HBO GO comes to Asia, Hong Kong's now TV first to launch

PCCW subsidiary now TV will launch the service in the first quarter of 2013, making more than 1000 hours of programming available to subscribers who receive its HBO Max Pak Premium package. The service enables viewing on internet connected devices including laptops, tablets, and smartphones.

"HBO GO will meet the demand of changing consumer viewing habits, offering subscribers quick access to a wide variety of award-winning and critically-acclaimed content 12 hours after the US, which will help with the ongoing fight against illegal copying, distribution and piracy,” Jonathan Spink, chief executive officer for HBO Asia, said in a statement.

Spink cited Hong Kong's market sophistication and prevalence of both high-speed broadband networks and mobile and tablet users as the perfect environment for the regional introduction of the service.

HBO could not be reached for comment about which other markets might get the service or when.

Update: An HBO spokesperson said the service is available to any provider who wants to offer it across the region, but no additional announcements are pending at this time.