HBO gives you another reason to dump your cable-TV service

Cable cutters, rejoice! If the only thing keeping you tethered to your cable TV subscription has been your addiction to HBO shows such as "Game of Thrones" and "True Detective," next year you'll be able to watch the shows via a stand-alone streaming service that's not tied to a cable subscription.

The announcement, made by Time Warner executives at an investor's meeting, is sure to be welcomed by the 10 million or so homes that have broadband but not a paid TV subscription from a cable, satellite or telco TV service provider. The move also targets those who do subscribe to a basic pay TV package, but who don't pay extra for the premium channel.

There's no word yet on how much HBO will charge for its streaming-only service. It could be offered through broadband providers, including cable and telco companies that also provide TV service, as well as through new partners, such as Google or Amazon. HBO could also go it alone, putting it on collision course with streaming services such as Netflix or Amazon Prime, which have been creating more original content. HBO recently signed a deal with Amazon Prime for its older shows to appear exclusively on that service.

The move isn't completely unexpected, as Time Warner has been trying to widen HBO's reach. The company has experimented in the past with a few cable companies that let them offer HBO with a more basic programming tier. Comcast had a promotional package called Internet Plus that combined basic cable and HBO with broadband for a lower monthly fee. Time Warner also offered a $30-per-month "Starter TV with HBO" package with about 20 mostly broadcast channels, plus HBO and HBO Go. But this is the first time the company has acknowledged that it will offer a streaming service not tied to a pay TV subscription.

For those thinking about cutting the cord, it's certainly an appealing option. Using an outdoor or indoor antenna, you may be able to get free, high-quality over-the-air broadcast TV signals from the major networks. (See our tips on antenna placement for getting the best reception.) You can then add Netflix for $9 per month (or Amazon Prime by paying a $99 yearly fee), and then a montly charge to get HBO. In all likelihood, it will still be far less money than a paid TV subscription.

Of course we'll anxiously be waiting to see how much HBO will charge for its streaming service, and whether it will partner with others or go it alone. Keep checking back for updates as they occur.

—James K. Willcox