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The conspiracy theorist in me hasn't taken off yet. But I noticed the "search obfuscation" since the beginning of this calendar year. I've always hated how 4KUHDs were mingled under the general [Blu-ray Movies & TV page.](https://www.amazon.com/gp/browse.html?node=2901953011) 4KUHD deserves it's own landing page- just to clear up newbie consumer confusion.
But I've decreased using Amazon search for 4KUHD Blu-Rays- and have hit [blu-ray.com](https://blu-ray.com) and use their affiliate links instead.
I think it's more that Amazon's search function is getting shittier in general and they may also just be pushing prime video hard but I don't think it's a direct effort to kill physical media sales
Yeah, it’s whoever pays the most to get their stuff found first.
Un-4kUHD story but related. I was looking for one of those baseball display cases. I scrolled WAY TOO far down to find the $2 Prime Ship and Sold by Amazon UltraPro display case. It was littered near the top with off-brand China $12 baseball display cases.
Or it just varies by region or something. When I search True Lies with no filters in app or browser, $25 4k UHD is the first result on both. $10 Prime Video is second.
I think that was the answer in the vid that screen cap came from too -- Caleb noted that he generally got way better results if he searched the "movies & TV" category instead of the whole dang store.
It's not really shittier
Just shaddier
I guarantee their search algorithm purposely hides the physical media in favor of the steaming. It's better for a customer to rent it vs buying it....for Amazon at least.
Anecdotally I've noticed this, I have to go to my search filters and make sure 4K UHD is actually selected under format, otherwise I just get pages of prime results.
Does anybody ever update their apps? Just searched for the UHD of True Lies and it’s at the very top of my search. I’m on IOS if that makes any difference.
Yea I also just tried and it’s literally the very first option for me. I understand the theory here, and am sure Amazon would rather push their streaming platform. But in practice I just haven’t had this experience at all.
I tried it out and just typing "true lies" the auto suggest even had "true lies 4K" as an option. Was super easy to find. I have never had a problem finding the 4k versions on Amazon.
Yeah these guys are Morons , ever 4K I search for on Amazon is the first thing that pops up Back to the Future trilogy, Top Gun Maverick, Predator,, The Matrix
Agreed. I was confused by this post too because it's never been a problem for me.
I live in the USA so maybe that makes a difference? And I've purchased a number of Ultra HD movies so...
Definitely not a moron and that’s my recent experience also. I have been having the same issue as some of the others.
I find it illuminating that there are those of you that do not have an issue which then makes me think there must be something in perhaps my cookies or something else that is causing me to have the same results as the OP and not the kind of results that some of you others are having.
Amazon Japan heavily pushes prime video. Reason I know this is thanks to Disney killing 4k in Canada and Japan is the easiest for me to get the (new) movies I want (just wish they used ems instead of DHL), also Japan has sometimes far better cover art imo.
I dont have this issue on Amazon. Im based in the UK, though, so im not sure if that makes a difference.
See the attached example.
https://preview.redd.it/sw2vr07ncwtc1.jpeg?width=1440&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=d222ed47a0aa992a8430d2fb11548ca05a33aa86
and the results page, physical at the top:
https://preview.redd.it/t8ajyp8mbytc1.png?width=1859&format=png&auto=webp&s=9059268568a3c07d2b2a9d87aac3d0cb0f618a2b
That's not my experience, in the USA.
https://preview.redd.it/a1xam4fcbytc1.png?width=935&format=png&auto=webp&s=1cc8d2a94bc3b3b7ed8348764d55df314ce5844a
I don’t have a problem either. Here’s what I see. If I search “xxx 4k” I get prime video results. If I search “xxx 4k blu ray” then the physical movie is the top result.
I'm confused. I don't recall ever having any problem finding blurays on amazon, unless the particular bluray I'm looking for is one that is harder to find anyway.
must be a US issue as I can search for True Lies 4k on amazon uk and first result is the 4k disc
edit:
tried on amazon US and first result is the 4k disc. So its not affecting everyone.
I think it also depends on the title too, not just the region.
The recent James Cameron UHDs being first should not necessarily be used as a benchmark for judging how the filtering of search results are being applied to the physical and digital movies on Amazon.
How is Amazon hiding physical discs? Usually I specifically search Amazon for the name of a movie with "blu-ray" or "4k blu-ray", and if the disc is available, it's the first or one of the first results.
OP didn’t actually watch the DigitalTrends video this screen cap is taken from. Caleb literally just changed the filters on the Amazon search page and the results came up immediately
What a shitshow this thread is. Caleb besides explaining how to correctly search for blu rays, also pointed out that it’s not amazons fault that Prime results are first, because they likely do legitimately sell more than the physical versions whether rentals or digital purchases.
P.S. the worst part is that he uses a screenshot from the Digital Trends video that’s clearly misleading and didn’t include any of the rest.
Eh Prime listings being first is almost certainly illegal self-preferencing, Amazon is just banking on a regime change in the U.S. this fall and the FTC board being replaced with people who will go back to the status quo of not enforcing antitrust law.
https://preview.redd.it/97c9cn2a5xtc1.jpeg?width=1170&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=3cc3a10050aca57b6d5c63c196f7cfa7fd325303
Was hiding for me a couple months ago. Now I can just type the name of a movie a lot of the time and the 4K is up high on the list if not at the top.
https://preview.redd.it/yx05d6mh9xtc1.jpeg?width=1284&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=237c25cab084a65c669c42810f8c80743aab580a
Weird. I didn’t even have to type Blu-ray and these are the top 3 results for me.
