US pay-television broadcaster HBO has confirmed that its new standalone streaming service will launch in April, offering customers access to its sports content outside packages offered by pay-television operators.
HBO first announced its intention to create the service last year, but yesterday (Monday) said that HBO Now would launch to tie in with the start of the fifth season of its highly acclaimed drama series Game of Thrones.
Content offered through HBO Now will include world championship boxing events, along with HBO Sports documentaries and series.
Technology company Apple has secured a three-month period of exclusivity through which its customers can subscribe using the HBO Now app on their iPhone, iPad or iPod touch devices, or directly via digital media player Apple TV.
HBO Now will cost $14.99 (€13.40) per month, with HBO offering a 30-day introductory free trial period to new customers who sign up through Apple in April.
HBO said that it continues to be in discussions with its existing network of distributors and new digital partners to offer HBO Now.
The launch of the new platform represents the first time HBO will be offered directly to customers in the US.