Max looks set to begin streaming in the UK in 2026 – what does that mean for Sky?

Thanks to a report on Film Stories, we learn Warner Bros streaming service Max now all but confirmed for early 2026 UK launch. This takes information from a joint Sky and Warner Bros press release. Inevitably all such as presented as good news all round, but it’s worth unpacking.

The joint Max press release

Here are the leading points:

— Sky announces an expanded partnership with Warner Bros. Discovery in the UK and Ireland

— Existing agreement extended until early 2026 until Max, Warner Bros. Discovery’s premium streaming service, launches in the U.K and Ireland

— After Max launch, new deal means Sky and NOW customers benefit from more content at no extra cost through bundled access to the streaming service that will exclusively feature new HBO Original and Max Original shows and more

— Existing franchises and their future series will continue on Sky Atlantic for Sky customers, with pay 1 movies to be shown on Sky Cinema.

Film Stories has taken the time to point out a few salient details. The more content at no extra cost means (as per Paramount+ content) this will become ad-supported. More interesting, while it means shows such as Game of Thrones will remain available to subscribers, post 2026 shows may well be subject to delays. Cue the Harry Potter TV series, set to be a major subscription magnet for Warner Bros.

We’ve long since wondered how the Sky services will evolve in the UK streaming market, and note some original titles (such as the excellent Intelligence) have appeared on Netflix recently. We hold the view (as many do) the market won’t support multiple separate streaming services long-term (as far as the individual is concerned) and we fully expect more changes in the market over the next few years. As ever, we’ll bring you the news as and when it happens.