ESPN Joins Disney Plus App Today
Disney is expanding its streaming offerings by bringing ESPN content to the Disney Plus app, starting today. While the ESPN tile on the app will currently feature live games and shows from ESPN Plus, the true ESPN streaming service, including all the popular shows sports fans love, is set to launch next year.
The reason behind this integration is clear: Disney is aiming to attract more subscribers to its Disney Plus / Hulu / ESPN Plus bundle. By making it easy for customers to access all their favorite content in one place, the bundle becomes even more appealing. As an added bonus, Disney Plus subscribers can now enjoy a selection of live sports events from ESPN Plus and movies and series from Hulu, even if they’re not currently paying for those services.
Alisa Bowen, president of Disney Plus, expressed excitement about the new ESPN integration, stating that it gives bundle subscribers a convenient way to access content from all of Disney’s brands. While ESPN Plus offers a wide range of live sports events and original content, this move is just the first step towards bringing traditional linear ESPN to the service. The full ESPN streaming service is expected to launch in 2025 and will offer a more feature-packed sports experience, including integrated betting and fantasy leagues.
In addition to expanding its content offerings, Disney is also addressing issues like password sharing and adjusting subscription prices to reflect the app’s value as an all-encompassing entertainment hub. While the cost of subscribing to Disney Plus may continue to rise, the convenience of having all your favorite content in one place is a major selling point for many users in the streaming era. Disney’s focus on bundles and ad-supported plans underscores its commitment to making its streaming business profitable and sustainable in the long run.