Hulu, Max, Disney+ Launching Into Bundle: What We Know
We’re in that moment when rivals become allies. Disney and Warner Bros. Discovery are launching a Disney+, Hulu, and Max streaming bundle. According to multiple sources, the companies announced a new streaming bundle that will be available this summer in the U.S.
Here’s what we know so far about the Disney+, Hulu, and Max bundle.
CBS News reported that there’s no pricing info or specific launch date at this point. Disney and WBD said the bundle will be available for purchase on any of the three streaming platforms’ websites and offered as both an ad-supported and ad-free plan. They noted that the apps and content from each company would remain separate.
Users of the new bundle will have access to content from ABC, CNN, DC, Discovery, Disney, Food Network, FX, HBO, HGTV, Hulu, Marvel, Pixar, Searchlight, and Warner Bros. in ad-supported or ad-free plans. Customers will be able to purchase the bundle from either company, per Variety.
In March, Hulu and Disney+ launched a bundle. The integrated experience features Hulu content available directly on the Disney+ app. It’s worth mentioning that Hulu already has agreements to sell add-on subscriptions for Max and Paramount Global’s Paramount+ with Showtime.
Another move was made by Disney and Warner Bros. Discovery. They’ve also joined forces with Fox Corp. to launch a streaming sports bundle, which is slated to debut this fall. Critics have said that the joint venture is allegedly anticompetitive and violates antitrust law.
People React
Many people took to Reddit to share their thoughts on the new bundle that’s coming. Like most people in the thread, someone asked about pricing. “I already have all three. I wonder if the bundle will save me any money? (probably not),” one person said. Another person compared it to cable. However, a few people shut that theory down saying streaming is contract-free, ad-free most of the time, with specific content available anytime you want it.
Several questions came up. One person mentioned that they get Max from their AT&T plan. “I wonder how it will affect it?” they asked.
CBS News reported that Disney’s direct-to-consumer business, which includes Disney+ and Hulu, posted $47 million in profit for the quarter. As of March, Disney+ subscriptions were up 6% to 117 million, while Hulu subscriptions grew 1% to 50 million.
