Setting up HBO Max: a complete guide to the streaming service

HBO Max is the streaming service from Warner Bros. Discovery that gives you access to a huge library of movies and series. From HBO classics to Warner Bros. blockbusters and exclusive Max Originals, this service has something for everyone. In this guide we explain step by step how to set up HBO Max on all your devices.

What does HBO Max offer?

HBO Max, now also known as Max in some regions, combines the best of several major entertainment brands. You get access to all HBO series such as Game of Thrones, Succession and The Last of Us. You will also find Warner Bros. movies, DC superhero content, and series from Discovery, HGTV and more.

The service also offers day-and-date releases of certain Warner Bros. movies, which means some theatrical releases appear on the streaming service at the same time. This makes HBO Max an excellent choice for movie lovers who like to watch the latest releases at home.

Creating an HBO Max account

Follow these steps to set up your HBO Max account.

Step 1: Visit the HBO Max website

Go to www.hbomax.com or www.max.com, depending on your region. You will see an overview of the catalog and the option to sign up.

Step 2: Choose your plan

HBO Max offers several subscription options. There is a standard plan with ads at a lower price, and an ad-free premium plan with extra features such as 4K quality and more simultaneous streams. Compare the options and choose what suits you best.

Step 3: Create your account

Click "Sign Up" and enter your email address. Choose a strong, unique password. You will receive a confirmation email to verify your email address.

Step 4: Enter your payment details

Select your preferred payment method. HBO Max accepts credit cards, debit cards and often PayPal as well. Check your details and confirm the subscription.

Step 5: Set up your profile

After signing up, you can personalize your profile right away. Choose an avatar and, if you like, indicate your favorite genres for better recommendations.

HBO Max through your provider

In some cases you can get HBO Max through your cable or internet provider.

Check your provider package

Some providers offer HBO Max as part of their TV package or as an optional add-on. Contact your provider to check whether you are eligible for HBO Max through your existing subscription.

Activating through your provider

If HBO Max is included in your package, you can activate your account by signing in with your provider credentials. Select "Sign in with a provider" on the HBO Max website or in the app and follow the instructions.

Installing HBO Max on your smart TV

The HBO Max app is available on most modern smart TVs.

Samsung smart TV

Press the Home button and navigate to Samsung Apps. Search for "HBO Max" or "Max" and select the app. Click "Install" and wait until the download is complete. Open the app and sign in with your account details.

LG smart TV

Open the LG Content Store from the main menu. Search for the HBO Max app and install it. After installation, open the app and sign in. You can also use the QR code method for easier sign-in.

Android TV and Google TV

Go to the Google Play Store on your TV. Search for "HBO Max" or "Max" and install the official app. Sign in with your account to start watching.

Philips smart TV

Philips TVs running Android TV can download the app from the Play Store. Older Philips models may not support HBO Max. Check on the HBO Max website whether your model is compatible.

HBO Max on mobile devices

Enjoy HBO Max content on your smartphone or tablet.

Installing on iPhone and iPad

Open the App Store and search for "HBO Max" or "Max". Download the official app from Warner Bros. Discovery. Open the app and sign in with your account details. You can also set up Face ID or Touch ID for easy sign-in.

Android phone and tablet

Go to the Google Play Store and search for the HBO Max app. Install the app and sign in with your account. The app also supports Chromecast for casting to your TV.

HBO Max on streaming devices

Use a streaming stick or box to watch HBO Max on your TV.

Amazon Fire TV Stick

Navigate to the App Store on your Fire TV. Search for "HBO Max" and install the app. Sign in with your account details. The app supports Alexa voice control for searching content.

Apple TV

Download the HBO Max app from the App Store on your Apple TV. Sign in with your account. Apple TV supports Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos for the best quality with HBO Max Premium.

Google Chromecast

Open the HBO Max app on your phone or tablet. Start the content you want to watch and tap the cast icon. Select your Chromecast to show the content on your TV.

PlayStation and Xbox

The HBO Max app is available on PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One and Xbox Series X/S. Download the app from the respective store and sign in with your account.

Creating and managing profiles

HBO Max supports multiple profiles for the whole family.

Adding a new profile

Open HBO Max and go to the profile menu, usually in the top right of the screen. Select "Add Profile" or the plus sign. Give the profile a name and choose an avatar. You can create up to five profiles.

Setting up a kids profile

For children you can create a special kids profile. This profile only shows child-friendly content and has a simplified interface. Children cannot access adult content from this profile.

Configuring parental controls

Protect your children with the extensive parental control options.

Setting a PIN

Go to the account settings and select "Parental Controls". Set a four-digit PIN. This PIN is requested when watching content above the age limit you have set.

Age restrictions per profile

For each profile you can set a maximum age rating. Content above this rating is not shown or requires the PIN. You can also block specific titles.

Downloading content for offline viewing

HBO Max Premium subscribers can download content.

Downloading movies and series

Open the HBO Max app on your mobile device. Find the content you want to download and tap the download icon. Choose the quality you want and wait until the download is complete. Downloads are available in the Downloads section of the app.

Download limits and management

There is a maximum number of downloads per account. You can delete downloads to free up space for new content. Downloads expire after a certain period and then need to be renewed.

Video quality and streaming settings

Optimize your viewing experience with the right settings.

Adjusting streaming quality

In the settings you can set your preferred streaming quality. Options include Automatic, Data Saver and High Quality. The automatic setting adjusts the quality based on your internet speed.

4K and HDR

HBO Max Premium offers 4K Ultra HD and HDR support for selected content. Check whether your device and TV support 4K HDR and whether you have the Premium plan.

Frequently asked questions about HBO Max

What is the difference between HBO Max and Max?

HBO Max and Max are essentially the same service. Warner Bros. Discovery renamed the service Max in some regions to better reflect its broader content offering. The functionality and most of the catalog stay the same. Check which name is used in your region.

How many devices can stream at the same time?

The number of simultaneous streams depends on your plan. With the standard plan with ads you can watch on two devices at the same time. The ad-free Premium plan supports four simultaneous streams. You can install the service on an unlimited number of devices.

Can I also watch HBO Max on my computer?

Yes, you can watch HBO Max directly in your web browser at www.hbomax.com or www.max.com. This works on Windows, Mac, Linux and Chrome OS. For the best experience, a modern browser such as Chrome, Firefox, Safari or Edge is recommended.

How do I cancel my HBO Max subscription?

You can cancel your subscription through the account settings on the HBO Max website. Sign in, go to "Subscription" and select "Cancel Subscription". You keep access until the end of your current billing period. If you signed up through a provider, you need to cancel there.

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