Disney-Owned ESPN Launches All-In-One DTC Streaming App

ESPN has launched its new all-in-one direct-to-consumer streaming app, providing access to 12 channels, 47,000 events, and all studio programming. The app serves as a one-stop shop for users to stream live sports and events, as well as original content and on-demand programming. The launch marks a significant milestone for the Disney-owned sports network, aiming to expand its reach and cater to the growing demand for streaming services.

Disney's ESPN has taken a significant step towards expanding its digital footprint with the launch of its new all-in-one direct-to-consumer streaming app. The app, set to debut on Thursday, offers a comprehensive suite of sports content, including live games, studio programming, and original content. This marks a pivotal moment for the Disney-owned network, aiming to cater to the growing demand for streaming services and expand its reach.

The new app will provide access to 12 channels, 47,000 live events annually, and all studio programming. It will be available in two primary subscription plans. The unlimited plan, priced at $29.99 per month or $299.99 annually, grants access to all of ESPN's networks. Additionally, users can bundle the unlimited plan with Disney+ and Hulu for $35.99 a month with ads or $44.99 without ads. For the first year, Disney is offering this bundle at a promotional price of $29.99 per month with ads.

The app also introduces the ESPN Select tier, which features access to all content available on the existing ESPN+ service, including live sports streaming, a library of exclusive studio shows, and on-demand game replays. This tier will cost $11.99 per month or $119.99 annually. Existing ESPN+ customers will automatically become subscribers of the ESPN Select plan under the new service.

The launch of this app is part of ESPN's broader strategy to transition from cable TV to streaming. While the new app may not immediately attract a large number of standalone subscribers, it is designed to expand access for existing cable subscribers and give sports fans outside the traditional pay TV bundle access to all of ESPN's content [1].

ESPN's new streaming service includes all of its live games, programming from ESPN2, the SEC Network, and ESPN on ABC, along with fantasy products, new betting tie-ins, studio programming, and documentaries. The network recently signed deals to bolster its sports offerings, including a partnership with the WWE for the U.S. rights to the wrestling league's biggest events and a deal with the National Football League to acquire the NFL Network [2].

The launch of this app is a strategic move by Disney to replace ESPN+ as its signature streaming service. ESPN+ customers will transition to the ESPN Select plan, with the ESPN+ branding eventually being phased out. This move aims to consolidate Disney's streaming services and provide a more comprehensive offering to consumers.

In conclusion, the launch of ESPN's new direct-to-consumer streaming app signifies a significant milestone for the network. While the immediate impact on subscriber numbers may be limited, the app's comprehensive content offering and strategic bundling with Disney+ and Hulu position it to capture a larger share of the streaming market in the long term.

References:
[1] https://www.cnbc.com/2025/08/21/disney-espn-app-launch.html
[2] https://www.cnbc.com/2025/08/21/cnbc-sport-why-espns-historic-streaming-launch-may-actually-cost-it-subscribers.html