AT&T defends HBO Max’s exclusion from data caps

AT&T has defended its decision to exclude HBO Max from counting against AT&T wireless subscribers’ data caps while competing streaming services don’t get the same treatment. The company said the move will save money for millions of consumers and that it’s not unlike what some of its competitors already do. “This is based on a Sponsored Data arrangement and is a program we offer on the same terms to any entities who wish to sponsor data for their customers. This is similar to arrangements many of our competitors have, we continue to support an open internet and have done so for more than a decade,” said an AT&T spokesperson. Indeed, T-Mobile’s Binge On program for its Simple Choice wireless subscribers allows them to YouTube, Netflix, Hulu, HBO, Sling, ESPN, SHOWTIME, Starz, and more without data charges applying.