Hulu's future: A comprehensive overview
Hulu Integrates with Disney+: A Global Streaming Revolution
Hulu, the popular streaming service known for its extensive library of TV shows and movies, is set to become a global brand as it expands beyond North America. In a move aimed at streamlining Disney's streaming services and improving user experience, Hulu will be fully integrated into Disney+ by early 2026.
The integration timeline and features have been outlined, with key changes already underway. In March 2024, a Hulu tile was added to Disney+ for US subscribers with both services. By fall 2025, the Hulu tile will replace the Star tile internationally, marking Hulu’s global expansion via Disney+. The standalone Hulu app will be phased out by early 2026, consolidating all Hulu content under Disney+.
Disney has assured a smooth transition for current Hulu subscribers, including the migration of watch histories, profiles, and preferences to the unified app. The unified app aims to offer a broad range of content, including family programming, adult Hulu shows, news, and live sports.
Regarding Hulu with Live TV, the specifics are not yet clear. However, given the comprehensive nature of the integration, it's implied that Hulu’s live offerings will also migrate or be accessible through Disney+. Users will likely experience these services via the new unified Disney+ platform rather than a separate app.
The strategic rationale behind this move is to streamline Disney’s streaming services by reducing operational complexity and costs. This consolidation is expected to improve user experience and Disney’s market position in the competitive streaming landscape.
In summary, the integration signals the end of Hulu as an independent app and brand, instead positioning Disney+ as a comprehensive platform hosting all Disney-owned streaming content, including Hulu’s library and live offerings. The new combined streaming platform is scheduled to launch in 2026.
It's important to note that information on whether the unification will impact the price of either streaming service or the bundle is not available. The prices for Hulu subscriptions and the new combined streaming service may change as we get closer to the official launch in 2026, but no information regarding this is available currently.
Consumers will still be able to buy Hulu as a standalone app until its discontinuation, and Hulu with Live TV will be discontinued and migrated to Fubo, with the migration expected to take place between late June/July 2026. Hulu is expanding internationally, starting in fall 2025. The deal for the migration could take 12-18 months to close.
Sources:
- Variety
- The Verge
- Deadline
- CNET
- The upcoming integration of Hulu into Disney+ marks a global streaming revolution, signifying Hulu's expansion beyond North America.
- By early 2026, Hulu content will be consolidated under Disney+, as the standalone Hulu app will be phased out.
- Disney+ is poised to offer a broad range of content, including shows, movies, live sports, and news, following the integration with Hulu.
- Current Hulu subscribers can expect a smooth transition, with watch histories, profiles, and preferences migrating to the unified Disney+ app.
- The unified Disney+ platform is expected to improve user experience and Disney's market position in the competitive streaming entertainment landscape.
- As the integration approaches, consumers may see changes in the prices for Hulu subscriptions and the new combined streaming service, although specifics are not available at this time.
