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Remember a few months ago when we talked about HBO launching a standalone streaming service, so you didn’t have to rely on your sister’s ex-boyfriend’s cousin’s roommate’s parents’ HBO GO password anymore? Well, we’ve got some more details on when and how that service might launch, and Apple is coming in hot to get some of that sweet, sweet premium cable money.
According to the International Business Times and confirmed by CNBC, HBO and Apple are in some pretty hot and heavy talks for Apple to be one of the launch partners for HBO’s standalone service, which is rumored to be called HBO Now.
BREAKING: Sources tell @JBoorstin that Apple & HBO are in talks for Apple TV to be a launch partner for 'HBO Now'.
https://t.co/hQd9AzA3Xr
— CNBC Now (@CNBCnow) March 4, 2015
You’d think they could get more original than HBO Now, especially with the popularity of FXNOW, thanks to the every “Simpsons” ever campaign, featuring, well, every “Simpsons” episode ever. But if it means I can get HBO without paying for it, I’m not complaining. I’m sure Apple wants to be a partner for the service to bolster the sales of the Apple TV, which was rumored to be replaced by a standalone TV service from Apple, but stalled thanks to major networks and content providers being reluctant to switch away from the traditional cable model. They’re bleeding us dry, those cable companies.
The International Business Times article featured a few more interesting tidbits — namely, the price of the service and the release date. They reported that the service will launch in April to coincide with the April 12th premiere of the fifth season of Game of Thrones, which I’m sure you’re all salivating over. I actually haven’t watched it. I know. I have to. Sorry. I’m the worst.
The service will also allegedly cost $15 per month, which is, well, exactly what it costs now to get HBO through your cable provider. However, it certainly beats having to pay $15/month on top of $60 to $80 to get digital cable when you only really watch 10 channels tops, and another $60 to $80 for internet. All you need is internet and HBO Now. It’s all anyone needs, really.
All glory to Apple and HBO for bringing us this bountiful gift. Praise be to Jobs..
[via Macrumors]
Image via Lester Balajadia / Shutterstock.com
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PGShibby really inspired you… 3 articles in one day. Except this one isn’t about dead people.
Sign me up! I have Comcast and pay for HBO, but they’re the only company that doesn’t allow you to use HBOGo. So anything that takes a hit at cable companies, sign me up.
You’ve been able to use HBOGo with Comcast for at least a year.
You should feel like a real jackass.
n00b