As someone who often travels for work, I’ve repeatedly encountered the limitations of Discovery Plus’s offline viewing when I need reliable access to films. Even though I got a premium subscription, Discovery Plus’s DRM restrictions too often stand in the way. It’s a common irritation. With official offline downloads restricted and "DRM error" popping up at the worst times.
This recurring inconvenience led me to write this article as an instruction for people who have the same problems. I’ll introduce what DRM means in Discovery Plus in Part 1️⃣; Part 2️⃣ will guide how to fix it, and a method to download Discovery Plus videos without DRM issues is outlined in Part 3️⃣.
What "DRM-protected content" Means on Discovery+?
- Widevine (Google): Common on Android/Chrome/Chromecast/ChromeOS.
- PlayReady (Microsoft): Used on Windows/Edge and many Smart TVs; supports hardware-secure paths for higher resolutions.
- FairPlay (Apple): Native to iOS/iPadOS/tvOS/Safari via HLS.
Discovery Plus is a popular platform known for its vast collection of exclusive content, you can also watch Discovery Plus videos on Smart TV. To protect its copyrighted materials, like shows, films, and documentaries from unauthorized sharing, Discovery Plus employs Digital Rights Management or DRM protection. Drm Protected Content Discovery Plus ensures that only bona fide subscribers can access and view content.
The DRM encryption prevents users from downloading or screen-capturing videos. When your device or connection can’t meet the security rules (think: very old hardware, non-HDCP cable, or region restrictions), playback can fail with a "DRM"-prefixed error. As a result, unauthorized attempts either fail, or the user receives a black screen.
Can You Download Discovery+ for Offline Viewing?
Yes. Ad-Free plan (US) only. Because of DRM, not all titles are eligible. You can save up to 100 downloads at once. This feature is Mobile only (iOS/Android).
Discovery+ prices and plans (US, 2025)
Discovery+ has raised its subscription prices in the U.S. starting January 2025. The ad-supported tier will increase to $5.99 per month, while the ad-free plan will remain at $9.99 per month. It’s a modest but notable change. For viewers who rely on offline viewing or ad-free access, budgeting for the new rates is necessary.
| Plan | Monthly price | Notes |
| With Ads | $5.99 |
|
| Ad-Free | $9.99 | Required for offline downloads (US) |
Based on the Discovery Plus official help center, Discovery+ is not included with Amazon Prime. You can add Discovery+ via Prime Video Channels, but that subscription is watched inside the Prime Video app and doesn’t unlock the Discovery+ app.
Devices & DRM support matrix
Use this table to spot likely friction:
| DRM/Platform | iOS / iPadOS / tvOS (Safari, app) | Android / Chrome / Chromecast / ChromeOS | Windows / Edge |
| What’s used | FairPlay | Widevine | PlayReady (Edge) |
| Typical limits |
|
|
|
| Notes | Use updated iOS/tvOS | Keep Chrome/Widevine up-to-date | Use compliant cables/monitors |
| *Sources: Apple FPS overview; Google Widevine overview; Microsoft PlayReady EME docs. | |||
UK YouView Humax boxes lost support Sept 22. Use a current EE TV box or another supported device. Check the live device list before upgrading cables.
Fixing the "DRM error" Safely
Start here (in order):
- Update your app, OS/firmware, and browser (if on web). Old DRM modules cause failures.
- Check HDMI/HDCP: Use a certified cable and a port that supports HDCP (especially for 4K). Avoid cheap adapters/splitters.
- Try another display path: If a secondary monitor or certain adapters trip DRM, test the primary port/cable.
- Disable VPN/proxy and conflicting extensions; restart the app/device.
- Cross-test another device on the same account/network to isolate where the failure lives.
About the 1B-6001/1B-6006 code, community reports often trace them to old TV firmware, flaky HDMI, or provider-side hiccups. If you encounter any of them, try to follow the sequence above; contact support if errors persist.
For those unwilling to wait on app updates or technical support queues, there exists another, less conventional approach. By opting to download Discovery Plus content that is free of DRM protection, one can preempt the DRM error altogether.
How to Download Discovery Plus Videos without DRM?
Alternatively, choose a third-party downloader that explicitly states they do not involve any DRM removal technologies, such as KeepStreams for Discovery Plus. For more information, please refer to KeepStreams' official copyright statement.
If you are looking for a method to download DRM-free Discovery Plus videos, KeepStreams for Discovery Plus is one of your best options. KeepStreams can download Discovery+ movies and shows into MP4, so you don't have to worry about device compatibility. Moreover, Discovery downloads with the help of KeepStreams will not expire.
Unlike recording tools that may bring a black screen and be time-consuming, KeepStreams can download a 120-minute Discovery movie in around 10 to 15 minutes.
Step 1: Click "free trial" to download the latest version of KeepStreams and install it on your device.
Step 2: Activating Your KeepStreams Account. Click the "settings" icon in the right upper corner.
Then, choose "Authorize" to log in to your KeepStreams account.
Step 3: Log in to Discovery Plus from VIP Services
Step 4: Play the video you want to download and set download preferences. Initiating the download by clicking on the 'Download Now' button.
Discovery+ vs. HBO Max in 2025 (status update)
Quick Note:
- Discovery+ remains independent from HBO Max.
- WBD’s split shouldn’t interrupt current Discovery+ subscriptions.
Discovery+ continues as a separate service; Warner Bros. Discovery is rebranding Max back to HBO Max (summer 2025). That move doesn’t fold Discovery+ into HBO Max. WBD plans to separate into two companies—one for Streaming & Studios (HBO Max, Warner Bros. TV/Film) and one for Global Networks (cable brands including Discovery+). Target completion is mid-2026 pending approvals.
As for if Discovery+ price change because of the split, there are no announced changes beyond the 2025 $1 increase already in effect.
FAQs about Discovery+
Q1. Is Discovery Plus free with Prime?
A1. No, Discovery Plus is not free with Amazon Prime. It is a separate streaming service from Discovery with its subscription fee.
Q2. How do I fix the DRM Error on Discovery Plus?
A2. Usually an environmental issue. Update software, verify HDCP cabling/ports, retry primary display, then contact support with details.
Q3. Can I share Discovery Plus with another household?
A3. Yes. But according to Discovery Plus' terms of service, your account is intended for members of the same household. Sharing your account with individuals outside of your household could cause your account to be suspended. Be cautious.
Q4. How do I cancel Discovery+?
A4. Follow the official cancellation steps (direct vs. Prime Channels vs. app stores).
Q5. Which devices are supported, and what DRM do they use?
A5. See the official supported devices list, and pair it with the DRM mapping above (Apple → FairPlay; Android/Chrome → Widevine; Edge/Windows → PlayReady).
Q6. Is it safe to use third-party downloader to save Discovery+ DRM-protected video?
A6. This is relative. Before using any downloader, carefully review its official website, user feedback, and most importantly, the legal disclaimers and copyright statements. Ensure you only use highly reputable software like KeepStreams from official sources. And keep all downloaded files only for personal use.
Summary
Discovery Plus DRM restrictions and device limitations can frustrate even the most loyal subscribers. While Discovery Plus has announced a price increase for 2025, its offline viewing options remain tied to the ad-free plan. For those facing repeated DRM errors or download limitations, reputable tools like KeepStreams may offer a more efficient yet still responsible way to ensure continued access to essential content on the go.
In an era where content access should match our mobility, it’s clear the streaming industry has room for improvement. Until then, informed workarounds may be the only way for frequent travelers and researchers to keep pace.