Is BritBox Included with Amazon Prime? The Definitive Guide

The short and definitive answer is no, BritBox is not included with Amazon Prime. While Amazon Prime Video offers a vast library of content, BritBox remains a separate subscription service, requiring its own distinct payment. Think of it like this: Amazon Prime gives you access to its own content, but if you want the specifically curated and quintessentially British programming of BritBox, you need to subscribe to that service independently.

Delving Deeper: Understanding BritBox and Amazon Prime

To truly understand why BritBox isn’t included with Amazon Prime, it’s crucial to grasp the nature of both platforms.

BritBox: Your Gateway to British Television

BritBox is a streaming service dedicated exclusively to British television. It’s a collaborative effort between the BBC and ITV, two of the UK’s biggest broadcasters. Think of it as a treasure trove filled with classic series, current dramas, comedies, documentaries, and even live events – all hailing from the British Isles. It’s targeted at Anglophiles and those seeking a curated selection of high-quality British content.

Amazon Prime Video: A Streaming Behemoth

Amazon Prime Video, on the other hand, is a much broader streaming service, bundled as a perk with an Amazon Prime membership. While it boasts a substantial collection of movies and TV shows, including Amazon Originals, it also allows users to subscribe to additional channels, much like adding premium packages to a cable TV subscription.

BritBox as an Amazon Channel: A Point of Clarification

Here’s where some confusion arises. While BritBox isn’t included with Amazon Prime, it is available as an Amazon Channel. This means that if you’re already an Amazon Prime member, you can add a BritBox subscription to your existing account and manage your billing through Amazon. It provides the convenience of having one central payment point, but it doesn’t negate the fact that you’re still paying extra for BritBox. Think of it like adding HBO or Showtime to your cable package; you’re paying extra for the content.

The Benefit of Subscribing via Amazon Channels

Subscribing to BritBox through Amazon Channels offers some perks. It simplifies billing, allowing you to manage all your subscriptions in one place. Furthermore, you can often access BritBox content directly through the Amazon Prime Video interface, making it easier to browse and watch.

Why BritBox Requires a Separate Subscription

Ultimately, the reason BritBox isn’t bundled with Amazon Prime boils down to licensing agreements and strategic business decisions. BritBox represents a specific brand and content library owned by the BBC and ITV. They have chosen to offer it as a separate subscription service to maximize their revenue and maintain control over their programming.

Amazon, while a powerful player in the streaming market, doesn’t own the rights to BritBox’s content. They act as a platform to offer the BritBox service to their existing user base, in exchange for a cut of the subscription revenue.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About BritBox and Amazon Prime

Here are some frequently asked questions that can help you to better understand the relationship between BritBox and Amazon Prime.

1. How much does BritBox cost?

The cost of BritBox typically ranges from $7 to $9 per month, or around $70 to $80 per year if you opt for an annual subscription. Prices may vary slightly depending on your region and promotional offers.

2. Is there a free trial for BritBox?

Yes, BritBox usually offers a free trial period, typically seven days. This allows you to explore the service and decide if it’s right for you before committing to a paid subscription. Keep an eye out for special promotions that might offer extended trial periods.

3. Can I watch BritBox on my Amazon Fire Stick or Fire TV?

Yes, you can easily access BritBox on your Amazon Fire Stick or Fire TV device. Simply download the BritBox app from the Amazon Appstore. If you subscribe to BritBox through Amazon Channels, you can also access the content directly through the Prime Video app.

4. What devices are compatible with BritBox?

BritBox is compatible with a wide range of devices, including smartphones, tablets, computers, smart TVs, and streaming devices like Roku and Apple TV. Check the BritBox website for a complete list of supported devices.

5. Does BritBox offer 4K or HD streaming?

BritBox streams most of its content in High Definition (HD). While 4K content isn’t currently a focus for BritBox, they are continuously working on improving their streaming quality.

6. Can I download BritBox content for offline viewing?

Unfortunately, BritBox doesn’t currently offer a download option for offline viewing. You need an active internet connection to stream their content.

7. What kind of content can I find on BritBox?

BritBox boasts a diverse range of British television, including classic dramas like Pride and Prejudice, iconic comedies like Fawlty Towers, mystery series like Sherlock Holmes, and current favorites like Vera. They also feature BritBox Originals and exclusive content you won’t find anywhere else.

8. Is BritBox available outside of the UK and North America?

BritBox is available in the United States, Canada, Australia, and the UK. Expansion to other regions is possible in the future, but there are currently no concrete plans.

9. How do I cancel my BritBox subscription?

You can cancel your BritBox subscription at any time. The process varies depending on how you subscribed. If you subscribed directly through the BritBox website, you can manage your subscription in your account settings. If you subscribed through Amazon Channels, you can cancel through your Amazon account.

10. Can I share my BritBox subscription with family members?

Yes, you can share your BritBox subscription with family members. BritBox typically allows multiple devices to be logged in at the same time, but there may be limits on simultaneous streams.

11. What is the difference between BritBox and Acorn TV?

Both BritBox and Acorn TV specialize in British television, but they offer distinct content libraries. Acorn TV focuses primarily on independent and international productions, while BritBox focuses on content from the BBC and ITV. There is some overlap, but they generally cater to different tastes within the realm of British television.

12. Is BritBox worth the subscription fee?

Whether BritBox is worth the subscription fee depends on your personal preferences. If you’re a devoted fan of British television and want access to a curated selection of high-quality content, then BritBox is likely a worthwhile investment. If you only occasionally watch British shows, you might find it less compelling. Consider taking advantage of the free trial to determine if it meets your viewing needs.

In conclusion, while BritBox isn’t bundled with Amazon Prime, it remains a valuable streaming option for those seeking the best of British television. By understanding its features, pricing, and content library, you can make an informed decision about whether to add it to your streaming roster.