New Delhi: With an apparent view to compete with Google’s popular online video platform YouTube, e-commerce major Amazon has launched a new service that will allow users to post videos.
Amazon Video Direct will make the uploaded videos available to rent or own, to view free with ads. Also, there will be packages to be offered as an add-on subscription. On the other hand, YouTube also features a similar ad-supported service as well as a $10-per-month (Approx Rs. 600) subscription option called YouTube Red.
Amazon Video Direct will feature more professional, Netflix-like content, while YouTube will showcase slightly less sophisticated content. This service will be available to make their videos available in United States, Germany, Austria, the United Kingdom and Japan.
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Amazon’s sole aim is to capture new users through the free video service and convince them to buy Prime subscriptions, content for their devices or additional merchandise through its namesake site.
According to the Wall Street Journal, Amazon said it would keep 45 per cent of revenue it takes in from ads appearing during free broadcasts, which matches the YouTube arrangement. Also, it will keep 50 per cent of revenue from channel subscriptions and all the video purchases or rentals.
Amazon already offers access to movies and television shows through its Prime loyalty program including digital entertainment products such as Prime Music, Prime Video and more.
