Disney+ Reportedly Wants To Bring Always-On Channels
The streaming giant Disney+ is reportedly introducing “always-on” streaming channels, aimed to “enhance viewer engagement and retention.” The Verge reported that, according to The Information, these channels will provide continuous access to Disney’s extensive catalog, featuring dedicated channels for major franchises such as Star Wars, Marvel, and Pixar, as well as channels showcasing Disney’s classic animations.
Viewers would still need a Disney+ subscription to watch the channels and they will likely contain ads, just like traditional television. This is all just speculation. There still aren’t any details about when the new channels could launch.
Last week, a report from Bloomberg revealed that viewers are spending more time watching free ad-supported streaming TV (FAST) like Tubi, owned by Fox as compared to platforms like Peacock, Max, and Paramount Plus. Effectv reported that FAST has been growing in popularity because consumers can enjoy premium content as an alternative. “It gives them access to familiar favorites, live news, movies, sports, and niche content,” they said.
Interestingly, Amazon has always-on channels within Prime Video through its FAST service Freevee. What Disney+ is reportedly doing differently is that they intend to incorporate these always-on channels within its existing subscription tiers. This would set it apart from platforms that offer ad-supported content that is free of charge.
The New York Post reported that in 2022, Netflix explored a similar option that would have created a store within its app so that users could subscribe to other streaming services. A feature that is used on Amazon’s Prime Video.
Reactions to Disney+ and the potential of always-on channels
Since the reports dropped, some people have been vocal about the potential change. Someone created a Reddit thread for people to share their thoughts on potential always-on channels on Disney+. One person suggested they include a Simpsons channel.
Another person shared how convenient not having to pick can be. They said, “I really hope they bring this because, at the end of the day, sometimes I just watch something that’s playing on Pluto TV because it’s so easy to just tune in and not have to pick something.”
Someone expressed how the always-on channels can bring about a sense of nostalgia. “For me, I think it’s nostalgia, growing up in the 80s and 90s with cable, it’s comforting. Knowing that there are other people at that very moment watching the same thing I am makes it feel like a shared experience, almost like you’re connected to something else rather than watching on demand which feels more isolated,” they wrote.
