History
HBO Go is a U.S. based streaming service founded in 2010 that gives users unlimited access to stream all of HBO’s video content that include past and present series, movies, documentaries, sporting events and comedy specials. The service launched in 2010 through Verizon FiOS and further expanded over the years to include all major TV providers including AT&T U-verse, Charter Communications, Comcast, Cox Communications, DirecTV, DISH Network, Google TV, Time Warner Cable and Suddenlink Communications.
HBO launched a subscription video on demand service, HBO Now in 2015 to compete with competitors like Netflix and Hulu. Like HBO Go, HBO Now gives users access to HBO’s entire content library and is made for “cord-cutters” who still want to access HBO’s programs, but without the membership through their TV service provider.
Content
While HBO Go and HBO Now don’t boast the same vast content library as competitor services, they pack a punch with their current catalog filled with fan favorites and award-winning shows. Top shows include Game of Thrones, Silicon Valley, Westworld, The Young Pope, Veep, Big Little Lies and other hit shows. Popular movies include Bohemian Rhapsody, Black Swan, A Star is Born, Crazy Rich Asians and so much more.
Other notable titles on HBO GO and HBO Now are The Sopranos, The Wire, Boardwalk Empire, Real Sports with Brian Gumble, True Detective, The Jinx and Girls.
Pricing
HBO Go is only available for users who are subscribed to the HBO service through their TV provider company, so pricing is dependent on which TV service provider someone has. Pricing can range from $10 a month to $18 a month. Customers can also purchase HBO Go through their Amazon Prime Membership for $14.99 a month.
HBO Now is available to everyone, regardless if they have a HBO subscription through their TV service provider, making it an ideal choice for those who want to cut the cord. HBO Now is $14.99 a month whether you purchase it standalone or through other streaming services like Hulu.
Features
HBO Go and HBO Now Watchlist feature allows users to lineup a curated que of their favorites or must-watch-later programs that won’t disappear after a certain time period. Anything added to the Watchlist, will be there until the user deletes the program, or the program is no longer available on HBO Go. Users can also have an unlimited number of items in their Watchlist, giving them hours of endless entertainment!
HBO Go and HBO Go also offer users the Series Pass feature and when it’s enabled, it automatically adds users’ favorite shows to their Watchlist so they’re ready for viewing and easy to find. Of course, all these features are available across all devices on the users account and will stay synced across all devices.
Capable Devices
HBO Go and HBO Now are available through an app for Android and iOS devices, allowing users to watch from their smartphones or tablets. Users can also enjoy HBO Go and HBO Now through their favorite streaming players that include Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV, Google Chromecast, MediaCorp Toggle, Playstation 4, Roku, TiVO and Xbox One. HBO is also available on Samsung Smart TVs manufactured 2013 or later.
HBO Go is a perfect option for those who want to watch all of HBO’s content library while on the go, or from their favorite streaming capable device. HBO Now is a great alternative for users who want to be cordless, and still watch all of their favorite HBO programs.