Motorola has responded after users reported unusual redirects while opening the Amazon Shopping app on select Moto smartphones. The issue surfaced after Reddit users shared videos showing the Amazon app briefly opening a browser page before launching normally.
The redirect passed through unfamiliar tracking links, raising concerns about affiliate tracking and user privacy. Reports suggested the issue affected some newer Moto devices running Smart Feed version 2.03.0070.
Users noticed the behavior mainly while opening Amazon through the app drawer search feature. Several tech publications later verified the issue on affected devices.
In a statement, Motorola said the redirects were not intentional and resulted from a configuration linked to its launcher system. “This behavior was unintended and resulted in an inconsistent user experience,” the company said.
Motorola explained that the feature was tied to an app search and suggestion service developed with Device Native for the Moto App Launcher. The system was meant to help users quickly access installed apps.
Instead, Amazon launches were briefly routed through affiliate tracking links before opening the app. The company said it has corrected the routing configuration and users should no longer face the issue.
The incident triggered criticism online as affiliate links are often used to earn commission revenue from purchases. Users questioned whether Amazon traffic was being monetized without their knowledge.
Some reports also claimed that certain redirect links appeared connected to a fashion influencer website. Motorola has not explained how those URLs became part of the redirect chain. Users earlier found temporary workarounds by disabling the Smart Feed app from system settings.
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The controversy has renewed concerns around pre-installed smartphone software and background monetisation systems on Android devices.
Many smartphone launchers now include recommendation engines, app suggestions and sponsored integrations. Users, however, increasingly expect companies to clearly explain how such systems work and what kind of tracking is involved.
Motorola has not revealed how many devices were affected or whether any user data was collected during the redirects. The company maintains that the issue has now been resolved and users do not need to take further action.