Prime Video, Amazon’s streaming service, offers a vast library of movies, TV shows, and original content. One of the most convenient features for viewers is the ability to download content for offline viewing. This article provides a comprehensive guide to downloading content on Prime Video, covering devices, restrictions, troubleshooting, and more.
Downloading Content on Prime Video: The Basics
Yes, Prime Video allows subscribers to download select movies and TV shows for offline viewing. This feature is a major advantage, especially for travelers, commuters, or anyone with limited or unreliable internet access. However, it’s essential to understand the specifics of how downloads work on Prime Video to make the most of this functionality.
Availability of Downloads
Not all titles on Prime Video are available for download. The availability depends on several factors, including licensing agreements and regional restrictions. Generally, Amazon Originals and many popular movies and TV series are downloadable.
Titles available for download will display a download icon (a downward-pointing arrow) on the video details page. If you don’t see this icon, the title is likely not available for offline viewing. It’s crucial to check this before you plan to watch something offline.
Devices Supported for Downloads
The Prime Video download feature is available on a variety of devices, including:
- iOS devices: iPhones and iPads
- Android devices: Smartphones and tablets
- Fire Tablets: Amazon’s own line of tablets
- Windows 10 or later: Using the Prime Video app
Unfortunately, you cannot download content directly to your computer through a web browser. You need to use the Prime Video app for Windows. Similarly, downloads are not supported on devices like smart TVs or streaming devices like Roku or Chromecast.
Step-by-Step Guide to Downloading on Prime Video
Downloading movies and TV shows on Prime Video is a straightforward process. Here’s a detailed guide for different devices.
Downloading on iOS and Android Devices
- Open the Prime Video app on your iOS or Android device.
- Browse or search for the movie or TV show you want to download.
- Select the title to open the details page.
- If the title is available for download, you’ll see a download icon.
- For movies, tap the download icon. For TV shows, you’ll typically see a download icon next to each episode or an option to download the entire season.
- Choose your preferred download quality (Standard, Better, or Best). Higher quality means larger file sizes.
- The download will begin automatically. You can monitor the progress in the “Downloads” section of the app.
Downloading on Fire Tablets
The process for downloading on Fire Tablets is very similar to that on iOS and Android devices.
- Open the Prime Video app on your Fire Tablet.
- Find the movie or TV show you want to download.
- Tap the title to view the details.
- Look for the download icon.
- Select the download quality.
- The download will start, and you can track its progress.
Downloading on Windows 10 or Later
- Download and install the Prime Video app from the Microsoft Store.
- Open the Prime Video app.
- Search for the content you wish to download.
- Click on the title to go to its detail page.
- Click the download icon.
- Select the video quality of the download.
- The download will begin. You can check its progress within the app.
Managing Your Downloads
Once you’ve downloaded content, managing your downloads is essential for efficient storage and viewing.
Accessing Your Downloads
On all supported devices, you can find your downloaded content in the “Downloads” section of the Prime Video app. This section provides a list of all downloaded movies and TV shows, allowing you to play them offline.
Deleting Downloads
To delete downloaded content and free up storage space:
- Go to the “Downloads” section of the Prime Video app.
- Locate the movie or TV show you want to delete.
- Tap the three dots (or a similar menu icon) next to the title.
- Select the “Delete Download” option.
For TV shows with multiple downloaded episodes, you can usually delete individual episodes or the entire season.
Download Quality Settings
You can adjust the download quality settings in the Prime Video app to manage storage space. Lowering the download quality will result in smaller file sizes, allowing you to store more content on your device. To change the download quality:
- Go to the “Settings” section of the Prime Video app.
- Look for the “Download Quality” option.
- Choose your preferred quality setting (Standard, Better, or Best).
Keep in mind that changing the download quality will only affect future downloads, not existing ones.
Download Limits and Restrictions
Prime Video imposes certain limits and restrictions on downloads to protect content rights and manage bandwidth.
Number of Downloads
Amazon limits the number of titles you can download at any given time. Typically, you can download a maximum of 15 to 25 titles across all your devices associated with your Amazon account. This number can vary based on your location and specific licensing agreements for the content.
It’s essential to manage your downloads and delete content you’ve already watched to avoid exceeding the download limit.
