It seems hard to believe that there was a time when we couldn’t watch a show we wanted to, whenever we wanted to. When we couldn’t start a show, pause it, and then come back and finish it at a more convenient time. A time when we had to rush between commercial breaks or had to break out a VHS tape and record if we were going to miss something we wanted to watch.
That has all changed with the explosion in streaming services. Nowadays, it seems that every network and studio has its own streaming platform. There’s Disney+, Hulu, Peacock, Apple TV+, Paramount+, and Amazon Prime Video, to name just a few.
Related: Disney Focusing on MAJOR Disney+ Change
Disney launched its own streaming platform, Disney+, in November 2019. While seeing some initial success — aided in part by the COVID-19 pandemic — Disney+ has been struggling for years. In just about three years, Disney+ lost around $1 billion, leaving CEO Bob Iger in panic mode.
In the nearly two years since his return, Iger has clamped down on spending at Disney+, leading to the cancellation of several series. He has also cut the budgets for almost every show that has remained. But he has not stopped there. Mr. Iger is constantly looking for ways to innovate and reinvigorate the platform.
This has led to the launch of Disney’s brand-new “Ultimate Bundle”, which is so much more than just Disney.
On July 25, Disney and Warner Bros. launched a new streaming bundle that also includes Hulu and Max (formerly HBO Max)! The new bundle is perfect for those who love a wide variety of movies and television shows and are looking for something a little extra.
Per a press release from Disney:
The premium offering brings the three popular streaming services together all through a single monthly subscription, while providing a wide selection of content from the biggest and most beloved portfolio of brands in entertainment including ABC, CNN, DC, Discovery, Disney, Food Network, FX, HBO, HGTV, Hulu, Marvel, Pixar, Searchlight, Star Wars, Warner Bros., and many more.
This new partnership puts subscribers first, giving them access to the incredible breadth and depth of three complementary libraries including some of the greatest franchises like Family Guy, Bob’s Burgers, Disney’s Frozen, The Avengers, Star Wars, and Toy Story and Warner Bros. Discovery’s Batman, Game of Thrones, Lord of theRings, and Harry Potter. In addition, subscribers can also enjoy an upcoming slate of must-watch premieres including Only Murders in the Building Season 4 on Hulu (August 27), Agatha All Along on Disney+ (September 18) and The Penguin on Max (September).
Related: Fans Furious After Disney+ Enacts Controversial Policy Change
While many people are excited to see more expansive bundles, some think they are a little strange. These new bundles seem a lot like cable, which is dying out because of the popularity of streaming services. However, companies like Disney and Warner Bros. are hoping that these kinds of streaming bundles can be more beneficial for everyone.
The Disney+, Hulu, Max Bundle will be available in two pricing tiers: ad-free and ad-supported. The ad-supported tier will cost $16.99 per month, and the ad-free tier will cost $29.99 per month.
It is important to note that neither Hulu + Live TV nor Max Unlimited Ad-Free are included in this bundle. If the new bundle proves successful, they could be added in the future.
What do you think of the new Disney+, Hulu, Max Bundle? Is it too much like cable? Let us know in the comments!