Disney+ to Fully Integrate Hulu in 2026, Launch Unified Streaming App

Disney is integrating Hulu into Disney+ starting next year, with a new unified streaming app for both services launching in 2026. The merger is expected to improve profit margins and provide subscribers with more choice and personalization. Disney also stopped reporting quarterly subscriber numbers and average revenue per user stats for its streaming services.

Disney is set to fully integrate Hulu into Disney+ starting next year, with a new unified streaming app for both services slated for launch in 2026. The move, announced during the company's quarterly earnings report, is aimed at improving profit margins and enhancing the subscriber experience with more choice and personalization.

The integration marks a significant step in Disney's strategy to consolidate its streaming services. Disney+ and Hulu have been courting each other for some time, with Disney first becoming a Hulu shareholder in 2009. The company has been increasing its emphasis on Disney+ over Hulu, which is reflected in this latest announcement. The integration will eliminate duplicative technology and administrative costs, potentially saving the company around $3 billion [1].

The new app will offer a seamless experience for users, with Hulu content available within the Disney+ platform. Internationally, Hulu will replace the Star tile on the Disney+ app. Disney expects the integration to drive higher engagement, lower churn, and increased advertising revenue potential. The company also plans to stop reporting quarterly subscriber numbers and average revenue per user stats for its streaming services, including Disney+ and Hulu. Instead, it will focus on providing information on the profitability of its entertainment direct-to-consumer segment [1].

The announcement comes as Disney is doubling down on its streaming strategy, hoping to offset declines in traditional TV advertising and affiliate revenue. The company is preparing to launch its stand-alone ESPN streaming service on August 21 and has secured a deal with the NFL to acquire the NFL Network and other media assets, with NFL taking a 10% stake in ESPN. Disney also landed a five-year deal to air WWE's biggest events on ESPN in the US from 2026 [1].

Disney raised its full-year profit guidance for its entertainment direct-to-consumer business to $1.3 billion for the year, an increase from its previous estimate of $1 billion. For the quarter ended June, revenue in the segment grew by 6% and it added 2.6 million Disney and Hulu subscriptions, bringing the total to 183 million [1].

While Disney's stock was down 2% in premarket trading on Wednesday, it is up 6% so far this year. The integration of Hulu into Disney+ is expected to be a significant driver of growth for the company's streaming business.

References:
[1] https://www.businessinsider.com/disney-hulu-fully-integrated-new-app-2026-2025-8