Airplanes aren't the most exciting place to be. They don't have a lot going on, and most airlines make it hard to watch Netflix or access the internet. However, one airline is offering a new opportunity for Amazon users.
JetBlue Airlines recently announced a partnership with Amazon to stream its Amazon Prime service on JetBlue planes. Amazon Prime users will have access to all of Amazon Prime's content, from videos to films to its music selection at no additional cost. All non-Prime passengers will have the option of downloading content directly from Amazon at a cost.
How is JetBlue streaming this content to passengers? "JetBlue is using its so-called Fly-Fi satellite broadband technology to stream off the Internet. That lets passengers access Amazon's full catalog of titles, not just a more limited selection. And they can watch on their own phones, laptops and tablets, as well as on seatback televisions," reports USA Today.
The Fly-Fi service is currently free to all JetBlue customers and provides download speeds of 12-20 MBPs a device. The partnership between JetBlue and Amazon will become available on all Fly-Fi- enabled planes, specifically the Airbus A321 and A320 aircraft this year, and eventually JetBlue's Embraer E190, which JetBlue says will receive the service by the end of 2016.
Amazon Vice President of Digital Video Michael Paull had a lot to say about the tech and retail site's first partnership with an airline. "Working with JetBlue to provide high-speed Internet access that can support instant streaming, at no cost, is a great advantage to travelers," he said.
Experts believe that this deal is a win-win for both JetBlue and for Amazon, since it encourages customers to reuse JetBlue whenever possible, as well as giving people yet another incentive to invest $99 a year into Prime.
