Two huge streamers just announced they are merging – and will restore axed cable channels giving you more for your money

TWO huge streaming platforms have just announced that they are merging, and it promises to change the face of television.

The deal will also see the return of axed cable channels, giving you more bang for your buck.

Disney and Hulu, two of the biggest names in streaming entertainment, are joining forces to create a new platform.

The former has just finalized a $439 million deal with NBCUniversal to take full ownership of Hulu.

Previously, Disney owned a 33% stake, meaning it could feature a handful of shows on its Disney+ platform, like The Bear.

Disney CEO Bob Iger and CFO Hugh Johnston have confirmed Disney will begin to phase out the Hulu app in 2026.

The company plans to launch a unified streaming platform that same year.

Iger and Johnston continued, via Variety: “By creating a truly differentiated streaming offering, we will be providing subscribers tremendous choice, convenience, quality, and enhanced personalization.

“This will enhance our ability to continue to grow profitability and margins in our entertainment streaming business through expected higher engagement, lower churn, and advertising revenue potential, as well as operational efficiencies that over time may result in savings that we can reinvest back into the business.

“I imagine down the road it may give us some price elasticity as well that we haven’t had before.”

Pricing plans for this new platform are still unknown at this stage.

HOW DOES THIS AFFECT YOU?

In addition, eight old cable channels will be returning thanks to Disney‘s partnership with Charter.

The channels will be returning to Spectrum TV Select subscribers at no additional cost.

Hulu’s plan with ads will be included in all Spectrum TV Select packages.

The channels are set to come back later in the summer.

The eight restored channels are all Disney-owned, and include Disney Jr., Disney XD and Freeform.

Those subscribed to Spectrum TV can already access ad-supported Disney+ and will have access to ESPN’s upcoming streaming service.

This streaming service is expected to be available by the fall of 2025.

Tom Montemagno, executive vice president of Programming Acquisition for Charter, praised the extension and what it means for customers.

He said: “This extension is a true testament to our mutual confidence in this innovative model – which already is showing improvement in subscriber churn – and our commitment to work creatively together to achieve win-win outcomes for both of us and most importantly for our customers.

“This agreement reflects our continued focus on leaning into the strength of Disney’s best-in-class programming across every genre and platform – and our shared commitment with Charter to building innovative, consumer-focused distribution models that drive value across the board.”

Those who only use broadband-only Spectrum will be able to purchase the various bundles and ESPN streaming service at regular retail prices.

AP

Previously, Disney owned a 33% stake in Hulu, meaning it could feature a handful of shows on its Disney+ platform, like The Bear[/caption]