Amazon adds download options to Instant Video service

Amazon Prime Instant Video will allow customers to download movies and TV series, making it the only major subscription streaming service to offer such an option.

Amazon subs in the US, UK and Germany with access to iOS and Android platforms will be able to download content at no additional charge to the monthly subscription fee.

The move, effectively allowing customers to bank content and access it offline, gives Amazon a key point of difference to streaming rivals such as Hulu and Netflix.

Customers with Amazon Fire platforms are already able to watch content offline

“There’s no doubt that the way people watch entertainment is changing—anytime, anywhere viewing is important and we are excited to provide our Prime members with offline viewing capabilities on iOS and Android platforms starting today,” said Jay Marine, VP of digital video at Amazon EU.

“We are proud to be the first and only online subscription streaming service that enables offline viewing – on holiday, in a car, at the beach, on a plane, wherever our Prime members want to watch they can, regardless of internet connection.”

Amazon’s content offer includes drama originals such as Bosch (pictured) and Transparent, catalogue titles such as Desperate Housewives and Happy Endings and kids series including Creative Galaxy and Annedroids.