Another Step Toward A La Carte TV? HBO Considers Cable-Free Option

HBO's current CEO Richard Plepler, left, pictured in 2009. (Photo: /Matt Sayles)

HBO is often thought of one of the more premium cable TV subscription options. But as the market increasingly begins to roll out streaming options for shows and entertainment that are not tied to a cable package, HBO too is considering opening its service to people without a cable subscription.

Speaking with Reuters Thursday, CEO Richard Plepler said the company's HBO Go streaming service could be coupled with broadband Internet partners. As of right now HBO Go can only be accessed by those who are subscribed to HBO on cable TV as well.

Here's more from Reuters on how Plepler described the potential program:

Plepler said late Wednesday that HBO GO could be packaged with a monthly Internet service, in partnership with broadband providers, reducing the cost.

Customers could pay $50 a month for their broadband Internet and an extra $10 or $15 for HBO to be packaged in with that service, for a total of $60 or $65 per month, Plepler explained.

"We would have to make the math work," he added.

CNET's Don Reisinger noted that although it seems it is unlikely such a service will be available in the near future, it's "an interesting idea" none the less.

It also coincides with the growth of interest TheBlaze has reported about in the past regarding the increasing popularity  of unbundled TV, which many think would allow customers to pick and choose the shows they actually want to watch.

--

Related:

• What Major Change to Cable TV Could Be on the Horizon?
• Was Beck Right? Potential for A La Carte Cable TV Channels Picks Up Steam With Intel Unbundling Rumors
• Streaming Box Roku Announces Cable Deal With Time Warner, Which is Big News for You

(H/T: Reddit)