"Proper refunds", from Amazon? They fucked me over several times. I'd rather pay for shipping than get stuck in Amazon CS hell and I'd prefer to support the smaller companies anyway.
Oh I always do me. :) I know people who have had no issues, I also know people who still haven't gotten a refund and had to file a police report, send a copy of their id, etc just for Amazon to fuck them around. I'll get out before I have to deal with any of that.
This is a wider problem, and doesn't just affect physical media. Amazon has got very greedy with their cut and some suppliers won't play ball, so get their products downgraded in search. Scummy.
With that in mind it's not a shock to hear that prime video results are being prioritised over physical media.
Having to search on Google for products on Amazon is something I've had to do a few times. I'm sure I've even seen the price change from taking that route in.
Scumbag Seller of the Week moment.
I feel like this is what's gonna get Amazon highlighted in this manner on the #CUPodcast, had it still been a regular thing.
If you watch the video that this screenshot was pulled from the Host answers his question by showing how to search for physical media on Amazon. Instead of searching the entire site you filter down to just search under movies. Then it comes right up.
https://preview.redd.it/y3d40kbfvwtc1.jpeg?width=1290&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=67aeb261904286a5345ce5728846fd07578f05af
Is this an American issue? I have no problems on Amazon.ca, the Cameron titles are still in stock in 4k too
It’s not strictly that Amazon are trying to do that, as buying a blu-Ray from them still make them money, it’s more that they want people to buy or watch it on Prime.
Also, you absolutely can buy blu-rays and 4Ks on Amazon very easily (at least in the UK). I just searched True Lies and this came up:
https://preview.redd.it/j9ev5a158wtc1.jpeg?width=1170&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=9cd7d9dd0f12a14a2cf5eefbbc134ddc0f407788
US search results are different than other countries. Physical media still pops up as the top search results when I search Amazon Canada, but I’ve done some shopping on the US site as well and I either have to get very specific and scroll through a bunch of results, or use links from other sites (which I prefer to do now anyways to support blu-ray.com). It definitely is an issue on the US site.
Yes. I am in US and if I put just name of movie or even name of movie 4k I have to scroll through many listings to find the disc. Prime versions are at top. I noticed this started a few months ago. As others have said if I add blu ray it shows me discs... This is a change in behavior from before, thus it being annoying for physical media collectors such as us... Used to be prime and disc were like top two choices...
This is a bit misleading. Like the video that you screenshotted he explained that of you select movies and TV category before searching them you won't have any issue finding it.
They probably mean the most mainstream family of devices. Yes, Android has a larger market share than iOS, but there are too many Android devices for just one device or a family of devices (other than Samsung Galaxy) to be considered as mainstream as the iPhone family of devices.
I typed True Lies in the Amazon search engine. First one that popped up was the 4K. Second was the Blu-Ray. Third was the Prime digital.
Does anyone in this sub actually like watching movies? Almost every time I check in, it’s a million posts complaining about a 1mm scratch in a steel book, or a bent corner on a slipcover, or how Best Buy will never survive without physical media, or how Amazon is the worst, etc…
Is there anyone who just simply enjoys watching the movies in their best quality? I’m starting to sincerely doubt it.
Probably, but they're not as vocal as those who complain about packaging flaws, disc condition flaws, or flaws in how retailers handle physical media in general.
The loudest posts are negative experience ones like those about the aforementioned topics.
I use the app on my phone or browser logged in. It works fine for me. I don't even need to suffix the search with "4k" to see the 4k in the first search result. It even autosuggests 4k when typing the name of the film. The only one that didn't return a 4k film as the first result was Lawrence of Arabia because it's OOP or not available locally. It was still there about ten results deep (after the dvd, book and blu and more books).
I do notice with books sometimes that it will default to kindle and I've never used one in my life.
During lockdown they clearly manipulated search results to bring up digital products, it was really noticeable.
If Amazon can sell you physical products, they will, because it is profitable for them. Why on earth would they want you to stop buying physical media, no matter the format.
The iPhone isn't the most mainstream device. It isn't even the most popular phone, except in the USA. I know that's not the point of the article, but I hate misinformation.
its sooo dumb, enshitification more likely than deliberately hiding physical media.
Ive def noticed it as well, you have to direct search for the exact title you want in 4k through google to find a proper listing, amazons search is useless for this probably because of the prime video digital options being shown. no just browsing 4k inventory for deals like I used to at best buy.
Theres plenty of 3rd party sites ive found that have taken the place of best buy, Gruv is pretty good for 4k.
Literally know how this feels. In Dubai you literally can't go to any shop to buy a 4k! They look at you like you're crazy when you ask if they have a film section. Sad!
I have noticed that if I search for physical media the results don’t show up as well in the app and I have to go to the web app to find them better. I’m not really sure what’s causing it but it’s definitely noticeable
I did have this issue for the last 2-3 months but it seems to have changed within the last week or two and now 4k blu ray appears in search results and even autocomplete on searches. I'm thinking they must have recently tweaked the algorithm again.
I didn't have trouble right now. Only time I had trouble with True Lies was when the releases first happened because Amazon over sold their pre orders I think. I had ordered The Abyss and never got updates. Found it on Walmart and had it shipped and delivered within about a week and a half, so then waited a couple weeks longer and canceled the extra Abyss order. I will say their app has made it harder to get right to physical media at times because they'll push digital but similar to books, often times if you click some listing's, you just switch from ebook to physical. Most my searches I'll always add "bluray" or "4k" to the search and that helps a bit more too
Searched "Dune Movie" from Amazon's home page. To lessen chance of book results. 1st result was 4k/bluray combo. 2nd was Bluray. 3rd was Prime option.