Download Period
Downloaded titles have an expiration date. Typically, you have 30 days to begin watching a downloaded title. Once you start watching, you may have a shorter period (usually 48 hours) to finish it. After this period, the download will expire, and you’ll need to download it again if you want to watch it offline.
The expiration date is usually displayed within the “Downloads” section of the app.
Regional Restrictions
Download availability can vary based on your geographical location. Some titles may be available for download in one region but not in another due to licensing agreements. If you travel to a different country, you may find that some of your downloaded content is no longer accessible.
Simultaneous Streams
Even when watching downloaded content, your account is subject to simultaneous streaming limits. Typically, you can stream on up to three devices simultaneously using the same Amazon account. However, some titles may have stricter limitations. If you exceed the simultaneous streaming limit, you may encounter an error message.
Troubleshooting Download Issues
Despite its convenience, the Prime Video download feature can sometimes encounter technical issues. Here are some common problems and their solutions.
Insufficient Storage Space
One of the most common issues is insufficient storage space on your device. Make sure you have enough free storage before attempting to download content. To free up space, delete unnecessary files, apps, or previously downloaded videos.
Download Errors
If you encounter a download error, try the following:
- Check your internet connection: Ensure you have a stable Wi-Fi connection.
- Restart the Prime Video app: Close and reopen the app.
- Restart your device: Restarting your device can resolve temporary software glitches.
- Clear the app cache: Clearing the app cache can resolve issues related to corrupted data.
- Update the Prime Video app: Make sure you’re using the latest version of the app.
- Reinstall the app: If all else fails, try uninstalling and reinstalling the app.
Playback Issues with Downloaded Content
If you’re experiencing playback issues with downloaded content, try the following:
- Ensure the download is complete: Make sure the download finished successfully.
- Check the expiration date: The download may have expired.
- Restart the Prime Video app: Closing and reopening the app can resolve playback issues.
- Update your device’s software: Ensure your device’s operating system is up to date.
Content Not Available for Download
If a title is not available for download, it could be due to licensing restrictions or regional limitations. Unfortunately, there’s not much you can do in this case. You can try searching for alternative titles that are available for download.
Tips for Optimizing Your Prime Video Downloads
Here are a few tips to enhance your Prime Video download experience:
- Plan ahead: Download content before you travel or anticipate being without internet access.
- Manage your storage: Regularly delete downloaded content you’ve already watched to free up space.
- Choose the right quality: Select the download quality that balances video quality with storage space.
- Check expiration dates: Be aware of the expiration dates of your downloads to avoid surprises.
- Use Wi-Fi: Download content using Wi-Fi to avoid using your mobile data.
Prime Video Download Alternatives
While Prime Video offers a great download feature, there are also alternative ways to access and watch content offline.
- Other Streaming Services: Many other streaming services, such as Netflix and Disney+, also offer download options. Consider exploring these services for a wider selection of downloadable content.
- Digital Copies: Purchasing digital copies of movies and TV shows from services like iTunes or Google Play allows you to download and own the content permanently.
Prime Video’s download feature is a valuable asset for subscribers who want to enjoy their favorite movies and TV shows offline. By understanding the basics, managing your downloads effectively, and troubleshooting common issues, you can make the most of this convenient functionality.
What devices support downloading Prime Video content?
Prime Video downloads are supported on a range of devices, offering flexibility in how you enjoy your favorite movies and TV shows offline. Primarily, downloads are available on mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets running the Prime Video app for iOS, Android, and Fire OS. This includes iPhones, iPads, Android phones and tablets, and Amazon Fire tablets. You’ll need to ensure you have the latest version of the Prime Video app installed on your device to access the download feature.
While mobile devices are the main focus, downloads are generally not supported on computers or smart TVs. You cannot download content to your laptop or desktop computer directly, even if you are using the Prime Video app for Windows. Similarly, most smart TVs and streaming devices like Roku, Apple TV, or Chromecast do not allow for offline viewing. The feature is tailored for portable devices, allowing you to watch on the go without an internet connection, prioritizing the mobile viewing experience.
How do I download content from Prime Video?
