Amazon has come a long way in the sports streaming world since 2016, investing billions of dollars in sports media rights and cloud computing infrastructure to appeal to its Prime members. This strategy is expected to help attract new Prime members and drive revenue growth in the advertising sector. Amazon CEO Andy Jassy has highlighted the importance of live sports in engaging customers, and the company is aiming to build the next generation of entertainment services beyond traditional on-demand content. With more people cutting the cord, tech companies like Amazon are increasingly partnering with sports leagues as traditional cable deals expire.
Amazon’s exclusive NFL deal is worth $10 billion over 10 years and has proven successful in attracting viewers to its live sports offerings. The company is expanding its sports catalog to include NHL, NBA, NASCAR, soccer, boxing, and others, taking advantage of its technical capabilities through Amazon Web Services. Amazon has differentiated itself by offering unique advertising opportunities and innovative viewing experiences through offerings like “Prime Vision” for Thursday Night Football, which incorporates machine learning and RFID technology to enhance the viewer experience.
Amazon’s focus on providing alternative viewing options and experimenting with new broadcast experiences reflects its commitment to catering to the diverse preferences of sports fans. The company’s investment in advanced technology, such as AI integrations and alternate streams, is aimed at enhancing the fan experience and providing deeper insights into the game. Streaming sports over the internet allows Amazon to test new features during games and commercial breaks, showcasing its digital-first approach to entertainment services. The company’s goal is to continue pushing the envelope on consumer viewing experiences and driving innovation in the sports streaming industry.
Over time, live sports are expected to be viewed just as frequently on streaming platforms as on traditional TV, according to industry experts. As more sports leagues engage with tech companies, Amazon is well-positioned to capitalize on this trend by offering a wide range of sports content to its global Prime audience. By leveraging its technical capabilities and vast data trove on Prime members, Amazon can provide tailored advertising opportunities and unique viewing experiences to enhance the overall sports streaming experience for fans. The company’s commitment to innovation and experimentation underscores its dedication to serving sports fans and driving growth in the rapidly evolving streaming industry.