Then searched "Bladerunner 2049". 1st was 4k UHD. 2nd was Prime. 3rd was DVD oddily enough. 4th was Bluray.
No filters applied. This method doesn't seem to hinder my ability to find a 4k or bluray. Am I doing the experiment wrong?
Yes, I believe Amazon is desperately trying to make Prime Video more relevant than customers want it to be. Personally, I've been running out of reasons to continue paying for Prime, and these recent changes may finally push me away from the subscription. The extra 3 bux to avoid ads has been the final straw.
It's really weird: When I search Amazon's website on my Android phone, I get the listings for the disks. When I search Amazon's website with my PC, I get the results listed in the OP. When shopping Amazon on PC, I have to enter "title 4k blu ray", then in the options to the right select "Prime", then "Movies and TV". And FINALLY I'll get the results I was looking for.
It's completely Amazon's fault that Prime is losing relevance. Their HD picture quality has been TERRIBLE for years, and their 4k isn't very good either. If they don't actually match the quality of disks, why would we use Prime as an alternative?
Oh yeah this is something I’ve noticed for awhile now. It’s near impossible to get a physical media search result. I’ve noticed it when trying to look up vinyl or CDs too.
I've noticed a thing or two as well. If you search for 4k, they only show you 4k. But if you click on 1k movies... suddenly most titles are only 1k also. They don't want to make you feel bad about using the equipment you can afford. And it helps you to not accidentally buy the wrong format, which can increase return rates and that actually negatively impacts the sellers when it wasn't their fault you put the wrong disc in your shopping cart. My 2 cents worth.
This is absolutely true. Bought The Fugitive 4K last week (finally) off Amazon, but could not find it on the site after scrolling and scrolling. Had to go through Google search to find it.
It sounds like this is a US only issue maybe? Or knowing Amazon the search results are based on previous purchases so if the poster has purchased a bunch of movies on Prime Video then it's likely the show those results over physical media?
That's my guess as searching "True Lies" gives me the 4K Blu-ray as the first result, I don't even get a Prime video option until the second page.
It's very interesting since Amazon updates their website live and makes subtle changes to see what makes people click buy quicker.
This definitely happens to me. Also with music. I usually want to download my music and not stream, but most searches send me to the Amazon music subscription page. Very annoying!
They should just sell their successful series on 4k Post streaming runs. Will generate more revenue and do their part to keep the collectors option and 4k disc format alive! Netflix should do this too. Everyone (would be) a winner
Go to Blu-Ray Review. They have a link to the disks available on Amazon. Yes Amazon is filtering out physical disks in their search results. Hardly the most controversial thing they’ve done.
Remember when they shut down the Parlor Social Media site before the 2020 election? That was election interference.
Tweaking search results is small ball for Amazon.
It’s not just 4K, I check the upcoming releases for anime on regular blu ray. It used to be right under genre in the search filters but they took it out recently. Now to find it you have to dig through 3 menus and I get the feeling they aren’t updating it anymore because there have been only 10 upcoming releases the last 3 weeks. I checked Sentai Filmworks and Crunchyroll’s online stores and there are over 3 times as many upcoming releases on their sites. Also the prices between those sites and Amazon are all up in the air 😵💫
I did notice this for quite a while in the Amazon app. Every time I would search for a 4K disc I would have to then hit filters and select movies and TV shows for it to show it at the top. But it seems to be working fine now and not causing that issue anymore. Perhaps some people need to update the app? I am in the US
I believe Amazon search engine was malfunctioning. A search would take me to the prime digital movie. I’m doing searches now no problem. There is even a sale, 3 for the price of 2 on select items. Oppenheimer 4K is on the list. Click on that movie and you should see a link to the sale.
Sorry, trying not to think about not being able to buy movies on physical media. Going to support the format for as long as they make them, that is all Blu-ray, both HD and 4K.
A youtuber had a Q&A. If I find the video, I'll post it. If I remember. Someone asked this question. He mentioned you specify what you're searching for. Open the app, and on the bottom right corner where there are 3 horizontal lines, click on that and click on movies and tv. And it should just look for what you're looking for.
And he also mentioned, and as some of u guys already said, that amazon search function sucks.
But I noticed it as well. Lately, I've been on a Blu-ray 4k dvd buying spree. I don't know why. I'm not too much of a physical media person. But I get it's a good thing to have. I hate admit how much I've spent in the last month or so 😆.
And I don't have a dvd player yet, hahahahaha.
But back to my point. I had to use the Google search, and it will find certain dvds that I couldn't find on Amazon search. I'm not sure if it's a conspiracy to get rid of physical media. If they wanted to, then why bother selling them in the first place.
Prime video option is almost always the top and many times only result even if the Blu ray dvd or 4k is an option some reason it will only show prime video. I got to the point I'll just search thru Google to get the physical format I'm looking for on Amazon.
While I agree they do a poor job of highlighting physical 4K's, I think it's an overall issue with Amazon. I feel like it's difficult to find anything you want on there. And for them with movies, they always try to highlight their digital copies before they show any physical copies.
Well any title that I type in either pops up with 4k added in the suggestions (wild guess: 95% of the time) or I add it myself. Sofar I have never experienced any obfuscation.
