Months after its launch, the HBO Max streaming service is still not available as a native app on Roku or Amazon devices. While this issue persists, a new operating system update for Roku will give users the chance to play HBO Max content on their TV's.
According to Variety, Roku's new OS 9.4 update, which will only be available on select models of Roku products, will allow support for Apple's Airplay 2. With this feature, users can stream content, like programming played on the HBO Max app, from Apple devices onto their television sets.
The primary issue reportedly keeping an HBO Max app from appearing on Roku devices is Roku's desire to still sell HBO as a TV channel. This conflicts with the wishes of HBO Max parent company WarnerMedia, which wants HBO Max as a separate app, much like how Roku handles other streaming services like Netflix or Disney+.
Prominent figures at WarnerMedia have publicly expressed confidence that the issues keeping HBO Max off Roku and Amazon devices will eventually be solved. WarnerMedia CEO Jason Kilar noted in August, "The optimistic side of me says it will be [resolved]," while WarnerMedia Studios & Network head Ann Sarnoff said a month later, "There's been a bit of friction in the system but we'll make progress on the deals."
HBO Max is available on Android and iOS devices, Apple TV, Xbox One, PlayStation 4, Samsung Smart TVs and more.
Source: Variety