It’s not just for gaming anymore—PlayStation 3 and 4 owners can already enjoy video streaming services like Netflix, Hulu and Amazon from the comfort of their controllers, but Sony has extended that offering even further with HBO and Cinemax. Both networks launched Thursday on PlayStation Vue, Sony’s own streaming and DVR platform, and HBO NOW is available as a stand-alone service as well.
PlayStation Vue subscribers have the option of bundles that include HBO, Showtime and over 100 other channels or simply subscribe to HBO and Cinemax individually. Already have an HBO subscription? No problem. PlayStation Vue users with an active HBO subscription can also access programming from HBO NOW at no additional cost by linking their PlayStation Network email and password. PS Vue is also available for Roku and iOS or Android mobile devices.
The move to include these popular channels helps establish Sony as a streaming network provider, and therefore a source for digital marketing revenue. According to a report by the Interactive Advertising Bureau (IAB), advertisers and media buyers have invested 114 percent more in original digital video programming over the past two years. Combine that with a die-hard fan base for Game of Thrones, and PlayStation Vue could be enjoying a new source of income.
The power of digital entertainment is very real, with viewership expected to surpass primetime TV.
With the announcement of these new subscription options, Sony took the opportunity to remind viewers to watch the series premiere of HBO’s sci-fi drama Westworld airing October 2. It should be interesting to see what kind of cross-promotion comes from a Sony-HBO-Cinemax partnership.
Sony is a prime example of not putting all the demographic eggs in one basket, taking advantage of the company’s full range of electronics and video game influence to cross-promote itself, like placing Sony phones, laptops and PlayStation 4 systems in its original series Powers.