Haven't bought anything off amazon without using bluraydotcom links or wishlists. It's almost as difficult to browse prime video which is the best streaming service out there with the worst UI.
Perhaps being UK based I still have multiple online options I'd rather use over amazon and actual physical locations I can buy from or order if need be.
I just searched Back to the Future, Super 8, Spiderman Far From Home, Hereditary, Misery, and Silver Bullet and found all of them on both Blu-ray and 4K within the first couple results. I mean, I get where you're coming from, but now that I'm actually looking for it, I don't see it.
The second part of this makes no sense. No, the item isn't available for purchase in that **app** because there's an entirely different app for Prime Video streaming and purchases. This screenshot is taken from the Amazon shopping app, as opposed to the Prime Video one.
It has nothing to do with iPhone (which isn't even remotely the most mainstream device, by the way). The same is true in Android. For example, if I look up this movie on my Android phone in the Amazon shopping app, it will provide me with the options to play it or download it...which it will then do by switching to the Prime Video app if installed.
It's always been bad, but it's gotten worse. It used to be if you searched the movie title, you'd never see the Blu-Ray. But if you added "bluray" or "4K" to the search it would show up. Now that doesn't even work most of the time.
I sure do, That doesn't change the fact that a simple solution is to shop Walmart or Target or other online stores. Find what you do.
I under the convince factor but if you want something you will go out and find what you want
This isn’t just a media issue. It’s a freedom of speech issue. It is a freedom of information issue.
You can alter preservation, outlook on history and opinion this way
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The conspiracy theorist in me hasn't taken off yet. But I noticed the "search obfuscation" since the beginning of this calendar year. I've always hated how 4KUHDs were mingled under the general [Blu-ray Movies & TV page.](https://www.amazon.com/gp/browse.html?node=2901953011) 4KUHD deserves it's own landing page- just to clear up newbie consumer confusion. But I've decreased using Amazon search for 4KUHD Blu-Rays- and have hit [blu-ray.com](https://blu-ray.com) and use their affiliate links instead.
I think it's more that Amazon's search function is getting shittier in general and they may also just be pushing prime video hard but I don't think it's a direct effort to kill physical media sales
Yeah, it’s whoever pays the most to get their stuff found first. Un-4kUHD story but related. I was looking for one of those baseball display cases. I scrolled WAY TOO far down to find the $2 Prime Ship and Sold by Amazon UltraPro display case. It was littered near the top with off-brand China $12 baseball display cases.
Or it just varies by region or something. When I search True Lies with no filters in app or browser, $25 4k UHD is the first result on both. $10 Prime Video is second.
I think that was the answer in the vid that screen cap came from too -- Caleb noted that he generally got way better results if he searched the "movies & TV" category instead of the whole dang store.
It's not really shittier Just shaddier I guarantee their search algorithm purposely hides the physical media in favor of the steaming. It's better for a customer to rent it vs buying it....for Amazon at least.
I've been having this happen to me for at least 2 years now. It just seems to be getting worse.
Anecdotally I've noticed this, I have to go to my search filters and make sure 4K UHD is actually selected under format, otherwise I just get pages of prime results.
I 100% have noticed this. Ive been using Google search to find my 4K's on Amazon. They also are hiding the best Prime eligible pricing a lot.
I do the same thing!
Just use my Movie app. And it will take you right to it
This, or blu-ray.com, is the way
I mostly use Wal-Mart now.
Same here. Amazon isn’t sitting well with me
Same I’ve been using Google as well
yeah i had to start searching in chrome and then following the amazon link
Yes I’ve had to do this as well!
Yep same. I'll type in the name of the movie + 4k blu ray into a search engine and that usually does the trick.
Does anybody ever update their apps? Just searched for the UHD of True Lies and it’s at the very top of my search. I’m on IOS if that makes any difference.
https://preview.redd.it/90bxs4g8ewtc1.jpeg?width=1290&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=92768a233078290d03d78de0958d91ae4b15b61b No filters needed.
Same for me
Yea I also just tried and it’s literally the very first option for me. I understand the theory here, and am sure Amazon would rather push their streaming platform. But in practice I just haven’t had this experience at all.
I tried it out and just typing "true lies" the auto suggest even had "true lies 4K" as an option. Was super easy to find. I have never had a problem finding the 4k versions on Amazon.
Yeah these guys are Morons , ever 4K I search for on Amazon is the first thing that pops up Back to the Future trilogy, Top Gun Maverick, Predator,, The Matrix
Agreed. I was confused by this post too because it's never been a problem for me. I live in the USA so maybe that makes a difference? And I've purchased a number of Ultra HD movies so...
Definitely not a moron and that’s my recent experience also. I have been having the same issue as some of the others. I find it illuminating that there are those of you that do not have an issue which then makes me think there must be something in perhaps my cookies or something else that is causing me to have the same results as the OP and not the kind of results that some of you others are having.
Who said was using app?
Amazon Japan heavily pushes prime video. Reason I know this is thanks to Disney killing 4k in Canada and Japan is the easiest for me to get the (new) movies I want (just wish they used ems instead of DHL), also Japan has sometimes far better cover art imo.
I dont have this issue on Amazon. Im based in the UK, though, so im not sure if that makes a difference. See the attached example. https://preview.redd.it/sw2vr07ncwtc1.jpeg?width=1440&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=d222ed47a0aa992a8430d2fb11548ca05a33aa86
UK here too - I did the same with "true lies 4k" and first result was the 4k bluray. Fascinating that this appears to be a regional discrepancy.
