Disney CEO Josh D'Amaro confirmed the company is actively exploring a free, ad-supported streaming option for Disney+. The move targets price-sensitive consumers and aims to boost subscriber growth.
During an earnings call Wednesday, D'Amaro stated Disney is "exploring a free product for consumers" as part of its streaming strategy. The executive emphasized that a free tier would help expand Disney+'s reach to customers unwilling to pay for subscriptions.
D'Amaro provided no timeline or specific details about implementation, saying "there's nothing specific to announce today." However, he indicated the company views a free option as a growth driver for the platform.
The announcement aligns with broader industry trends. Netflix, Max, and other streamers have adopted ad-supported tiers to capture price-conscious viewers and generate additional revenue. Disney+ currently offers ad-supported plans starting at $7.99 monthly alongside premium options.
A free tier would represent a significant shift in Disney's streaming strategy and could position Disney+ more competitively against rivals offering free access alongside paid upgrades. The company will likely announce further details once plans solidify.
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