In a strategic move to enhance their direct-to-consumer offerings, Disney+ and Hulu are collaborating to provide a more streamlined and comprehensive streaming experience. The recent earnings report from Disney reveals plans to combine the shows from both platforms into a single app.
While Disney will continue to offer Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+ as standalone options, the integration of these services represents a logical progression in its direct-to-consumer strategy. The merger aims to create greater opportunities for advertisers and offer bundle subscribers access to a wider range of robust content. This synergy is expected to drive increased audience engagement and result in a more cohesive and unified streaming experience, as stated by Disney CEO Bob Iger in the report.
Subscription prices are set to increase in the near future. Currently, subscribers in the US pay either $10.99 per month or $109.99 for an annual subscription. This price increase follows a previous adjustment from $7.99 per month in December 2022, which introduced an ad-supported subscription option for $7.99 per month.
Disney+ has experienced some challenges recently, with a loss of four million subscribers in the second quarter of 2023 and ongoing profitability concerns. In March, it was announced that Disney+ would scale back its program releases, focusing on prioritizing quantity over quality. As a result, the company plans to reduce its workforce by 7,000 employees in the coming months.
While we await further information on the future price rise, it is clear that the collaboration between Disney+ and Hulu represents a significant step forward in providing a more cohesive and expansive streaming experience for audiences around the world.