Amazon Prime Video
Overview
Amazon Prime Video, often simply referred to as Prime Video, is a subscription-based streaming service owned and operated by Amazon.com. The service primarily distributes films and television series produced by Amazon Studios or licensed to Amazon, as an Amazon Prime customer exclusive. It also hosts content from other providers, content add-ons, live sporting events, and a growing number of third-party providers.
History
Amazon Prime Video originated from Amazon Unbox, a service launched in September 2006 for the downloading and rental of films and television shows in the United States. In September 2008, the service was renamed Amazon Video on Demand. As of August 2014, the service is no longer available for downloading purchased instant videos. On February 22, 2011, Amazon rebranded as Amazon Instant Video and added access to 5,000 movies and TV shows for Amazon Prime members.
Content
Amazon Prime Video's content includes a mix of Amazon Originals, licensed movies, and TV shows. The service also offers a vast library of popular films and television shows for rent or purchase. This includes content produced by major studios, independent producers, and a range of genres and languages.
Amazon Originals
Amazon Originals are exclusive to Amazon Prime Video and are noted for their high-quality production values. Some of the most popular Amazon Originals include shows like The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, The Boys, and Fleabag. These shows have garnered critical acclaim and have won multiple awards.
Availability
As of December 2016, Amazon Prime Video is available worldwide except for Mainland China, Iran, North Korea, and Syria.
Features
Amazon Prime Video offers a number of features that enhance the viewing experience. These include X-Ray, which provides IMDb data about the actors, music, and trivia in videos. The service also offers high-definition streaming, with select titles available in 4K Ultra HD. Users can stream up to three titles at the same time from the same account, but cannot stream the same title on more than two devices at once.
Reception
Amazon Prime Video has received positive reviews for its wide variety of content and the quality of its original programming. However, it has also been criticized for its user interface and search functionality.
See Also
