Does Prime Video Have Ads? What Prime Video Ultra Costs
By AmericanTV.com editorial team |
Yes, the standard Prime Video movie and TV subscription includes advertisements. In the United States, Prime Video Ultra is an optional $4.99 monthly upgrade to an eligible Prime or Prime Video subscription. It removes ads from eligible subscription movies and series, but it does not remove every commercial from everything in the app.
Our Prime Video Ultra announcement covers the April 2026 change. This guide explains what still has ads and how to check the viewing option before you pay. Our separate Prime Video ad-load article looks at advertising interruptions.
What does the $4.99 Ultra upgrade cover?
Ultra is an add-on, not a replacement for the underlying subscription. Amazon lists the standard Prime membership at $14.99 monthly or $139 annually; the optional Ultra monthly charge is additional. Check your account's checkout screen for taxes, eligibility and the total charge before confirming a change.
| Viewing option | What to expect |
|---|---|
| Standard Prime Video subscription movies and series | Limited advertisements |
| Eligible subscription movies and series with Ultra | Ad-free playback |
| Live sports, events, free ad-supported channels and separately subscribed services | Different advertising rules can apply; Ultra does not promise to remove every ad |
Why can ads remain after upgrading?
The Prime Video app combines subscription titles, live programming, free channels and separately billed subscriptions. The Ultra benefit applies to eligible Prime Video subscription content. A live sports broadcast can still include commercial breaks, and a separate service's ad-supported subscription follows that service's terms. Look at the title's label and subscription details rather than assuming everything visible in the app has the same entitlement.
If you see an unexpected charge or ad break, first check which account is signed in, whether Ultra is active and which service supplies the title. Review Amazon's current help or contact its support before buying another subscription. Changing a DIRECTV package does not activate the Amazon add-on.
What other features does Ultra include?
Amazon's current announcement lists up to five concurrent streams, up to 100 downloads and access to 4K/UHD and Dolby Atmos with Ultra. Actual playback depends on the title, compatible equipment, app and connection. These are feature limits, not a promise that every movie or device supports every format.
Watching through a DIRECTV setup
Use Prime Video on a supported streaming device, smart TV or compatible Gemini device and sign in with your Amazon account. Internet access and any required Amazon subscription are separate from the TV package. Our Prime Video setup guide explains compatible-device options.
For other services, compare FOX One ads and Paramount+ ads. To compare live TV channels, check DIRECTV options at your address or call 1-855-690-9884.
Details reviewed October 30, 2026. U.S. prices, features and advertising rules can change. Confirm the current account offer before subscribing.