Amazon confirms the end of its “Try Before You Buy” service, marking a shift to AI-powered shopping tools

In a surprising move that has sent shockwaves through the online retail world, Amazon has announced the discontinuation of its “Try Before You Buy” service, a benefit offered to its Prime members. The service, which allowed shoppers to order select clothing, shoes, and accessories for trial before committing to a purchase, will officially end on January 31, 2025.

Launched in 2018 under the name Prime Wardrobe, the service quickly became a favourite for many Amazon shoppers. It offered a simple yet appealing feature: Prime members could choose up to six items from a selection of clothing, try them on at home, and return those they didn’t like, without facing any charges. The promise of hassle-free returns and no upfront payment was, for many, a game changer.

However, the service will now be phased out, leaving many regular users wondering what has prompted Amazon to axe such a popular feature. An Amazon spokesperson explained the move as a shift toward more scalable and efficient shopping options, namely AI-powered features like virtual try-ons and personalised size recommendations. The company highlighted the growing trend of shoppers relying on these digital tools, which they claim offer a more accurate and streamlined shopping experience.

Despite the popularity of Prime Wardrobe, Amazon conceded that the service had a limited reach, both in terms of product selection and eligible customers. With the rise of AI-driven technology, such as personalised size charts and improved review highlights, Amazon aims to offer shoppers a simpler and more convenient experience. These new tools are designed to make it easier for consumers to find the right fit, reducing the need to physically try on items before buying.

The decision to phase out “Try Before You Buy” comes at a time when online retail is increasingly under pressure to cut down on the costs associated with returns and shipping. As more people shop online and take advantage of generous return policies, companies like Amazon have been forced to re-evaluate the feasibility of offering such perks.

Although this move marks the end of a beloved Prime benefit, Amazon is assuring its customers that free returns across its apparel department will continue. The company claims that eliminating the “Try Before You Buy” service will ultimately simplify the overall shopping experience, providing customers with faster delivery options and a larger selection of items to choose from.

While some may mourn the loss of this convenient feature, Amazon’s move signals a broader shift in how the retail giant is evolving in the age of artificial intelligence. With virtual shopping tools and advanced algorithms taking centre stage, the future of online shopping is set to look very different.