Disney CEO Bob Iger announced that the new streaming service will provide access to the complete range of ESPN channels.
The release window for ESPN’s standalone streaming service has been announced. Disney CEO Bob Iger revealed during the company’s first-quarter earnings call that the “one-stop sports destination” is set to launch in the fall of 2025. Iger described the service as “highly interactive” and stated that it will feature the complete suite of ESPN channels. Additionally, Iger mentioned that the platform is likely to launch in August.
In addition to streaming live games and studio programming, consumers can expect engaging digital integrations such as ESPN Bet and fantasy sports, as well as e-commerce features and a comprehensive selection of sports statistics.
This news comes on the heels of Tuesday’s announcement of a new sports streaming service from Disney, Fox, and Warner Bros. Discovery. Iger characterized this service, which draws from the television and streaming networks of all three companies, as a linear channel “bundle.” In contrast, the upcoming ESPN standalone service will focus specifically on the channel owned by Disney.
Disney did not disclose pricing details for either the combined offering or the new standalone service during the Wednesday earnings call.
It’s important to note that the new service will be distinct from ESPN Plus, which already exists. While ESPN Plus offers on-demand ESPN original content and some live sports, it does not provide access to major sporting events broadcast on the ESPN cable channel, such as certain Monday Night Football games and many MLB and NBA games. According to CNET’s review, ESPN Plus is considered more of a supplementary offering compared to ESPN’s main content.
CEO Bob Iger described the new flagship ESPN service as an immersive, sports-focused app that will eventually be bundled with Disney Plus and Hulu.
During the earnings call, Disney also announced plans to introduce a fee for users who share their Disney Plus accounts later this year. Further details were not provided, and Disney has not yet responded to requests for additional information.
Disney to Charge Fee to Share Your Streaming Accounts Next on This Year
Disney has introduced new account-sharing policies, which will be enforced through the implementation of a fee for Disney Plus streaming customers later this year. This decision was announced by CFO Hugh Johnston during the company’s first-quarter earnings call, following updates to subscriber agreements for Disney Plus, Hulu, and ESPN Plus.
Following Netflix’s example set last year, Disney’s measures against password sharing will commence this summer. Johnston stated, “Beginning this summer, Disney Plus accounts suspected of improper sharing will be presented with new capabilities to allow their borrowers to start their own subscriptions.” Furthermore, later in the year, account holders wishing to grant access to individuals outside their household will have the option to add them to their accounts for an extra fee.
Last week, subscribers began receiving emails detailing changes to user agreements for each platform. These changes dictate that subscribers may not share their accounts with individuals outside their primary household residence, unless permitted by their tier. Disney’s terms stipulate that the company may monitor compliance by reviewing usage habits and may choose to “limit or terminate access.” The policy came into effect on Jan. 25 for new users and will apply to existing customers starting March 14.
CEO Bob Iger initially announced plans to address account sharing in August, highlighting it as a priority for 2024 for the global subscriber base. He emphasized that this move would support the company’s efforts to increase monetization in the new year. Disney initially rolled out its crackdown in Canada and introduced new rules in November.
In comparison, Netflix charges $8 for each “extra member” subaccount, with restrictions on the number of people that can be added to a Premium or Standard subscription. Despite initial backlash, this change contributed to an increase in Netflix’s subscriber numbers, as some former password borrowers opted to sign up for their own accounts, including its $7 ad-based plan.
Disney is also evolving its streaming business in other ways. The company will launch its Hulu on Disney Plus single-app option next month and recently announced a joint venture with Warner Bros.
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