Amazon is one of those companies that we take for granted because it is so integrated into our daily lives. We buy many things in its store, they bring them to our homes, and we forget about it. Never has it been truer that we forget that it is one of the most powerful tech companies in the world, with its own list of successes and mistakes.
Among everything on the platform, we can find books written by ChatGPT, and among the questionable decisions made by Jeff Bezos’ company is preventing the remapping of the Fire TV remote. And between what is known and what is not, Amazon still has very well-kept secrets.
At least now, one of the best-kept secrets will not be so anymore. Through a thread on Reddit, one of the online store’s delivery drivers has revealed how each van is tracked, showing and discussing in great detail the tracking mechanisms that are carried in her vehicle.
How Amazon Tracks Its Delivery Drivers
First, a device located under the rearview mirror is responsible for knowing where the delivery van is at all times. In addition to this tracking device, the vehicle has four cameras: one front-facing, one rear-facing, and one on each side.
The front-facing camera provides information about how close or far drivers are from other drivers during the route and if they skip any traffic signals. If they do, they receive a warning from the company. The speed of the vehicle is also monitored so that it can be determined if drivers exceed the established limits. If they do, they receive another warning from the company.
The seatbelt anchors are also equipped with sensors that keep track of how many times they are fastened and unfastened. If the seatbelt is not fastened correctly at any time, or if drivers forget to put it on, they are also given a warning. This surveillance is reinforced by another camera inside the vehicle. Continuing with the seatbelt, the delivery driver cannot remove it or leave their seat unless they are parked.
If at any time the delivery drivers need to have a drink or eat something, according to the worker who recorded the video, they have to make a stop. Not doing so is considered a distraction while driving, which results in another warning. The central console of the van is also in the same category; drivers cannot touch it while driving.
The delivery driver who recorded the document argues that, although she does not like these measures, she understands that the company does it for safety reasons. It is undoubtedly a strict and oppressive control, but all Amazon delivery drivers must go through it if they want to keep their job.