Amazon is set to introduce adverts on its Prime Video service in 2024. UK Prime members, along with subscribers in the US, Germany, and Canada, will soon encounter ads during their streaming experience unless they opt to pay extra for a new “ad-free” subscription tier.
The tech giant announced that adverts will begin early next year, following the lead of competitors like Netflix and Disney+ who have already launched ad-supported plans. Despite this change, Amazon maintains that Prime Video continues to offer “very compelling value.”
For viewers who prefer to avoid commercials, the “ad-free” subscription will be available at an additional cost of $2.99 (£2.44) per month for US users. Pricing details for the UK and other countries are expected to be announced later. Currently, UK Prime membership, which includes free one-day delivery alongside streaming, is priced at £8.99 per month or £95 annually.
Amazon’s advertising rollout will extend beyond the UK, US, Germany, and Canada. France, Italy, Spain, Mexico, and Australia are also scheduled to receive the ad-supported service later in 2024. This initiative is part of Amazon’s strategy to increase funding for original TV shows and movies, a move likely to generate mixed reactions among fans.
In other news, retail sales in the UK increased by 0.4% last month, or 0.6% when excluding fuel sales, according to the Office for National Statistics. The rise was supported by stronger clothing sales, while fuel sales declined by 1.2%, impacted by higher pump prices due to global oil price increases.
Boston Federal Reserve President Susan Collins has cautioned that interest rates may still rise as inflation remains “uncertainly contained.” She emphasized the need for policymakers to exercise patience and observe real data before targeting the 2% inflation goal. Collins highlighted ongoing concerns about high inflation in certain service sectors despite some recent positive trends.
Warner Bros Discovery is expanding its UK studios at Leavesden, where part of Barbie was filmed. The expansion will increase capacity by over 50% and is expected to create approximately 4,000 jobs across the UK. The studio will also become the home of DC Studios, known for Superman, Batman, and Wonder Woman franchises. Warner Bros forecasts this expansion will add an extra £200 million annually to UK production, raising the total to £600 million. Chancellor Jeremy Hunt described the development as “a huge vote of confidence in the UK.”
Originally published by UKNIP.
