Disney Folds Hulu + Live TV Into Disney+ in 2026, Phasing Out Standalone Hulu
Updated
Updated · Cord Cutters News · Jul 12
Disney Folds Hulu + Live TV Into Disney+ in 2026, Phasing Out Standalone Hulu
2 articles · Updated · Cord Cutters News · Jul 12
Summary
Later this year, Disney will add Hulu + Live TV to the Disney+ app, letting U.S. subscribers watch linear channels, live sports and news without switching apps.
The move builds on profile linking already rolling out to bundle users and follows Disney’s full Hulu acquisition, as the company pushes Disney+ as a single streaming hub.
Live TV subscribers will get an upgraded guide inside Disney+, plus browsing, recording and recommendations based on viewing across Disney+ and Hulu.
Standalone Hulu access will persist temporarily during the transition, while Hulu-only subscribers are set to move to the Disney+ platform at no extra cost.
The phased rollout through 2026 reflects a broader streaming shift toward fewer all-in-one apps as media companies try to cut friction and strengthen bundled offerings.
Will Disney's new 'super app' alienate millions of loyal Hulu subscribers?
Is Disney's streaming merger the first step toward an all-encompassing super app?
As Disney builds its streaming titan, how can rivals like Netflix effectively compete?
Disney+ and Hulu Merge: What Disney’s $9 Billion Acquisition Means for Subscribers and the Streaming Industry in 2026
Overview
Disney is moving quickly to create a unified streaming platform by merging Hulu’s content into Disney+. This became possible after Disney resolved a long-standing dispute and bought Comcast’s one-third stake in Hulu in early 2025, paving the way for full integration. While the standalone Hulu app and brand still exist as of June 2026, Disney is rolling out deeper integration features like unified profiles to streamline the user experience. The goal is to offer all Disney and Hulu content in one place, making Disney+ a more comprehensive and appealing destination for subscribers.