The streaming platform of Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD) has undergone significant development – from HBO GO, through HBO Max to today’s MAX, which this time offers more than just movies and series. The offer also includes other content such as documentaries and sports.
▲ Fig. è. 1 – Max application, main application screen
Brief history
Customers in the Czech Republic and Slovakia could use the HBO GO video library until March 2022, when it was replaced by the HBO Max service with a larger selection of titles. The service operated under this brand for just over two years. In May 2024, HBO Max rebranded as Max. The HBO brand disappeared from the title. So far, the last change in the name of the SVOD platform indicated that, in addition to films and series, viewers will also find something extra – reality shows or sports. In the summer of 2024, all customers, regardless of the active tariff, could watch complete content from the Summer Olympic Games, for which WBD has the rights and provides a limited amount of transmissions to other broadcasters as part of a sublicense.
▲ Fig. è. 2 – Max application, Serials section
Max is home to iconic titles like House of Dragons, Game of Thrones, The Last of Us, The Sopranos and many more. Series produced by HBO Original appear both on HBO’s linear channels and are available anytime and anywhere on the Max streaming platform, where there are also titles (series but also films) that are not broadcast on HBO television stations.
Types of subscription
Currently, the operator of the MAX platform offers two types of subscriptions, Standard and Premium, which differ both in terms of the range of services provided and, of course, in price. The service can be paid for per month or for a discounted price per year.
The Standard tariff allows you to watch the SVOD service MAX on two devices at the same time, the video content is available in full HD resolution. With this tariff, the user can download up to 30 titles for offline viewing.
▲ Fig. è. 3 – Max application, Serials section – TOP 10 today’s serials
The higher Premium tariff offers viewers more entertainment – the service can be used on 4 devices at the same time. There is UHD resolution in 4K and Dolby Atmos sound (for some titles) and, with exceptions, it is possible to download up to 100 titles for offline viewing.
The MAX Sport add-on package, which can be ordered to one of the two basic packages mentioned above, offers access to Eurosport 1 and Eurosport 2 broadcasts, live broadcasts of cycling, tennis, including winter sports and the PGA TOUR and other sports. The package can only be used on two devices simultaneously.
The Max platform can be purchased directly from max.com, or from a television service provider as part of discounted packages.
▲ Fig. è. 4 – Max application, option to choose the language version of the sound and subtitles
Interested parties can find the current price list on the max.cz website.
Experience operating MAX
The MAX service was tested on a device with the Android TV OS, specifically on a Tesla XT-850 set top box, where it worked without any problems.
After logging in to MAX, the traditional basic screen is displayed. In the top bar there are links to Home, Series, Movies, HBO (HBO production), Sport. In the sidebar is Search, Home Screen and Favorite Titles.
In the Series and Movies sections, titles are sorted into individual genres. There is also a special section such as “Series for you”, or “Movies for you”, “TOP 10 today’s series”, or “Today’s TOP 10 Movies”, “Recommended Series”, “This Week’s News”, “The Best of Max” and many other special categories.
▲ Fig. è. 5 – Max application, detailed information about the film, including language versions, image and sound quality
There is also children’s content on MAX.
Sports content is available under the Sport link, which is only available to customers with a paid add-on package.
Depending on the level of the paid tariff, the titles are available in HD, possibly up to 4K resolution (not all titles). All information about individual titles is always listed in the details. There is also information about the quality of the audio track, as well as a list of all language localizations in the form of subtitles or audio tracks.
▲ Fig. è. 6 – Max application, Sport section
The discerning viewer will find something to his liking here – he can watch programs not only with domestic dubbing, but also in the original version, possibly in another language.
Slovak customers will be pleased that the titles are available with Slovak dubbing or with subtitles.
Individual titles in the video library can be searched for by entering text on the software keyboard on the screen. By successively entering letters, the list of found titles changes.
▲ Fig. è. 7 – Max application, Sport section – Sports schedule
Titles can be added to your favorites to get easy access to the shows you like.
The viewer can create user profiles for individual household members on Max, and thanks to this, the application adapts the offer of titles directly for each user.
▲ Fig. è. 8 – Max application, title search
Supported devices
The MAX SVOD platform boasts a wide range of device support – from tablets, phones, computers and televisions.
