The new service makes HBO programming available to anyone with an Apple device for a small monthly fee.
Since "The Sopranos" first skyrocketed to popularity, HBO has been recognized as the creator of some of the best television in American history. But until now, cable-free consumers have been unable to legally watch the show through downloading or streaming services.
HBO broke artistic ground with original series like "The Wire," "True Blood," "Girls," and "True Detective"; and mini-series including "Band of Brothers" and "The Jinx," but it has been behind the times in bringing its content to viewers who watch television primarily through streaming services. As a new generation cuts the cable cord, consumers increasingly rely on services like Netflix, Hulu, Amazon, iTunes, and many others to provide access to popular movies and television.
HBO's online streaming service, HBO Go, has provided on-demand access to HBO programming -- but only as a supplement for those who already have cable. Finally, HBO has launched HBO Now, a service that makes HBO programming available to anyone with $15.00 a month and an Apple device.
It's good timing: the fifth season of the popular and award-winning series "Game of Thrones" premieres on Sunday. "Game of Thrones" has been named the most pirated show in the past. Many fans suggest that the piracy of the show is a direct result of consumers' inability to acquire it legally elsewhere.
The service is not ubiquitous yet: at press time, the HBO Now app is available only in the United States, and only on Apple devices. Users can also log in through Sling TV, a service provided by Dish, for an extra $15.00 a month on top of its usual fees.
While HBO is not yet accessible to every single consumer, it has clearly joined the ranks of other entertainment powerhouses in allowing cable-free entertainment. Viewers now longer need a television to see the best TV of the year.
Julia Pistell is an intern at WNPR.
