As promised, HBO Max’s smart TV apps are getting a much-needed upgrade. Variety and The Verge both report that WarnerMedia is preparing to release an updated Apple TV app that fixes some of the most glaring issues that have persisted since the original release. Finally, it’s built on a modern platform that is more reliable than the old HBO Go/Now framework. More control over My Stuff watchlists and easier sign-ins are among the other new features you’ll find on the redesigned home page, which features a scrollable “hero” banner.
The new version is expected to arrive on your Apple TV this week or the following. HBO Max’s other apps, such as for Android, PlayStation, Roku players, and TV sets from LG, Samsung, and Vizio, already use the same framework. Amazon’s Fire TV devices and the web will also be getting a facelift in the near future.
WarnerMedia rushed the HBO Max launch, which resulted in a buggy Apple TV app. Instead of starting from scratch, HBO repurposed its HBO Go and HBO Now apps for its smart TV apps, which saved the company time and money. Sarah Lyons, a senior vice president at WarnerMedia, said the company knew it had to “replatform” the app to accommodate both international expansion and more content.
HBO Max’s initial growth may have been hindered by this hasty approach. Compared to Disney+’s 17.6 percent market share in February, JustWatch estimated that the service had a 7 percent market share. Although we don’t expect a significant increase in demand for HBO’s new apps, they may be able to keep customers who would otherwise be willing to leave.
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