A major shift is coming to the streaming world. The Walt Disney Company has officially announced that it will fully integrate Hulu into Disney+, transforming how viewers access their favorite content. The move, set to roll out globally by 2026, will consolidate two of the company’s biggest streaming services into one unified app—while still offering standalone subscription options. Here’s everything you need to know about this upcoming change.
One Unified App for All Entertainment
During the company’s quarterly earnings call, Disney CEO Bob Iger confirmed that Hulu will be fully absorbed into the Disney+ app starting in 2026. This integration will allow subscribers to enjoy content from both platforms—spanning blockbuster franchises, general entertainment, family programming, live sports, and news—all in one place.
“This will create an impressive package of entertainment pairing the highest caliber brands and franchises with general entertainment, kids programming, news, and industry-leading live sports,” said Iger. CFO Hugh Johnston also emphasized that the unified app would strengthen Disney’s streaming strategy and provide a better user experience.
Hulu Replaces the Star Tile Globally
As part of the global integration plan, Hulu will take over the “Star” content tile in international versions of Disney+. This change begins rolling out in fall 2025. By replacing Star, Hulu will officially become Disney’s global general entertainment brand—offering a broader and more recognizable catalog for international users.
Personalization and App Upgrades Ahead
Before the full integration takes place, users will begin to notice enhancements to the Disney+ interface. Disney is already working on introducing new features and improving personalization. Viewers can expect a revamped homepage, smarter content recommendations, and a smoother navigation experience.
These changes aim to increase user engagement and reduce subscription churn, something Iger highlighted as a key priority.
Standalone Plans Still Available
Despite the merger of content into one app, Disney confirmed that subscribers will still be able to purchase individual plans for Hulu or Disney+. The popular bundle option that includes both services will also remain available.
This flexibility means that viewers can choose the subscription that best suits their preferences—without being forced into the unified app experience if they prefer a simpler interface.
Hulu + Live TV to Merge with Fubo
In a separate but related development, Hulu’s live TV business will be merged with streaming sports platform Fubo under a new joint venture. Disney will hold majority ownership in this collaboration. However, the Hulu + Live TV and Fubo brands will continue to be sold and marketed separately for now.
Eventually, Hulu + Live TV is expected to be fully integrated into Disney+ by 2026, further expanding the app’s offerings in live content.
Financial Deal with Comcast Now Closed
Disney’s move to fully integrate Hulu became possible after acquiring full ownership of the platform. In June 2025, Disney completed its purchase of NBCUniversal’s remaining 33% stake in Hulu from Comcast. The final price totaled nearly $9 billion—including an $8.61 billion payment made in November 2023 and an additional $438.7 million settled in June 2025 following third-party arbitration.
This acquisition brought Hulu entirely under Disney’s control for the first time since their partnership began in 2019.
Early Access to Hulu Content for Disney+ Subscribers
Disney has already begun merging the two services gradually. As early as spring 2024, Disney+ started offering select Hulu content within its app. And in August 2025, standalone Disney+ users will be treated to a sampling of Hulu content, including movies like The Proposal and series such as Shifting Gears. These offerings serve as a teaser for the full integration ahead.
Strategic Benefits for Disney
The integration isn’t just about simplifying user experience—it’s a strategic move aimed at streamlining operations and maximizing revenue. Iger noted that the single tech platform will create operational efficiencies and cost savings. Additionally, Disney sees new advertising opportunities by combining both services into one platform.
“With this unified experience, we’re offering more choice, better convenience, and higher quality content—all while improving profitability and growing margins,” said Iger and Johnston in a joint statement.
Streaming Subscriber Numbers No Longer Reported
As part of its evolving streaming strategy, Disney also announced it will no longer break out subscriber numbers for Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+—following a trend started by Netflix and other streaming giants. This marks a shift in how success is measured in the industry, focusing more on revenue and engagement than raw subscriber counts.
