Amazon’s modern Cue Cat – AKA Dash Wand With Alexa

Amazon’s modern Cue Cat – AKA Dash Wand With Alexa

Who here remember the Cue Cat? For those who don’t remember or those who don’t have a clue what I’m talking about. The Cue Cat was barcode reader that started shipping in 2000.

Wikepedia says: The CueCat is a cat-shaped handheld barcode reader that was released in 2000 by the now-defunct Digital Convergence Corporation. The CueCat enabled a user to open a link to an Internet URL by scanning a barcode — called a "cue" by Digital Convergence — appearing in an article or catalog or on some other printed matter. In this way, a user could be directed to a web page containing related information without having to enter a URL. The company asserted that the ability of the device to direct users to a specific URL, rather than a domain name, was valuable. In addition, television broadcasters could use an audio tone in programs or commercials that, if a TV was connected to a computer via an audio cable, acted as a web address shortcut.

The CueCat connected to computers using the PS/2 keyboard port and USB, and communicated to desktop "CRQ" software running on Windows 32-bit and Mac OS 9 operating systems. Users of this software were required to register with their ZIP code, gender, and email address. This registration process enabled the device to deliver relevant content to a single or multiple users in a household.

And I had one in my college dorm room, yeah, I have always been a tech dork.

Yesterday I received an Amazon Dash Wand with Alexa and I cannot help but notice the similarities. The Dash wand is basically a barcode scanner that puts stuff in your amazon cart. It actually does more than that, it does have some Alexa features, but don’t ask it to play music, that’s disabled.

About the product
Groceries have never been easier. All new Amazon Dash Wand with Alexa helps you find recipes, convert cups to ounces, buy and reorder essentials, find nearby restaurants and more.
Say it or scan a barcode. It’s added to your shopping cart. Just say “paper towels.” Water-resistant, durable design, and magnetic so you can stick it on your fridge.

Why did I buy this? Well it was practically free. It cost $20, but they give you $20 store credit, and I wanted to try it.