To watch Max, the streaming service formerly known as HBO Max, you need to create an account, download the app on your device, and sign in to start streaming. This guide provides step-by-step instructions for every part of that process, from choosing a subscription plan to troubleshooting playback issues.
What is Max and how to watch it
Max is the rebranded and expanded version of HBO Max, combining the same library of HBO, Warner Bros., DC, and Cartoon Network content with additional programming from Discovery and other Warner Bros. Discovery brands. The service offers three subscription tiers, each with distinct features. The ad-supported plan provides access to the full content library with commercial interruptions. The ad-free plan removes commercials and allows up to two simultaneous streams. The ultimate ad-free plan provides up to four simultaneous streams (only two for sports), provides up to 4K Ultra HD video playback with HDR (as available), offers Dolby Atmos immersive audio (as available), and includes up to 100 offline downloads (limits apply). If your interface suddenly switches languages, see how to revert my HBO max in Spanish to your preferred setting. You can also find out when to expect C.B. Strike season 5 on HBO Max among the latest releases. The following steps will walk you through every stage of getting started.
Creating a Max account
To create a Max account, follow these steps:
- Visit the Max website or open the Max app on your device.
- Select the option to sign up or get started.
- Choose a subscription plan that fits your needs. You can compare the features of each tier, including simultaneous streams, video quality, and offline downloads, to make your decision.
- Enter your email address and create a password.
- Provide billing information and select a payment method.
- Review the terms and conditions, then complete the signup process.
If you already have an existing HBO subscription, you can sign in to Max using your existing HBO account details. This links your accounts and gives you immediate access to the full Max library without needing to create a separate account. For those looking to understand the cost, you can review the current HBO Max subscription pricing on the official website before choosing a plan. Additionally, some mobile and internet plans include a streaming benefit; for example, you can get HBO Max for free with AT&T if you are an eligible AT&T customer, which can be verified through your AT&T account settings.
Downloading the Max app on your devices
To download the Max app, follow the instructions for your specific device type.
Mobile devices
For smartphones and tablets (iPhone, iPad, iPod Touch, Android devices):
- Open the App Store (iOS) or Google Play Store (Android).
- Search for "Max."
- Tap the official Max app and select Install or Get.
- Wait for the download and installation to complete.
Smart TVs
For Smart TVs (Samsung TVs 2016 models and later, LG Smart TV and CineBeam with webOS 3.5 or later, Hisense VIDAA TV with OS 6.0 or later, VIZIO Smart TV):
- Ensure your TV is connected to the internet.
- Open your TV's app store (e.g., Samsung Smart Hub, LG Content Store, VIZIO App Store).
- Search for "Max."
- Select the app and follow the prompts to download and install it.
Streaming devices
For streaming devices (Amazon Fire TV devices, Android TV devices with Android TV OS 7.1 or later including Chromecast with Google TV, Apple TV 4K or Apple TV HD with tvOS 16.4 or later, Roku most Roku TV and streaming players, Google Chromecast):
- Go to your device's app store (e.g., Amazon Appstore, Google Play Store, Apple App Store, Roku Channel Store).
- Search for "Max."
- Select the app and download it.
- Launch the app after installation.
Gaming consoles
For gaming consoles (PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5, Xbox One and Xbox Series X|S):
- Navigate to your console's store (PlayStation Store or Microsoft Store).
- Search for "Max."
- Download and install the app.
Set-top boxes
For set-top boxes (Cox Contour 2 and Contour Stream Player, Xfinity X1 and Flex):
- Access the app store on your set-top box.
- Search for "Max."
- Follow the on-screen instructions to install the app.
Signing in to Max
To sign in to Max:
- Open the Max app on your device or go to the Max website.
- Click or tap the Sign In button.
- Enter the email address and password associated with your Max account. If you have an existing HBO account, select the option to sign in with your HBO account details instead.
- Choose your profile from the list of available profiles.
- Click or tap the Sign In button to access the library.
If you have forgotten your password, click the "Forgot Password" link on the sign-in screen. Follow the instructions sent to your email to reset your password and regain access.
Browsing, searching, and managing your watchlist
Max makes it easy to find content. You can browse through curated collections and categories such as genres, trending shows, and personalized recommendations. Use the search function by clicking the magnifying glass icon and entering a title or keyword to find a specific movie or show. The "Continue Watching" row lets you resume playback from where you left off. To build a personalized watchlist, click the "+" button next to any title to add it to "My List." You can manage your list by going to the "My List" section, where you can rearrange items or remove them by clicking the "-" button.
Watching Max on your TV
There are several ways to stream Max on your television:
- Smart TV app: Use the Max app installed directly on your Smart TV.
- Streaming device: Connect a streaming device (Roku, Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV, Chromecast) and use the Max app on that device.
- Gaming console: Play Max through a PlayStation or Xbox console.
- Casting: Cast from a mobile device using Chromecast or Apple AirPlay. Ensure both devices are on the same Wi-Fi network, open the Max app, select content, and tap the cast or AirPlay icon to send it to your TV.
- HDMI cable: Connect your computer or laptop to your TV using an HDMI cable, set the TV to the correct HDMI input, and stream Max from your computer's browser.
Watching Max on a computer or mobile device
To watch Max on a computer, open a compatible web browser (Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Edge) and go to the Max website. Sign in and browse the library to start streaming. Keyboard shortcuts include Spacebar for play/pause, Left Arrow for rewind, Right Arrow for fast-forward, F for fullscreen, and M for mute/unmute. Ensure your system meets the requirements: a compatible browser, reliable internet connection, and up-to-date graphics and audio drivers.
To watch on a mobile device, open the Max app on your phone or tablet. You can adjust streaming quality in the app settings to balance data usage and video clarity. For offline viewing, find a title, tap the download icon (downward-facing arrow), and the content will save to your device. Access downloaded content in the "Downloads" section of the app. You can manage downloads by deleting items to free up storage space.
Troubleshooting common Max issues
If you experience slow or buffering playback, check your internet connection speed, close other bandwidth-heavy applications, restart your device or browser, and move closer to your Wi-Fi router if possible. For audio or video quality issues, ensure your device and app are updated, verify your internet speed meets streaming requirements, and check your display settings. If the app or website glitches, clear your browser's cache and cookies, restart the app, or uninstall and reinstall the app. For account or login problems, double-check your credentials, use the "Forgot Password" option to reset your password, or try signing in with your social media credentials if you used that method. For persistent problems, the official Max Help Center is the primary resource for assistance with account, subscription, billing, streaming, device, and troubleshooting questions, including help with subtitles, captions, and audio settings.
For the wider topic, see get HBO max for free with at&t.
