The streaming service HBO Max will be becoming Max later this month with the merger of Warner Bros. and Discovery+. Beginning May 23rd, the enhanced service will include HBO Originals, Warner Bros. films, Max Originals, the DC universe, the Wizarding World of Harry Potter and the Discovery+ library including HGTV, Food Network, Discovery Channel, TLC, ID and more.
How Much Does Max Cost?
Max will offer three pricing options to accommodate the needs of every household. With these options, subscribers will have access to both the HBO Max and discovery+ library. However, there will still be a lower-priced offer for only discovery+ in the US. See the plans below.
- Max Ad-Lite (2 streams at once, 1080p resolution, no offline downloads and 5.1 surround sound quality)
- $9.99 a month
- $99.99 a year
- Max Ad-Free (2 streams at once, 1080p resolution, 30 offline downloads and 5.1 surround sound quality)
- $15.99 a month
- $149.99 a year
- Max Ultimate Ad-Free (4 streams at once, up to 4k UHD resolution, 100 offline downloads and Dolby Atmos sound quality)
- $19.99 a month
- $199.99 a year
The new service will provide advanced features such as better playback and access to an expanded library of 4K UHD content. For people with little one, there will be a better kids experience that will be easier to set up and find shows like Peter and the Wolf and Gremlins: Secrets of the Mogwai and other HBO Brands (Looney Tunes, Teen Titans, Scooby-Doo, etc.).
Finally, beyond the home page, there will be better personalization and simplified navigation for each user. Depending on what each user is watching, Max will offer personalized recommendations so you can explore new content.t
What Does This Mean For Current HBO Max Subscribers?
When May 23rd rolls around, current HBO Max subscribers won’t have to do anything. When you login online, HBO Max will automatically become Max. For those that login with the app, you will be prompted to down the Max app. You will still have access to the HBO library. Now, you will see new hubs for Discovery.
As far as price, your plan will stay the same if you subscribed through the HBO Max app or directly on HBOMax.com. You will still may the same price every month/year depending on the plan you already have. However, you can upgrade to the Ultimate Ad-Free plan above if you choose. The features you will already have will remain in place for 6 months after Max launches. Then your features will change to the above.
As far a your profiles and settings, your watch history, profiles and settings will be available when Max arrives. Unfortunately, you will have to redownload offline shows and movies.
New and returning shows have already been announced when Max launches. Warrior season three and season two of And Just Like That… have been confirmed. New shows will include The Penguin, Barbie Dreamhouse Challenge, and a new Harry Potter television series. You can find more information and stay up to date at Max.com.