HBO May Offer Internet Subscription for HBO GO Separate from Cable

For a while, consumers have been asking HBO to allow non-cable-subscribers to gain access to their shows online through HBO GO. So far, the

For a while, consumers have been asking HBO to allow non-cable-subscribers to gain access to their shows online through HBO GO. So far, the subscription-only cable channel has been resistant, making HBO GO available solely to existing cable subscribers. But that may be changing.

HBO CEO Richard Plepler told an audience at last week’s screening of “Game of Thrones” that HBO may be willing to offer online subscriptions to HBO GO, but only through broadband partners, such as Time Warner Cable, Comcast and Verizon FiOS. That means that cord-cutters could get a bundled Internet + HBO package for about $60/month ($50 for Internet, an extra $10-$15 for HBO GO access online).

However, Plepler said the company still needs to “make the math work.” This is likely because HBO relies on large financial support from its cable and satellite TV partners to help distribute and promote its shows. Cutting the hand that feeds you is a risky move.

But so is adhering to a model that’s getting antiquated fast. HBO’s plan seems wise — offer online subscription through platform providers, not directly to consumers through websites (even though a website will be used to screen content). We wish more legacy companies could combine strategic innovation of this kind.