Warner Bros. Discovery Expands Max Streaming Service to Asia-Pacific
Warner Bros. Discovery has announced plans to expand its Max streaming service to several key markets in the Asia-Pacific region. Following the successful launch in Japan through a partnership with U-Next, Max is set to make its direct-to-consumer debut in Australia in the first half of 2025. Additionally, Southeast Asia, Hong Kong, and Taiwan will welcome Max by the end of 2024, replacing the existing HBO Go services.
A Strategic Partnership with U-Next
In Japan, Max has formed a strategic partnership with U-Next, a leading streaming platform. Under this agreement, Max content will be available to U-Next subscribers at no additional cost. In return, U-Next’s Japanese content, including popular anime titles, will be accessible to Max subscribers worldwide. This mutually beneficial partnership allows both companies to leverage their respective strengths and reach a wider audience.
Investment in Local Content
Warner Bros. Discovery remains committed to investing in local content production in Japan. The company plans to increase its spending on anime production, building upon the success of recent anime adaptations of DC properties like Suicide Squad Isekai. By focusing on local content creation, Warner Bros. Discovery aims to cater to the specific preferences of Japanese audiences and strengthen its position in the market.
Flexible and Diverse Launch Strategy
Warner Bros. Discovery has adopted a flexible and diverse strategy for the global rollout of Max. The company is evaluating market-specific factors and partnering with local companies when necessary. This approach allows Warner Bros. Discovery to tailor its launch plans to the unique characteristics of each region and maximize its reach.
Key Points:
- Max expansion: Warner Bros. Discovery is expanding Max to Australia and several Asian markets.
- Japan partnership: Max launched in Japan through a partnership with U-Next.
- Southeast Asia and Hong Kong: Max will launch in these regions by the end of 2024.
- Local content investment: Warner Bros. Discovery plans to increase investment in anime production in Japan.
- Flexible launch strategy: The company is adopting a flexible approach to market launches.
