# Amazon to Close Freevee: Implications for Streaming Fans
In a move anticipated for several months, Amazon is poised to terminate its ad-supported streaming service, **Freevee**, in the upcoming weeks. Initially launched in 2019 as **IMDb Freedive**, Freevee was intended as a zero-cost alternative to high-end streaming services such as Netflix and Hulu, providing various movies, TV shows, and original programming monetized through advertising. However, as reported recently by [Deadline](https://deadline.com/2024/11/freevee-shut-down-amazon-prime-video-1236172644/), Freevee is soon to be eliminated, with much of its programming already transitioned to Amazon’s main streaming service, **Prime Video**.
## Why This is Significant
For fans of streaming, the closure of Freevee indicates one less choice in a progressively saturated market. Nevertheless, the effect on viewers might be minimal since Amazon has already started incorporating Freevee’s offerings into Prime Video. This transition guarantees that Prime members can still access the same films and series that were formerly available on Freevee, albeit under a new name.
For those who are not Prime members, the changeover is also relatively seamless. An Amazon representative has stated that free streaming options will persist, albeit via Prime Video’s ad-supported plan, which was rolled out earlier this year. Thus, while the Freevee name will vanish, the fundamental offering—free, ad-supported streaming—continues to exist.
## The Conclusion of Freevee: Expected
The choice to discontinue Freevee does not come as a shock to industry observers. Back in February, Amazon had already suggested the likelihood of halting the service in the medium term, as highlighted by [Adweek](https://www.adweek.com/convergent-tv/amazon-sunset-freevee/). The launch of advertisements on Prime Video in January 2024 further weakened Freevee’s distinct advantage, which was its free, ad-supported framework. With Prime Video now presenting a comparable experience, the justification for maintaining a separate service like Freevee became unnecessary.
### Amazon’s Official Remark
In a statement provided to Deadline, an Amazon spokesperson articulated the reasoning behind this decision:
> “To streamline the viewing experience for customers, we have opted to phase out the Freevee branding. The content available to Prime members will remain unchanged. Non-Prime members will still have access to a broad selection of free streaming content.”
This initiative is part of Amazon’s comprehensive plan to refine its streaming services and emphasize Prime Video as its core platform.
## What Becomes of Freevee’s Original Productions?
A pressing question regarding Freevee’s shutdown concerns the future of its original shows. Over the years, Freevee (along with IMDb TV) produced various original series that garnered a dedicated audience. These include:
– **Bosch: Legacy** – A spin-off of the acclaimed Amazon Prime series *Bosch*.
– **Classified** – A well-received spy thriller.
– **7 vs. Wild** – A survival reality series with a significant fanbase.
– **Neighbours** – The revival of the classic Australian soap opera.
– **Boat Story** – A crime drama celebrated for its compelling storyline.
Fortunately for fans of these series, Amazon has assured that all Freevee originals will be accessible on Prime Video. In fact, some of these shows may even receive new seasons, as Amazon has not dismissed the possibility of further investments in original content that originated on Freevee.
## Why Is Amazon Closing Freevee?
The choice to discontinue Freevee can be linked to multiple factors, with the most crucial being the introduction of ads on Prime Video. Freevee was initially marketed as a free, ad-supported alternative to the subscription model of Prime Video. However, as Prime Video now offers an ad-supported option, the separation between the two services has become less clear.
By consolidating its streaming options under the Prime Video umbrella, Amazon is enhancing its user experience while still addressing the needs of both paying subscribers and those favoring free, ad-supported content. This strategy also allows Amazon to concentrate its resources on expanding Prime Video, which remains a vital component of its broader ecosystem.
## What’s Next for Amazon’s Streaming Strategy?
The cessation of Freevee aligns with a broader trend within the streaming landscape, where companies are increasingly merging their services to diminish fragmentation and enhance user experiences. For Amazon, this means intensifying efforts on Prime Video, which continues to play a prominent role in the streaming competition against platforms like Netflix, Disney+, and Hulu.
With the assimilation of Freevee’s content into Prime Video, Amazon aims to deliver a more rounded streaming experience that appeals to both premium subscribers and those looking for free, ad-supported options. This approach aligns with wider industry movements, as more streaming platforms unveil ad-supported tiers to broaden their audience reach.
## Conclusion: A