The Hulu streaming platform, which has been in operation since 2007, will be phased out as a standalone app and folded into Disney+ by 2026 as part of a unification effort.
The move comes as Disney, which also owns ABC and ESPN, works to define its future in the streaming market after gaining full control of Hulu earlier this year following a multi-billion dollar acquisition from Comcast. Comcast operates the Peacock streaming app and owns NBC and Universal Media.
In the U.S., Hulu content will gradually merge into a unified Disney+ app experience, the company said.
Internationally, the Hulu brand replaced the Star brand on Oct. 8.
While the Hulu app will disappear, the brand will live on as “Hulu on Disney+,” leveraging its strong recognition among global audiences.
Hulu on Disney+ will become Disney’s global hub for adult-oriented programming.
The transition coincides with a redesign of the Disney+ app.
The updated experience will feature new navigation tabs, a personalized “For You” page, dynamic content displays and an updated mobile design.
Disney is also raising subscription prices across its streaming services, with increases to Disney+ and Hulu plans taking effect on Oct. 21.
By consolidating the two platforms, Disney hopes to enhance user experience and expand its global reach. The company did not specify the exact date of the app’s disappearance in the U.S.
Hulu reported having 55.5 million subscribers this summer, while Disney+ reported 128 million subscribers.
Hulu, which offers a Hulu with Live TV service, was founded as a joint venture between the owner of Fox TV and NBC. Disney was a later investor being buying the platform outright.
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