[Discussion] Amazon Phases Out Freevee, Shifts Focus to Ad-Supported Prime Video

[Uncrowned Guard]

Amazon Bids Farewell to Ad-Ridden Streaming Service, Freevee

A significant turn of events emerges in the entertainment streaming industry. Once upon a time, Amazon refuted speculations that its complimentary, ad-assisted streaming service, Freevee, was destined for a shutdown post the integration of advertisements on Prime Video. In an unexpected twist, that narrative has significantly changed.

The Gradual Downfall of Freevee

Earlier this week, Deadline reported that Freevee's operations will eventually be halted. The silver lining, however, lies in the persisting availability of Freevee's original series, like Bosch: Legacy, Jury Duty, and Judy Justice, on Prime Video. Moreover, in regions where Freevee had its presence, viewers will still access its content for free, even if they are not Prime members. Amazon presented its decision to close down Freevee in a statement:

"Evolving Prime Video into a primary hub for entertainment where customers can tailor their viewing pleasure via streaming Amazon MGM Studios' exclusive Prime member entertainment, licensed shows and films, content from other platforms as a supplementary subscription, live sports, blockbuster films and series for rent or purchase, FAST Channels, along with the entire Freevee content collection has been our endeavor. We've decided to gradually withdraw the Freevee brand to provide a seamless viewing experience for our customers. However, there will be no alterations to the content accessible for Prime members. Additionally, a wide range of free streaming content, including selective originals from Amazon MGM Studios, a myriad of licensed shows and films, as well as an expansive library of FAST Channels, will be available for non-Prime members, all on Prime Video."

Freevee: A Look Back

Incepted in 2019 under the name of IMDb Freedive, the service underwent two name changes; rebranded as IMDb TV, and finally settled for Freevee in 2022. It earned recognition as a platform where viewers could enjoy numerous Prime Video shows, like The Wheel of Time, The Summer I Turned Pretty, and A League of Their Own, at no cost, in addition to its unique content. Notably, Freevee's hoax reality series, Jury Duty, scored three Primetime Emmy nominations.

However, the introduction of ads on Prime Video earlier this year rendered the distinction between the streaming service and Freevee nebulous. Prime Video subscribers currently face an additional charge of $2.99 per month to dodge the nuisance of ads.

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