If you feel like you're at capacity for paid subscription services, Amazon's latest move isn't going to sit well.
According to a recent press release, Amazon announced its Prime Video service will introduce a $3 premium charge for ad-free streaming. Current Prime Video users will either need to cough up an extra $3 a month or continue to watch their favorite shows and movies with a side of ads.
"...Starting in early 2024, Prime Video shows and movies will include limited advertisements," the company stated. "Ads in Prime Video content will be introduced in the U.S., U.K., Germany, and Canada in early 2024, followed by France, Italy, Spain, Mexico, and Australia later in the year."
Although the press release didn't specify just how many ads will be included in the ad-supported version of Prime Video, it's safe to say that "limited" ads won't be as enjoyable as the ad-free experience we've come to love.
As of right now, Prime members don't need to do anything. The company also noted that Prime members will receive an email "several weeks" ahead of the official rollout to give them the option to upgrade to ad-free streaming by paying the $3 premium.
While this small fee may not seem like much to some, others could argue it's an infringement on the original promise of ad-free streaming that drew many users to purchase a Prime Membership ($139 annually/$15 monthly) in the first place.
That said, you can still enjoy your favorite shows and movies sans ads if you sign up for a Prime Membership today (you can start with a free 30-day trial). The additional charge won't take effect until 2024, giving you a few months to binge ad-free before deciding whether or not to upgrade.
Topics Amazon Prime Video
