AceShowbiz - Paramount is planning to merge its two streaming platforms, HBO Max and Paramount+, following the completion of its merger with Warner Bros. Discovery.

During a recent investor call, Paramount CEO David Ellison outlined the company's strategy to combine the services, which currently account for over 200 million direct-to-consumer subscribers. This consolidation aims to strengthen Paramount’s position against leading competitors in the streaming market.

Ellison explained that by mid-2026, Paramount expects to finalize the integration of its three streaming services into a single unified platform. The company intends to apply a similar approach for the combined HBO Max and Paramount+ service, leveraging both content and technological capabilities to create a more competitive offering.

Despite the merger of the platforms, Paramount emphasized that the HBO Max brand will continue to "operate with independence." This approach reflects the company’s intent to maintain the distinct identity and value of HBO within the larger streaming ecosystem.

The merger of these platforms is positioned to create one of the most scaled direct-to-consumer services in the industry, according to Ellison. The combined subscriber base and extensive content library are expected to provide a robust foundation for competing with other major players in the space.

This move comes amid ongoing discussions around the merger between Paramount and Warner Bros. Discovery, with Paramount Skydance actively engaging in takeover talks, though no indications have been made about increasing their bid price.

By merging HBO Max and Paramount+, Paramount aims to streamline its streaming operations and capitalize on its expansive content assets, while still preserving the unique brand identity of HBO as a premium content provider.