PlayStation Vue, the internet TV service from Sony, is crafting itself as a potent cable replacement and will soon holster Cinemax and HBO under its belt.
Fans of shows such as Real Time with Bill Maher and Game of Thrones will be able to tune into HBO and Cinemax on PlayStation Vue starting Oct. 2.
Keep in mind that Vue is an app that allows users to tap into cable content without subscribing through standard means such as Comcast or Time Warner. To replace that, Vue makes use of live-feeding its channels via broadband internet connection.
What is more, this is the first non-cable service that will broadcast live HBO and Cinemax programming. Users who want to enjoy the two channels must pay a monthly fee of $15 for each. As a bonus, viewers will receive HBO Now, which resembles the Netflix app and provides the network's on-demand shows on a myriad of devices, be it a smart TV, Roku box or gaming console.
By joining Vue, HBO strides away from its default business model. The company offers HBO Now for $15, but live broadcasts are not included. As the cable and television network signed with Sony, it will offer on-demand videos on HBO Now, alongside live versions of the channels. This means that those who subscribe to HBO Now have a free hand to enjoy it via Sony's service, and can do it free from bundling with other networks.
PlayStation Vue has deals with more than 100 networks and it's famed to be the best internet alternative to TV programming.
HBO's digital-distribution leader, Jeff Dallesandro, pointed out in a statement that his network is excited to build a partnership with Sony in order to ensure satisfaction for highly demanding television audiences.
"PlayStation has always been at the forefront of innovation," he notes.
Dallesandro affirms that HBO's openness to PlayStation users demonstrates that the network is fully committed to being flexible and providing great quality content.
"Our flexible subscription options offer more choices for consumers than ever before," adds Dwayne Benefield, the head of PlayStation Vue.
More than depicting HBO's flexibility, the move underlines that Sony is paying close attention to its consumer behavior.
HBO remains one of the handful of televisions that people still view as "appointment viewing." In an era where streaming is king, it's very rare to see young people (who never heard of cable subscription) gather around the TV on Sunday nights to watch Game of Thrones as soon as it airs.
Via the Vue partnership, fans of HBO's shows get the chance to subscribe and watch their favorite heroes in action, either live or on demand. For a monthly fee of $30 extra, users who log in to Vue can enjoy content from other networks, such as laughter material from Comedy Central and sportive channels from ESPN.
Benefield emphasized that the premium content present on HBO is perfectly matched with PlayStation's audience.
Not only is PlayStation Vue the first service that packs Cinemax and HBO as live independent channels, but Sony's service is also set to refine the way in which its users are watching TV.
