Today, HBO Max is launching its ad-supported subscription tier. The ad-supported tier includes HBO Max original content and shows and movies from HBO, Warner Bros., DC, Turner Classic Movies, Cartoon Network, and more.
The ad-supported tier does not include same-day movie premieres that debut in theaters, but those titles will be available on the ad-supported tier when they make their way back to the service after theatrical releases. The ad-supported tier will also not allow users to download content to watch later and streaming video quality is capped at 1080p.
HBO Max is also offering new and returning subscribers the option to pre-pay for a full year with a 15% discount. Sign up for a year of the ad-supported tier for $99.99 or the ad-free tier for $149.99.
“Advertising is a time-tested way to reduce the cost of great entertainment and reach a wider audience,” said EVP & General Manager, HBO Max, Andy Forssell. “We’ve worked hard to create an elegant, tasteful ad experience that is respectful of great storytelling for those users who choose it, and which we’re confident will deliver for our advertising partners as well.”
HBO Max says that ads are capped at 4 minutes of commercial time per hour to minimize disruption. Ads will not play during HBO programming.