Since its launch as Amazon Unbox in 2006, Amazon Prime Video has come a long way to become what it is today — one of the leading streaming platforms in the United States. Over nearly two decades, Amazon signed multiple deals with major studios and networks, including Paramount and Warner Bros., to expand its offering.
As more people cut the cord with cable and turn to streaming options as an alternative for entertainment and news content, the competition among streamers is increasing. Amazon Prime Video remains among the top platforms with around 200 million subscribers, lagging behind only Netflix, according to data from Flix Patrol.
In August 2025, Amazon made a major move, shutting down its stand-alone Freevee app, directing viewers to continue watching Freevee content on Prime Video. The decision “likely reflects a move to simplify its offerings and centralize content on a single platform,” reported Tech Crunch.
Earlier this year, some major streaming platforms such as Netflix, Apple TV +, Disney+, HBO Max, Peacock, Dropout.tv, and Paramount all raised their prices in a bid to survive and address higher expenses for the production of quality content.
At times when other streaming platforms are fighting for their place in the industry and hiking prices, Amazon just made a free upgrade for its U.S. subscribers.
Amazon Prime Video announced that a new dedicated news section will be available for free by end of the year for its US subscribers.
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Amazon Prime Video adds free news hub for U.S. subscribers
Amazon Prime Video announced on Dec. 3 that it is launching a new dedicated news section. The streaming giant’s U.S. customers can now conveniently tune in to local, national, and global news coverage from major providers, according to its press release.
The dedicated news destination will be available for free by end of the year. It is easily accessible through the top navigation in the Prime Video app across thousands of devices. Prime Video provides an extensive range of 24/7 live and on-demand news content — from live local and regional news stations to weather coverage from BBC News, Bloomberg TV+ , Fox Weather and more.
Newly added news networks include:
- ABC News Live
- CBS News 24/7
- LiveNOW from Fox
- CNN Headlines
- NBC News NOW Source: Amazon
“The service aggregates hundreds of 24/7 news channels at no additional cost to viewers, including major linear streams,” the company said, adding that the total selection is expected to exceed 200 channels by the end of the year.
More importantly, the news hub is accessible to anyone with an Amazon account in the US, regardless of Prime membership status, and works on thousands of devices, including TVs, game consoles, and mobile platforms that support the Prime Video app.
Members can now browse scheduled programming, tune into live broadcasts, and review recent segments without leaving the Prime Video interface, writes Cord Cutters News.
More Streaming:
- YouTube TV surprises subscribers with a long-awaited addition
- Netflix quietly drops Warner Bros. Discovery cable channels in sale
- YouTube TV drops generous offer for its subscribers
A move beyond entertainment content and into information
Prime Video comes with your Amazon Prime membership, which costs $14.99/month or $139/year. Prime Video shows and movies include limited ads, with an ad-free option available.
Membership also includes Amazon Prime benefits such as free Two-Day Delivery. Discounted memberships are available through Prime Access and Prime for Young Adults.
Earlier this month, Amazon also announced the launch of Sony Pictures Core, a subscription channel in the United States and Canada, that provides access to a collection of classic films and television series from Sony Pictures’ extensive library.
However, with the addition of free news channels, Amazon made an important move beyond entertainment content.
Related: Netflix quietly removes popular feature, frustrating subscribers