HBO Max
HBO Max (known as Max between 2023 and mid-2025) is a premium, subscription-based streaming television service owned and operated by Warner Bros Discovery. It was previously operated by the WarnerMedia subsidiary of AT&T.
Ampere: Streaming movies have fewer ads than episodic TV series
TV shows have a higher ad load per minute of content viewed compared to moves across popular streaming apps and services, according to Ampere Analysis.
DATA
Hub: Streamers struggle to point out unique offerings of apps
A new consumer survey from Hub Entertainment Research finds that most streamers are unable to explain clearly to others what separates one service from another.
DATA
Philo rolls out cheaper TV plan without bundled content
Philo has restored a lower-priced plan that offers access to premium cable networks over streaming without the inclusion of bundled, network-backed streaming apps and content.
Paramount CEO says Paramount Plus, HBO Max will merge
CEO David Ellison indicated Paramount Plus’ technology could power the unified platform, with HBO Max content folded into a single streaming stack.
Virgin Media to include Sky Atlantic in some pay TV packages
Virgin Media is adding a new channel from Comcast's Sky Group that will allow some of its pay TV customers to access hit shows from HBO.
HBO Max to launch in United Kingdom, Ireland in mid-March
HBO Max will become the exclusive home for HBO content locally when it launches in mid-March.
Netflix taps Dani Dudeck as Chief Communications Officer
Her appointment comes as Netflix navigates a potentially transformative period tied to its proposed acquisition of Warner Bros Discovery.
EXECUTIVE MOVES
Ampere: Holidays shoppers flock to streaming deals, but churn remains a problem
Ampere found most holiday-acquired subscribers cancel a service quickly, with few retaining customers long-term.
DATA
Viewpoint: Netflix’s acquisition of WBD rooted into “Big 3” playbook
When it comes to major U.S. industries, three tends to be the magic number.
By:
David R. King
OPINION
Verizon lowers price of HBO Max streaming app for customers
Verizon is lowering the price of its HBO Max streaming perk for its wireless and home Internet customers, The Desk has learned.
FIRST ON THE DESK
Paramount makes $78 billion hostile bid for Warner Bros Discovery
Jared Kushner, the son-in-law of President Donald Trump, is part of a consortium backing Paramount Skydance's offer for all of Warner Bros Discovery.
Netflix agrees to acquire Warner Bros Discovery for $82.7 billion
Netflix has agreed to buy WBD’s studio, streaming platforms and IP for nearly $83 billion, contingent on WBD spinning off its cable networks by Q3 2026.