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Amazon has confirmed that it will not be hosting its re:MARS conference this year, which focuses on cutting-edge technologies such as robotics and space. Instead, the company intends to integrate these subjects into its existing lineup of events related to Amazon Web Services.
In 2019, Amazon initiated re:MARS, an abbreviation for “Machine Learning, Automation, Robotics, and Space,” as a platform for startups, academics, researchers, and executives to convene and explore the latest advancements in these fields. This conference emerged from a prior exclusive gathering known as Mars, which was held by invitation only and drew the attention of esteemed individuals within the tech community. Amazon’s founder and executive chairman, Jeff Bezos, served as the host for Mars.
Amazon clarified that the cancellation of re:MARS was not due to budget constraints. The company’s CEO, Andy Jassy, has been closely scrutinizing costs throughout the organization as it faces challenges of slowing sales growth and a less optimistic economic forecast. To manage these circumstances, Amazon has implemented significant workforce reductions, representing the largest layoffs in its history. Additionally, Jassy has terminated several initiatives, including the Amazon Care telehealth program, the “treasure truck” touring service, the Glow children’s videoconferencing device, and the Explore virtual tours service.
re:MARS served as a platform for Amazon to showcase its futuristic innovations, including delivery drones, warehouse robots, and its initial home robot. During the event, discussions on space colonization were led by Bezos himself, and he even experimented with a pair of colossal remote-controlled robotic hands. At the previous year’s conference, Amazon presented a unique demonstration where its Alexa digital assistant simulated the voice and persona of a deceased family member, highlighting an intriguing feature.
In a statement to CNBC, an Amazon Web Services spokesperson expressed that AWS regularly hosts numerous events worldwide, engaging hundreds of thousands of customers and partners. These gatherings offer a significant opportunity to connect with customers and are highly valued by attendees.
The spokesperson emphasized the commitment to ensuring each event is valuable by enabling skill development, identifying transformative solutions for organizations, and facilitating meaningful connections to advance careers. After consulting with customers and the community, Amazon has decided to incorporate re:MARS topics, such as machine learning, automation, robotics, and space, into a well-funded series of existing AWS events for the year 2023.
