HBO launches streaming service in partnership with Apple.

(Baonghean.vn) - On Monday, March 9th, HBO - the American television channel belonging to the Time Warner media group - announced that it will launch an online streaming service in the US in April to coincide with the return of the game show "Game of Thrones".

According to the plan, HBO will launch an additional channel, “HBO Now,” with over 2,000 programs available on Apple devices via iTunes. (Image: Internet)

Secondly, after months of deliberation, HBO finally decided to partner with Apple. Accordingly, a new channel called “HBO Now,” featuring over 2,000 HBO-produced programs, will be available on Apple devices via iTunes. Customers will pay a monthly fee of $14.99 to use the service.

Commenting on the decision, Richard Plepler, CEO of HBO, stated, "This is a major shift for HBO." Given the expansion of online services, HBO couldn't stand still, especially with the continued rapid growth of Netflix subscribers – an internet-based television service. HBO estimates that approximately 10 million households in the US use the internet to watch television without subscribing to cable or satellite.

It's not just HBO; American television channels are also gradually changing to keep up with customer preferences. Recently, Dish Network revealed they will be undertaking an online project that will broadcast ESPN sports channels online. According to other sources, CBS and Sony also plan to start their own online projects.

However, many are concerned that launching online services will reduce revenue from traditional broadcasting. Because once online, programs like “True Detective,” “Girls,” “Les Sopranos,” “Sex and the City,” and “The Wire” will all have the same price. But overall, cable TV operators will still receive half of the profit.

Chu Thanh

According to Le Monde, March 9th.