As of August 4, 2025, Amazon has rolled out a major change to its seller feedback system. Customers can now leave star-only ratings, without any written comments.
While this may sound like a minor update, the implications for sellers, especially for those utilizing FBM, are significant. What Amazon calls a “simplified” experience could end up negatively impacting account metrics!
What are Star-Only Seller Feedback Ratings on Amazon?
Traditionally, seller feedback on Amazon included both a star rating and a written comment. This allowed sellers to understand why they received a low rating, respond to the issue, and, if appropriate, submit an appeal to remove it.
But with this new update, customers can now submit a rating using just stars, no explanation necessary. Here’s what that means in practice:
- A customer can now rate a seller 1 to 5 stars with a single click without needing to write a comment.
- If a customer gives a rating below 4 stars, they are required to choose a reason from a dropdown menu, such as "shipping issue" or "item not as described."
- Amazon's system will auto-filter star-only feedback that they believe violates their policy.
How Does Star-Only Feedback Rating Impact Amazon ODR Health?
Here’s where things get real for sellers: star-only feedback affects your Order Defect Rate (ODR). Previously, if a seller received a 1-star rating based on a product review, they could appeal and have it removed. Now? If there’s no text, you can’t appeal it through the Feedback Manager page. That means you’re stuck with that negative rating and an impacted ODR, even if it's unfair.
Why Did Amazon Implement Star-Only Seller Feedback Ratings?
Amazon believes this move will increase the volume of seller feedback, especially from happy customers who previously wouldn’t bother writing a review. Internal tests showed that simplifying the process encouraged more positive ratings overall. However, the backlash from the seller community was swift and vocal. Amazon responded by clarifying a few things:
- Ratings below 4 stars require customers to select a reason.
- Amazon will automatically filter out feedback that violates its policies (like product review related complaints).
- Sellers can report abusive star-only ratings using the “Report a Violation” tool, even if no text is provided.
If you're a client looking for more information, contact your account team! If you’re interested in learning more about how Blue Wheel can aid in your brand efforts in online marketplaces, schedule a consultation with our team, we would love to hear from you.
Julia Asburry is the Senior Marketplace Support Analyst at Blue Wheel, where she plays a vital role in enhancing Account Health and Customer Service management. Her work empowers our clients to not just sustain, but truly thrive in the eCommerce landscape. With over half a decade of diverse experience in the industry, she wears many hats within the organization, bringing a wealth of expertise that propels us forward and helps set us apart.
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