When Amazon first announced it would introduce ads during movies and shows on Prime Video the backlash was immediate.
Viewers across the world including India, were quick to criticize the move. The frustration only grew when Amazon actually rolled out the ads in India—many Prime customers voiced strong objections, calling it unfair and disruptive.
Despite the noise no formal lawsuit has been filed against Amazon in India so far.
But in the U.S., Prime Video subscribers did take legal action hoping to stop the ads.
Today that hope was dashed.
A U.S. federal judge dismissed a proposed class-action lawsuit that claimed Amazon misled customers who expected an ad-free experience after paying $139 per year.
The judge ruled that Amazon’s decision to introduce ads was a “benefit modification” allowed under its terms, and therefore not a breach of agreement.
This development is a blow to anyone still hoping Amazon might backtrack. If anything, it sets a precedent that could make legal challenges in other countries even harder.
For now, it seems the ads are here to stay.
