Disney is currently making news headlines due to the plans the company has to change its entire streaming universe. Consumers should prepare themselves to experience a radical transformation when it comes to both Disney and Hulu. The reason for this is that consumers might just have to pay a little more for this change. People should get themselves ready to say goodbye to one of the biggest streaming services.
Details behind the change
Disney made an announcement about a phaseout window. In early August 2025, Disney made an announcement, stating that Hulu’s days are numbered. It has been found that the House of Mouse was officially shutting down the streaming service after the merger took place. It is important to note that this is occurring after more than 20 years.
At the same time, Disney is proceeding with the phaseout and promises that Hulu will be a “fully integrated unified app experience” by next year, 2026. The studio explained that Disney+ users “will begin to see further integrations of Hulu across the Disney+ app. This will be part of a continuous and iterative slate of product updates on the homepage and beyond.” This was confirmed by a statement that was made on Thursday.
Hulu replacing Star
Consumers should take note that Hulu is replacing Star. It is important to note that this change will help to increase awareness for international users. This is especially the case for those offering a large catalogue of content that applies to adults. This has been argued by the company. Its marketing and social efforts behind Hulu will now take place globally.
In addition, this rebranding process from Star to Hulu is not just about the switchover in when it comes to the respective brands. However, the company claims it would make it easier for users to discover Hulu content and more on Disney+, the same outlet detailed.
Also, with the new rebranding, Disney+ is aiming to introduce “a more visual home screen” in the next few weeks. This is with a more “intuitive navigation,” as well as personalized recommendations. It has been stated that “these enhancements are just the beginning, with additional updates planned in the lead-up to the launch of a unified app experience next year.”
Disney plus and the massive price increase
Soon Disney+ will experience a massive price increase, and which might add pressure on several of the company’s loyal consumers. Although the company has not had the best weeks recently amid the company owned ABC television network suspending and then reinstating Jimmy Kimmel. Even though all of these things happened that still does not stop the streaming service from increasing its prices.
In addition, the company officially revealed this year, in mid-September that users will see a price increase for its Disney+ and Hulu plans in the United States. The subscribers of the standalone Disney+ service will witness an increase of a $2 rate. This increase is from $9.99 per month to $11.99 per month. When it comes to the Hulu standalone plan with ads, it is also increasing by $2, from $9.99 to $11.99 per month.
Also, it is important to note that these price changes will start on October 21, 2025. Hulu’s premium plan with no ads will remain at the rate it is currently at which is $18.99 per month. For those who people who are subscribed to Hulu + Live TV with ads, the price is set to increase by $7, from $83 per month to $90 per month.
Disney+ Premium, which has no ads, will increase with a $3, from $16 a month to $19 a month. Additionally, ESPN Select will also increase on October 21, 2025. The streaming service, formerly known as ESPN+, will be going from $11.99 per month to $12.99 a month.