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A pioneering programmer manipulates Amazon's $5 'Dash Button' to do his bidding

On April Fools' Day, Amazon debuted what many thought to be a hilarious gag product, the 'Amazon Dash' button. The problem was, it wasn't a joke, and Amazon fully intended to distribute this product to make ordering products from its website easier. Well, it looks like one pioneering programmer has taken advantage of the buttons by manipulating them to do his bidding.

Ted Benson is a dad that wanted more from his 'Dash Button'. As a father he wanted a way to track data from his infant. Instead of relying on smartphones apps, he decided to create a simple program that could intercept the transmission from the Dash Button. By doing so he was able to convert a $5 button, into a something that could record data every time the button was pushed. Naturally, this is one simple example and I'm sure many spirited programmers can find plenty of ways to modify Amazon's button.

If you're looking to start a project of your own or just want to have a convenient way to order products from Amazon, you can order your own Dash button from Amazon for $5 USD.

Source: Ted Benson via Engadget

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