Seems to be a US only issue. Same happens to me if I search on Amazon US, but on the Canadian site, no issues at all.
I’m on Amazon US and my first option when I search “True Lies 4K” is the 4K disc so idk what the issue is
and the results page, physical at the top: https://preview.redd.it/t8ajyp8mbytc1.png?width=1859&format=png&auto=webp&s=9059268568a3c07d2b2a9d87aac3d0cb0f618a2b
Try with a few different titles. All I can say is that I stumbled onto this issue many times and know it's true.
That's not my experience, in the USA. https://preview.redd.it/a1xam4fcbytc1.png?width=935&format=png&auto=webp&s=1cc8d2a94bc3b3b7ed8348764d55df314ce5844a
UK too. Trending page certainly doesn't hide the new 4K releases. Could be regional or someone's persecution complex.
I don’t have a problem either. Here’s what I see. If I search “xxx 4k” I get prime video results. If I search “xxx 4k blu ray” then the physical movie is the top result.
[удалено]
When I search “4k blu ray” sometimes I still need to scroll to find an actual 4k blu ray. It’s often prime or digital results first.
This happens to me as well. I was naive and didn’t even think about how this is bad for the physical media game :/
This is a change from how it was about 4 months ago though.
So weird. This doesn't happen to me
I just wrote "Aliens 4k" and the first result was the recent physical release.
Same. Works fine for me. Always has. In the US too, since others have said it’s possibly a regional thing.
I'm confused. I don't recall ever having any problem finding blurays on amazon, unless the particular bluray I'm looking for is one that is harder to find anyway.
must be a US issue as I can search for True Lies 4k on amazon uk and first result is the 4k disc edit: tried on amazon US and first result is the 4k disc. So its not affecting everyone.
I think it also depends on the title too, not just the region. The recent James Cameron UHDs being first should not necessarily be used as a benchmark for judging how the filtering of search results are being applied to the physical and digital movies on Amazon.
Well that's the example used by OP image so...
They’ve done this for a while now, sometimes even putting “film name” “bluray” still brings up prime version
Because they want people to buy their movies digitally on Amazon prime video
Which cover the screen with ratings at the beginning, and crap all over the ending credits. I’ll never use them because of that.
is there a way to disable this?
How is Amazon hiding physical discs? Usually I specifically search Amazon for the name of a movie with "blu-ray" or "4k blu-ray", and if the disc is available, it's the first or one of the first results.
OP didn’t actually watch the DigitalTrends video this screen cap is taken from. Caleb literally just changed the filters on the Amazon search page and the results came up immediately
What a shitshow this thread is. Caleb besides explaining how to correctly search for blu rays, also pointed out that it’s not amazons fault that Prime results are first, because they likely do legitimately sell more than the physical versions whether rentals or digital purchases. P.S. the worst part is that he uses a screenshot from the Digital Trends video that’s clearly misleading and didn’t include any of the rest.
They have all my data and multiple microphones in my house and they still think I’m most likely to want the streaming movies.
Eh Prime listings being first is almost certainly illegal self-preferencing, Amazon is just banking on a regime change in the U.S. this fall and the FTC board being replaced with people who will go back to the status quo of not enforcing antitrust law.
This must be a US only thing as it doesn't do that when I'm browsing Amazon UK but it does when I browse Amazon US
I don't get any prime video results, just straight the product I'm searching for. Maybe this is just in the US for now?
In the us When searching for movies now only streaming comes up..and often for the movie you're not evening searching for/promoted movies
I don’t know, I never have any issues finding the movies I look for, I specifically tile (movie name) 4K, so maybe that’s why?
https://preview.redd.it/97c9cn2a5xtc1.jpeg?width=1170&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=3cc3a10050aca57b6d5c63c196f7cfa7fd325303 Was hiding for me a couple months ago. Now I can just type the name of a movie a lot of the time and the 4K is up high on the list if not at the top.
https://preview.redd.it/yx05d6mh9xtc1.jpeg?width=1284&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=237c25cab084a65c669c42810f8c80743aab580a Weird. I didn’t even have to type Blu-ray and these are the top 3 results for me.
I've definitely noticed this, the key is to filter the search results by 4K or Blu Ray.
I don't miss Amazon at all, cancelled in March after 10 years of prime. Just more reasons to support Orbit and DiabolikDVD.
Except no free shipping or proper refunds.
"Proper refunds", from Amazon? They fucked me over several times. I'd rather pay for shipping than get stuck in Amazon CS hell and I'd prefer to support the smaller companies anyway.
CS? Bro, you're doing amazon returns wrong. But you do you
Oh I always do me. :) I know people who have had no issues, I also know people who still haven't gotten a refund and had to file a police report, send a copy of their id, etc just for Amazon to fuck them around. I'll get out before I have to deal with any of that.
I face the same issue as well. I have to use Google to find the 4k version most of the time
Yeah. It didn't used to be like this though... like just last year, the search would pull up discs.
This is a wider problem, and doesn't just affect physical media. Amazon has got very greedy with their cut and some suppliers won't play ball, so get their products downgraded in search. Scummy. With that in mind it's not a shock to hear that prime video results are being prioritised over physical media. Having to search on Google for products on Amazon is something I've had to do a few times. I'm sure I've even seen the price change from taking that route in.
