## Amazon’s Prime Video Surges: 130 Million U.S. Customers Engaged with Ads
Amazon has recently unveiled a striking statistic: **over 130 million U.S. customers** are tuning into its ad-supported **Prime Video** service each month, showcasing a remarkable growth of **15 million users** since 2024. This shift marks a significant achievement for Amazon as it transforms its streaming landscape and cultivates a more profitable model.
### The Rise of Ad-Supported Streaming
Since the **launch of the ad-supported version** of Prime Video last year, Amazon offered its subscribers a **choice**: embrace a commercial experience or pay an additional **$2.99 per month** for an ad-free journey. This strategic move has attracted a vast audience, effectively monetizing the service while retaining viewer interest.
#### Amazon’s Unique Positioning
Later today, Amazon will spotlight its approach at the **New York upfronts**—the annual advertising extravaganza for the television industry. The company believes it is uniquely positioned to **link content with consumers**, highlighting that an impressive **88%** of U.S. Prime Video viewers also shop on Amazon. This dual engagement presents a lucrative opportunity for advertisers looking to reach a targeted audience directly.
### Prime Video’s Diverse Content Library
Prime Video boasts a rich array of content that’s keeping viewers entertained and engaged. From fan-favorites like:
– **[The Summer I Turned Pretty](https://www.latimes.com/entertainment-arts/tv/story/2023-07-06/summer-i-turned-pretty-jenny-han-to-all-the-boys-xo-kitty)**
– **[The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power](https://www.latimes.com/entertainment-arts/business/story/2022-09-01/lat-et-ct-amazon-the-lord-of-the-rings-rings-of-power-prime-video)**
– **[The Boys](https://www.latimes.com/entertainment-arts/tv/story/2022-08-25/the-boys-season-3-review-amazon)**
– **[Reacher](https://www.latimes.com/entertainment-arts/tv/story/2023-12-29/reacher-amazon-review)**
to the exciting fashion competition **[Making the Cut](https://www.latimes.com/entertainment-arts/business/story/2020-02-22/amazon-making-the-cut-reality-tv-heidi-klum-prime)**, where viewers can shop for clothing featured right on the platform. Additionally, Prime Video will continue streaming the highly anticipated **Academy of Country Music Awards for the next three years**, further solidifying its foothold in live entertainment.
### Innovative Advertising Strategies
Amazon is taking a bold step into the future of advertising with **AI-driven ad formats**. These innovative approaches utilize artificial intelligence to tailor ads based on what a viewer is watching, surfacing relevant content exactly when they pause their program. According to Alan Moss, **Vice President of Global Ads Sales for Amazon Ads**, these formats **”drive measurable action on and off Amazon,”** reinforcing the effectiveness of their advertising ecosystem.
### Industry Trends: A Paradigm Shift
The shift towards ad-supported models is not just an Amazon phenomenon. In recent years, streaming giants that once touted ad-free offerings, like **[Netflix](https://www.latimes.com/entertainment-arts/business/story/2024-11-12/netflix-ad-plan-nfl-games)**, have pivoted to cheaper subscription plans with commercials to enhance revenue. As investor pressure mounts, many platforms are exploring alternative monetization strategies, including combatting password sharing to boost profitability.
### Conclusion: A Bright Future for Amazon Prime Video
As Amazon forges ahead with its ad-supported Prime Video service, it is clear that **competition in the streaming landscape intensifies**. With an impressive audience and innovative advertising strategies, Amazon is poised to carve out a significant niche in this ever-evolving market.
For more insights on the evolving streaming industry, you can explore the latest developments in the world of digital advertising and entertainment.
