New York and Burbank, California.Disney announced today that it will launch an ad-supported version of its Disney + streaming service, which is expected to launch globally in the US later this year and in 2023.
The opening news comes at a time when Disney is focusing on advertising technology, which will give advertisers a preview in early May.
“Expanding Disney + access at a low cost to a large audience is a victory for all consumers, advertisers and our storytellers,” said Karim Daniel, chairman of Disney Media and Entertainment Broadcasting. “More consumers can find our amazing content. Advertisers can reach a large audience, and our historians can share their amazing work with many fans and families.
Disney owns an ad-supported OTT service in the largest streaming market and also supports ESPN + Advertising. The ad-supported version of Disney + will have a lower subscription rate, which will help Disney achieve its long-term target of 2230-260 million Disney + subscribers on FY24.
Disney + currently has about 130 million subscribers worldwide.
Rita Ferro, president of Disney Media, Disney Media and Entertainment, said: “Disney + with Advertising offers our customers the best place to stream our favorite brands with Disney, Pixel, Star Wars, Marvel and National Geographic. I can’t wait to share more with the advertisers on Upfront.
More details, including launch date and price, will be announced later.