In the last month, Amazon, Apple, and Google have all introduced new devices that you can connect to your TV to get content on its display. However, a new report claims that you’ll soon be able to buy just one of ‘em from Amazon’s online store.
According to Bloomberg, Amazon plans to stop sales of the Apple TV and Google Chromecast. The mega-retailer is said to have sent an email to Amazon Marketplace sellers that says that no new listings for the Apple TV and Google Chromecast will be allowed, and that any existing inventory will be pulled on October 29.
In the email, Amazon is said to have stressed the importance of Amazon Prime Video, saying that it’s important that any streaming devices sold on Amazon be compatible with Prime Video “in order to avoid customer confusion.” Because Roku boxes as well as the Xbox One and the PlayStation 4 both support Prime video, they won’t be affected.
It’s kind of crazy to think that Amazon wants to pull Chromecast and Apple TV products from its stores because of their lack of Prime Video support. Amazon explains the move is meant to avoid customer confusion, but it kind of makes the retailer look like it just wants you to buy its own Fire-branded boxes instead of Apple and Google’s offerings. It's also worth noting that it's unlikely that Google and Apple have actively blocked Amazon from implementing Prime Video support on Chromecast and Apple TV; Amazon probably just doesn't want to add it to them. The good news is that there are several other retailers that will continue to offer Apple TV and Google Chromecast if you want those devices.