 6 - List Price: $99.99, Amazon Price: $77.99 (Savings: 22% + Mail-In Rebate: $20.00)-- Microsoft Office Professional 2007 FULL VERSION - List Price $499.95, Amazon Price $374.99 (Savings: 25%)Home &amp; Garden (www.amazon.com/home)-- KitchenAid Professional 600 Series 6-Quart Stand Mixer - List Price: $499.99, Amazon Price: $259.99 (Savings: 48%)-- Dirt Devil 0213CHM Kone Cordless Hand Vacuum - List Price: $59.95, Amazon Price: $35.99 (Savings: 40%)-- Calphalon Commercial Hard Anodized 9-Piece Set - List Price: $492.00, Amazon Price: $199.99 (Savings: 59%)-- Pinzon Bamboo Cotton Bath Towel - List Price: $40.00, Amazon Price: $19.99 (Savings: 50%)-- La Crosse Technology WS-9035U Wireless Weather Station and Wind Sensor - List Price: $179.95, Amazon Price: $79.99 (Savings 56%)-- Chicago Cutlery Insignia2 18-Piece Block Set - List Price: $149.99, Amazon Price: $79.99 (Savings: 47%)-- Zojirushi Mr. Bento Stainless-Steel Lined Lunch Jar - List Price: $64.00, Amazon Price: $36.68 (Savings: 43%)-- Silpat 11-5/8-by-16-1/2-Inch Nonstick Silicone Baking Mat - List Price: $24.99, Amazon Price: $12.99 (Savings: 48%)Jewelry (www.amazon.com/jewelry)-- 14k White Gold, Princess-Cut, Diamond Classic 4-Prong Pendant (1/10 cttw) - List Price: $114.00, Amazon Price: $59.00 (Savings: 48%) -- 10k White Gold Diamond Flower Tennis Bracelet (1/2 cttw) - List Price: $449.00, Amazon Price: $269.99 (Savings: 40%)-- 14k White Gold Black Diamond Ring (1/3 cttw) - List Price: $364.95, Amazon Price: $189.99 (Savings: 47%)-- 14k White Gold, Round, Diamond Stud Earrings (1/3 cttw) - List Price: $129.00, Amazon Price: $49.99 (Savings: 61%)Watches (www.amazon.com/watches)-- Skagen Women's Silver Dial Mesh Bracelet Watch - List Price: $100.00, Amazon Price: $56.00 (Savings: 44%)-- Bulova Women's Diamond Chronograph Watch #96R19 - List Price: $499.00, Amazon Price: $239.50 (Savings: 52%)-- Invicta Men's Pro Diver Collection Automatic Watch #8926 - List Price: $285.00, Amazon Price: $82.99 (Savings: 71%)-- Invicta Women's II Collection Limited Edition Diamond Chronograph Watch #4718 - List Price: $895.00, Amazon Price: $225.00 (Savings: 75%) -- Lego Kids Watch #5900100 - List Price: $24.99, Amazon Price: $14.99 (Savings: 40%) DVD (www.amazon.com/dvd) -- "The Sopranos: Season 6, Part 2" - List Price: $99.98, Amazon Price: $54.99 (Savings: 45%)-- "Planet Earth" - List Price: $79.98, Amazon Price: $54.99 (Savings: 31%)-- "The War" - List Price: $129.99, Amazon Price: $79.99 (Savings: 38%)-- "Sex and the City: The Complete Series" (Collector's Giftset) - List Price: $299.98, Amazon Price: $154.99 (Savings: 48%)-- "Friends: The Complete Series Collection" - List Price: $299.98, Amazon Price: $162.99 (Savings: 46%) Music (www.amazon.com/music)-- "Noel" by Josh Groban - List Price: $18.98, Amazon Price: $9.99 (Savings: 47%)-- "Raising Sand" by Robert Plant and Alison Krauss - List Price: $18.98, Amazon Price: $11.99 (Savings: 37%) -- "As I Am" by Alicia Keys - List Price: $18.98, Amazon Price: $9.99 (Savings: 47%)-- "Carnival Ride" by Carrie Underwood - List Price: $18.97, Amazon Price: $9.99 (Savings: 47%)-- "Taking Chances" by Celine Dion - List Price: $18.98, Amazon Price: $9.99 (Savings: 47%)Sports &amp; Outdoor (www.amazon.com/sports) -- Razor E300 Electric Scooter - List Price: $229.99, Amazon Price: $174.99 (Savings: 24%)-- Victorinox Swiss Army Golf Tool with Callaway Golf Balls - List Price: $64.00, Amazon Price: $32.00 (Savings: 50%)-- Columbia Bugaboo Four to Five-Person Family Dome Tent - List Price: $169.99, Amazon Price: $109.99 (Savings: 35%) -- Victorinox Swiss Army Champion Plus - List Price: $76.00, Amazon Price: $29.95 (Savings: 61%) -- Razor Pocket Rocket Miniature Electric Bike - List Price: $229.99, Amazon Price: $149.22 (Savings: 35%)Automotive (www.amazon.com/auto)-- Accutire MS-4350B Programmable Digital Tire Gauge - List Price: $19.99, Amazon Price: $11.99 (Savings: 40%)-- Actron CP9135 AutoScanner Diagnostic Code Scanner - List Price: $179.99, Amazon Price: $69.99 (Savings: 