Amazon Prime Video Now Requires Extra Subscription for 4K UHD Content

Amazon is introducing a new pricing structure for Prime Video, which will place 4K Ultra HD streaming content behind an additional paywall. From April 10, US subscribers wishing to access these higher resolutions will need to upgrade to a newly branded 'Prime Video Ultra' subscription, which will cost $5 per month, an increase from the previous $3 monthly rate.

This $2 monthly premium also comes with enhanced features, including an increased download capacity from 25 to 100 titles and the ability to stream concurrently on five devices, up from three. The value of these 'Ultra' tier upgrades, which translate to a $24 annual increase, will largely depend on individual viewing habits, such as frequent offline viewing or sharing the account across multiple users.

These adjustments are particularly frustrating for existing Amazon Prime subscribers. Even though their membership, costing $15 per month or $139 annually, includes ad-supported Prime Video, they will now be limited to 1080p resolution content. To access 4K UHD quality, these members will also be required to subscribe to the Prime Video Ultra add-on.

While Amazon is introducing Dolby Vision support for the first time and has increased concurrent stream and download limits on its base tier, this comes at the cost of losing previously included 4K UHD content, a feature available to all Prime Video members for years. Dolby Atmos audio will also remain an exclusive benefit of the new $5 Ultra tier.

Amazon joins a growing list of streaming services, including Apple TV, Disney+, and HBO Max, that have recently raised their prices. For those unwilling to incur additional costs, there's a limited window—less than a month—to enjoy content like the second season of Fallout in its full 4K UHD glory before the changes take effect.