Amazon targets YouTube with Video Direct service
Having pushed into Netflix's territory with a standalone video subscription, Amazon is setting its sights on another video titan: YouTube.
On Tuesday, Amazon announced Video Direct, a program allowing creators to upload their own videos for "tens of millions" of members of Amazon's Prime Video service to watch. Videos tied to the program are available now.
Launch partners include HowStuffWorks, Conde Nast Entertainment and TYT Network.
“We’re excited to make it even easier for content creators to find an audience, and for that audience to find great content,” Jim Freeman, vice president of Amazon Video, said in a statement.
Amazon is also launching a Stars program, where video creators can earn a piece of a monthly $1 million pool based on customer engagement.
Video Direct is a clear shot at YouTube, which has dominated the space as a platform that's easy for creators to distribute videos. The move follows Amazon's launch of a standalone Prime Video subscription, placing it in direct competition with streaming giant Netflix.
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