Amazon has announced that they are launching their Amazon Prime Video in Japan next month.
The Amazon Prime Video streaming service will be available to existing Prime members and will offer unlimited movie and TV show streaming to Prime members.
Amazon Prime Video: A Global Expansion
Amazon Prime is available in Japan for $32.50 a year and it gives Amazon users free delivery on orders from Amazon. This annual fee not only covers the cost of expedited shipping but also provides access to a plethora of digital content, including movies, TV shows, and exclusive Amazon Originals. The introduction of Prime Video in Japan marks another significant step in Amazon’s global expansion strategy.
Amazon originally launched their Prime Video as a free service to their Prime users back in 2011 in the US. Since then, the service has grown exponentially, both in terms of content and geographical reach. Initially, the service was limited to a modest selection of movies and TV shows, but over the years, Amazon has invested heavily in acquiring and producing high-quality content. This includes critically acclaimed series like “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel,” “The Boys,” and “Jack Ryan.”
Content and Competition
Prime Instant Video is currently available in the US, UK, and Germany, and Amazon has plans to expand the service to more countries. The addition of Japan to this list is a strategic move, considering the country’s high internet penetration rate and the growing demand for streaming services. Japan is known for its tech-savvy population, and the introduction of Prime Video is likely to attract a significant number of subscribers.
In Japan, Amazon Prime Video will face competition from established local players like Hulu Japan, U-Next, and Netflix. However, Amazon’s competitive pricing and the added value of free shipping on Amazon orders could give it an edge. Moreover, Amazon has been known to localize its content to cater to regional tastes, which could further enhance its appeal in the Japanese market.
Amazon’s strategy of bundling multiple services under the Prime membership umbrella has proven to be highly effective. In addition to streaming video, Prime members also get access to Prime Music, Prime Reading, and exclusive deals on Amazon. This multi-faceted approach not only increases the perceived value of the membership but also encourages customer loyalty.
Another interesting aspect of Amazon Prime Video is its focus on original content. Amazon Studios has been producing a wide range of original series and movies, many of which have received critical acclaim and awards. This focus on original content not only differentiates Prime Video from other streaming services but also helps in attracting and retaining subscribers.
For instance, Amazon’s investment in anime could be a significant draw for Japanese audiences. Anime is a massive industry in Japan, and Amazon has already made strides in this area with titles like “Dororo” and “Vinland Saga.” By offering exclusive anime content, Amazon Prime Video could attract a large number of anime enthusiasts in Japan.
The launch of Amazon Prime Video in Japan is a significant milestone in Amazon’s global expansion strategy. With its competitive pricing, extensive content library, and added benefits of Prime membership, Amazon Prime Video is well-positioned to capture a substantial share of the Japanese streaming market. As Amazon continues to invest in original content and expand its global footprint, it will be interesting to see how the streaming landscape evolves in the coming years.
Source TNW
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