If your Amazon Add-on Channel Paramount+ displays as linked to VidAngel (indicated by a checkmark), but you're still unable to play a Paramount+ title, you're in the right place! There are a few nuances with Amazon's Paramount+ and we’ll guide you through understanding and resolving the issues.
If your Paramount+ does not display as linked (indicated by no checkmark), you'll find better information here: Amazon Channel's Paramount+ won't link
- Is your Paramount+ subscription through Amazon Channels?
- Are you trying to watch on a Roku or with Airplay?
- Are you actually trying to watch a Showtime title?
- Can you play the first episode of a TV show, but not the others?
- Can we provide a quick break down how both Paramount+ plans work with VidAngel? (yes we can!)
Amazon Channel’s Paramount+ vs. Direct Subscriptions
First, let's clarify that VidAngel only works with Amazon Channel’s Paramount+, which you access through your Amazon Prime account as an add-on channel. This is different from a direct Paramount+ subscription. If you need more help to check if you have an Amazon Paramount+ subscription, please visit: Amazon Channel's Paramount+ won't link
Amazon offers two Paramount+ plans:
- Essential ($7.99/month): Includes ads and does NOT include Showtime titles.
- Premium ($12.99/month): Mostly ad-free (with a few exceptions) and DOES include Showtime titles.
Roku and AirPlay limitations
Roku
Roku has some specific requirements when it comes to ad-based streaming services. This means that these ad-based streaming plans won’t work on VidAngel’s Roku app:
- Amazon Freevee
- Prime Video with Ads
- Amazon Channel’s Paramount+ Essential
- Amazon Channel’s AMC+ with ads
- Peacock Premium
To watch Amazon Paramount+ on Roku, you’ll need to upgrade to the Premium (ad-free) plan. We think it’s worth it! It’s like getting upgraded to first class, but for streaming.
AirPlay
Currently, VidAngel doesn’t support AirPlay for content with ads. While we do support Chromecast for ad-based content, we’re still working on improving AirPlay features.
Even with an ad-free plan, some titles might not work with AirPlay due to pre-roll ads. These are short promotions or logos that play before the video (common with Paramount+ Originals and some AMC+ titles). Unfortunately, VidAngel currently can’t AirPlay content with pre-roll ads. They seem harmless, but they’re like a tiny splinter in VidAngel’s perfect setup.
Showtime titles on Paramount+
Showtime was acquired by Paramount+ in April 2024. Only the Premium plan includes Showtime titles. If you’re on the Essential plan, Showtime titles aren’t accessible. VidAngel’s working to make the difference clearer, but for now, you might see a title that looks available from your Paramount+ but gives you an error. It’s confusing, we know, but VidAngel is working to improve this!
How can you know if it's a Showtime title?
Good question! The best way to find out is to visit the title directly on amazon.com. On Amazon, you can know if it's a SHOWTIME title if:
- It states that you need to upgrade to Paramount+ with SHOWTIME
- It costs $12.99 (vs. $7.99 for Essential)
- It has a SHOWTIME logo
First episodes playing
Sometimes, the first episode of a TV series plays on Roku or with AirPlay, even if you don’t have a Premium plan or even if you don't have an Amazon Paramount+ subscription! Why? Because it’s like a free sample at the grocery store—enticing, but then you want more. This is often a promotional feature to let users watch the first episode ad-free or at no cost.
Quick Breakdown of Paramount+ Plans
We know that was a lot, so here's a summary of what you can access on VidAngel with each Paramount+ plan:
Essential Plan ($7.99)
- Includes ads
- Does NOT work on Roku
- Does NOT work with AirPlay
- Does NOT include Showtime titles
Premium Plan ($12.99)
- Mostly ad-free (beware of pre-roll ads)
- Works on Roku
- May work with AirPlay (if no pre-roll ads)
- Includes Showtime titles
So, how can you check which Paramount+ plan you have?
Look in Your Amazon Memberships & Subscriptions, or your Account & Settings: Subscriptions.