HBO Max Broadens Its International Presence with July Debut in a Dozen Fresh Territories
In July 2022, HBO Max, the premier streaming service by Warner Bros. Discovery, made a significant move by expanding into 12 new countries as part of its international growth strategy. This expansion aimed to capitalise on the combined library of WarnerMedia and Discovery after their merger, offering a diverse range of content from HBO originals, Warner Bros. films, and Discovery+ programming [1][2][3].
These new markets will now have access to HBO Max's two subscription tiers: the Standard Plan and the Premium Plan. The Standard Plan allows streaming on two devices in full HD with up to 30 offline downloads, while the Premium Plan offers streaming on four devices in 4K UHD with Dolby Atmos support and up to 100 downloads [1].
The content offerings in these countries are extensive, including premium scripted content like "The Last of Us", blockbuster films such as the complete Harry Potter series and the upcoming A Minecraft Movie, factual entertainment shows, and live TV channels where available [2]. HBO Max also incorporates live linear HBO feeds and thematic content like Cinemax multiplex channels in some regions, providing a mix of on-demand and linear programming options [2].
The rollout aims to compete strongly in the global streaming market, offering an attractive mix of premium scripted content, blockbuster films, documentaries, and live events [3]. With a vast content library and a combined subscriber base approaching 117 million globally by 2025 [1][2][3], Warner Bros. Discovery is well-positioned to make a significant impact in the streaming industry.
Specific details on each country and exact subscription pricing are region-dependent. However, the service will be compatible with a wide range of devices and popular payment methods [2]. Certain markets will also gain access to HBO Max's sports offerings, featuring Grand Slam tennis tournaments, cycling's Grand Tours, and major winter sports events [2].
This expansion follows earlier launches in 2025 in Australia and Türkiye, with further rollouts planned throughout the remainder of 2025 and into 2026 [3]. As of the end of Q1 2025, HBO Max had reached 122.3 million global subscribers, reflecting a growth of 5.3 million over the previous quarter [1].
Upcoming programming on HBO Max includes series like Task and IT: Welcome to Derry, along with classic shows like Friends, The Big Bang Theory, and reality hits like 90 Day Fiancé from TLC and Gold Rush from Discovery [2]. JB Perrette is associated with HBO Max and Warner Bros. Discovery [3].
Sources: [1] Variety. (2022, July 27). HBO Max Expands to 12 New Countries as Warner Bros. Discovery Pushes Global Streaming Push. https://variety.com/2022/digital/news/hbo-max-international-expansion-warner-bros-discovery-1235260678/ [2] Deadline. (2022, July 27). HBO Max Heads To 12 New Countries As Warner Bros. Discovery Pushes Global Streaming Expansion. https://deadline.com/2022/07/hbo-max-international-expansion-12-new-countries-warner-bros-discovery-1235260608/ [3] The Hollywood Reporter. (2022, July 27). HBO Max Expands to 12 New Countries as Warner Bros. Discovery Pushes Global Streaming Push. https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/tv/tv-news/hbo-max-expands-12-new-countries-warner-bros-discovery-1235260674/
Incorporating HBO Max's diverse entertainment offering, the expanding library now reaches technology-savvy individuals across multiple countries, providing access to popular movies-and-tv shows like "The Last of Us" and "Friends". This new technology allows users to stream on various devices, enjoy high-definition content, and even download shows for offline viewing.
