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Amazon's Free Streaming Service, Freevee, Set to Be Phased Out
Amazon is preparing to shut down its free, ad-supported streaming service, Freevee, in the coming weeks. This decision marks a significant shift in Amazon's streaming strategy, where all the Freevee content will transition to Prime Video. Importantly, the move will not restrict the availability of Freevee content, as it will remain accessible to all viewers, whether they are Amazon Prime members or not.
This development comes after months of speculation and denial from Amazon regarding Freevee's potential shutdown. Now confirmed, the change means viewers will get access to Freevee's offerings, including select Amazon Originals from MGM Studios and a variety of licensed shows and films through Prime Video. This content will be available alongside Free Ad-Supported Streaming Television (FAST) channels for non-Prime members as well.
An Amazon spokesperson stated, "To deliver a simpler viewing experience for customers, we have decided to phase out Freevee branding. There will be no change to the content available for Prime members, and a vast offering of free streaming content will still be accessible for non-Prime members." This means shows like "Jury Duty," "High School," "Hollywood Houselift with Jeff Lewis," "Primo," "Bosch: Legacy," and "Judy Justice," among others, will continue to be enjoyed by the streaming audience on Prime Video.
Launched in January 2019 under the name Freedive by IMDb, an Amazon subsidiary, the service underwent multiple rebrands as IMDb TV and later Amazon Freevee. Freevee is currently available in select nations such as the U.S., UK, Germany, and Austria.
Despite this transition, there will be no layoffs for Freevee's staff. The team has already been integrated into Amazon MGM Studios, ensuring no disruption in content creation and maintenance. This transition positions Prime Video as the central hub for all Amazon's video content, catering to both paid subscribers and free viewers.
In essence, the integration of Freevee into Prime Video aligns with Amazon's strategy to streamline its streaming offerings, ensuring a comprehensive and inclusive content platform for all users. Amidst these changes, readers may also be interested in exploring how recent Kindle and e-reader updates are transforming Amazon's ecosystem.