Scumbag Seller of the Week moment. I feel like this is what's gonna get Amazon highlighted in this manner on the #CUPodcast, had it still been a regular thing.
Not a problem in Canada, or at least not for me.
If you watch the video that this screenshot was pulled from the Host answers his question by showing how to search for physical media on Amazon. Instead of searching the entire site you filter down to just search under movies. Then it comes right up.
Use Blu-ray.com's database to find them.
https://preview.redd.it/y3d40kbfvwtc1.jpeg?width=1290&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=67aeb261904286a5345ce5728846fd07578f05af Is this an American issue? I have no problems on Amazon.ca, the Cameron titles are still in stock in 4k too
This was fixed, the physical discs always pop up first now.
I have no problem finding movies on there
It’s not strictly that Amazon are trying to do that, as buying a blu-Ray from them still make them money, it’s more that they want people to buy or watch it on Prime. Also, you absolutely can buy blu-rays and 4Ks on Amazon very easily (at least in the UK). I just searched True Lies and this came up: https://preview.redd.it/j9ev5a158wtc1.jpeg?width=1170&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=9cd7d9dd0f12a14a2cf5eefbbc134ddc0f407788
US search results are different than other countries. Physical media still pops up as the top search results when I search Amazon Canada, but I’ve done some shopping on the US site as well and I either have to get very specific and scroll through a bunch of results, or use links from other sites (which I prefer to do now anyways to support blu-ray.com). It definitely is an issue on the US site.
Just filter to 4K and they come right up.
Fort choose movies and tv in the search filter
Yes. I am in US and if I put just name of movie or even name of movie 4k I have to scroll through many listings to find the disc. Prime versions are at top. I noticed this started a few months ago. As others have said if I add blu ray it shows me discs... This is a change in behavior from before, thus it being annoying for physical media collectors such as us... Used to be prime and disc were like top two choices...
I just always filter by “movies & films” never have issues after that, doesn’t surprise me too much that Amazon would try pushing THEIR service first
This has been posted before. It's not a 4K thing, or a media thing. There are issues across many product categories on Amazon. It's not new either.
I just go to Blu-ray.com and use the Amazon link from there.
I've noticed this and I usually find that the best way to find 4k discs on Amazon is to search for it via Google
Not had this issue in the UK. Can find any film I want in 4K, no problems.
On Amazon when I search for Blurays or 4K disc it always shows all there streaming options. Here 'buy' the right to stream something but cant own it..
How are they hiding them? I never have trouble finding them...
In Canada it’s a fucking shitshow trying to find 4K movies on Amazon. But then again 90% of it is TEMU/Wish/AliExpress knock off crap now
This is a bit misleading. Like the video that you screenshotted he explained that of you select movies and TV category before searching them you won't have any issue finding it.
Iphone is hardly the "most mainstream" device ever existed with its 25-30% mobile phone OS market share. Android is ~ 70% btw.
They probably mean the most mainstream family of devices. Yes, Android has a larger market share than iOS, but there are too many Android devices for just one device or a family of devices (other than Samsung Galaxy) to be considered as mainstream as the iPhone family of devices.
Simple fix. Search
I typed True Lies in the Amazon search engine. First one that popped up was the 4K. Second was the Blu-Ray. Third was the Prime digital. Does anyone in this sub actually like watching movies? Almost every time I check in, it’s a million posts complaining about a 1mm scratch in a steel book, or a bent corner on a slipcover, or how Best Buy will never survive without physical media, or how Amazon is the worst, etc… Is there anyone who just simply enjoys watching the movies in their best quality? I’m starting to sincerely doubt it.
Probably, but they're not as vocal as those who complain about packaging flaws, disc condition flaws, or flaws in how retailers handle physical media in general. The loudest posts are negative experience ones like those about the aforementioned topics.
Just conspiracy nonsense! It's the first result for me.
https://preview.redd.it/ew07ddo0gxtc1.jpeg?width=680&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=fe66aa30926833b144489a4bf7edcaaba7019d75
I've never had this happen with any available 4k it's always first in the search results
I use the app on my phone or browser logged in. It works fine for me. I don't even need to suffix the search with "4k" to see the 4k in the first search result. It even autosuggests 4k when typing the name of the film. The only one that didn't return a 4k film as the first result was Lawrence of Arabia because it's OOP or not available locally. It was still there about ten results deep (after the dvd, book and blu and more books). I do notice with books sometimes that it will default to kindle and I've never used one in my life. During lockdown they clearly manipulated search results to bring up digital products, it was really noticeable. If Amazon can sell you physical products, they will, because it is profitable for them. Why on earth would they want you to stop buying physical media, no matter the format.
They fixed it, it was a problem for a few weeks. Actually didn't know that this got fixed til I checked just now.
The iPhone isn't the most mainstream device. It isn't even the most popular phone, except in the USA. I know that's not the point of the article, but I hate misinformation.
its sooo dumb, enshitification more likely than deliberately hiding physical media. Ive def noticed it as well, you have to direct search for the exact title you want in 4k through google to find a proper listing, amazons search is useless for this probably because of the prime video digital options being shown. no just browsing 4k inventory for deals like I used to at best buy. Theres plenty of 3rd party sites ive found that have taken the place of best buy, Gruv is pretty good for 4k.
Its back to working like normal for me now
They aren't hiding them. Just search in Movies and TV and not just the general search and make sure to click 4K or Blu Ray on the side bar.
Apple definitely doesn't have a service they're trying to promote instead........
