We were told that streaming was going to change the way viewers watch television. Now we have things like advertising, commercials, etc. on Netflix and other services and now channels.
According to a report from The Information, the revamped Disney Plus app could soon feature permanent channels dedicated to Star Wars and Marvel.
The channels, which apparently are similar to those of free streaming services with advertising like Pluto TV or Tubi, could eliminate the possibility of choosing what to watch next: the great enemy of on-demand streaming.
The world of streaming is becoming more and more like traditional television
In addition to the Star Wars and Marvel series, the Disney channel lineup could include channels that continuously broadcast classic Disney animated films or Pixar films, reports The Information.
And although viewers would need a Disney+ subscription to tune in to the channels, they are likely to still contain advertisements, just like traditional television.
There are still no details on when the new channels could be launched, and Disney has not wanted to comment. However, the rumored move aligns with Disney’s goals of keeping viewers glued to its Disney+ app.
It also reflects the growing popularity of free ad-supported streaming television (FAST). A report from Bloomberg last week revealed that viewers spend more time watching Tubi, owned by Fox, than Peacock, Max, and Paramount Plus.
Part of the appeal of FAST services is that you can tune in to a random program without having to worry about paying attention to every word, like you would when watching a high-level series like The Last of Us or Fallout.
It is likely that this policy will become a broader trend in the future, as Disney also plans to launch a streaming-exclusive version of ESPN along with a live sports streaming package with Warner Bros. Discovery and Fox.
