If you’re a fan of HBO, you’ll be glad to know that there are several ways to watch the network’s content on your Vizio Smart TV.
In this guide, we will walk you through the different methods so that you can choose the one that works best for you. We’ll start with the official HBO app, which is available on most Smart TVs. If you don’t have that app, don’t worry – we’ll also show you how to install it. And if all else fails, there is always the option of using a streaming device like a Roku or Chromecast. So no matter what type of TV you have, we’ve got you covered!
This ultimate guide will walk you through the process, offer insights on the popular HBO app, and even suggest some top-rated shows to start your HBO journey with.
About the HBO App
The HBO is a fantastic way to stream all your favorite shows and movies on your Smart TV. Most devices, including Vizio TVs, support the app. It provides an array of content from the latest to classic shows like Game of Thrones, Veep, and Silicon Valley, along with blockbuster movies such as Dunkirk and Get Out. If you’re in the mood to discover something new, the app features a ‘Discover’ section that recommends shows based on trending topics and viewer moods.
However, depending on your TV service provider, some content may be available with HBO Max or HBO GO instead of just through this app. Therefore, it’s worth checking out those apps as well. Luckily, the HBO app is designed specifically for Smart TVs, making it hassle-free to install on Vizio models from 2014 onwards.
If you haven’t downloaded HBO app on your Android or iOS devices, here is the app store links for you –
Popular Content on HBO App
Here’s a glimpse of some popular content available on the HBO app:
- Game of Thrones (TV Series): A HBO Original TV Series, Game of Thrones is one of the most renowned shows worldwide. It has won multiple Emmy awards and Golden Globes.
- Westworld (TV series): This sci-fi thriller is another HBO original that’s an adaptation of a movie of the same name.
- Veep (TV Series): This political comedy won three Emmy awards for Outstanding Comedy Series and nine Golden Globes for Best Television Series – Musical or Comedy between 2012 to 2017.
- Silicon Valley (TV series): A satire that won two Emmy awards for Outstanding Comedy Series and five Golden Globes for Best Television Series – Musical or Comedy between 2015 to 2019.
- True Detective (TV series): This anthology crime drama won an Emmy award for Outstanding Drama Series and four Golden Globes for Best Television Series – Drama between 2014 to 2019.
Devices That Support the HBO App
Several devices support the HBO app. Here are a few popular ones:
- Roku: All HBO apps are available on Roku devices. Both HBO GO and HBO Now can be installed from the channel store of your Roku device. HBO Max isn’t available on Roku yet, but an announcement has been made about its imminent release.
- Apple TV: All HBO apps are available on Apple TV. HBO GO and HBO Now can be installed from the App Store of your Apple TV device, and HBO Max can be installed from the HBO Now app.
- Amazon Fire TV: All HBO apps are available on Amazon Fire TV. HBO GO and HBO Now can be installed from the Amazon App Store of your Fire TV device, and HBO Max can be installed from the HBO Now app.
- Chromecast: HBO apps can be cast from HBO GO and HBO Now app on Chromecast. HBO Max isn’t available on Chromecast yet, but it will soon be.
How to Watch HBO on Vizio Smart TV?
Follow these steps to watch HBO on your Vizio Smart TV:
- Obtain an HBO Subscription: If you don’t have one, sign up for HBO on your device or online at hbogo.com/activate.
- Navigate to the “Apps” section: On your TV, go to “Apps” and select HBO Now from the list of available apps.
- Sign in with HBO credentials: Click on the ‘Sign in’ button at the bottom of the HBO Go app homepage. Enter your HBO username and password. If you are not a subscriber, click on ‘sign up for HBO Now’ button at the bottom of the HBO Go app homepage. Enter all required details to create an HBO account.
- Connect to HBO GO: Go back to your Vizio’s menu system by pressing MENU. Select either “Remote” or “Program” from the list of options. Under “Remote”, select “HBO GO” and press the yellow button on your remote control to connect.
- Start Streaming: Enter in your HBO username and password to sign in and start watching HBO content on your Vizio Smart TV. If you don’t have an HBO subscription, go to hbogo.com/activate and sign up for HBO Now.
And voila! You’re now all set to dive into the world of HBO shows and movies on your Vizio Smart TV.
Common Errors When Streaming HBO on Vizio Smart TVs and Their Fixes
Streaming on any device can be subjected to various technical difficulties, and Vizio Smart TVs are no exception. Here are a few common issues that you might encounter while streaming HBO on your Vizio Smart TV and how to fix them:
1. HBO App Not Working
Sometimes the HBO app might refuse to launch or crash during operation. The best way to fix this issue is by doing the following:
- Restart the app: Exit out of the app entirely, wait for a few seconds, and then reopen it.
- Restart your Vizio Smart TV: You can also try turning off your Vizio TV, unplugging it, waiting for a few minutes, and then plugging it back in and turning it on.
- Reinstall the HBO app: If the problem persists, try uninstalling and then reinstalling the HBO app.
2. Playback Issues
If you’re facing issues such as buffering, low video quality, or a delay in streaming, here’s what you can do:
- Check your Internet Connection: HBO recommends a minimum download speed of 3 Mbps for a single stream. Check if other devices on the network are using up bandwidth and consider pausing their internet access while streaming.
- Restart your Internet Modem/Router: Sometimes, a simple restart of your internet equipment can fix many streaming issues.
If you are facing any issues with the picture quality on Vizio TV, try out this guide – Best Picture Settings for Vizio Smart TV
3. Cannot Sign In to HBO
If you’re unable to sign in to your HBO account, make sure:
- Username and Password are correct: Check if you’re entering the correct username and password. If you’re unsure, try resetting your password.
- Subscription is active: Ensure your HBO subscription is active and hasn’t expired.
4. No Sound or Video
If there’s no sound or video while streaming HBO:
- Check TV’s volume: Make sure your TV isn’t on mute and the volume is at an audible level.
- Check your HDMI cables: If you’re using an external device, make sure the HDMI cables are properly connected.
- Try a different show/movie: Sometimes, certain content might have issues. Try playing a different show or movie to see if the problem persists.
Remember, when in doubt, it’s always a good idea to contact Vizio or HBO support. They are more than equipped to handle any issue that comes their way.
Frequently Asked Questions
HBO Max is a subscription video streaming service that gives access to the full HBO library, along with exclusive Max Originals. It offers three subscription tiers: an ad-supported plan for $9.99, an ad-free plan for $15.99, and the ultimate tier that includes 4K for $19.99.
HBO Max is available natively on VIZIO Smart TV. You can install the HBO Max app from the app store on your TV and then log in using your HBO Max credentials. You can also stream to your VIZIO Smart TV through Apple AirPlay or Google Cast.
Yes, HBO Max allows you to create up to five profiles. Each profile can have a unique color. For children, you can create specific profiles with content restrictions based on ratings. A PIN can be set to unlock or change these restrictions.
HBO Max includes all originals shows that air on HBO, originals only available to HBO Max subscribers, classic comedies like Friends and The Big Bang Theory, films released by Warner Bros., and classic cartoons for kids. It also has the exclusive U.S. streaming rights to all Studio Ghibli films.
