Disney+ free streaming tier considered

Disney+ Reportedly Considering Free Streaming Tier

5 verified6 unconfirmed

Disney+ is considering offering a free streaming tier, according to reports citing a Business Insider article. The possibility was discussed by Disney chief product and technology officer Adam Smith during a company town hall on Thursday. The specific shows or movies that would be included and the potential launch timeline remain unclear. The move is seen as an effort to better compete with free services like YouTube, which are capturing a growing share of viewer time. Streaming services have been raising prices, pushing more consumers toward ad-supported or free platforms. The proposal is part of ongoing internal discussions about ways to better serve fans.

What’s verified

Disney+ is considering a free streaming tier.

The possibility was discussed during a town hall on Thursday.

Disney Chief Product and Technology Officer Adam Smith mentioned the free tier.

A free tier could help Disney+ compete with free services like YouTube.

The specific content and launch date are not yet determined.

Not yet confirmed

One source reported that free streaming services represented 18.7% of U.S. television watch time in April 2026, up from 16.8% in April 2025 and 12.7% in April 2024.

One source listed Tubi as a specific competitor alongside YouTube.

One source noted that Apple TV+ and Paramount+ already offer some free content.

One source reported that a Business Insider source described the free-tier concept as "part of an ongoing discussion about concepts to better serve fans."

One source stated that Disney did not respond to a request for comment.

One source noted that Disney+ has already launched vertical video feeds and always-on channels, and that Netflix is rumored to be exploring similar features.