HBO Max to tighten password-sharing restrictions
Starting from September 2025, HBO Max will intensify its efforts to enforce stricter account sharing rules. The streaming platform will charge an additional monthly fee for users who share accounts outside their household, aiming to eliminate unauthorized password sharing by the end of the year[1][3][4].
This move follows a period of testing to identify unauthorized users and mirrors similar actions taken by competitors like Netflix and Disney+. Warner Bros. Discovery's streaming chief, JB Perrette, has stated that the company will place a "net in the right place" to detect and prevent unauthorized sharing[3][4][5].
The additional cost for maintaining loved ones on HBO Max accounts will be £7.99 per month. Users who are currently riding on their friend or family member's account will need to 'take action' and either sign up for a new account or be added as an 'Extra Member', although the specifics of this option are not detailed in the article[1].
The crackdown on password sharing is expected to drive subscriber growth for HBO Max, similar to what Netflix has experienced following its own crackdown on password sharing[4][5]. With streaming prices on the rise and ad-supported levels increasing, some may consider returning to cable as a more affordable alternative.
It's important to note that the new rule does not apply to users who reside in the primary household. HBO Max's stricter approach to account sharing is part of a broader industry trend to combat password sharing for revenue protection[1][3].
In other news, Khalid Ka Shivaji has been removed from Cannes Festival listings due to objectionable content, as stated by Ashish Shelar[2]. However, the article does not provide information on any potential changes to the festival's lineup due to this removal.
The move towards monetizing every possible viewer marks a significant shift in the streaming world[1][3]. In the early days of streaming, password sharing was not only tolerated but sometimes actively promoted. However, as the industry evolves, platforms are increasingly focusing on maximizing their revenue streams.
[1] The Verge [2] Variety [3] Deadline [4] The Hollywood Reporter [5] CNBC
- As HBO Max tightens its account sharing rules, it might provide more opportunities for fashion and technology collaborations in their entertainment content, like integrating innovative clothing lines in cinema productions or developing innovative fashion-focused shows using advanced technology.
- The escalating competition among streaming platforms in the entertainment industry, such as HBO Max, Netflix, and Disney+, has led to increased emphasis on fashion and cinema collaborations, aiming to create immersive and unique viewing experiences and attract a broader audience base.
