Disney+

Disney+ logo

Disney+ Original (2024)

Disney Plus Premier Access (2020-2021)

Disney+ locations

Disney+ is an American subscription video on demand service owned and operated by the Direct-to-Consumer & International division of The Walt Disney Company. Launched on November 12, 2019, Disney+ marks Disney's entry into the streaming media market, directly competing with platforms such as Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and HBO Max. The service primarily features content from Disney's vast library, including films and television series produced by Walt Disney Pictures, Walt Disney Animation Studios, Pixar, Marvel Studios, Lucasfilm, National Geographic, and more.

History

The development of Disney+ was announced in August 2017 by Disney CEO Bob Iger, following the company's acquisition of BAMTech, a technology provider specializing in streaming services. This move was seen as an effort by Disney to establish a direct-to-consumer platform that would allow the company to reach audiences without the need for traditional cable or satellite television. The launch of Disney+ was part of Disney's strategic shift towards digital distribution, reflecting the changing consumption habits of viewers who increasingly prefer on-demand content over scheduled broadcasting.

Content

Disney+ offers a wide range of content, including exclusive original programming and films, such as The Mandalorian, the first live-action Star Wars series; WandaVision, a part of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU); and reboots of classic Disney franchises. In addition to new original content, Disney+ provides access to a significant portion of Disney's back catalog, including classic animated films, Pixar movies, Marvel films, and Star Wars saga entries. The platform also features documentaries, including content from National Geographic, and a selection of international programming to cater to a global audience.

Features and Accessibility

Disney+ supports streaming in up to 4K resolution, HDR10, and Dolby Atmos sound, depending on the viewer's hardware and internet speed. The service allows for up to four concurrent streams per account, downloads for offline viewing on up to ten devices, and personalized recommendations. Disney+ is available on a wide range of devices, including web browsers, smartphones, tablets, smart TVs, and game consoles, ensuring accessibility for users across different platforms.

Impact and Reception

Since its launch, Disney+ has experienced rapid growth in subscriber numbers, challenging established streaming services and altering the competitive landscape of digital media. Its success is attributed to the strong brand recognition of Disney and its franchises, the exclusive availability of high-profile content, and the global shift towards streaming as a primary mode of content consumption. Disney+'s impact extends beyond entertainment, influencing the strategies of other media companies and accelerating the industry-wide transition to streaming.

Future Developments

Disney has announced plans to expand Disney+ globally, increase the amount of original content on the platform, and integrate augmented and virtual reality experiences to enhance viewer engagement. The company is also exploring ways to bundle Disney+ with its other streaming services, Hulu and ESPN+, to offer a comprehensive package that caters to a broader range of interests and demographics.