How to Stream & Download HBO Max Over Cellular Data

HBO Max is finally here, all while unlimited cellular data plans have never been more available. The two seem like a perfect pair, but you might find that you can't binge "Friends" or "Westworld" on the go. At least, not without downloading episodes beforehand. Fortunately, there's an easy way to fix that.

In the HBO Max app for iOS or Android, head to its "Video Options." If you try playing a video without a Wi-Fi connection, it'll tell you that you need to "See Video Options" to allow for cellular streams, so tap that button to get there. Now, if you are trying to download a video or would rather just get to the video settings the long way, tap your profile icon tab, then the settings cog, then "Video Options."

On the Video Options page, you'll see Streaming and Downloading preferences. By default, HBO Max has "Stream Over Wi-Fi Only" and "Download Over WiFi Only" enabled. All you need to do to unlock streaming and downloading over a cellular connection is disable these toggles. That's it.

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If you want the freedom to stream and download over cellular data but want to protect yourself from times when you don't realize you're disconnected from Wi-Fi, simply toggle on the "Cellular Streaming Warning" and "Cellular Download Warning" switches. With these options checked, HBO Max will warn you if you attempt to stream or download over cellular. You can ignore the warning, of course, but you can also decide not to watch your content until you're back on Wi-Fi.

Cover image, screenshot, and GIF by Jake Peterson/Gadget Hacks