Disney+ Considers Introducing a Free, Ad‑Supported Tier

Disney+ free tier ad‑supported streaming subscription price increase streaming competition

Disney’s product and technology chief Adam Smith disclosed at a July town‑hall that the company is evaluating a free tier for Disney+. Internal discussions, reported by Business Insider and other outlets, suggest the tier would be ad‑supported and could offer a limited selection of movies, series or curated content at no cost. No launch date or exact library has been confirmed.

The move would come as Disney+ subscription prices have risen to $11.99 (ad‑supported) and $18.99 (ad‑free) in the United States, and the service already offers an ad‑supported basic plan. Analysts note that free, ad‑supported streaming is gaining traction, with platforms such as YouTube, Tubi and The Roku Channel accounting for a growing share of U.S. TV viewership. Disney hopes a free tier could attract price‑sensitive viewers and serve as a gateway to its paid offerings.

Disney has not officially confirmed the plan, and details on which content might be included, the advertising load, or regional testing remain unknown.