Amazon to offer Apple TV+ as add-on subscription for Prime Video customers

Amazon announced today that Prime Video customers in the United States will soon be able to subscribe to Apple TV+ directly through the Prime Video platform. The move, set to take effect later this month, marks a significant expansion of Amazon's streaming offerings and provides Prime members with easier access to Apple's growing library of original content.

According to Amazon, Apple TV+ will be available as an add-on subscription for Prime Video customers in the U.S. later this month. The service will be priced at $9.99 per month, in line with Apple's standard pricing. This integration allows Prime members to access Apple TV+ content without needing to download additional apps or manage separate billing relationships.

Subscribers will gain access to Apple TV+'s full catalog of original programming, including popular series and films such as:

• "Severance"
• "Slow Horses"
• "The Morning Show"
• "Presumed Innocent"
• "Shrinking"
• "Hijack"
• "Loot"
• "Palm Royale"

In addition to scripted content, the subscription will include access to Major League Soccer matches from MLS Season Pass and Major League Baseball's "Friday Night Baseball" broadcasts.

Expanding Prime Video's Offerings

Mike Hopkins, Senior Vice President and Head of Prime Video and Amazon MGM Studios, emphasized the move as part of Amazon's strategy to expand Prime Video's offerings and provide customers with a more personalized streaming experience. "As we continue to expand our offering and make it easy for customers to personalize their streaming experience directly in one app, we are proud to welcome Apple TV+ and its popular and critically-acclaimed shows, films and events to Prime Video," Hopkins stated.

Apple's Perspective

Eddy Cue, Apple's Senior Vice President of Services, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, "We want to make Apple TV+ and its award-winning library of series and films from the world's greatest storytellers available to as many viewers as possible." This collaboration aligns with Apple's goal of expanding the reach of its streaming service.

Apple TV+'s Growing Recognition

Since its launch, Apple TV+ has garnered significant critical acclaim. The service has received 516 wins and 2,308 award nominations to date, including multiple Emmy Awards for the comedy series "Ted Lasso" and an Oscar for Best Picture for the film "CODA."

Prime Video's Expanding Subscription Options

The addition of Apple TV+ further enhances Prime Video's extensive collection of add-on subscription options in the U.S., which now includes over 100 choices. These options complement Amazon's existing offerings of original content, movies, series, live sports, and free ad-supported programming.

Seamless Integration

Amazon emphasizes that the integration will be seamless for Prime members. Subscribers will be able to access Apple TV+ content directly through the Prime Video app, without the need for additional downloads. The subscription can be managed and canceled at any time through the customer's Amazon account.

International Expansion Plans

While the initial launch is focused on the U.S. market, Amazon has indicated that Apple TV+ will be made available to Prime Video customers in additional territories in the future. Specific timelines for international expansion have not yet been announced.

Impact on Streaming Landscape

This partnership between two major players in the streaming industry could have significant implications for the competitive landscape. By offering Apple TV+ through its platform, Amazon strengthens its position as a central hub for streaming content, potentially increasing customer retention and attracting new subscribers.

Key Takeaways

• Apple TV+ will be available as a $9.99/month add-on subscription for Prime Video customers in the U.S. later this month
• The integration provides access to Apple's original content library, including popular series and films
• Subscribers will also have access to select Major League Soccer and Major League Baseball content
• The partnership expands Prime Video's add-on subscription offerings to over 100 options
• International expansion of the Apple TV+ integration on Prime Video is planned for the future