Disney is set to raise subscription fees for its streaming platforms, including Disney+, Hulu and ESPN+, starting in mid-October.
The company announced Tuesday that most plans for these services will see a $1-2 per month price increase. The biggest increase will be Hulu’s live TV packages, which will increase by $6 per month.
For Disney+, the basic plan will now cost $9.99 per month, while the premium plan will be priced at $15.99. Hulu’s ad-supported plan will cost $9.99 per month, and the ad-free version will cost $18.99. ESPN+, which includes ads, will be priced at $11.99 per month.
These price adjustments are part of Disney’s strategy to encourage customers to opt for bundled offers, which offer more value. Disney currently offers bundles that combine Hulu and Disney+, or that also include ESPN+. The ad-supported Disney+ and Hulu bundle will also see a $1 increase in price, bringing the price to $10.99 per month, while the ad-free version will remain at $19.99 per month.
Additionally, Disney has partnered with Warner Bros. Discovery to offer a new bundle option that includes Disney+, Hulu, and Max. This bundle will be available for $16.99 with ads and $29.99 without ads, offering a 38% savings compared to purchasing the services separately.
Starting September 4, Disney will also offer new content to attract subscribers, including ABC News Live and a preschool playlist that will be accessible to all subscribers. The company plans to introduce four more curated playlists for premium subscribers, aiming to improve the viewing experience and value.
Alisa Bowen, president of Disney+, emphasized in the press release the importance of these playlists in ensuring a first-rate experience for subscribers.
Disney will report its fiscal third-quarter earnings on Wednesday, shortly before the market close.