Disney is making a major move to reshape its streaming strategy by fully integrating Hulu into its flagship Disney+ platform, getting rid of the standalone Hulu app. The unified app is set to launch in 2026, combining Disney's expansive portfolio of family content, blockbuster franchises, general entertainment, news, and live sports into a single, streamlined experience.
Despite the merger, subscribers will still have the option to purchase standalone plans for either Disney+ or Hulu, according to a company representative.
"This is a major step forward in strengthening our streaming offering," Disney CEO Bob Iger and CFO Hugh Johnston said during the company's latest earnings presentation. "By combining the best of both platforms, we're creating a powerhouse of entertainment that offers unparalleled variety, value, and convenience."
The merged app is expected to enhance the user experience while significantly reducing subscriber churn. Both services will now run on the same technology platform, which Iger said will yield operational efficiencies and cost synergies. The company is also optimistic about boosting advertising revenue by consolidating ad sales for both services and offering new bundled packages to advertisers.
"With one unified app, we'll deliver an improved and personalized streaming experience. This positions us to grow our subscriber base, drive engagement, and increase profitability in our streaming business," said Iger.
Disney is also giving Hulu a new international role. Starting in fall 2025, Hulu will replace the "Star" tile on Disney+ in international markets, becoming Disney's global general entertainment brand.
The company is already working on technical upgrades to support the integration. Over the next few months, users can expect to see enhancements to the Disney+ app, including a more personalized homepage and other new features aimed at improving usability and discovery.
As part of the broader restructuring, Hulu's live TV subscribers will be migrated to Fubo, under a proposed joint venture that will be majority-owned by Disney. The move allows Disney to streamline its offerings while continuing to participate in the live TV market.
The full integration follows Disney's finalization of its buyout of Comcast's one-third stake in Hulu. After years of negotiation, the deal was completed in June 2025. Disney ultimately paid Comcast approximately $9 billion-$8.61 billion in November 2023 and an additional $438.7 million this past June. While Comcast had initially sought over $13 billion, the final price was determined by a third-party arbitration.
In a separate announcement, Disney also revealed that its long-awaited standalone ESPN streaming service will debut on August 21, priced at $29.99 per month. This marks a significant step in the company's sports streaming ambitions.
Additionally, Disney will stop reporting individual subscriber counts for Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+, aligning with a broader industry trend led by Netflix. The company says this shift reflects a greater focus on revenue, engagement, and profitability rather than subscriber volume alone.