The simple answer is: you cannot directly download movies from Amazon Prime Video to your phone’s or tablet’s gallery. Amazon Prime Video only allows downloads within its own application for offline viewing, not for transferring or copying the video files to external locations like your gallery.
Downloading movies and TV shows for offline viewing is a fantastic feature of Amazon Prime Video, especially when you’re traveling, commuting, or simply want to save on data usage. However, understanding the limitations of this feature is crucial to managing your expectations and finding alternative solutions if needed. This comprehensive guide will explain exactly how to download content within the Amazon Prime Video app, explore the reasons behind the download restrictions, and present potential (though often technically complex and legally questionable) workarounds.
Understanding Amazon Prime Video’s Download System
Amazon Prime Video’s download feature is designed to work exclusively within its own environment. This means that when you download a movie or TV show, the file is stored in an encrypted format that can only be accessed and played back through the Prime Video app. This system is put in place to protect copyrighted content and prevent piracy.
Think of it like renting a physical DVD. You have temporary access to the movie, but you can’t make copies or keep it forever. The Amazon Prime Video download system works in a similar way, providing you with temporary access to content while your subscription is active.
Why Can’t I Download Directly to My Gallery?
The primary reason you can’t download directly to your gallery is digital rights management (DRM). DRM technology is used to control the distribution and use of copyrighted material. Amazon, like other streaming services such as Netflix and Disney+, employs DRM to prevent unauthorized copying and sharing of its content.
The downloaded files are encoded in a specific format that’s only readable by the Prime Video app. This encoding includes security measures that prevent you from extracting the video file and using it on other devices or platforms. Attempting to bypass these measures is not only technically challenging but also potentially illegal.
Downloading Within the Amazon Prime Video App: A Step-by-Step Guide
While you can’t download directly to your gallery, downloading within the Prime Video app is straightforward:
- Ensure you have the Amazon Prime Video app installed: Download the app from your device’s app store (Google Play Store for Android, Apple App Store for iOS).
- Sign in to your Amazon Prime account: Use the same credentials you use for shopping on Amazon.
- Browse and select the movie or TV show you want to download: Look for the “Download” icon (a downward-pointing arrow).
- Choose the download quality (if prompted): Higher quality downloads will take up more storage space.
- Tap the “Download” icon: The download will begin, and you can track its progress in the app’s “Downloads” section.
Accessing Your Downloads
Once downloaded, your movies and TV shows can be found in the “Downloads” section of the Prime Video app. You can access this section even when you’re offline. Keep in mind that downloaded content has an expiration date, typically ranging from 30 days after download to 48 hours after you start watching.
Exploring Alternative Solutions (With Caution)
While direct download to your gallery is impossible using Amazon’s official features, some third-party software claims to be able to extract and save content. These solutions often involve:
- Screen Recording Software: This captures the video as it plays, effectively creating a copy. However, this method typically results in lower quality video and is time-consuming.
- DRM Removal Tools: These tools are designed to bypass the DRM protection and extract the video file. However, using these tools is legally questionable and often violates the terms of service of Amazon Prime Video. Furthermore, downloading or distributing copyrighted material without permission is illegal.
Disclaimer: We strongly advise against using unauthorized third-party software to download or copy copyrighted material. Such actions may violate copyright laws and the terms of service of Amazon Prime Video, potentially leading to legal consequences or account suspension. This information is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
FAQ 1: Can I download Amazon Prime Video movies to my computer’s hard drive?
Yes, you can download Amazon Prime Video movies to your computer, but only through the Amazon Prime Video app for Windows or Mac. The downloaded files are stored within the app and cannot be accessed or played outside of it. Just like on mobile, the downloads are protected by DRM.
FAQ 2: How long do Amazon Prime Video downloads last?
Amazon Prime Video downloads typically last for 30 days after being downloaded. Once you begin watching a downloaded title, you usually have 48 hours to finish watching it before it expires. The expiration date is displayed within the Prime Video app.
FAQ 3: Why are some movies not available for download on Amazon Prime Video?
The availability of downloads is determined by licensing agreements between Amazon and the content providers (movie studios, TV networks, etc.). Not all titles are available for download due to these agreements. The licensing agreements also dictate the availability of titles within different regions.
FAQ 4: Can I download movies from Amazon Prime Video in 4K or HD?
The download quality options depend on the title and your device’s capabilities. Some titles offer HD or 4K downloads, while others may only be available in Standard Definition (SD). Your device must also support the chosen quality level. Ensure your device has the necessary hardware to display the downloaded content properly.
FAQ 5: Can I share downloaded Amazon Prime Video movies with my family members?
No, you cannot directly share downloaded Amazon Prime Video movies with family members outside of your Prime Video profile. Each download is tied to your individual Amazon account. While Amazon offers family sharing features, these typically pertain to streaming rather than downloaded content.
FAQ 6: What happens to my downloads if my Amazon Prime subscription expires?
If your Amazon Prime subscription expires, you will lose access to all downloaded movies and TV shows. You will need to renew your subscription to regain access to your downloads. This is because the downloaded files are encrypted and require an active subscription to be decrypted and played.
FAQ 7: How much storage space do I need to download Amazon Prime Video movies?
The amount of storage space required depends on the length of the movie and the download quality. HD downloads will require significantly more space than SD downloads. Before downloading, check your device’s available storage and adjust the download quality accordingly.
FAQ 8: Can I download Amazon Prime Video movies while using a VPN?
Using a VPN might affect your ability to download content. Amazon Prime Video’s content availability is region-locked, and a VPN can change your apparent location. If you use a VPN, make sure your selected region is one where the content you’re trying to download is available.
FAQ 9: Is it illegal to use third-party software to download Amazon Prime Video movies?
Yes, it is generally considered illegal to use third-party software to circumvent DRM and download copyrighted content without permission. Doing so violates copyright laws and the terms of service of Amazon Prime Video. We strongly advise against such practices.
FAQ 10: Can I transfer downloaded Amazon Prime Video movies to a USB drive?
No, you cannot transfer downloaded Amazon Prime Video movies to a USB drive. The downloaded files are encrypted and can only be played within the Amazon Prime Video app on the device they were downloaded to.
FAQ 11: How do I delete downloaded Amazon Prime Video movies to free up storage space?
Within the Amazon Prime Video app, go to the “Downloads” section. Find the movie or TV show you want to delete and tap the “Delete” or “Remove Download” option (typically represented by a trash can icon or a similar symbol).
FAQ 12: What can I do if my Amazon Prime Video downloads are not working?
If your downloads are not working, try the following troubleshooting steps:
- Check your internet connection: Ensure you have a stable internet connection for downloading.
- Restart the Amazon Prime Video app: Close and reopen the app.
- Restart your device: A simple restart can often resolve temporary glitches.
- Check your Amazon Prime subscription status: Make sure your subscription is active.
- Update the Amazon Prime Video app: Ensure you’re using the latest version of the app.
- Clear the app’s cache and data: This can sometimes resolve issues with corrupted data.
- Contact Amazon Prime Video customer support: If all else fails, contact Amazon’s support team for further assistance.
In conclusion, while the direct download of movies to your gallery from Amazon Prime Video remains impossible due to DRM and licensing agreements, understanding how to utilize the download feature within the app allows you to enjoy your favorite content offline within the boundaries set by Amazon. Always prioritize legal and ethical methods when accessing and enjoying copyrighted material.