Amazon.com is planning a subscription service for television shows and movies that could reinforce the convergence of the internet with traditional television and film fare, according to a report on Tuesday by The Wall Street Journal.
The report came just days after news broke about Google starting a pay-per-view movie and television service on its YouTube video site, and amid persistent rumours that Apple is about to launch a new version of its Apple TV device.
Amazon already offers some television shows and movies for individual download, but a monthly subscription service would enable it to better compete with industry leader Netflix.
According to the report, the Seattle-based retailer has in recent weeks and months proposed the new service to several major media companies, including NBC Universal, Time Warner Inc. and Viacom Inc.
The service would be viewable on the Web or through devices like Internet-connected TVs and the Xbox 360 video-game console. Amazon is reportedly aiming to launch the new video service in time for the year-end holiday season.
