WarnerMedia has officially debuted its long-awaited streaming service, HBO Max – and here's everything potential subscribers need to know about the platform. Under the umbrella of AT&T, HBO Max launched on May 27, joining the streaming wars alongside other recent newcomers like Disney+, Apple TV+, Peacock, and Quibi.
The plans for WarnerMedia's "over-the-top" streaming service was first made public in 2018 before being officially announced the following year. What made the news so appealing was the fact that HBO and its premium content would serve as the anchor of the streamer along with content from popular networks like The CW, Cartoon Network, and others. First expected to debut in late 2019, and later in spring 2020, WarnerMedia is finally rolling out the service to existing HBO subscribers and newcomers.
With an overwhelming amount of streaming services available, consumers might be hesitant when it comes to deciding on the right fit. Platforms like Netflix and Hulu already have loyal users but the newcomers are still looking to stand apart from the rest. Here's everything there is to know about HBO Max including an overview, costs, offerings, and whether it's worth it or not.
What Is HBO Max?
Much like Netflix, Hulu, and Disney+, HBO Max is the latest streaming service to house an enormous amount of video content. The subscription service was announced by WarnerMedia in late 2018 but the official name wasn't publicized until June 2019. HBO serves as the anchor for the service, featuring the premium network's original programming in addition to new exclusive content and third-party programming.
Those looking to access HBO Max will find a wide array of options to stream content. The service will be available through a multitude of cable TV providers. Aside from using internet access on laptops or desktop computers, subscribers can download the HBO Max app on Android devices, Apple products, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and select Samsung Smart TVs.
Subscribers of HBO Max in the U.S. will have instant access to the library of content starting May 27, 2020. International access is a bit more complicated due to rights issues. It's unclear when the UK and Canada may get access to HBO Max (if it ever comes their way). Latin America, on the other hand, will see the arrival of HBO Max sometime in 2021.
HBO Max Is More Expensive Than Netflix: Why?
Not only is HBO Max more expensive than Netflix, but it also holds a heftier price tag than all of its competitors. HBO Max will cost $14.99, the same price as HBO Now, and the typical price through cable TV-providers. In comparison, the price of a monthly Netflix subscription ranges from $8.99 to $15.99 depending on consecutive streams. Meanwhile, Disney+ is available for $6.99 a month or a bundle along with Hulu and ESPN+ for $12.99 whereas Apple TV+ comes in at $4.99 a month.
It makes sense that HBO Max matched the price of the network's other offerings considering it features the same content, and then some. The higher than the average price can be credited to the millions and millions invested in the service. WarnerMedia spent $425 million alone on the streaming rights to Friends. They are also backing big-budget projects like the Justice League Synder Cut as well as forthcoming original programming.
HBO Max is pricier than Netflix but it will be available to a segment of customers at no additional cost. Current HBO subscribers may get instant access to the new streaming service depending on their cable provider for no extra charge. AT&T-owned platforms as well as Hulu, Verizon Fios TV, and a handful of others have partnerships with WarnerMedia. HBO Now subscribers will also be upgraded to HBO Max for no additional charge. The streamer is also offering a 7-day free trial to brand new subscribers according to their website.
Exclusive HBO Max Movies & TV Shows
Considering HBO is at the center of the WarnerMedia service, the premium network's exclusive slate of programming will be available to subscribers. This means around-the-clock access to critically-acclaimed titles like The Sopranos, The Wire, Six Feet Under, Game of Thrones, and Chernobyl. HBO Max will also be the home to upcoming DC properties like Doom Patrol, the Green Lantern TV series, and the aforementioned Synder Cut. These titles are in addition to the streamer's exclusive titles in development such as the Game of Thrones prequel, House of the Dragon, Raised By Wolves, Dune: Sisterhood, Overlook, and the Gossip Girl reboot.
Ahead of the big launch, HBO Max was touting the release of the highly-anticipated Friends reunion special. The TV event has since been put on hold due to the coronavirus pandemic but it's still expected to debut later this year. Another highlight is the fact that HBO Max will exclusively air future seasons of Sesame Street in addition to a number of spinoffs. The service plans to premiere 31 original series in the first year before bumping to 50 the following year and beyond. For those looking for original movies, HBO Max plans to develop eight-to-ten mid-budget films a year. The first, a comedy titled An American Pickle, debuts on August 6 and stars Seth Rogen.
Biggest Movies & TV Shows Available On HBO Max
HBO Max advertised that it would feature 10,000 hours of content available at launch, including over 2,000 films. The service's back catalog features titles from networks like DC Entertainment, TBS, TNT, TruTV, CNN, Cartoon Network, The CW, Turner Classic Movies, Crunchyroll, Rooster Teeth, and Adult Swim. Some of the most popular TV titles include the previously mentioned sitcom, Friends, in addition to popular titles like The Big Bang Theory, Doctor Who, The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, and Pretty Little Liars.
On the film side, HBO Max features all installments of the Harry Potter series, the Lord of the Rings trilogy, and The Dark Knight trilogy. Horror fans will find installments of A Nightmare On Elm Street, Friday the 13th, Gremlins, and Jaws. DC followers can find titles like Joker, Aquaman, Shazam!, Wonder Woman, and a few others. However, there are still some DC movies missing from HBO Max, though they could be added in later.
Should You Get HBO Max?
There's no question that HBO Max will make a splash in the current streaming wars. They feature a compelling list of titles and plan to produce consistent programming that features big-name stars. That said, the price might not be worth it, at least not yet. WarnerMedia and AT&T couldn't have predicted that their launch would be in the midst of a worldwide pandemic. Many potential subscribers might not the income to spend $14.99 a month on yet another streaming service. When there are plenty of other well-established services available at lower costs, it's difficult to argue the case for HBO Max right now.
That said, HBO Max looks to be the kind of service to keep an eye on. Like its competitors, HBO Max is lacking in original content at launch, but that will soon change. When the focus shifts from streaming rights to new exclusive programming, the service might be worth the price. It would be smart to avoid the growing pains and jump in down the line after they beef up and balance out the content. Before contemplating a subscription, it's also crucial to check what your cable TV provider is also offering. Some viewers may already have access without even being aware. If the cable company doesn't have a partnership with WarnerMedia and there's already an HBO charge on the bill, it might be worth cutting the network and switching over to HBO Max directly through their site or long-term partners.