While Amazon Prime Video primarily offers streaming content, downloading movies and TV shows to your PC is possible through the Amazon Prime Video app for Windows. This allows for offline viewing, perfect for travel or areas with unreliable internet access. This guide details the step-by-step process, limitations, and answers to frequently asked questions.
Understanding Download Availability and Requirements
The ability to download content from Amazon Prime Video isn’t universal. Several factors influence whether a title can be downloaded, and knowing these limitations is crucial.
License Restrictions
Content availability depends heavily on licensing agreements. Amazon Prime Video licenses content from various studios, and these agreements dictate whether downloads are permitted. Titles labeled as “Rentals” are generally not downloadable. Only content marked as “Included with Prime” or purchased outright is typically available for download.
Regional Variations
Content libraries and download availability vary significantly between regions. What’s downloadable in the US might not be in the UK, and vice-versa. Ensure you are aware of these regional restrictions, especially if traveling.
Device Compatibility
Downloading is primarily restricted to the Amazon Prime Video app on Windows and mobile devices (iOS and Android). Downloading via a web browser is not supported. This limitation is intended to protect copyrighted content.
App Requirements
To download, you’ll need the latest version of the Amazon Prime Video app for Windows. Older versions might lack download functionality or have compatibility issues. Regularly updating the app ensures optimal performance and access to the latest features.
Step-by-Step Guide: Downloading Movies and TV Shows
Downloading Amazon Prime Video content to your PC is a relatively straightforward process, provided you meet the necessary requirements.
Step 1: Installing the Amazon Prime Video App
If you don’t already have it, download and install the Amazon Prime Video app from the Microsoft Store. Ensure your Windows version is compatible with the app.
Step 2: Signing In
Launch the app and sign in with your Amazon account credentials. The account used must have an active Amazon Prime membership or have purchased the content you wish to download.
Step 3: Finding Downloadable Content
Browse the Amazon Prime Video library for movies and TV shows. Look for the download icon (a downward-pointing arrow) next to the title. If the icon isn’t present, the content is likely unavailable for download.
Step 4: Initiating the Download
Click on the download icon. For TV shows, you can usually select specific episodes to download. Choose the desired video quality (Standard, Good, or Best). Higher quality downloads require more storage space.
Step 5: Managing Downloads
Access your downloaded content by clicking on the “Downloads” tab within the Amazon Prime Video app. Here, you can monitor download progress, pause or cancel downloads, and manage your downloaded library.
Managing and Viewing Downloaded Content
Understanding how to manage and view your downloaded content is as important as the downloading process itself.
Viewing Downloaded Content
Downloaded movies and TV shows can only be viewed within the Amazon Prime Video app. You cannot transfer the files to other devices or play them using other media players. This is due to Digital Rights Management (DRM) restrictions.
Deleting Downloaded Content
To delete downloaded content and free up storage space, navigate to the “Downloads” tab. Locate the title you wish to remove and tap the three dots (ellipsis) icon next to it, then select “Delete Download.”
Download Expiration Dates
Downloaded content typically has an expiration date. This varies depending on the licensing agreement for the specific title. You will receive a notification within the app when a download is about to expire. To continue watching after expiration, you may need to reconnect to the internet and renew the download license.
Troubleshooting Common Download Issues
Encountering problems while downloading or viewing content is not uncommon. Here are some troubleshooting steps to resolve common issues.
Insufficient Storage Space
Ensure you have sufficient storage space on your PC. Downloaded movies, especially in high quality, can consume significant amounts of storage.
App Update Required
An outdated app can cause download failures or playback errors. Regularly update the Amazon Prime Video app to the latest version.
Internet Connectivity Issues
Although you are downloading for offline viewing, you still need an active internet connection to initiate the download and, occasionally, to renew the download license. Ensure a stable internet connection during the download process and periodically when accessing your downloaded content.
Regional Restrictions
If you are traveling to a different region, your downloaded content might not be available. Downloaded content is often tied to the region where it was originally downloaded.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 12 frequently asked questions to further clarify the download process and address common concerns:
FAQ 1: Can I download movies in 4K UHD from Amazon Prime Video?
No. The Amazon Prime Video app for Windows does not support downloading content in 4K UHD resolution. The maximum download quality is typically capped at HD (High Definition).
FAQ 2: How many devices can I download content to with my Amazon Prime account?
You can download content to a limited number of devices simultaneously. While the exact number varies based on your Prime membership and location, it’s generally around two or three devices.
FAQ 3: Can I transfer downloaded Amazon Prime Video movies to a USB drive?
No. Due to DRM (Digital Rights Management) restrictions, you cannot transfer downloaded content from the Amazon Prime Video app to a USB drive or any other external storage device.
FAQ 4: Why can’t I find the download icon for some movies?
The download icon is only available for titles included with your Amazon Prime membership or those you have purchased. Titles available only for rent cannot be downloaded. Licensing agreements and regional restrictions also play a role.
FAQ 5: What happens to my downloaded movies if my Amazon Prime membership expires?
If your Amazon Prime membership expires, you will lose access to the downloaded content that was included with your Prime subscription. Content you purchased outright will still be accessible.
FAQ 6: Is it legal to download Amazon Prime Video movies?
Downloading movies for personal, offline viewing within the confines of the Amazon Prime Video app is legal, provided you have an active Prime membership or have purchased the content. Redistributing or sharing the downloaded files is illegal and violates copyright laws.
FAQ 7: Can I change the download location in the Amazon Prime Video app?
The Amazon Prime Video app typically downloads content to a default location on your PC. While some older versions might have allowed changing the download location, the current version does not offer this functionality.
FAQ 8: How long do I have to watch a downloaded movie before it expires?
The expiration date varies depending on the title. Generally, you have 30 days to start watching a downloaded movie after downloading it, and 48 hours to finish watching it once you’ve started. The app will display the expiration date for each downloaded item.
FAQ 9: What does it mean when a downloaded movie says “license expired”?
This means the license for the downloaded content has expired. To renew the license, connect to the internet and try playing the movie again. The app will attempt to renew the license if it’s still available.
FAQ 10: Does downloading movies consume data on my internet plan?
Yes, downloading movies consumes data on your internet plan. Choose a lower video quality setting (Standard or Good) to reduce data consumption. Downloading over Wi-Fi is recommended to avoid using mobile data.
FAQ 11: Why is the download speed so slow?
Slow download speeds can be caused by several factors, including a slow internet connection, network congestion, or server issues on Amazon’s end. Try restarting your router, closing other applications using bandwidth, and waiting for a less congested time.
FAQ 12: Are there alternative ways to download Amazon Prime Video movies to my PC if the app doesn’t work?
Unfortunately, no officially sanctioned alternative exists. Third-party tools claiming to bypass DRM restrictions are often unreliable, illegal, and may contain malware. Using the Amazon Prime Video app for Windows is the only supported and legal way to download content.