How to Skip Episodes and Change Shows on HBO Max Streaming

HBO Max offers a vast library of shows, movies, and original content to stream on demand. When binge-watching your favorite series, you may want to easily skip episodes or switch to a different show. Here are some tips for skipping episodes and changing shows on HBO Max.

Using the Skip Intro Button

Many shows on HBO Max have a “Skip Intro” button that appears in the lower right corner at the start of an episode. This allows you to skip past the opening theme song and credits to jump directly into the episode content.

To use this feature:

  • Start playing an episode on HBO Max
  • Wait for the “Skip Intro” button to appear
  • Select the button to skip ahead

Some shows may also have a generic “Skip” button during recaps or promotional content before an episode. Use this to bypass those segments.

Switching Episodes Mid-Binge

If you want to change episodes in the middle of your binge session, it’s easy to jump around within a show.

On most devices:

  • Bring up the playback controls by tapping the screen
  • Select the episode title at the bottom to open a menu
  • Choose “More Episodes”
  • Browse and select another episode from any season

This lets you freely move between different episodes without losing your place.

Changing Shows Through the Home Screen

The HBO Max home screen features rows like “Continue Watching” and “For You” where your recently viewed shows appear first.

To switch shows:

  • Return to the Home screen
  • Scroll down and select another show tile from any row
  • Choose an episode and start playing

You can also use the top navigation or side menu to access Hubs, Genres, or Search to find something new.

Using Bookmarks to Jump Between Devices

HBO Max allows you to set bookmarks so you can easily resume shows later even when switching devices.

To set a bookmark:

  • Pause the video at the spot you want
  • Exit HBO Max completely or fully shut down the device

When you open HBO Max again on any device, you’ll see “Resume from Bookmarked Spot” on the details page. Select this option and it will pick up right where you left off.

Removing Shows from Continue Watching

If you start a show but decide to abandon it, you may want to remove it from your profile’s “Continue Watching” row so it’s not taking up prime real estate.

To manage your Continue Watching list:

  • Go to your profile icon > Continue Watching
  • Choose “Edit”
  • Select the shows you want to remove
  • Choose “Clear All” to wipe the slate completely

Now when you go back to the home screen, you’ll only see the shows you’re actively catching up on.

Using Hubs to Browse Specific Libraries

HBO Max features various “Hubs”, which are sections dedicated to certain networks and brands like HBO, DC, Cartoon Network, TCM, and more.

To see available Hubs:

  • Go to the HBO Max home screen
  • Scroll down and select a Hub tile

Or use the navigation menu:

  • Open side menu or top genres menu
  • Choose “Hubs”

Once inside a Hub, you can browse shows and movies exclusive to that library. This makes it easy to jump between content from different brands and studios.

Enabling Autoplay for Seamless Binges

To create a seamless binge-watching experience, you can enable HBO Max’s autoplay feature. This automatically starts the next episode so you don’t have to select it manually.

To turn on autoplay:

On TV devices:

  • Go to your profile icon > Settings
  • Choose “Experience” or “Playback”
  • Toggle autoplay to “On”

Now just sit back and let the next episode roll after each one finishes!

Using AirPlay to Stream to Other Devices

If you want to easily throw your HBO Max viewing session over to another screen, use the AirPlay feature.

To cast via AirPlay:

  • Start playing a show on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac
  • Select the AirPlay icon from the playback controls
  • Choose another AirPlay-compatible device like an Apple TV or smart TV

AirPlay lets you effortlessly send shows to other screens as you move around your home.

Downloading for Offline Viewing

If you’ll be without internet for a while but still want to watch HBO Max, use the download feature available on mobile devices and tablets.

To download shows:

  • Find the show or movie you want
  • Select the download icon on its details page
  • New downloads will appear in your Downloads section

Downloaded content stays available for 30 days on your device before expiring. This gives you plenty of time to catch up on flights, road trips, or other offline scenarios.

Summary

With handy tools like Skip Intro, AirPlay casting, downloads, bookmarks, Hubs, and autoplay, you can customize your HBO Max viewing experience. Easily skip through episodes, change shows, or resume your place across different devices.

Take advantage of these streaming features and shortcuts to simplify your next binge session!