HBO Max has launched in the UK, bringing back popular shows like Friends and offering new content such as the Harry Potter TV series to compete in the crowded streaming market.
The Warner Bros Discovery service is priced at £4.99 per month with ads, undercutting rivals Netflix, Disney+, and Paramount+ by £1. A £5.99 ad-free tier includes new Hollywood releases without extra charges.
HBO Max also offers a bundle through Sky for £24 per month, which includes Netflix, Disney+, and Hayu. This partnership strategy reflects a shift in the industry as subscriber growth slows, with UK streaming growth falling to 7% last year.
The service features Warner Bros films, HBO shows like Succession and The Sopranos, and exclusive sports content including the Olympics until 2032. The Harry Potter series, moved forward to Christmas, is expected to be a key draw.
