Amazon Might Soon Be Adding Ads to Prime Video The company wants to generate more ad revenue for its streaming service.

By Jonathan Small

Don't get too used to watching your Amazon Prime content commercial-free. According to a report in the Wall Street Journal, the company is considering adding an ad tier to its streaming service.

Amazon is looking for ways to boost revenue in its entertainment business, which has seen better days. Earlier this year, the online giant initiated the most extensive layoffs in the company's history.

Amazon isn't alone in its streaming woes. The industry has been facing a slowdown for months, as new signups are down and consumers are cutting service due to economic challenges.

Amazon also isn't the only streamer considering ad-tier models. Hulu, Netflix, and Disney have all gone down this path.

Related: Amazon Will Pay Over $30 Million For Alleged Privacy Violations With Amazon Ring and Alexa Devices

Why ads?

Amazon's ad revenue has been a bright spot in an otherwise dreary economic landscape. Ad revenue grew to $9.5 billion in the first quarter, up 21% yearly, causing executives to be more bullish about building that sector of their business.

In addition, WSJ reports that advertisers are hungry to access Amazon's premium movies and programs, such as The Marvelous Mrs. Maisal and the James Bond flick No Time Die.

Meanwhile, Amazon is in talks with Warner Bros. Discovery and Paramount Global to add the ad-supported tiers of their streaming services to Prime Video Channels. This would allow users to subscribe to these services through Prime Video and watch their content through the Prime Video app. Currently, users can subscribe to the ad-free versions of Max and Paramount+ through Prime Video Channels.

The discussions are still in the early stages, and it is unclear when or if ads will actually appear on Prime Video. But if they do, it would be a significant move for Amazon as it seeks to expand its streaming business.

Jonathan Small

Entrepreneur Staff

Editor in Chief of Green Entrepreneur

Jonathan Small is editor-in-chief of Green Entrepreneur, a vertical from Entrepreneur Media focused on the intersection of sustainability and business. He is also an award-winning journalist, producer, and podcast host of the upcoming True Crime series, Dirty Money, and Write About Now podcasts. Jonathan is the founder of Strike Fire Productions, a premium podcast production company. He had held editing positions at Glamour, Stuff, Fitness, and Twist Magazines. His stories have appeared in The New York Times, TV Guide, Cosmo, Details, and Good Housekeeping. Previously, Jonathan served as VP of Content for the GSN (the Game Show Network), where he produced original digital video series.

Editor's Pick

Related Topics

Money & Finance

Want to Become a Millionaire? Follow Warren Buffett's 4 Rules.

Too many entrepreneurs are counting too heavily on a company exit for their eventual 'win.' Do this instead.

Money & Finance

What Are The Safest Investment Options for Earning a Good Return Over Time? A Financial Expert Explains.

In times of financial uncertainty, these options can provide a safe and reliable way to invest your money.

Business News

Opening a New McDonald's Franchise Will Be More Expensive in 2024

Starting January 1, franchise royalty fees will rise from 4% to 5% for new locations in the U.S. and Canada.

Leadership

This Leadership Style Is Redefining Success in the Modern Business World

Adopting this leadership style takes continuous growth but leads to remarkable success, both financially and qualitatively, enriching our world.

Leadership

How to Master Decision-Making in a World Full of Options

Use these seven practical strategies to make more effective business choices.

Business News

'Bar Tab Was Almost 80%': Restaurant Slams Well-Known Columnist After He Goes Viral For Claiming His Meal Cost $78

A photo of a burger and fries from 1911 Smokehouse BBQ at Newark Airport went viral for its alleged price, but the restaurant says the man didn't factor in his many alcoholic drinks.