Max to Provide Sports & News Content Free for Users

Warner Bros Discovery to Offer Sports and News on Max at No Extra Cost for Premium Subscribers

Warner Bros Discovery announced on Wednesday that it will provide sports and news content at no additional charge to standard and premium subscribers on its streaming platform, Max, in the U.S.

With more consumers shifting from traditional cable TV to streaming services, media giants like Warner Bros Discovery are capitalizing on this trend to expand their market presence and attract advertisers by offering live sports coverage.

Initially, the company had planned to introduce a $9.99 monthly fee starting in March 2024 for a premium sports add-on, which includes coverage of major leagues like the National Hockey League (NHL), National Basketball Association (NBA), and U.S. Soccer. However, due to technical reasons, the promotional period was extended.

In a shift from its original plan, Warner Bros Discovery has now decided against implementing the additional charge. “This path will not be pursued for now,” the company stated on Wednesday. However, it also clarified that CNN Max, which provides a live news feed alongside sports content, will no longer be available under the basic ad-supported plan starting March 30.

This move comes as other major players in the industry adapt to evolving viewer preferences. Earlier this year, Comcast announced the launch of Sports & News TV, a new video package for its Xfinity internet customers, as part of its strategy to stay competitive in the rapidly changing streaming landscape.