What is the difference between a streaming service and a cable TV network app?

A streaming service (Netflix, Max, Disney+) is a standalone subscription product that delivers on-demand content over the internet. A cable TV network app (HBO Go, NBC App, Fox Now) requires an active cable or satellite subscription to authenticate — they are extensions of your cable package, not independent services. Max is the standalone streaming version of HBO content available without cable. As these apps evolved, most have become hybrid or fully standalone streaming services.