​Amazon Studios set the premiere dates for its first two original scripted series later this month, unveiling a rollout strategy designed to lure customers to its Amazon Prime membership program.

“Alpha House” starring John Goodman will premiere on Nov. 15, with Silicon Valley satire “Betas” following on Nov. 22. The first three episodes will be available for free streaming via Amazon Instant Video, but subsequent episodes will only be available its Prime Instant Video platform, which is part of the $79-per-year membership service. Most Amazon customers use the Prime program to get free shipping on select items.

Variety noted Monday that Amazon’s strategy differs from Netflix which encourages binge viewing by releasing all of its original series episodes—like “House of Cards"—at the same time.

Read More: Variety

Brief Take: Although it’s definitely unconventional, free shipping could be exactly the kind of hook needed to lure viewers—and their dollars—in a television market littered with ever-increasing viewing options.

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