Changes in Max's Ad-Supported Tier: CNN and Bleacher Report Update

In a strategic pivot, Max is adjusting its pricing model by eliminating CNN and Bleacher Report access from its basic ad-supported subscription. This alteration subtly escalates the cost for customers wanting to include these add-ons.

Historically, Max indicated intentions to increase fees for access to CNN and Bleacher Report Sports features. However, this latest price adjustment specifically impacts the most cost-effective subscription level offered by the streaming platform.

Announced today, Max revealed that it would cease the practice of charging an additional $9.99 per month to those subscribed to its higher-tier plans—Standard, at $16.99 monthly or $169.99 annually, and Premium, priced at $20.99 monthly or $209.99 annually—for access to CNN Max and Bleacher Reports Sports.

These changes will take effect on March 30th, with the add-ons being removed from the economy ad-supported plan, which costs subscribers $9.99 a month or $99.99 per year. Consequently, customers transferring their subscriptions to higher-tier services are necessary if they wish to continue enjoying live sports and news broadcasts.

Strategic Realignment in Response to Competitors

According to The Hollywood Reporter, this decision looks to be a strategic move by Max, emphasizing live sports offerings in its service bundle. This change comes as a response to significant competitors like Peacock and Netflix, which are enhancing their focus on broadcasting live sports events.

JB Perrette, WBD's global streaming and games leader, explained that this shift follows a year-long evaluation of user interaction with sports content on Max. He commented that based on their observations, placing these specialized contents within the Standard and Premium memberships is ideal.

Perrette further stated, 'This update not only guarantees continued subscriber access to our desirable content but also supports ongoing advancements in our superior sports and news selections.'