HBO is the latest to allow for virtual watch parties. According to Variety, the WarnerMedia-owned programmer has partnered with Scener — a Seattle-based startup — to launch the Scener Virtual Movie Theater, which allows for 20 people to virtually stream content from HBO Now or HBO Go together.
“COVID-19 has highlighted the need to connect virtually with loved ones, and Scener’s partnership with HBO provides a fantastic way to interact,” said Joe Braidwood, co-founder and COO of Scener. “By combining the worlds of live video chat and streaming entertainment, Scener makes it easy for viewers to enjoy one of our most beloved pastimes — watching TV together — from a safe distance.”
HBO subscribers are able to create their own private theaters on Windows, Mac or Chromebook by downloading the free extension via the Chrome Web Store. The extension comes with an option for video chat and headphones are recommended for better sound quality.
There is no word on whether or not the Scener Virtual Movie Theater will also support HBO Max when it launches on May 27.
Scener also supports Netflix, Variety reports.