Hbo Max Gets A Glow-Up: Vertical Shorts And Ai Search Transform Streaming Experience

  • By Nico
  • July 30, 2026, 7 a.m.

HBO Max Unveils Game-Changing Features

Warner Bros. Discovery is revamping the HBO Max experience with two exciting mobile features aimed at shaking up content discovery. Debuting in the U.S., these updates are set to make finding your next binge-watch a breeze.

First up is HBO Max Shorts – a vertical feed filled with trailers, clips, and bonus videos. Accessible via a snazzy new "Shorts" button in the app's navigation bar, this feature serves up content personalized just for you, thanks to your viewing history. Whether you want to dive in or save something for later, Shorts has got you covered. The feature is currently rolling out to a select group of iOS users, with plans to broaden its reach soon.

HBO Max

HBO Max

AI-Powered Clips and Conversational Search

Warner Bros. Discovery is also tapping into artificial intelligence to enhance how you discover content. Utilizing an in-house AI tool, the company analyzes scene-level data to pick the most compelling moments from a wide array of films and shows. HBO Max editors then curate these clips for the Shorts feed, which are adapted into a vertical format for your viewing pleasure.

“We’re thrilled to harness AI to speed up how discovery clips are created,” shared Deepna Devkar, Senior Vice President of Machine Learning Engineering at Warner Bros. Discovery, hinting at a wider rollout in the future.

But that's not all – HBO Max is experimenting with a conversational search tool for adult users on Android. Dubbed "Ask HBO Max," this feature is designed to understand natural language queries. It's perfect for those times when you can't recall a title but know exactly what you're in the mood for. Whether you're craving a "dysfunctional family drama" or "the best movie for a girls' night in," this tool's got your back, offering tailored recommendations with just a few words.

Nico
Author: Nico
Nico

Nico

Nico tracks the pulse of SoCal creator culture - from WeHo nights to TikTok mornings. He chases viral moments, fan deals, collabs, and live events with fast, human coverage. Expect Q&As, “Hot Now” briefs, and field notes that tell you what’s popping and why it matters. If it’s trending by noon, Nico had it at breakfast.