Disney has announced that starting mid-October, there will be price increases on most plans for their streaming services including Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+. The prices will go up by $1 to $2 per month, affecting both basic and premium plans.
The most expensive plans on Hulu will see a substantial increase of $6 per month, especially for those including live TV. Additionally, Hulu with ads will now cost $9.99 monthly, while the ad-free version of the service will be priced at $18.99 per month.
Pushing Customers Towards Bundles
Disney is making these price adjustments as part of their strategy to promote bundles, encouraging customers to get more value for their money. Bundles have been offered for some time now, combining services like Hulu and Disney+ or even including ESPN+.
In a move to further expand their offerings, Disney has teamed up with Warner Bros. Discovery to introduce a bundle that includes Disney+, Hulu, and Max. This bundle was initially announced in July with prices set at $16.99 with ads and $29.99 for a commercial-free experience.
Disney aims to enhance the subscriber experience by adding ABC News Live and a new playlist featuring preschool content for all subscribers starting September 4. Premium subscribers will also have access to four more curated playlists, providing a more tailored viewing experience.
The company is continuously looking for ways to provide the best value for its subscribers and enhance their overall experience. The fiscal third-quarter earnings are expected to be released before the bell on Wednesday, providing insight into the company’s financial performance and growth strategies.
While the price hikes may come as a disappointment to some subscribers, Disney is proactively working to offer a wider range of content and features to justify these changes. The focus on bundles and curated playlists demonstrates the company’s commitment to providing a comprehensive and tailored streaming experience for all users.