Amazon's Kickstarter copycat, 'Build It,' wants to make concept gadgets real

Want a smart cuckoo clock? Or how about a machine that can print out custom sticky notes? 

Amazon is working on some wild ideas for the smart home market. But before the concept devices become real, the company wants to first ensure that people will buy them.

The result is Amazon’s Build It program, where the company will show off the concept gadgets it’s been dreaming up. Interested customers can pre-order them, and if enough orders are made within 30 days, the company will manufacture the products and ship the batch out. 

“When you pre-order, you will lock in a special price, and you’ll only be charged if and when the product ships,” the company said in a Wednesday announcement. “If the pre-order goal is not met, the product will not be built, and you won’t be charged. It’s low risk, high reward, and a whole lot of fun.” Read more...