HBO Max
HBO Max is a new streaming service based on an existing one. The next step in the growth of HBO Go and HBO Now, it takes the foundation of HBO's programming – which includes many fantastic shows like The Sopranos, Game of Thrones, Barry, The Leftovers, and Succession - and adds a ton more to make it more of a Netflix competitor.
That's why a lot of the original content we've seen on the service so far is aimed at a broader audience, with Anna Kendrick's Love Life kicking things off, and Kaoco's dark comedy The Flight Attendant also seems different from the usual heavy HBO dramas. Original movies, as well as programs formerly available on the DC Universe app, such as Titans and Harley Quinn, are available on the service.
There's also a large archive of existing shows like The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, South Park, and Rick and Morty to watch. Studio Ghibli, Adult Swim, and Cartoon Network are just a few of the fantastic content channels available on HBO Max.
Warner Bros. blockbusters will be released on HBO Max on the same day they are released in theaters as part of HBO Max's huge 2021 plan. From Godzilla vs. Kong to The Suicide Squad and The Matrix Resurrections, there's something for everyone. These premieres, rather than being permanent additions, are pulled from the service after a month. However, they provide something that you won't find on other services, although at a significant cost to Warner Bros.
HBO Max's ad-free tier costs $14.99 per month, while the new ad-supported price for 2021 is $9.99. Although this is a significant investment, HBO's success rate remains quite high, and the investment in original programming should pay off handsomely in the long run.
Selected titles, including the film premieres, are available in 4K on supported devices (more information here), with additional 4K content coming in the future.
Pros
- Award-winning original programming
- Top-tier movies
- Original news programming
Cons
- Pricey
- Content phases out frequently
Free trials: 7 days
Starting price: $9.99 per month with ads
Simultaneous streams: 3
Live TV: No
Exclusive originals: Yes
Compatible devices: Amazon Fire, Roku, Android, Android TV, Apple TV, Chromecast, iPhone, iPad, iPod touch, PlayStation 4, Macs and PCs, Samsung Smart TV, Xbox One, TiVo
Website: https://www.hbomax.com
