Amazon opens up offline video to iOS, Android

Users of Amazon's Instant Video service no longer need access to a Fire mobile device to download free movies or TV episodes.

Amazon announced Tuesday it will expand its offline video feature to Instant Video subscribers on iOS or Android devices. The app will also be renamed Amazon Video.

"There’s no doubt that the way people watch entertainment is changing — anytime, anywhere viewing is important and we are excited to provide our Prime members with offline viewing capabilities on iOS and Android platforms starting today," said Michael Paull, Amazon's vice president of digital video, in a statement.

The expansion of video downloads through its streaming subscription service gives Amazon Video a key advantage over rival Netflix, which requires users to have an Internet connection to watch movies or TV shows. Amazon Video is part of the company's Amazon Prime subscription for $99 a year.

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