Amazon started testing a new star rating system, but it's already confusing

Amazon has reportedly started testing a new star rating system in specific regions. However, this new system is drawing criticism for being confusing. Critics argue that it makes it hard for buyers to see how a product ranks on the platform.

Android Police spotted the new star rating system in Amazon’s mobile app in India, the company’s website in Germany, and its global website when accessed from Germany. As you can see in the below image, Amazon now shows buyers an average star rating as a number. You can also find a singular gold star and a number that shows what percentage of ratings are five.

Amazon might have a new star rating system soon, but changes might be required

If the new star rating system is not activated in your region, you can still see Amazon products with five singular gold stars and the number of reviews each product has received. The current rating system is pretty straightforward, and it’s been on Amazon for many years. Buyers are also accustomed to it because of its simplicity and not causing confusion.

The problem with the new rating system is users can’t tell quickly if a product is rated well by other buyers. The only indicator is the percentage of five-star ratings, which might also be confusing for some users. Additionally, nefarious sellers might use the complexity of this new rating system to trick buyers into buying a product that’s not well-received by others.

The new system is being tested in some of Amazon’s greatest markets. This gives us more assurance that soon it will come to other regions, including the United States. In a statement to The Verge, Amazon Amazon spokesperson Maria Boschetti said, “We are always innovating on behalf of customers to provide the best possible shopping experience.”

Fake reviews and tricking potential buyers with illegitimate 5-star reviews have always been a problem for Amazon. The giant retailer reportedly plans to abandon its star rating and replace it with another system. The platform is also using generative AI to summarize user reviews.