Disney Hulu merger date: Latest Updates!

Disney and Hulu are set to merge into a single app, with a beta version of the new combined app launching in December 2023. This unified app will be available to subscribers of the Disney+ and Hulu bundle, providing them with a single app to access all their content. The official non-beta launch is scheduled for spring 2024.

The merger is part of Disney’s efforts to streamline its streaming services and provide a more integrated experience for its subscribers. The company expects the merger to result in increased engagement, greater ad revenue, reduced customer-acquisition costs, and lower churn. The merger is also tied to Disney’s acquisition of Comcast’s stake in Hulu, which will allow Disney to be the sole owner of Hulu and enable the combined app.

The pricing for the new app has not been announced yet, but the current ad-supported Hulu and Disney+ bundle costs $9.99 per month, while the version without ads costs $19.99 per month.

What will happen to existing Hulu subscribers after the merger?

• After the merger, existing Hulu subscribers within the Disney bundle will access Hulu programming on the same app as Disney+.
• No need for separate apps; content from both Disney+ and Hulu will be available within a single unified interface.

Launch Timeline:

• Beta version of the unified app set to launch in December 2023.
• Official non-beta launch scheduled for spring 2024.

Exclusive Access:

• Initially, the unified app will be exclusive to Disney+ and Hulu bundle subscribers.
• Provides these subscribers with a more integrated streaming experience.

Strategic Goals:

• The merger aligns with Disney’s strategy to streamline streaming services.
• Aims to enhance the overall user experience for subscribers.

Disney’s Merger Strategy:

• Part of a broader effort to optimize streaming services.
• Intends to improve user engagement and satisfaction.

What new features will be added to the merged app?

Unified Interface:

• A single interface for accessing content from both Disney+ and Hulu.
• Provides a seamless and integrated user experience.

Enhanced Content Discovery:

• Improved content discovery and recommendation features.
• Leverages combined libraries of Disney and Hulu for personalized viewing suggestions.

Cross-Platform Viewing:

• Seamless switching between different devices.
• Ensures a consistent viewing experience across platforms.

Interactive Viewing:

• Integration of interactive and immersive experiences.
• Bonus content, behind-the-scenes footage, and interactive features for select shows and movies.

Social Features:

• Integration of social features within the app.
• Allows users to share and discuss favorite shows and movies with friends and family.

Customized Profiles:

• Enhanced user profiles.
• Ability to create personalized watchlists, track viewing history, and receive tailored recommendations.

These anticipated features reflect the industry’s focus on providing a more engaging and personalized streaming experience for subscribers. As the merger progresses, more specific details about the new features of the merged app are expected to be announced by Disney and Hulu.