HBO and Apple Partner on Standalone Streaming Service
Following last fall’s announcement that HBO would be launching a standalone subscription service, CEO Richard Plepler has revealed that the network will be partnering with Apple for the launch of HBO Now, according to The Hollywood Reporter.
During Apple’s “Spring Forward” event, Plepler took the stage to detail what’s to come from the long-awaited service. Beginning April 12th, TV fans can purchase a subscription to HBO’s entire catalog of original shows and movies for $14.99 a month. Those that purchase in April, however, receive their first month of the service for free. April 12th also happens to be the same day the network’s hit series Game of Thrones will return. Plepler gave the audience a sneak preview of the new show via a teaser trailer.
Previously, HBO was only available to stream through a user’s cable subscription service on the HBO Go platform. The new service will now make the network’s content available to watch via Apple products such as the iPhone and iPad. Apple TV, which will soon be available to customers for the much lower price of $69, will also have a HBO Now channel.
According to Buzzfeed, the exclusive launch deal between Apple and HBO is for three months, meaning that “Apple has the exclusive for new digital distributors.” This would include partners like Verizon or Comcast. “We are still talking to all MVPDs and they could be there at launch,” detailed a spokesperson for HBO to Buzzfeed.
Apple’s “Spring Forward” event was held in San Francisco at the Yerba Buena Center. CEO Tim Cook also revealed more details on the highly-anticipated Apple Watch and announced a new MacBook as well.