Disney to Phase Out Hulu App, Fully Integrate into Disney+

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Summary

  • The standalone Hulu app will be fully integrated into Disney+ in 2026
  • The Hulu brand will also replace the international Star tile on Disney+
  • This move is a long-term play to consolidate services, cut costs, and boost engagement

By 2026, Disney plans to merge the separate Hulu app into Disney+ as part of a shift in their streaming strategy. This consolidation, discussed during a recent earnings call, is aimed at providing a unified app experience that brings together Disney’s top-tier content with Hulu’s general entertainment offerings, all under one digital roof.

After Disney bought NBCUniversal’s final share in Hulu, they now have complete control over the streaming service. Even though the Hulu app may disappear eventually, consumers can still buy separate subscriptions for either Disney+ or Hulu. Both platforms will be combined under a single, unified Disney+ app, with the content accessible depending on the user’s chosen plan.

Globally, the integration isn’t just confined to the U.S. market. Disney has announced that Hulu’s brand will replace the Star tile on Disney+ internationally starting this fall. This shift positions Hulu as Disney’s global general entertainment brand, broadening its influence and enhancing its worldwide recognition. The Star tile, which currently accommodates content from Disney-owned studios like FX and 20th Century Studios, will now be rebranded under the more familiar Hulu banner.

As per Disney’s CEO Bob Iger and CFO Hugh Johnston, this full integration is a strategic move aimed at strengthening our capacity to consistently boost profitability and margins. By merging all services onto one technological platform, Disney anticipates reduced operational expenses, increased user interaction, and a decrease in subscriber loss. This simplified strategy will also present more chances for advertising income and new packages, offering more flexibility in pricing options down the line.

Combining Hulu and Disney+ indicates the continuous consolidation in the streaming sector, as businesses aim to establish complete, one-stop platforms to rival market giants. For Disney, this merger offers a unified platform showcasing content spanning from Marvel and Star Wars to family programming, news, live sports (with the upcoming ESPN DTC app), and a vast collection of general entertainment from Hulu.

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2025-08-07 11:56