One App to Rule Them All: Disney+ & Hulu to Combine Content Libraries

Disney+ and Hulu are joining their content libraries in one app, but they will still be separate streaming services. 

Disney owns most of Hulu, with a 67% share. It does not have full control over Hulu, but people who subscribe to Disney+ can buy a package that includes Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+.

Disney CEO Bob Iger said in a call with investors that Disney+ and Hulu will combine their content libraries in one app by the end of this year, according to The Hollywood Reporter. 

But the services will still be separate. Iger thinks this app will help customers who buy Disney+ and Hulu bundles to enjoy them more. Check out what he said below:

While we continue to offer Disney+, Hulu and ESPN+ as standalone options, this is a logical progression of our DTC [Direct-to-Consumer] offerings that will provide greater opportunities for advertisers, while giving bundle subscribers access to more robust and streamlined content, resulting in greater audience engagement and ultimately leading to a more unified streaming experience.

The advertising potential of this combined platform is incredibly exciting.

Disney owns both Disney+ and Hulu, so it makes sense that they want to put them together in one app. In March, they said that Flamin’ Hot, a movie about a person’s life, will be the first movie that will come out on Disney+ and Hulu at the same time. 

It seems like Disney wants to show that Hulu is an important part of their streaming business.

It also makes sense to have one app for both content libraries because Disney+ subscribers can buy a bundle with Disney+ and Hulu. This way, people who buy the bundle can see everything that Disney+ and Hulu have in one place. 

The app could also make some people who have only Disney+ or Hulu think about getting the other service too for more content in one app.

Right now, it doesn’t look like ESPN+ will be in this new app even though it’s part of a bundle with Disney+ and Hulu that has no ads. 

But ESPN+ is more for sports than for TV and movies, so it may not fit in the content app. Still, it’s clear that Disney wants to make Disney+ and Hulu work well together as streaming services by the end of the year.