Amazon Is Looking To Add Live TV To Prime Video

[SaM]

Amazon is looking to add 24/7 live programming to its Prime Video service, according to Protocol. The new channels could include live news, music and sports as well as scheduled movies and TV show showings. From the report:

Speaking under the condition of anonymity, an industry insider told Protocol that Amazon has been “actively pursuing” deals to license live and linear programming. “You should assume they’re talking to everybody,” he said. By adding live programming to Prime Video, Amazon could differentiate itself from services like Netflix and Disney+ that are focused exclusively on on-demand video. The move is also a response to the growing popularity of linear streaming services like Pluto and Xumo, and ultimately could be part of a different take on live TV: Instead of licensing the same costly programming bundles as traditional cable services, Amazon may be looking to combine its existing on-demand content and a much more narrow take on must-see live TV.

Amazon has been experimenting with live programming for Prime Video over the past several years, which included licensing NFL Thursday Night Football as well as the English Premier League. In the future, it may also stream live concerts, political debates and news programming, according to a job listing for Amazon’s Prime Video live events team. “This is a transformative opportunity, the chance to be at the vanguard of a program that will revolutionize Prime Video,” that job listing reads. Beyond individual live events, Amazon is also looking to license complete 24/7 feeds. “Linear TV enables customers to watch 24/7 streams of their favorite TV stations airing programs including sports, news, movies, award shows, special events and TV shows,” one job listing details. Another specifically singles out live broadcasters and cable networks as potential partners.