In a significant development for streaming enthusiasts, Disney Plus and Hulu, both owned by Disney, are set to merge into a single app. This move brings together two of the most popular streaming services, promising a seamless and consolidated viewing experience for users.
The merger will unfold in two stages, with the beta version of the unified app scheduled to launch in December 2023, followed by the official non-beta release in Spring 2024, as revealed during Disney’s Fiscal Full Year and Q4 2023 Earnings Results call.
Despite Disney’s majority ownership of Hulu, the completion of the merger depends on finalizing the acquisition of Comcast’s stake in Hulu. The deal, valued at $8.61 billion, is in progress, and while potential complexities exist, they are not anticipated to impede Disney’s plans for the merger.
Access to the beta version of the combined Disney Plus and Hulu app will initially be exclusive to subscribers of the Disney bundle, which offers various configurations combining Disney Plus, Hulu, and ESPN Plus, both ad-supported and premium ad-free versions. This inclusion extends to all Disney bundle subscribers, ensuring widespread availability.
However, the beta version, like Hulu itself, will be accessible to U.S. subscribers only. The geographic restriction aligns with Hulu’s existing U.S.-only accessibility, indicating that the unified app does not signal an immediate global expansion plan for Disney’s streaming services.
As for costs, there is no additional fee for accessing the new super app for Disney bundle subscribers. The pricing structure remains aligned with the existing Disney bundle plans.
While the full catalog of Hulu content migrating to the new app is yet to be disclosed, expectations include the incorporation of Disney Plus TV shows and movies, Disney-owned networks originals (ABC, Disney Channel, ESPN, FX, etc.), and Hulu originals such as “No One Will Save You,” “Palm Springs,” “Solar Opposites,” and “Only Murders in the Building.”
Anticipated content on the unified app spans a wide spectrum, encompassing Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), Star Wars, Pixar, and more. However, non-Disney-owned properties currently featured on Hulu, like “Schitt’s Creek” or “Rick and Morty,” may not transition immediately, necessitating separate negotiations.
While live sports and news may not be available on the new app initially, future updates could bring about changes. The current arrangement allows Hulu and ESPN Plus subscribers to watch ESPN Plus games on the Hulu app, but the status of this feature on the unified app remains uncertain, especially considering ESPN’s evolving role within Disney’s streaming landscape.
In essence, Disney’s new super streaming app aims to redefine the streaming experience by seamlessly integrating Disney Plus and Hulu, offering a diverse range of content under one unified platform.
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