Yes, you absolutely can watch movies you’ve rented on Amazon Prime Video, but the process isn’t always immediately obvious. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about accessing your rented content across various devices, troubleshooting common issues, and understanding the finer points of Prime Video rentals.
Understanding Amazon Prime Video Rentals
Amazon Prime Video offers a vast library of movies available for rent or purchase, providing an alternative to subscription-based streaming. Renting a movie grants you a limited window to watch it – typically 30 days to start watching after renting, and then 48 hours to finish once you begin playback. Before diving into how to watch your rented films, it’s crucial to understand the fundamental differences between renting, buying, and streaming on Prime Video. Rentals are temporary licenses, while purchases grant you permanent access (although this is still subject to Amazon’s terms of service). Streaming, on the other hand, requires an active Prime membership and grants access to a rotating selection of movies and TV shows.
Accessing Your Rented Movies
The process for finding and watching your rented movies varies slightly depending on the device you’re using. Here’s a breakdown for the most common platforms:
Watching on a Computer
- Open a web browser and navigate to the Amazon Prime Video website (primevideo.com).
- Sign in with your Amazon account credentials.
- Click on the “My Stuff” tab, typically located in the upper right-hand corner of the screen.
- Select “Purchases & Rentals”. This section will display all the movies and TV shows you’ve rented or purchased.
- Locate the movie you wish to watch and click on its thumbnail.
- Click the “Watch Now” button to begin playback.
Watching on the Prime Video App (Smart TVs, Streaming Devices, Mobile)
- Launch the Prime Video app on your device.
- Ensure you are signed in with the same Amazon account used to rent the movie.
- Navigate to the “My Stuff” section. The location of this section can vary slightly depending on the device. Look for icons or menu options labeled “My Stuff,” “My Videos,” or similar.
- Select “Purchases & Rentals”. Again, the exact wording might vary.
- Find the movie you want to watch from the list of rentals.
- Tap or click on the movie thumbnail, and then select “Watch Now.”
Important Considerations for Different Devices
- Smart TVs & Streaming Devices (Roku, Fire Stick, Apple TV): The Prime Video app interface is generally consistent across these devices. However, older devices may have outdated app versions, potentially leading to minor differences in the navigation. Ensure your app is updated to the latest version.
- Mobile Devices (iOS & Android): The Prime Video app for mobile devices allows you to download rented movies for offline viewing. This is particularly useful for travel or situations where you might not have a reliable internet connection. To download, look for the download icon (usually a downward-pointing arrow) next to the movie title within the “Purchases & Rentals” section. Remember to start watching before the rental period expires.
- Gaming Consoles (PlayStation, Xbox): The Prime Video app on gaming consoles functions similarly to the smart TV version. Follow the steps outlined above to access your “Purchases & Rentals” section and start watching.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Sometimes, things don’t go according to plan. Here are some common issues you might encounter and how to resolve them:
- Movie Not Appearing in “Purchases & Rentals”: Double-check that you’re signed in with the correct Amazon account. It’s surprisingly easy to accidentally use a different account. Also, try refreshing the app or website.
- Playback Errors: Ensure your internet connection is stable and strong enough for streaming. Try restarting your device or clearing the app’s cache.
- Expiry Date Errors: Double-check the rental expiry date. Once the rental period expires, the movie will no longer be available.
- Device Compatibility Issues: While Prime Video is generally available on most devices, older devices might not be compatible with the latest app version. Consider upgrading your device or trying a different one.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions to further clarify the process:
FAQ 1: How long do I have to watch a rented movie on Prime Video?
You typically have 30 days to start watching the movie after you rent it. Once you begin watching, you have 48 hours to finish it. This can vary depending on the specific movie, so always check the details on the rental page.
FAQ 2: Can I download rented movies to watch offline?
Yes, you can download rented movies for offline viewing on the Prime Video app for iOS and Android devices. This feature is not available on all devices.
FAQ 3: What happens if I start watching a rented movie and my rental period expires mid-playback?
The playback will stop, and you will no longer be able to continue watching the movie unless you rent it again.
FAQ 4: Can I watch a rented movie on multiple devices simultaneously?
No, Amazon Prime Video rentals are typically restricted to one device at a time.
FAQ 5: I rented a movie, but it’s not showing up in my “Purchases & Rentals” section. What should I do?
First, verify that you are logged into the correct Amazon account. Then, try refreshing the Prime Video app or website. If it still doesn’t appear, contact Amazon customer support.
FAQ 6: Is there a way to extend the rental period of a movie?
Unfortunately, no, you cannot extend the rental period. You will need to rent the movie again if you want to continue watching after the rental period expires.
FAQ 7: Can I return a rented movie if I haven’t watched it yet?
Amazon’s policy generally doesn’t allow returns for rentals once the purchase is complete. However, you can contact Amazon customer support to inquire about exceptions.
FAQ 8: How do I find out when my rented movie will expire?
The expiry date is usually displayed prominently on the movie’s details page within the “Purchases & Rentals” section.
FAQ 9: Can I rent a movie that is already available for free with my Prime membership?
No, if a movie is included in your Prime Video subscription, you will not be given the option to rent it. You can stream it for free as part of your membership.
FAQ 10: Can I rent a movie using an Amazon gift card?
Yes, you can use your Amazon gift card balance to rent movies on Prime Video.
FAQ 11: What is the difference between renting and buying a movie on Prime Video?
Renting gives you temporary access (30 days to start, 48 hours to finish once started), while buying gives you permanent access (subject to Amazon’s terms). The price of buying is usually significantly higher than renting.
FAQ 12: I’m getting an error message saying “This video is not available in your region.” What does this mean?
This means that the movie is not licensed for distribution in your geographical location. Amazon Prime Video’s content library varies depending on the region. You might need to use a VPN (Virtual Private Network) to access the movie, but be aware that using a VPN may violate Amazon’s terms of service.
By following this guide and consulting the FAQs, you should be well-equipped to enjoy your rented movies on Amazon Prime Video without any frustrating interruptions. Happy viewing!