Disney+ and Hulu Profiles Begin Linking for Bundle Subscribers
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Disney has started allowing subscribers of its Disney+ and Hulu bundle to link their Hulu profiles to the Disney+ app, syncing watch history and recommendations. This is a step toward the company's goal of a fully integrated streaming experience by 2026. Hulu's stand-alone app and subscription will remain available for now.
Facts First
- Hulu profiles can now link to Disney+ for bundle subscribers, syncing watch history, watchlist, and recommendations.
- The integration allows streaming from both services within the Disney+ app, letting viewers pick up where they left off.
- Disney is working toward a 'fully integrated' service with a unified app experience planned for 2026.
- Hulu's stand-alone subscription and app will remain available in the U.S., with no current plans to sunset it.
- A new 'live guide' is being tested in Disney+ for livestreaming content, including ABC News Live and ESPN networks for eligible users.
What Happened
Starting May 19, eligible subscribers to the Disney+ and Hulu bundle can link their Hulu profiles to the Disney+ app. This syncs their Hulu watch history, watchlist, and recommendations into Disney+. Once linked, viewers can stream content from both services directly within the Disney+ app and continue watching from where they left off. Hulu-only subscribers can also now sign into Disney+ using their Hulu credentials to access Hulu content and a small sampling of Disney+ and ESPN programming.
Why this Matters to You
If you subscribe to the Disney+ and Hulu bundle, your viewing experience is becoming more convenient as you may soon be able to manage your watchlist and recommendations from a single app. For Hulu-only subscribers, this change could provide easier access to a limited selection of Disney+ and ESPN content. The move toward a unified app by 2026 suggests your monthly streaming bill might eventually become simpler to manage, though pricing for a fully merged service has not been announced.
What's Next
The profile linking feature is rolling out to all bundle subscribers later this year. Disney is testing a new 'live guide' within Disney+ for livestreaming content, which will include ABC News Live and, for ESPN Unlimited subscribers, ESPN networks. Live TV channels and add-on packages are scheduled to come to Disney+ at a future date. The company's stated plan is to deliver a unified app experience for bundle subscribers by 2026, moving toward a full technical integration of the services.