Disney+ Eyes Free Content to Compete with Ad-Supported Services
Disney's chief product and technology officer Adam Smith hinted at the possibility of offering free-tier content during a town hall, according to a report from Business Insider.
Free Streaming Wars Heat Up
The rise of free streaming services has been a growing concern for paid streaming giants like Disney+. With services like YouTube and Tubi capturing an increasing share of consumers' viewing time, Disney+ is looking to stay competitive.
As streaming giants continue to raise prices, consumers have been turning to ad-supported services.
According to data from Nielsen, free streaming services represented 18.7% of U.S. television watch time in April 2026, rising from 16.8% in April 2025 and 12.7% in April 2024.
Key Points:
- Disney+ is considering offering free content to compete with ad-supported services
- The move would allow Disney+ to better compete with free services like YouTube and Tubi
- Free streaming services represented 18.7% of U.S. television watch time in April 2026
- This marks a significant increase from 12.7% in April 2024
Implications for the Industry:
- Disney+ would need to decide which shows or movies would be included in the free offering
- The rollout of free content could help Disney+ differentiate itself from its streaming peers
- The move could also put pressure on other streaming services to follow suit