Disney’s ESPN all-access streaming app, priced at $30 per month for an “unlimited” package, will roll out this fall. Those who subscribe as part of a Disney+ and Hulu ad-supported bundle will get all three services for $36 per month, discounted to $30 per month for customers who sign up at launch. Included in the new app — simply named “ESPN” — will be live NFL, NBA, college football and basketball games as well as programming from sister services ESPN2, the SEC Network and ESPN on ABC. The package will also feature new betting tie-ins, fantasy products, documentaries and studio programming. A “select” plan starts at $12 per month.
“Such live sports programming is among the most valuable assets in media,” writes The Wall Street Journal, noting that “ESPN is counting on its new streaming service to attract cord-cutters and those who have never paid for cable.”
“We are providing everything ESPN has to offer directly to fans and all in one place,” ESPN Chairman Jimmy Pitaro said in an announcement, characterizing ESPN as “the most trusted, loved and recognized name in sports.” Hence, the straightforward name — to “keep it simple and double down on the power of ESPN.”
“The new service gives Disney a more muscular sports-streaming offering than ESPN+, which is currently offered as part of the Disney bundle and on a standalone basis,” says WSJ, adding that “ESPN+ will continue to be offered as a standalone offering at a lower price and will be included as part of ESPN’s new service.”
Later in the year, ESPN’s mobile app will be updated “and act as the gateway to the all-access service on smart TVs and devices,” reports CNBC, which describes the revamped app as having “new features such as a personalized ‘SportsCenter.’” It will be made accessible for all users “not just those who purchase ESPN’s $29.99 direct-to-consumer product.”
Pay TV subscribers who get ESPN will be able to use their credentials to log into the new app and enjoy the special features not available through cable TV, per CNBC.
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