MAX works on Amazon Fire tablets, Android phones or tablets, Apple iPhone, iPad and iPod Touch. On computers with Chrome, Firefox, Microsoft Edge and Safari web browsers.
On TVs, MAX can be used on Samsung TV, LG TV, Hisense VIDAA TV products, as well as Amazon Fire TV, Android TV, Apple TV, PlayStation and Xbox.
▲ Fig. è. 9 – Max application, modest setting options
Závír
MAX offers fun for the whole family. And whether you are a movie fan or a series fan, you will find a lot of interesting content here. There is also content for the smallest viewers and sports fans as part of the add-on package (for an extra charge).
The range of services, including technical quality, differs from the subscription level.
Evaluation:
+ a wide range of titles
+ titles with dubbing/subtitles, original wording and other language versions
+ Slovak localization (dubbing, subtitles)
– sports content in the additional package
editorial office
MAX: The Streaming Platform That Just Can’t Stop Changing Its Name
Ah, MAX! The streaming platform that has undergone so many transformations, it should consider getting a new driver’s license. From HBO GO to HBO Max, and now just MAX—if this were a relationship, we’d be having a chat about commitment issues! But whether you’re a fan of action, documentaries, or a smashing horse dance competition, this platform has morphed into a veritable smorgasbord of content.
Brief History
Let’s take a stroll down memory lane, shall we? Customers in the Czech Republic and Slovakia had the pleasure of enjoying HBO GO until March 2022, when their streaming world was rocked by HBO Max. Fast forward two years, and the rebranding parade continues with Max—now devoid of the legendary HBO title. Sounds like they took the whole “keeping it fresh” advice a bit too literally. They’re even streaming the Summer Olympic Games, because why just binge-watch reality TV when you can sweat along with athletes who can actually touch their toes?
Content You Didn’t Know You Needed
Ah, the shows! MAX hosts iconic titles like House of Dragons and Game of Thrones. And if you’ve been living under a rock, or perhaps just prefer to watch paint dry, there’s also The Last of Us and The Sopranos. Who knew binge-watching could be a full-time job, with all those rotations of emotional breakdowns?
Subscription Tiers: Choose Your Own Adventure
MAX offers two enticing subscription options, Standard and Premium. The Standard tier is akin to eating a basic slice of pizza—filling but not too thrilling. You get HD resolution, two simultaneous devices, and the ability to download just 30 titles. On the other hand, the Premium subscription is where the true feast begins. Like upgrading to the full buffet, it allows four devices, UHD 4K resolution, and a colossal 100 titles for offline viewing. You can practically take the library on a family road trip!
And There’s Sports Too!
If you fancy sports with your streaming, the extra MAX Sport package can turn you into a couch potato for just a little more cash. Imagine watching Eurosport in your pajamas, possibly while maintaining an unhealthy lifestyle—oh wait, that’s just called being a modern-day sports fan!
Experience Operating MAX
Testing MAX on an Android TV was smoother than a politician’s promise. With categories like “TOP 10 Movies” and “Recommended Series,” it’s almost like MAX knows your taste better than your best mate does. You can search for titles faster than you can say, “What’s on Netflix?”
Wide Device Support: Because Who Wants to Watch on Just One?
MAX works on everything from your phone to your PlayStation, making it convenient for everyone—after all, who doesn’t want to watch How It’s Made while waiting for their ride? And don’t worry, the kids have their corner too. You would think they have a dedicated content section just for kids that keeps them occupied while the adults partake in some quality series like The Sopranos.
The Final Verdict
MAX has turned into a streaming buffet catering to families, serious film buffs, and sports enthusiasts alike. If you love variety, you’ll surely have your plate full. Sure, the basketball games might cost you an extra package, but hey, the joys of diversity come at a price, don’t they?
In Summary:
- + An impressive variety of titles.
- + Availability of dubbing and subtitles, including for our Slovak friends.
- – Limited sports content unless you pay extra.
So buckle up, grab the popcorn, and get ready to jump into the chaotic world of MAX. Who knows? You might uncover a hidden gem or two along the way—after all, every streaming service has its moments!
