HBO launching standalone streaming service in 2015 - Blu-ray Forum

FlickFab · 10-15-2014, 03:36 PM

http://www.usatoday.com/story/tech/2...tion/17299177/

HBO is about to make cord cutters really happy.

The media company confirmed it will launch a standalone service for streaming its programs starting in 2015 that will not require a cable subscription. The service was revealed by HBO Chairman and CEO Richard Plepler during Time Warner's investor meeting on Wednesday.

"That is a large and growing opportunity that should no longer be left untapped," said Plepler of the rise in broadband-only homes. "It is time to remove all barriers to those who want HBO.

So, in 2015, we will launch a stand-alone, over-the-top, HBO service in the United States. We will work with our current partners. And, we will explore models with new partners. All in, there are 80 million homes that do not have HBO and we will use all means at our disposal to go after them.”

Talk of a potential breakaway service from cable has bubbled for months. The network offers HBO Go, a mobile app where users can access current and older HBO programs including Game of Thrones and The Sopranos. However, it requires users to authenticate their account through their cable subscription.

In April, HBO announced a multi-year deal with Amazon to host older series including The Wire and Deadwood on the company's Instant Prime streaming service.

10-15-2014, 03:36 PM	#1
FlickFab Power Member Member since:Feb 2012 Location:U.S.S. Enterprise Trading Score:653	HBO launching standalone streaming service in 2015 http://www.usatoday.com/story/tech/2...tion/17299177/ HBO is about to make cord cutters really happy. The media company confirmed it will launch a standalone service for streaming its programs starting in 2015 that will not require a cable subscription. The service was revealed by HBO Chairman and CEO Richard Plepler during Time Warner's investor meeting on Wednesday. "That is a large and growing opportunity that should no longer be left untapped," said Plepler of the rise in broadband-only homes. "It is time to remove all barriers to those who want HBO. So, in 2015, we will launch a stand-alone, over-the-top, HBO service in the United States. We will work with our current partners. And, we will explore models with new partners. All in, there are 80 million homes that do not have HBO and we will use all means at our disposal to go after them.” Talk of a potential breakaway service from cable has bubbled for months. The network offers HBO Go, a mobile app where users can access current and older HBO programs including Game of Thrones and The Sopranos. However, it requires users to authenticate their account through their cable subscription. In April, HBO announced a multi-year deal with Amazon to host older series including The Wire and Deadwood on the company's Instant Prime streaming service.

Best iTunes Movie Deals