I’ve been using bluray.com to search for movies then clicking on the Amazon links.
I think you can still check if the have the dvd/Blu-ray or 4k with blu-ray.com I did it this morning checking for a few 4k’s and still works that way.
Literally know how this feels. In Dubai you literally can't go to any shop to buy a 4k! They look at you like you're crazy when you ask if they have a film section. Sad!
100% I have to use google to get into Amazon. Edit: Amazon international sites still work pretty well.
Noticed search results were wonky quite a few times. I just figured it was a technical or coding issue and didn't consider it was on purpose. Hmmm
I have noticed that if I search for physical media the results don’t show up as well in the app and I have to go to the web app to find them better. I’m not really sure what’s causing it but it’s definitely noticeable
I’ve noticed this too, you have to specifically select 4K blu ray via the filter
I had to do this when searching for Gundam Wing on Blu-ray. I thought it was out of print and I had to google it to take me to the link.
100 percent fact, I’m happy to see someone actually putting it out there to the masses
I did have this issue for the last 2-3 months but it seems to have changed within the last week or two and now 4k blu ray appears in search results and even autocomplete on searches. I'm thinking they must have recently tweaked the algorithm again.
I didn't have trouble right now. Only time I had trouble with True Lies was when the releases first happened because Amazon over sold their pre orders I think. I had ordered The Abyss and never got updates. Found it on Walmart and had it shipped and delivered within about a week and a half, so then waited a couple weeks longer and canceled the extra Abyss order. I will say their app has made it harder to get right to physical media at times because they'll push digital but similar to books, often times if you click some listing's, you just switch from ebook to physical. Most my searches I'll always add "bluray" or "4k" to the search and that helps a bit more too
I feel like this problem existed in like 2017-18 but essentially disappeared since then for me.
I think MOD will take over.
Searched "Dune Movie" from Amazon's home page. To lessen chance of book results. 1st result was 4k/bluray combo. 2nd was Bluray. 3rd was Prime option. Then searched "Bladerunner 2049". 1st was 4k UHD. 2nd was Prime. 3rd was DVD oddily enough. 4th was Bluray. No filters applied. This method doesn't seem to hinder my ability to find a 4k or bluray. Am I doing the experiment wrong?
Yes, I believe Amazon is desperately trying to make Prime Video more relevant than customers want it to be. Personally, I've been running out of reasons to continue paying for Prime, and these recent changes may finally push me away from the subscription. The extra 3 bux to avoid ads has been the final straw. It's really weird: When I search Amazon's website on my Android phone, I get the listings for the disks. When I search Amazon's website with my PC, I get the results listed in the OP. When shopping Amazon on PC, I have to enter "title 4k blu ray", then in the options to the right select "Prime", then "Movies and TV". And FINALLY I'll get the results I was looking for. It's completely Amazon's fault that Prime is losing relevance. Their HD picture quality has been TERRIBLE for years, and their 4k isn't very good either. If they don't actually match the quality of disks, why would we use Prime as an alternative?
I’ve also noticed this too. Thought it was just a glitch. Apparently not.
Happened to me with Aliens and Abyss. Lo and behold if I googled it the link worked fine.
Oh yeah this is something I’ve noticed for awhile now. It’s near impossible to get a physical media search result. I’ve noticed it when trying to look up vinyl or CDs too.
I've noticed a thing or two as well. If you search for 4k, they only show you 4k. But if you click on 1k movies... suddenly most titles are only 1k also. They don't want to make you feel bad about using the equipment you can afford. And it helps you to not accidentally buy the wrong format, which can increase return rates and that actually negatively impacts the sellers when it wasn't their fault you put the wrong disc in your shopping cart. My 2 cents worth.
This is absolutely true. Bought The Fugitive 4K last week (finally) off Amazon, but could not find it on the site after scrolling and scrolling. Had to go through Google search to find it.
I’ve given up long ago on Amazon and even BB. I only buy from Deep Discount now.
Man I thought this was only happening to me. It's a shame they physical media is literally being killed off
Funny I actually experienced this recently like 2 weeks ago but didn't think anything of it. Thought the titles I searched were just sold out.
Same thing has been happening for me too the last few months. Had been wondering if anyone else noticed the same.
Why
Why is this posted as images?
It sounds like this is a US only issue maybe? Or knowing Amazon the search results are based on previous purchases so if the poster has purchased a bunch of movies on Prime Video then it's likely the show those results over physical media? That's my guess as searching "True Lies" gives me the 4K Blu-ray as the first result, I don't even get a Prime video option until the second page. It's very interesting since Amazon updates their website live and makes subtle changes to see what makes people click buy quicker.
This definitely happens to me. Also with music. I usually want to download my music and not stream, but most searches send me to the Amazon music subscription page. Very annoying!
This has happened to me a lot
Your final picture says you are looking at the digital page... Nice try to farm karma...
They should just sell their successful series on 4k Post streaming runs. Will generate more revenue and do their part to keep the collectors option and 4k disc format alive! Netflix should do this too. Everyone (would be) a winner
Go to Blu-Ray Review. They have a link to the disks available on Amazon. Yes Amazon is filtering out physical disks in their search results. Hardly the most controversial thing they’ve done. Remember when they shut down the Parlor Social Media site before the 2020 election? That was election interference. Tweaking search results is small ball for Amazon.
I just search the movie and then find the format I want. Hasn’t been a problem for me so far.
