Setting up Amazon Prime Video: everything you need to know

Amazon Prime Video is a comprehensive streaming service that gives you access to thousands of movies, series and Amazon Original productions. Whether you are an existing Amazon Prime member or want to subscribe specifically to the video service, this guide explains how to install and configure Amazon Prime Video on all your devices.

What does Amazon Prime Video offer?

Amazon Prime Video is part of the Amazon Prime membership, but it can also be purchased as a standalone service. The streaming service offers an impressive collection of movies and series, including exclusive Amazon Originals such as The Boys, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel and The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power.

In addition to the standard content, you can also rent or buy movies and series through Prime Video that are not part of the regular catalog. You can also add extra channels such as HBO Max, Starzplay and more, all accessible through the same app.

Creating an Amazon Prime Video account

To use Prime Video, you need an Amazon account. Here is how to set it up.

Step 1: Visit the Amazon website

Go to www.amazon.nl or www.primevideo.com. If you already have an Amazon account for ordering products, you can use that account for Prime Video as well.

Step 2: Create a new account or sign in

Click "Sign in" if you already have an account, or "Create account" for a new account. Enter your name, email address and a secure password. Confirm your email address using the verification link you receive.

Step 3: Activate Prime Video

Do you already have an Amazon Prime membership? Then Prime Video is included automatically. Only want Prime Video? Then choose the standalone Prime Video subscription. You can often take advantage of a free trial to try out the service.

Step 4: Add a payment method

Enter your payment details. Amazon accepts credit cards, debit cards and iDEAL. Check your details and confirm the subscription.

Installing Prime Video on your smart TV

Prime Video is available on almost all modern smart TVs. The installation procedure differs by brand.

Samsung smart TV installation

Press the Smart Hub button on your remote. Navigate to the Apps section and search for "Prime Video". Select the app and click "Install". After installation, open the app and sign in with your Amazon account.

LG smart TV installation

Go to the LG Content Store from the main menu. Search for "Amazon Prime Video" and install the app. Open the app and enter your login details. You can also use the QR code option to sign in faster.

Philips and Sony Android TV

Open the Google Play Store on your television. Search for "Prime Video" and install the official Amazon app. Sign in with your Amazon account to start watching right away.

Installing Prime Video on mobile devices

Enjoy Prime Video on your smartphone or tablet while on the go.

Installation on iPhone and iPad

Open the App Store and search for "Amazon Prime Video". Tap the download button to install the app. Open the app and sign in with your Amazon details. You can also set up Face ID or Touch ID for easy sign in.

Installation on Android devices

Go to the Google Play Store on your Android phone or tablet. Search for "Amazon Prime Video" and install the app. After installation, sign in with your Amazon account.

Prime Video on streaming devices

Do you use a streaming stick or box? Prime Video is widely supported.

Amazon Fire TV Stick

If you use an Amazon Fire TV Stick, Prime Video is already preinstalled. You only need to sign in with your Amazon account. The Fire TV Stick is specially optimized for Prime Video and offers the best experience.

Apple TV

Download the Prime Video app from the App Store on your Apple TV. Sign in with your Amazon account. You can sync your watchlist across all your devices.

Google Chromecast

Open the Prime Video app on your phone or tablet. Start the content you want to watch and tap the cast icon. Select your Chromecast to show the content on your TV.

PlayStation and Xbox

Prime Video is also available on gaming consoles. Go to the respective app store on your PlayStation or Xbox and download the Prime Video app.

Setting up profiles for the family

Prime Video supports multiple user profiles, so every family member gets a personal experience.

Managing profiles

Open Prime Video and go to the profile icon in the top right. Select "Manage profiles" and click "Add profile". Give the profile a name and choose an avatar if you like. Each profile gets its own recommendations based on viewing behavior.

Creating a kids profile

For children you can create a special kids profile. This profile only shows child-friendly content and has an adapted, colorful interface. Children cannot accidentally watch movies or series meant for adults.

Configuring parental controls

Amazon Prime Video offers extensive parental control options.

Setting a PIN

Go to the settings and select "Parental controls". Set a PIN that is required to watch content above a certain age rating. This PIN is also requested when you rent or buy content.

Viewing restrictions per profile

You can set the maximum age category each profile can access. This prevents children from watching unsuitable content, even if they accidentally switch profiles.

Downloading content for offline viewing

One of the handy features of Prime Video is downloading content.

Downloading movies and series

Open the Prime Video app on your mobile device. Find the movie or series you want to download and tap the download icon. Choose the video quality you want. Downloads are available in the downloads section of the app.

Managing download settings

In the settings you can change the default download quality and set how much storage space downloads may use. You can also enable automatic downloads for series you follow.

Useful Prime Video features

Prime Video offers several useful features that improve your viewing experience.

X-Ray feature

The X-Ray feature shows information about actors, music and trivia while you watch. Pause a scene to see which actors are on screen and discover their other movies and series.

Managing your watchlist

Add movies and series to your watchlist to watch them later. Tap the plus icon next to a title to add it to your list. Your watchlist syncs automatically across all your devices.

Frequently asked questions about Amazon Prime Video

What is the difference between Amazon Prime and Prime Video?

Amazon Prime is a complete membership that, in addition to Prime Video, also includes free delivery from Amazon, Prime Music, Prime Reading and more. Prime Video can also be subscribed to separately if you are only interested in the streaming service. However, the Prime membership offers more value for your money if you order from Amazon regularly.

On how many devices can I watch at the same time?

With Prime Video you can stream on up to three devices at the same time. This applies to streaming different content. You can watch the same title on up to two devices at the same time. You can install Prime Video on an unlimited number of devices.

Can I use Prime Video abroad?

Yes, you can use Prime Video in many countries. However, the available catalog may differ per country because of licensing rights. Within the European Union, European regulations give you access to your normal library. Outside Europe you may see a more limited catalog.

How do I change the video quality?

Go to the settings in the Prime Video app and select "Streaming and downloading". Here you can set the streaming and download quality you want. Options range from data saving to best quality. Higher quality requires a faster internet connection and uses more data.

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