Disney recently announced that it will be increasing the prices of its streaming services, Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+. Starting in mid-October, most plans for these platforms will see a price increase of $1 to $2 per month. Additionally, the most expensive plans for Hulu, which include live TV, will see a significant increase of $6 per month. The basic and premium plans for Disney+ will be priced at $9.99 and $15.99, respectively. Hulu’s plans with ads will now cost $9.99 monthly, while the ad-free plan will be priced at $18.99 per month. ESPN+, which includes ads, will have a price tag of $11.99 per month.
The price hikes come as Disney is actively promoting its bundle deals to offer customers more value for their money. Customers can opt for a bundle that includes Hulu and Disney+, or combine all three streaming services for an enhanced viewing experience. The existing bundle of Disney+ and Hulu with ads will also experience a price increase to $10.99 per month this fall. However, the bundle without ads will remain at its current rate of $19.99 per month. Furthermore, Disney has collaborated with Warner Bros. Discovery to introduce a bundle that includes Disney+, Hulu, and Max, priced at $16.99 with ads and $29.99 for a commercial-free experience. This bundle promises a 38% savings compared to purchasing the services separately.
In addition to the price changes, Disney is looking to entice subscribers with new offerings. Starting September 4, all subscribers will have access to ABC News Live and a curated playlist featuring preschool content. The company also plans to introduce four more personalized playlists for premium subscribers. Alisa Bowen, president of the streaming platform, emphasized that these playlists are part of Disney’s ongoing efforts to provide the best value and experience for subscribers every time they engage with Disney+. Disney’s fiscal third-quarter earnings are set to be revealed before the market opens on Wednesday.
This latest move by Disney showcases the ongoing evolution of the streaming landscape, with companies continually adjusting their prices and offerings to remain competitive and relevant in a crowded market. Customers will need to assess the new pricing structure and bundle options to determine the best value for their streaming preferences.
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