Amazon Prime Video Ads in India: When, Why & What It Means for You
Starting June 17, 2025, Amazon Prime Video in India will introduce ads during movies and TV shows, a shift that has left many users asking: Will Amazon Prime have ads in India? Can I avoid ads on Prime Video? Here's everything you need to know about this major change, what it means for your streaming experience, and how to maintain an ad-free option if you prefer uninterrupted entertainment.
Why Are Ads Coming to Amazon Prime Video in India?
Amazon is rolling out advertising on Prime Video in India as part of a broader global strategy that started in the U.S., U.K., Germany, and Canada. The move aims to boost advertising revenue from its fast-growing streaming platform while keeping subscription prices relatively stable. With over 130 million viewers watching ad-supported Prime Video in the U.S. alone, the strategy has already proven highly lucrative—helping Amazon secure over $1.8 billion in ad spend commitments.
What Kind of Ads Can You Expect?
Amazon describes the ads as “limited advertisements,” meaning they won't overwhelm your viewing experience like traditional TV ads. However, users should expect pre-roll or mid-roll ad breaks similar to other platforms like Disney+ Hotstar or JioCinema. These ads are designed to be non-intrusive yet effective—a model that appeals to advertisers while retaining user engagement.
How to Watch Prime Video Without Ads in India
To address user concerns, Amazon is offering an optional ad-free add-on for Prime members in India. Here's how the pricing works:
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Monthly Add-On: ₹129/month (~$1.52)
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Annual Add-On: ₹699/year (~$8)
This comes in addition to your existing Prime subscription, which starts at ₹299/month or ₹1,499/year. This model gives users flexibility—opt for affordable streaming with ads, or upgrade to premium, ad-free entertainment at a nominal cost.
Is This Worth It for Indian Subscribers?
If you're someone who values an uninterrupted streaming experience, the ad-free plan might be worth considering—especially since Amazon’s library includes top-tier content, original series, and exclusive movie premieres. On the other hand, casual viewers who don't mind a few short ads can continue watching without paying extra.
What Else Is Amazon Doing in India?
Beyond Prime Video, Amazon is doubling down on ad-driven platforms like MX Player, which it acquired from Times Internet. MX Player runs a freemium model with ads and offers a subscription plan to reduce ad exposure—mirroring Amazon’s current Prime Video strategy.
With digital advertising surging in India and online video consumption at an all-time high, Amazon’s move is both strategic and timely. Expect more integrations, ad innovations, and localized content as the platform evolves.
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