In the US, Amazon Prime subscribers can pay $2.99 per month to have their subscription ad-free.
Amazon Prime Video has confirmed its plans to introduce advertisements during its shows and movies, starting in early 2024. Initially, these ads will be integrated into Prime Video content in countries such as the United States, the United Kingdom, Germany, and Canada. Users in France, Italy, Spain, and Mexico will encounter ads a bit later next year. As a response to this change, Amazon has introduced a new ad-free option. In the United States, Amazon Prime members can opt for this ad-free experience by paying an additional $2.99 per month. This development by Amazon Prime Video follows similar strategies adopted by its competitors, Netflix and Walt Disney.
Commencing early next year, Amazon intends to incorporate limited advertising within its movies and TV shows on Prime Video, as disclosed in an official announcement on Friday. The company’s rationale for this move is to sustain its investment in compelling content and continue to grow that investment over an extended period. The rollout of ads will commence in early 2024 for Prime Video subscribers in the US, the UK, Germany, and Canada. Subscribers in France, Italy, Spain, and Mexico will encounter ads later in the same year.
In the US, Prime Video users will have the option to purchase an “ad-free” subscription for an additional $2.99 per month. Amazon has stated that it will disclose pricing details for other countries at a later date.
For US users, Amazon plans to send out emails to Prime members several weeks prior to introducing ads in its content, providing instructions on how to subscribe to the ad-free option if desired. Amazon’s aim is to have “significantly fewer” ads compared to traditional television and other streaming services.
It’s worth noting that Amazon’s decision to incorporate commercials into its movies and shows is not a pioneering move in the streaming industry. Major competitors like Netflix and Disney+ have previously introduced similar ad-supported services.
As of now, Amazon Prime Video membership costs $8.99 per month in the United States. In India, Amazon charges Rs. 1,499 annually for Prime membership, Rs. 599 for three months, and Rs. 299 per month.
