Standalone HBO Service Arrives in Time for Game of Thrones Premiere

HBO Now, the premium network's online-only standalone streaming service, is available now for Apple devices and on PC for people who get their Internet through Cablevision's Optimum broadband platform.

Here's how to get started on your iOS device, courtesy of the HBO Now official description.

1. Download the HBO Now app.

2. Subscribe via an in-app purchase using your Apple ID, or log in with credentials provided when subscribing through a participating broadband provider.

3. Create your HBO Now profile and stream on iOS devices--iPad, iPhone, iPod Touch and Apple TV--or on the web at HBONOW.com.

Cablevision subscribers, meanwhile, can order HBO Now here. Cablevision is a major Internet service provider that covers the New York area. If you live elsewhere, you'll eventually have a chance to sign up for HBO Now on PC, as more providers will be added later.

None were named outright, but Comcast, AT&T, and Verizon are likely candidates.

HBO Now--not be confused with the existing HBO Go--is available for $15/month after a free 30-day trial. The appeal of the service is that you'll no longer need to pay for a pricey cable subscription to watch the network's entire suite of programming.

HBO Now could come to gaming consoles later, but the service is exclusive to Apple devices and PC for a period of three months. This timed-exclusivity arrangement was announced last month.

Three months may not be such a long duration, but it does cover the entire new season of Game of Thrones, which debuts this coming Sunday, April 12.

For lots more on today's HBO Now news, check out GameSpot sister site CNET's in-depth coverage. Are you planning to sign up for HBO Now? Let us know in the comments below!