Downloading content from Prime Video is a straightforward process if you are using a supported device. First, open the Prime Video app on your iOS, Android, or Fire OS device and browse for the movie or TV show you want to download. On the details page for the title, you’ll typically find a “Download” button or icon. For TV shows, you may see a download icon next to each individual episode, or an option to download the entire season at once.
Once you’ve clicked the download button, you can choose the video quality you prefer. Higher quality downloads will take up more storage space on your device, so consider your available storage and viewing preferences. The download will then begin, and you can track its progress within the app. Once the download is complete, you can find the content in the “Downloads” section of the Prime Video app for offline viewing. Remember that downloaded content is associated with your Amazon account and tied to the specific device it was downloaded to.
Is there a limit to the number of Prime Video downloads I can have?
Yes, there are limitations on the number of Prime Video downloads you can store at any given time. Amazon imposes restrictions to prevent unauthorized copying and distribution of content. The exact number of titles you can download varies depending on the region, the specific titles, and your Amazon Prime membership, but generally speaking, you are limited to downloading a certain number of titles at once across all devices linked to your account.
Furthermore, some titles might have download restrictions due to licensing agreements, meaning they cannot be downloaded at all or can only be downloaded a limited number of times. If you reach your download limit, you’ll need to delete some existing downloads to free up space for new ones. Amazon regularly updates its download policies, so it’s advisable to check their help pages for the most current information regarding download limits in your region.
How long do Prime Video downloads last?
Prime Video downloads do not last indefinitely; they have an expiration period. Once you download a movie or TV show, it will be available for a limited time, which varies depending on the title and licensing agreements. Typically, you have a window of 30 days to begin watching the downloaded content. Once you start watching, you might have a shorter window, such as 48 hours, to finish viewing before it expires.
Expiration dates are clearly displayed within the Prime Video app, so you’ll be notified when your downloads are about to expire. If a download expires, it will no longer be playable, and you’ll need to download it again if it’s still available for download. Some titles might have shorter expiration periods than others, so it’s always a good idea to check the details within the app to avoid any surprises. Also, some titles disappear entirely from the Prime Video library, which means they can no longer be downloaded or streamed.
Can I share my Prime Video downloads with others?
No, you cannot directly share Prime Video downloads with others. Downloads are tied to your Amazon account and the specific device you downloaded them to. They are intended for personal viewing only and cannot be transferred to another device or account. This is a security measure to prevent unauthorized copying and distribution of copyrighted content.
While you can share your Amazon Prime benefits with members of your Amazon Household, each member will need to sign in with their own Amazon account and download content on their own devices. Sharing your account credentials is not recommended and may violate Amazon’s terms of service. Therefore, the only way for others to enjoy Prime Video content is for them to have their own subscription or be part of your Amazon Household, enabling them to download directly from their own accounts.
What happens if I cancel my Prime membership while having downloaded content?
If you cancel your Amazon Prime membership, you will lose access to the Prime Video benefits, including the ability to watch downloaded content. Once your membership expires, all downloaded movies and TV shows will become unplayable. This is because the downloads are linked to your active Prime membership, which grants you the right to access and view the content.
The Prime Video app will likely prompt you to either renew your Prime membership or purchase the titles individually to continue watching them. Without an active Prime membership or a purchase, you will no longer be able to access the downloaded content, and it’s advisable to delete the files from your device to free up storage space. Remember that Prime Video content is a benefit of the Prime subscription, and access is contingent upon maintaining an active membership.
What should I do if my Prime Video downloads are not working?
If your Prime Video downloads are not working, there are several troubleshooting steps you can take to resolve the issue. First, ensure that you have a stable internet connection, as the Prime Video app requires an internet connection to verify your account and download status, even for offline viewing. Also, check if your Prime Video app is up to date; outdated versions can sometimes cause compatibility issues. Clear the app’s cache and data, as corrupted data can interfere with the playback of downloaded content.
If the problem persists, verify that the downloaded content hasn’t expired and that you haven’t exceeded your download limit. If you have exceeded the limit, delete some existing downloads to make room for new ones. Restarting your device can also help resolve temporary glitches. If none of these steps work, consider contacting Amazon Prime Video customer support for further assistance, as there might be account-specific issues or DRM-related problems that require their intervention.