Paramount has seemingly pulled its dedicated Paramount+ app from Amazon's Echo devices, as per a report over at Cord Cutters News. The service is still available through an Amazon Prime Video channel subscription, so all is not lost, but it's still a usability blow to anyone who prefers the dedicated app.
There's little information about why the app was pulled, but Cord Cutters News points out that content providers "periodically adjust their device partnerships for technical, licensing, or strategic reasons." Even users with the app already installed will no longer be able to access it.
As many Echo Show users will attest, the smart devices from Amazon — particularly larger models like the Echo Show 21 — act as nice stand-ins for smart TVs. They run using Amazon's Fire TV system and can therefore run the best streaming services. If you've got an Amazon Echo Show 15 in your office or kitchen as a smart display or home hub, then it's also a convenient way to watch shows and movies without needing a full TV.
Losing a core app like this, especially with such a robust catalog, is likely going to frustrate some users. Anyone who tries to open the app is met with an error message. And while it's possible to use the Prime Video app as a workaround, it's not an elegant solution for anyone who preferred the standalone app's interface and features.
If you do subscribe to Paramount+ through your Amazon Prime Video account, you'll find all the content still present under the Paramount+ section of the Prime Video app.
The Echo Show 15 costs $299 (£299.99, $399 AUD), while the Echo Show 21 is $100 more at $399 (£399.99, $599 AUD). Both models ship with a wall mount in addition to an Alexa Voice Remote.
And if you're yet to decide on whether or not Paramount+ is worth the investment for you, it currently offers two plans — either the Essential plan with commercials at $7.99 monthly or Paramount+ Premium (ad-free) for $13 per month.
The service is probably best for anyone who likes classic movies, unsurprising given Paramount's heritage. There's a vast library on the service and it does have a few new originals like "Star Trek: Strange New Worlds" and "Landman", too.
Just expect a few extra steps if you plan to watch it on any Echo Show devices from here on out.
