Disney mulls making some Disney+ content free

Disney is exploring making some Disney+ content available free of charge as it looks to compete more directly with YouTube and other free ad-supported streaming platforms. According to Business Insider the idea was discussed internally by Disney’s Chief Product and Technology Officer Adam Smith during a company town hall, although no decisions have been taken on timing, markets or the scope of any free offering. It’s the latest side hustle by a streaming service looking to increase the number of eyeballs focused on its service.

Last week, it emerged Netflix is exploring live channels, bundles and more short-form content as engagement becomes a bigger strategic priority. There’s evidence that viewers go to subscription streaming services for the big shows, but go with Tubi, Pluto and other FAST aggregators for grazing. Disney has already expanded its ad-supported offerings, but a genuinely free Disney+ tier would represent a significant strategic shift towards a hybrid subscription/FAST model.

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