Streaming services were supposed to make our lives simpler. And for a time, they did, offering on-demand or live content at a more affordable price than cable.
Over time, more services popped up, with many streaming providers raising rates. Hulu, Max, even YouTube TV raised their prices in the past year.
On a positive note, Amazon Prime subscribers might be surprised to learn they can save money while still enjoying great entertainment with these four hidden Amazon Prime Video features.
Sign up for Kiplinger’s Free E-Newsletters
Profit and prosper with the best of expert advice on investing, taxes, retirement, personal finance and more - straight to your e-mail.
Profit and prosper with the best of expert advice - straight to your e-mail.
1. Prime Video Dialogue Boost
In early 2023, Amazon launched Prime Video Dialogue Boost a feature that uses AI technology to adjust volume levels when someone is speaking so you can hear exactly what they are saying. While Dialogue Boost was originally conceived with the needs of customers who are hard of hearing in mind, anyone can use the feature to suit their personal listening preferences.
Dialogue Boost can be used anywhere you experience Prime Video. Plus, Dialogue Boost complements additional accessibility features available to customers including Closed Captions and Audio Descriptions.
How it works: During playback, you can view and choose which level of Dialogue Boost you’d like to use from the audio and subtitles drop down menu. The audio tracks are labeled “English Dialogue Boost: Medium” and “English Dialogue Boost: High.” This feature is available across all devices that support the Prime Video experience, including streaming Amazon originals. And if you want clearer audio with minimal distractions, consider headphones or ear buds.
2. Prime Video download feature
Prime Video has a download feature that enables you to watch you favorite TV shows or movies on your phone or tablet without using your mobile data, or when you don't have access to the internet.
The best way to use it is to download a selection of movies and shows while you're connected to Wi-Fi, saving you from using data. Whether you’re on a road trip, flight, or during your everyday commute, this Amazon feature lets you watch from anywhere.
How it works: Just download the Prime Video app from Google Play or the Apple App Store. Fire tablet owners, tap Prime Video on the home screen or go to the Video tab. Also, Windows 10 users can download the Prime Video app to their PC from the Microsoft Store.
3. Prime Video ‘X-Ray"
When you pause a show you're watching, Prime Video’s X-Ray feature displays a list of the actors that appear in the scene. This feature may not save you money, but it's a pretty cool feature not found on most other streaming services.
How it works: It’s simple to use and incredibly handy when trying to remember an actors name. X-Ray also can share dozens of trivia facts and production slip ups to use the next time you play a trivia game.
4. Pay less for Prime Video
While technically not a Prime Video feature, you can still save money if all you use your Prime membership for is to watch Prime Video. In fact, there is a standalone subscription option solely for Prime Video users, priced at only $8.99 per month, or $107 if charged annually. To put this into context, this plan is cheaper than base ones offered by Hulu, Disney Plus or Max.
| Provider | Cost | Ad-supported? |
| Disney Plus | $9.99 | Yes |
| Hulu | $9.99 | Yes |
| Max | $9.99 | Yes |
| Prime Video | $8.99 | Yes |
That means, you’ll be able to purchase or rent a wide selection of titles and Pay-Per-View events from the Prime Video catalog, without needing an Amazon Prime or Prime Video membership. Amazon recently added ads when you watch content, but if you want to sign up for an ad-free plan, it'll cost you $17.98/month for Prime members and $11.98/month for the standalone subscription.
Read more
-
Stock Market Today: Nasdaq Leads Monday With Its 190-Point GainMarket participants took a glass-half-full approach to Trump's latest tariff news.
-
Like the Penny, These 6 Things Retirees Grew Up With Are Going Away or Are GonePresident Trump wants to cancel the penny, but that's not the only item going away.
-
Toyota Recalls More Than 140,000 Vehicles Including Lexus SUVsToyota issued a recall affecting Tacoma and Camry models, as well as the Lexus RX and NX vehicles.
-
Extra Cash? Should You Pay Off Debt or Invest?Depending on your financial situation, you might benefit from paying off debt, investing or both. Here are some things to consider before deciding.
-
January Jobs Report Keeps Rates on Pause: What the Experts Are SayingJobs Report Solid labor market conditions point to the Fed maintaining a cautious stance on borrowing costs.
-
Egg Prices Soar: Use These Credit Cards to Lower Food CostsWith inflation raising grocery bills, one way to save is by maximizing your cash back rewards. Here are some credit cards to consider.
-
Empowering Widows: Five Goals for Financial Security in 2025Tackling these strategies one at a time, whether it's updating estate planning or reassessing investments, can help put you on track for financial stability.
-
What Is Insurance Good For? Let Us Count the WaysYou might resent having to pay premiums, but when disaster or just a minor fender-bender happens, you'll be happy you have the financial backup.
-
The Best ROI? Investing in Yourself This YearIf personal growth is something you invest in only after taking care of all other priorities, it's time to turn that mindset on its head. Here's how to start.
-
Listed: Luxury Ski Town Homes in ColoradoLuxury homes on the market in Telluride and Steamboat Springs, Colorado.
