Amazon takes on Netflix by offering Prime Video as standalone service

Retail giant makes shows such as Transparent and The Man in the High Castle available via monthly fee as well as annual payment

Amazon is to offer video streaming of exclusive shows such as Transparent and The Man in the High Castle as a standalone service in the US for the first time as it tries to make up ground on Netflix.

The online retailer had previously offered Prime Video in the US as part of its Prime package, which also includes next day shipping and other perks, for $99 (70) a year. It has quietly offered a monthly version for 5.99 in the UK, but will begin promoting the option more strongly, according to reports.