For most people they’ll still need to have DSL or cable Internet. Although I’m not an HBO subscriber I hope this will be the first step in making more cable channels fully available online or through streaming boxes and viewers having something closer to ala carte TV.
I have a Roku box and they have channels for several of the major networks with clips or on demand programming, but not very many with the full schedule. I’d like to see more of the major networks go to having their full schedules available on streaming boxes with total freedom of choice over what channels a viewer wants without having to take dozens or hundreds of channels they don’t want. Maybe HBO’s plan is the first step toward this.
I forgot to mention that ESPN and the Disney Channels are available live online, and on smart phones and Roku, and possibly other streaming boxes as well with watch websites and apps for them. Several Turner Networks (TBS, TNT, TCM, and Tru TV) are available online and on smart phones through watch apps as well, but not on streaming boxes yet to my knowledge. You have to have subscriptions to one of the major cable services to get them though. I don’t know if they’re available to anyone who may have broadband only but not cable TV though.