Amazon Prime Video has announced that it will start including advertising during shows and movies, joining other streaming services that have added different tiers of subscriptions. However, members of Amazon Prime can opt for an ad-free experience by paying $2.99 per month in the U.S. This move reflects the competition among streaming services to attract viewers while offering various pricing options.
Streaming services are currently in a fierce battle for viewership, and users have become increasingly selective about which services they subscribe to, often based on price. The platforms risk losing customers if they increase prices, but they also need to produce new and engaging content to retain users.
Disney, for example, will begin charging $13.99 a month in the U.S. for an ad-free version of Disney+ starting in mid-October. This is 75% more expensive than the ad-supported service. Similarly, Netflix charges $15.49 per month for its ad-free plan, which is more than twice the price of the subscription with ads.
Amazon’s limited advertisements will be introduced during shows and movies in early 2024. The company states that this move will help them invest in compelling content and increase their investment over time. Currently, live events on Amazon Prime, such as sports, already include advertising.
The ads in Prime Video content will launch in the U.S., U.K., Germany, and Canada in early 2024, followed by France, Italy, Spain, Mexico, and Australia later in the year. Amazon has confirmed that the price of Prime membership will not change next year and will announce the pricing for ad-free programming in countries outside the U.S. at a later date.
For U.S. users, Amazon will notify Prime members via email several weeks before the ads are introduced. The email will provide information on how to sign up for the ad-free option if they prefer. It’s important to note that Amazon Prime Video is just one of the many benefits included in an Amazon Prime membership, which also offers free shipping, groceries, online music, and more.
In June, Amazon faced allegations from the Federal Trade Commission for enrolling consumers into Amazon Prime without their consent and making it difficult for them to cancel their subscriptions. Amazon denied these claims, stating that they were false.
In conclusion, Amazon Prime Video will start including ads during shows and movies, but customers can pay a monthly fee to enjoy an ad-free experience. This move reflects the ongoing competition among streaming services to offer various pricing options and attract viewers. Ultimately, the choice between ads or an additional fee is up to the individual user’s preference.
