Amazon says number of Instant Video streams has tripled since 2013

Amazon.com Inc said on Tuesday that the number of Instant Video streams it offers nearly tripled from a year ago as the world's largest online retailer tries to win a battle for control over people's living rooms.

Amazon did not disclose the actual number of video streams nor how many people access Instant Video.

"We've invested hundreds of millions of dollars in great TV shows and movies for Prime members, and it's working," Bill Carr, vice president of digital video and music for Amazon, said in a statement.

Amazon has focused on producing original content such as the political comedy "Alpha House" and "The After," developed by "The X-Files" creator Chris Carter.

Amazon Prime members, who pay an annual fee for free shipping, can watch Instant Video at no charge.

(Also see: Amazon Prime membership hiked to $99 per year; first change since 2005 introduction)

Several competitors with similar streaming video offerings, most notably Netflix, have also ramped up spending on original content.

The announcement comes as Amazon last week unveiled video and game streaming device Fire TV, hoping to get more people to watch its content and shop on its site.

The $99 Fire TV (Review) video and game streaming device just about fits in the palm of one hand, and streams content from Netflix Inc, Hulu and other video services - much like Apple TV or Google's Chromecast (Review).

(Also see: Amazon unveils Fire TV set-top box media streaming device)

It also offers a prominent platform for Amazon's own fast-growing streaming video service as well as its growing slate of original television programs and games. Amazon will also sell a separate controller for gaming that costs $39.99.

Amazon last week announced it had secured the online streaming rights for the US action hit "24" starring Kiefer Sutherland.

Amazon last week also announced it was adding six original programs to its video service, including its own science fiction TV series and detective program based on writings of best-selling crime author Michael Connelly.

© Thomson Reuters 2014