The HBO Max service officially changed its name to Max
As previously stated, Warner Brothers Discovery has confirmed that the new name for HBO Max will be simplified to “Max,” and while the initially planned merger with Discovery+ will maintain separate operations within the United States, its content will be transferred to the revamped “Max” service in other regions.
According to the announcement, the existing HBO Max service will automatically update to “Max” on May 23, featuring a refreshed user interface for video content playback, increased personalization, a child-friendly viewing mode, and parental controls. Users will also find it easier to search for desired content within HBO, TLC, and Discovery brands.
Over the next month, “Max” will progressively integrate more sports events and live content, planning to add over 40 programs and TV series updates each month.
Current subscribers can seamlessly transfer their plans to the “Max” service. However, new subscribers seeking 4K quality will need to pay a higher subscription fee. The standard plan remains priced at $16 per month or $150 per year, supporting simultaneous use on two devices, HD quality playback, and offline downloads for up to 30 films.
The advanced plan is priced at $20 per month or $200 per year, providing 4K quality playback, concurrent use on up to four devices, Dolby Atmos audio support, and offline downloads for up to 100 films.
Additionally, “Max” offers an ad-supported, budget-friendly subscription plan for $10 per month or $100 per year, allowing use on two devices simultaneously but without offline download capabilities.
The adoption of the “Max” service name has been met with some resistance, as it diminishes the recognition and impact of the HBO brand. Merging Discovery+ into the “Max” service in regions outside the United States has also drawn criticism, with concerns that it will affect user adoption.
Nevertheless, Warner Brothers Discovery believes that adaptations like “The Last of Us” television series, “Game of Thrones” spin-offs, and content related to “Batman” and “Harry Potter” will continue to captivate audiences. Furthermore, the integration of Discovery+ content is expected to provide additional incentives for using the “Max” service.
