TechCrunch Daily Crunch Paramount+ and HBO Max to merge into one streaming service
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Mar 3, 2026 A major streaming merger is unpacked, including plans to combine two big services and preserve a premium brand and theatrical slate. Apple’s iPad Air gets an M4 boost and iPhone 17e specs are previewed. X rolls out a paid partnership label to help creators disclose sponsored posts and monetize content.
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Host's Recap Of iPhone 17e Highlights
- Imran Shaikh summarized Apple's iPhone 17e: $599, A19 chip, 256GB base storage, MagSafe and Qi2 support for 15W wireless charging.
- The phone adds the C1X modem (twice as fast, 30% less energy) and keeps a 48MP Fusion camera with 2x optical-quality telephoto.
Paramount Skydance Plans One Unified Streaming Service
- Paramount Skydance plans to merge Paramount+ and HBO Max into one unified streaming service after acquiring Warner Bros. Discovery.
- David Ellison committed to preserving HBO's creative identity and delivering at least 30 theatrical releases yearly across studios.
HBO Identity Will Be Preserved Amid Consolidation
- David Ellison emphasized that HBO will retain its identity despite the platform consolidation.
- He also pledged 15 theatrical films per year per studio, promising a robust theatrical slate alongside streaming.