The world of streaming is constantly changing. This was probably the only way in which the digital film and series offering could grow so strongly in a very short time and surpass both traditional television and traditional home cinema exploitation. Now, though, there’s another change on the horizon that some subscribers might not really like: Amazon Prime Video introduces advertising!
We reported last September that the shipping and streaming giant would do the same as Netflix and Disney+ – and introduce advertising soon. Shortly before the end of the year we now know: The time has already come: January 29, 2024!
As is now known, Germany (along with the US, Canada and Great Britain) will be one of the first countries where the innovation will take place in just over a month. This will only happen later next year in France, Italy, Spain, Mexico and Australia.
What does that mean to you?
First of all, this means that in the near future you can expect to see commercial clips not only on the completely free, ad-funded platform Amazon Freevee, but also on its flagship counterpart Prime Video.
The aim is said to be to have fewer interruptions than what is known from linear TV, but at the same time, it is said, to be able to increase investment in new content in the future. Although more precise details about the specific broadcast are still unknown, there is at least confirmed information for the United States that users should not be forced to consume Prime Video content with commercial breaks.
There will also be an ad-free subscription to Amazon Prime Video, which will cost an additional $2.99 in the US. A similar solution will likely emerge in Germany.
While the details of this change remain to be seen, many users will likely consider more closely which plan is best for them in the future. While Prime Video regularly expands its lineup with top-tier and current titles – in the coming days, “Marlowe” with Liam Neeson, Guy Ritchie’s “The Gentlemen” and the horror hit “The Black Phone” land on the platform – Freevee is an increasingly attractive alternative blossoming. On the free platform you will not only find countless classics in all genres (including ‘Black Christmas’) and a number of international film hits from recent years (including ‘Queen’), but also exclusive content such as the survival show ‘7 versus wild’.