Posted Fri Nov 21, 2014 at 02:00 PM PST by Steven Cohen
The online retail giant could be launching a new streaming service separate from Prime Instant Video.
According to a report from the New York Post, Amazon is gearing up to launch a new streaming video platform. Unlike its current Prime Instant Video option, the new service will be supported through ads.
Amazon currently has a limited number of TV show episodes available to preview for free with commercials through its Prime Service. Though details are still forthcoming, it's likely that this new platform will offer titles in a similar manner. The move is being seen as a way for Amazon to better compete with rivals like Netflix and Hulu, giving them another edge in the streaming video war. A cheap or free ad-supported option could prove very enticing for cord-cutters on a budget. Likewise, those happy with the service will be more likely to eventually upgrade to a full Prime membership.
A launch date for Amazon's rumored ad-supported streaming video service has not been announced. An Amazon Prime membership currently costs $99 per year, and includes free 2-day shipping, Prime Instant Video, Prime Music, Prime Photos, the Kindle Owners' Lending Library, and more.
Source: New York Post via Engadget
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