Let’s be honest: who doesn’t want to dive into the gripping politics of House of the Dragon, survive the apocalypse in The Last of Us, or follow the corporate chaos of Succession? The HBO library is a treasure trove of premium content. But in a world overflowing with subscriptions, the big question is: how can you get the streaming service for free or at least score a major deal?
You’ve come to the right place. We have the inside scoop on how to watch all your favourite HBO shows, and you might be surprised to learn that you could already have free access.
First, Understand This: HBO Max in India is JioCinema Premium
Before we dive into the deals, let’s clear up a crucial point. The standalone HBO Max service is not directly available in India. Last year, Warner Bros. Discovery made Reliance’s JioCinema the exclusive home for all HBO, Max Original, and Warner Bros. content in the country.
So, when we search for how to score a deal on HBO Max, we are actually looking for a deal on a JioCinema Premium subscription. The good news? This makes it much easier to find.
How to Get the Streaming Service for Free
This is the secret most people miss. The most straightforward way to get complimentary access to the entire HBO library is by checking your existing mobile or broadband plans.
Check Your Jio Mobile Plan
There’s a high chance a JioCinema Premium subscription is already bundled with your pack if you are a Jio Postpaid Plus customer or have a higher-tier prepaid plan. Here’s how to check:
- Open the MyJio app on your smartphone.
- Tap on the “My Plans” section.
- Look at your active plan details for “JioCinema Premium” listed as a benefit.
If it’s there, you’re just a login away from watching your favourite shows at no extra cost.
Check Your JioFiber Broadband Plan
Many JioFiber broadband plans come loaded with subscriptions to multiple OTT platforms, and JioCinema Premium is almost always included in the package. If your home internet is powered by JioFiber, check your plan details immediately. It’s a fantastic value-add that often goes unnoticed.
Can’t Get It for Free? Score a Major Deal Instead
If a free subscription isn’t bundled with your current plans, don’t worry. There are still incredibly smart ways to save on the streaming service.
1. Choose the Annual Plan
JioCinema Premium is already priced aggressively. Opting for the yearly subscription over a monthly one offers massive savings. At the time of writing, the annual plan (currently ₹299/year) provides a full year of uninterrupted access for the price of just a few movie tickets.
2. Share the Cost with Family and Friends
JioCinema Premium allows you to stream on up to four devices simultaneously. This is the perfect opportunity to team up! Split the cost of an annual subscription with three other people. When you divide the already low price by four, the individual cost becomes negligible—less than a cup of chai per month.
3. Watch for Festive Sales & Promotions
JioCinema often rolls out special discounts during major Indian festivals like Diwali, Holi, or New Year. Keep an eye on their app and social media channels during these periods for potential price drops, making it the perfect time to score a deal on HBO Max content.
The days of hunting for HBO content are over. With it all consolidated on JioCinema, a little research into your current phone or internet plan could unlock this world-class entertainment library without you spending an extra rupee.
