Amazon is in talks to launch a free ad-supported streaming music video and television service. Amazon will also add free music videos with advertising to people visiting its retail website, two of the people familiar with the talks told the Wall Street Journal. For example, a search for Bruce Springsteen downloads would also show an option to watch his "Born in the U.S.A." video.
Amazon is holding a media event in New York City on April 2nd where it is widely expect to announce the
launch of its own Roku/Chromecast rival which would deliver streaming content from Amazon, Netflix and others content providers.
A streaming offering would fit with Amazon's stated effort to be a major player on all forms of media. In a statement, Amazon denied that ad supported streaming was part of the plan. "We're often experimenting with new things, but we have no plans to offer a free streaming media service," said a spokesperson for the always tight lipped online giant.
A subscription music service is also in the planning stages. Amazon's initial offer to labels was for a substantial discount on pricing given to other music services like Spotify, Rdio, Rhapsody and Beats.
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