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Report: PBS on Amazon Prime Video - A Deep Dive into the Streaming Service

NOTE: This report was compiled at the request of this Website. Google Gemini 1.5 Pro with Deep Research was used in the compilation of the data.

PBS, the cherished public broadcasting service, has been a cornerstone of informative and engaging content for generations. Now, thanks to a recent partnership with Amazon, PBS programming is more accessible than ever. This article takes an in-depth look at this collaboration, exploring the reviews, features, and overall reception of PBS on Amazon Prime Video.

PBS Channels on Prime Video

PBS Distribution operates seven subscription streaming channels, offering viewers a diverse range of content. In addition to on-demand content, PBS and Amazon have collaborated to bring local PBS programming to Prime Video. This integration allows viewers to enjoy a seamless streaming experience, combining the educational value of PBS with the convenience of Amazon Prime Video's features, such as personalized recommendations and offline viewing. Here's a closer look at the PBS channels available on Prime Video:

Free

  • Local PBS Stations - Over 150 local PBS stations offering local programming, news, and events. Content is ad-free. Also available on: PBS.org, PBS app
  • PBS KIDS Channel - A curated selection of educational and entertaining children's programs, including popular shows like "Daniel Tiger's Neighborhood" and "Wild Kratts". Content is ad-free. Full-length episodes and clips from PBS KIDS series are also available for free on PBS KIDS' station-branded platforms, including pbskids.org and the PBS KIDS Video app. Also available on: PBS KIDS' station-branded platforms, including pbskids.org and the PBS KIDS Video app

Included with Prime Video

  • PBS Drama - A selection of dramas from PBS, including British period dramas and international series.
  • PBS Documentaries - A vast library of documentaries, including the complete Ken Burns collection and films from NOVA, FRONTLINE, and AMERICAN MASTERS.
  • Rotating "Pop-Up" Channel - Features a rotating selection of classic PBS shows, starting with READING RAINBOW.

Subscription

  • PBS Masterpiece - A curated selection of British dramas and international series, including popular shows like "Downton Abbey" and "All Creatures Great and Small". $5.99/month
  • PBS Living - Lifestyle and how-to content, including shows like "Antiques Roadshow" and "Finding Your Roots". $2.99/month. Also available on: Apple TV Channels
It's important to note that while some PBS channels, like PBS Masterpiece and PBS Living, require a separate subscription fee in addition to a Prime membership, non-Prime users can still access PBS programming for free under the "Watch for Free" section within Prime Video. This distinction can be confusing for some viewers, so it's essential to understand the different PBS offerings on Amazon Prime Video.

Reviews of PBS on Prime Video

Overall, viewers have expressed satisfaction with the high-quality programming PBS offers on Prime Video. The convenience of streaming acclaimed series like "Masterpiece" and the addition of PBS Kids have contributed to positive user approval ratings.

Here's a closer look at the positive and negative feedback from online reviews:

Positive Points:

  • High-quality programming: Users consistently applaud the quality of PBS programming, emphasizing its educational and entertainment value. One reviewer states, "PBS is the best programming to be found. One can find something to fit nearly everyone's likes."
  • Convenience: Streaming PBS content through Prime Video offers unparalleled convenience, allowing viewers to access their favorite shows anytime, anywhere.
  • Variety of content: The diverse range of channels and programs caters to a wide array of interests, from history buffs to drama enthusiasts to families with young children.
  • Free access to local stations: The availability of free local PBS stations is a significant advantage, providing access to local news and programming.
  • Ad-free experience: The absence of third-party ads on the free PBS channels enhances the viewing experience.
  • Enhanced user experience: Amazon's recommendation algorithm helps users discover new PBS content they might enjoy.
  • Offline viewing: Prime members can download PBS shows for offline viewing, making it ideal for travel or commuting.
  • Exclusive Content: Prime members often have access to exclusive episodes and previews on Prime Video before they are available on traditional PBS platforms.

Negative Points:

  • Limited content on free channels: While the free PBS channels offer a selection of programs, some users note that the catalog is not as comprehensive as the PBS app or website with PBS Passport. One user mentions that "PBS Passport used to be the real deal...But then they struck these package deals with Amazon etc. So now, more than 70% is missing."
  • Subscription fees for some channels: Some PBS channels, like PBS Masterpiece and PBS Living, require a separate subscription fee in addition to the Prime membership.
  • Confusion regarding PBS Passport: Some users express confusion about the relationship between PBS Passport and the PBS channels on Prime Video. One user questions the need for a separate PBS Masterpiece subscription when they already have a PBS Passport membership.
  • Limited Menu Options: Some users find the menu options within the PBS app to be limited and desire more choices.
  • Technical Issues: Some customers have reported issues with the PBS app on their Roku devices, specifically with accessing content they have purchased.

PBS Documentaries:

While specific reviews for PBS Documentaries were not found, PBS is renowned for its high-quality documentary programming, offering a wide range of thought-provoking and informative content.

Overall Rating of PBS on Prime Video

The PBS app on Amazon has a rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars based on over 80,000 customer ratings. The PBS app on Apple devices has an even higher rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars based on over 265,000 ratings. These ratings suggest a generally positive reception of the PBS app and its content.

Recent Updates and Changes

In November 2024, PBS and Amazon significantly expanded their partnership, bringing over 150 local PBS stations and the PBS KIDS Channel to Prime Video as free ad-supported streaming television (FAST) channels. This marked the first time this programming was available for free on a major streaming service. PBS Distribution also launched two new FAST channels: PBS Drama and PBS Documentaries. These channels offer a curated selection of dramas and documentaries from PBS.

Alternative Ways to Watch PBS

In addition to streaming on Prime Video, viewers can access PBS content through various other means:

  • Over-the-air antenna: You can watch PBS for free with an antenna, receiving local PBS station broadcasts.
  • PBS Passport: Local PBS station members can access an extended library of quality public television programming via PBS Passport. This membership benefit provides access to a broader range of PBS content, including past seasons and exclusive shows. Viewers can support their local PBS station and its mission to inspire, enrich, and educate by donating and becoming a member.

Conclusion

The collaboration between PBS and Amazon represents a significant step in expanding the reach of public television in the digital age. By embracing streaming platforms like Amazon Prime Video, PBS ensures its valuable programming remains accessible to a wider audience in an ever-evolving media landscape.

PBS on Prime Video offers a compelling option for viewers seeking high-quality educational and entertaining content, with the added convenience of Amazon's streaming features. The availability of free local PBS stations and the PBS KIDS channel makes it a valuable addition to any Prime membership. While some content requires a separate subscription, the diverse range of programming caters to various interests, from families with children to drama lovers and documentary enthusiasts.

While other streaming services like Netflix and Hulu offer some PBS shows, their catalogs are not as comprehensive. The integration of PBS content with Prime Video provides a more seamless and user-friendly experience, with features like personalized recommendations and offline viewing. This partnership exemplifies how public broadcasters are adapting to the digital age, ensuring their valuable content remains relevant and accessible to viewers across various platforms.

This report was compiled at my request as part of background research into new PBS content becoming available on Prime Video. I found the report interesting, and wanted to share it with the readers of this Website. I am still testing the service, and expect to have my review in a couple of days.

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