Disney+ will combine with Hulu content, but the price of the ad-free plan rises

Disney has announced that it will be launching a new app that combines content from its Disney+ and Hulu platforms for US customers. The integrated app will provide a “one app experience” for subscribers with the Disney Bundle, allowing them to access a wider range of content without having to switch between separate services. The new offering is expected to launch at the end of 2023, with the company planning to continue offering Disney+, Hulu and ESPN+ as standalone platforms. The move comes after Disney+ lost 4 million subscribers in Q2 2023, while Hulu gained 200,000.

During the company’s quarterly earnings call, CEO Bob Iger also revealed changes about the price of the streaming service. Last year Disney, along with other streaming giants like Netflix, began offering cheaper, ad-supported options in an effort to boost subscriber numbers. When Disney+ launched its ad-supported plan in December, the cost of its premium tier went up to $10.99 per month, compared to the original price of $7.99. Unluckily Disney+ subscribers will soon have to pay even more if they want to enjoy content without any ads, since the company has announced that it will be increasing the price of its ad-free subscription later in the year.

Despite the impending price hike, Disney+ remains a popular choice for streaming entertainment. The platform has amassed over 100 million subscribers since its launch and continues to release new content regularly. The integration of Disney+ and Hulu content follows similar moves made by competitors, such as Paramount+ combining with Showtime and Warner Bros. Discovery announcing its new streaming service, Max, which merges HBO Max and Discovery+ into one platform. With the ever-growing popularity of streaming services, it remains to be seen how much subscribers are willing to pay for their favorite shows and movies.