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Amazon's $201.9 Billion Quarter Puts Prime Video's Streaming and Advertising Strategy in Focus

Amazon's latest earnings reveal expanding subscription and advertising operations, even as the company faces investor pressure over quarterly results and future spending.

By Ledger Staff ·

Editorial illustration of a streaming interface glowing on a living room television at night, evoking Amazon's Prime Video business
Editorial illustration of a streaming interface glowing on a living room television at night, evoking Amazon's Prime Video business · Ledger of Hollywood (editorial illustration; official Prime Video photography pending)

Amazon reported $201.9 billion in third quarter 2026 revenue, marking a 12 percent annual increase as the technology and entertainment giant continued expanding its subscription, advertising, and cloud operations.

The company's subscription services division, which includes Amazon Prime memberships, Prime Video, and other digital subscriptions, generated approximately $14 billion in revenue, reflecting continued growth across its subscription ecosystem.

Advertising services revenue climbed 12 percent to $19.64 billion, although growth was affected by the timing of Prime Day and other year over year comparisons.

Despite the revenue increase, Amazon reported earnings of $1.89 per share, below Wall Street expectations, sending its shares lower in after hours trading.

Prime Video remains a central component of Amazon's entertainment strategy, combining original programming, major sports rights, and advertising opportunities within its broader subscription business.

The platform's expanding sports portfolio includes Thursday Night Football and NBA coverage, reinforcing Amazon's investment in live programming designed to attract audiences and advertisers.

Amazon Web Services also delivered substantial growth, with quarterly revenue increasing 39 percent to $46 billion, helping offset pressure in other areas of the business.

Looking ahead, Amazon projected fourth quarter revenue between $240 billion and $247 billion as the company balances its growing entertainment operations with substantial investments in artificial intelligence and infrastructure.

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