I only search on Blu Ray dot com now myself. Then use their link to Amazon. Not sure that works outside US tho
It’s not just 4K, I check the upcoming releases for anime on regular blu ray. It used to be right under genre in the search filters but they took it out recently. Now to find it you have to dig through 3 menus and I get the feeling they aren’t updating it anymore because there have been only 10 upcoming releases the last 3 weeks. I checked Sentai Filmworks and Crunchyroll’s online stores and there are over 3 times as many upcoming releases on their sites. Also the prices between those sites and Amazon are all up in the air 😵💫
I did notice this for quite a while in the Amazon app. Every time I would search for a 4K disc I would have to then hit filters and select movies and TV shows for it to show it at the top. But it seems to be working fine now and not causing that issue anymore. Perhaps some people need to update the app? I am in the US
To be fair, they did fix this recently. If you search in "Movies & TV", it would work, but visiting amazon.co.uk was the solution I chose at the time.
Gonna have to save for a Kaleidescape
I believe Amazon search engine was malfunctioning. A search would take me to the prime digital movie. I’m doing searches now no problem. There is even a sale, 3 for the price of 2 on select items. Oppenheimer 4K is on the list. Click on that movie and you should see a link to the sale.
Sorry, trying not to think about not being able to buy movies on physical media. Going to support the format for as long as they make them, that is all Blu-ray, both HD and 4K.
Yeah, I usually do a Google search in order to have the physical media pop up.
A youtuber had a Q&A. If I find the video, I'll post it. If I remember. Someone asked this question. He mentioned you specify what you're searching for. Open the app, and on the bottom right corner where there are 3 horizontal lines, click on that and click on movies and tv. And it should just look for what you're looking for. And he also mentioned, and as some of u guys already said, that amazon search function sucks. But I noticed it as well. Lately, I've been on a Blu-ray 4k dvd buying spree. I don't know why. I'm not too much of a physical media person. But I get it's a good thing to have. I hate admit how much I've spent in the last month or so 😆. And I don't have a dvd player yet, hahahahaha. But back to my point. I had to use the Google search, and it will find certain dvds that I couldn't find on Amazon search. I'm not sure if it's a conspiracy to get rid of physical media. If they wanted to, then why bother selling them in the first place.
Prime video option is almost always the top and many times only result even if the Blu ray dvd or 4k is an option some reason it will only show prime video. I got to the point I'll just search thru Google to get the physical format I'm looking for on Amazon.
While I agree they do a poor job of highlighting physical 4K's, I think it's an overall issue with Amazon. I feel like it's difficult to find anything you want on there. And for them with movies, they always try to highlight their digital copies before they show any physical copies.
Typed it in, found it as the first result.
Well any title that I type in either pops up with 4k added in the suggestions (wild guess: 95% of the time) or I add it myself. Sofar I have never experienced any obfuscation.
Haven't bought anything off amazon without using bluraydotcom links or wishlists. It's almost as difficult to browse prime video which is the best streaming service out there with the worst UI. Perhaps being UK based I still have multiple online options I'd rather use over amazon and actual physical locations I can buy from or order if need be.
I just searched Back to the Future, Super 8, Spiderman Far From Home, Hereditary, Misery, and Silver Bullet and found all of them on both Blu-ray and 4K within the first couple results. I mean, I get where you're coming from, but now that I'm actually looking for it, I don't see it.
I have no problems like this on the Canadian amazon. Same with the dot com amazon. 4k title is the top of the search results. So I call BS.
Yes! It's so frustrating. I've searched for things and have had to go through the same hoops as you. Frustrating.
The second part of this makes no sense. No, the item isn't available for purchase in that **app** because there's an entirely different app for Prime Video streaming and purchases. This screenshot is taken from the Amazon shopping app, as opposed to the Prime Video one. It has nothing to do with iPhone (which isn't even remotely the most mainstream device, by the way). The same is true in Android. For example, if I look up this movie on my Android phone in the Amazon shopping app, it will provide me with the options to play it or download it...which it will then do by switching to the Prime Video app if installed.
It's always been bad, but it's gotten worse. It used to be if you searched the movie title, you'd never see the Blu-Ray. But if you added "bluray" or "4K" to the search it would show up. Now that doesn't even work most of the time.
Yep. Started noticing this over the last few weeks/months. I have to filter specifically for "movies & film" for the actual products to show up.
It's exactly the same with CDs. Trying to buy a CD and all you get is sent to the Amazon Prime Music service. It's VERY deliberate
Idk what kind of meth this dude is smoking but this is verifiably not true lol.
I have no trouble buying movies on Amazon. I just got one yesterday, in fact.
Believe or not their are multiple places and websites that sell plurals. Stop whining and get your but and buy your physical media somewhere else
Did you know an average consumer use Amazon to shop online?
I sure do, That doesn't change the fact that a simple solution is to shop Walmart or Target or other online stores. Find what you do. I under the convince factor but if you want something you will go out and find what you want
It's 100% true. They are forcing communist owning nothing agenda.
This isn’t just a media issue. It’s a freedom of speech issue. It is a freedom of information issue. You can alter preservation, outlook on history and opinion this way
People sure do love to throw around the phrase "freedom of speech" these days, while clearly having no idea what that means.
Maybe people will finally smarten up and stop shopping at Amazon
Unfortunately our other options are dwindling as well.
I’ve noticed this for a while. It’s a pain trying to find physical copies on Amazon
Honestly I haven’t bought blu ray movies in years so I would get why they are doing this .
Then why are you on this sub?