Fans will soon be able to watch their favorite Disney and Hulu content in one streaming app!
Disney CEO Bob Iger announced during the Q2 earnings call that the company will combine Hulu and Disney+. This is to create a “one-app experience” within the US by combining streaming platforms.
Iger stated that while they currently offer “Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN Plus standalone options, this is a logical progression of our DTC offerings.”
He adds that it will “provide greater opportunities for advertisers while giving bundle subscribers access to more robust and streamlined content, resulting in greater audience engagement and ultimately leading to a more unified streaming experience.”
He also talked about the price increase for the ad-free plan, noting, “The pricing changes we’ve already implemented a proven successful. We plan to set a higher price for our ad-free tier later this year to better reflect the value of our content offerings.”
Users should expect the combined app to roll out by the end of the calendar year, and Disney will share more details “in the future.”
Hulu content is already bundled into the Disney+ app in select countries outside of the US.
To add, Disney is contemplating the buy Comcast’s 33 percent stake in Hulu, which is set to be sold to Disney in January 2024.
“There seems to be real value in having general entertainment combined with Disney Plus, and Hulu is that solution,” Iger said.
Disney also plans to remove certain content from its streaming services. The decision is part of a strategic shift in content curation. According to Disney CFO Christine McCarthy, this will result in an impairment charge of anywhere from $1.5 to $1.8 billion.
Banner Image Paulo Correa
