HBO Explores the ‘How’ of Streaming Option

Time Warner’s HBO is exploring various routes to offer consumers a stand-alone streaming video service, including as an add-on to broadband packages or through technology partners such as Apple, Microsoft and Amazon, according to people familiar with the matter.

HBO is positioning the online service to its current partners -- including cable giants like Comcast -- as something that can generate new growth for both sides. The company believes cable providers could market it aggressively to their broadband customers who don’t have pay-TV service. HBO doesn’t believe that would eat into the traditional pay-TV business, where it still sees plenty of growth in the offing. What’s more, HBO believes cable and telecom companies will gain as users upgrade to faster Internet connections to handle streaming video. HBO also sees a potential opportunity to offer the online service through streaming devices like Apple TV, Microsoft’s Xbox, Roku and others.


HBO Explores the ‘How’ of Streaming Option