Disney+ is set to roll out its ad-supported subscription tier to select European markets and Canada starting November 1, following a successful U.S. debut. Meanwhile, U.S. audiences will have an exciting bundle to look forward to this fall: a joint ad-free Disney+ Premium and Hulu package priced at $19.99/month, available from September 6.
Joe Earley, the President of Direct-to-Consumer at Disney Entertainment, highlighted the positive reception of their ad-supported plans in the U.S., emphasizing the brand’s commitment to providing viewers with diverse choices. He said “The strong momentum of our ad-supported plans in the U.S. demonstrates the importance of providing consumers with choice, flexibility and value. We are excited to expand that offering in more markets across the globe, including in Europe and Canada, and to launch a new premium duo bundle of ad-free Disney+ and Hulu this Fall, as we take steps toward making extensive Hulu content available via Disney+ later this year for Bundle subscribers.”
Disney+ isn’t stopping there. It’s introducing a new Standard tier and a Standard with Ads option in select EMEA regions and Canada. Starting rates for these plans are set at £4.99/€5.99 per month in EMEA countries and $7.99/month in Canada. Current subscribers, however, will enjoy the Premium tier with No Ads after the impending subscription price hike in December unless they decide to transition to the newer economical plans.
These tiers in Europe and Canada promise:
Rich Content Library: Subscribers have access to an array of titles, including films, documentaries, TV shows, and shorts.
Profile Customizations: The option to generate multiple profiles per account, bolstered by the ability to set content ratings and PINs via Parental Controls.
Simultaneous Viewing: Depending on the chosen plan, users can stream on up to four devices concurrently.
Video Quality: Ranges from Full HD, 4K Ultra HD, Dolby Vision, HDR10, to IMAX Enhanced where applicable.
In addition, the Disney+ and Hulu ad-free combo launching on September 6 in the U.S. enhances the brand’s diverse subscription offerings, cementing its position as one of the best streaming values today. From October 12, revamped pricing structures for Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+ plans, both with and without ads, will come into play in the U.S.
Disney+’s strategic move to expand its ad-supported tiers and introduce enticing bundles indicates a keen understanding of the varied needs of global consumers. As streaming wars intensify, offering a mix of content quality, viewing flexibility, and pricing options could be Disney+’s ace in capturing a larger market share.