61%) -- Black &amp; Decker BB7B Simple Start 12-Volt Battery Booster - List Price: $76.00 Amazon Price: $42.50 (Savings: 44%)Home Improvement (www.amazon.com/hi) -- Denali 115-Piece Home Repair Tool Kit - List Price: $79.99, Amazon Price: $39.99 (Savings: 50%)-- Racor Ceiling Mounted Bike Lift #PBH-1R - List Price: $54.99, Amazon Price: $19.99 (Savings: 64%) -- Black &amp; Decker AAW100 8-Inch Auto Wrench - List Price $50.38, Amazon Price: $25.99 (Savings: 48%) -- Black &amp; Decker BDSL10 36" Gecko Grip Level with Accu Mark - List Price: $39.59, Amazon Price: $24.99 (Savings: 37%) -- Black &amp; Decker VPX903X1 VPX Starter Set with Power Screwdriver, Cut Saw, Flashlight, and VPX Battery with Charger - List Price: $182.26, Amazon Price $89.99 (Savings: 51%)</p><p>Holiday Shipping</p><p>Amazon.com is the home of great shipping options. For convenient and effortless shopping, customers can take advantage of a popular program called Amazon Prime(TM). For $79 a year, customers receive FREE Two-Day Express Shipping on qualifying items. Amazon Prime benefits can be extended to up to four family members living in the same household, and there is no minimum purchase required and no need to consolidate orders. Prime Members can ship eligible items to any valid address in the continental United States, and are not limited to shipping exclusively to their home billing address. Some restrictions apply; see www.amazon.com/prime for details.</p><p>In addition, customers can save money and, with some advance planning, still enable their packages to arrive on time for the holidays by using Amazon.com's convenient FREE Super Saver Shipping available on orders over $25. Some restrictions apply; see www.amazon.com/supersavershipping for details.</p><p>For delivery by December 24, the following guidelines apply (for items with 24-hour availability):</p><p>-- Dec. 17: Last day to order items using FREE Super Saver Shipping on qualifying orders over $25-- Dec. 18: Last day to order items using Guaranteed Standard Shipping -- Dec. 19: Last full day to order items using Two-Day Shipping (free with Amazon Prime) -- Dec. 20: Last day to order items using Two-Day Shipping - Order as late as 3 p.m. PST (precise cut-off time varies by item) (free with Amazon Prime) -- Dec. 21: Last full day to order items using One-Day Shipping (just $3.99 per item with Amazon Prime)-- Dec. 22: Last day to order items using One-Day Shipping - Order as late as 3 p.m. PST (varies by item) (just $3.99 per item with Amazon Prime) </p><p>Please note</p><p>Product prices and availability are subject to change. Prices and availability are accurate at the initial issuance of this release; however, they may differ from those you see when you visit Amazon.com. The term "List Price" represents the full retail price listed on the product itself, suggested by the manufacturer or supplier, or estimated in accordance with standard industry practice. It is a comparative price estimate and may or may not represent the prevailing price in every area on any particular day. The term "Savings" represents the difference between the List Price and the Amazon Price.</p><p>About Amazon.com</p><p>Amazon.com, Inc., (Nasdaq: AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com, Inc. seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden.</p><p>Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and the Joyo Amazon websites at www.joyo.cn and www.amazon.cn.</p><p>As used herein, "Amazon.com," "we," "our" and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise.</p><p>Forward-Looking Statements</p><p>This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, new products, services and technologies, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, significant amount of indebtedness, inventory, government regulation and taxation, payments and fraud. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2006, and all subsequent filings.</p><p>CONTACT: Amazon Media Hotline, 206-266-7180www.amazon.com/prSOURCE: Amazon.com</p>