Online video streaming is all the rage these days, and Amazon has managed to ink a deal that will certainly make its rivals jealous. The company announced today that Amazon Instant Video will be the exclusive online-only streaming destination for select HBO shows. The cable network is known for keeping a strong grip on its content and has previously only allowed users to stream shows through the HBO Go application.
Though its not like this deal will take away the exclusivity that HBO Go enjoys. The newest content will still be exclusively available through HBO’s own streaming application, but Instant Video will receive “early seasons” of select shows starting May 21st. Shows include hits like The Wire, The Sopranos, Boardwalk Empire, True Blood and more. Instant Video subscribers will also get access to documentaries and original comedy specials from Louis CK, Bill Maher etc.
Amazon’s new set-top box, Fire TV, doesn’t have a HBO Go application right now. Even though users will be able to access early seasons through Instant Video, they’ll still need to switch to another device to watch all the latest content. However Amazon has confirmed that HBO Go app for Fire TV is going to be launched by the year’s end. It will bring every episode of new and classic HBO series, as well as films, miniseries, sports and popular movies.