In a move to boost streaming revenue and enhance profitability, Disney has revealed plans to increase prices for its stand-alone tiers of Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+ in the United States starting from October 17th. However, the recently introduced Disney+/Hulu/Max combo offered in partnership with Warner Bros. Discovery will not be subject to any price changes at this time. Additionally, the Disney+/Hulu Premium no-ads bundle will continue to be priced at $19.99 per month.

With the aim of providing added value to its subscribers, Disney has also announced some exciting content additions. Starting from September 4th, Disney+ customers will gain access to the ABC News Live streaming channel and a curated playlist focused on preschool content. Furthermore, Disney+ Premium subscribers will enjoy four additional playlists curated specifically for their viewing pleasure.

To offset the increase in prices, these updates are intended to soften the impact on subscribers. The ad-supported version of Disney+ will see a $2 monthly increase, bringing the monthly cost to $9.99, while the ad-free Disney+ Premium subscription will also rise by $2 to $15.99 per month. In the case of Hulu, the ad-supported tier will now cost subscribers $9.99 per month, up by $2, while the ad-free option will increase by a dollar to $18.99 per month.

Disney's triple-play bundles, which include Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+, will all experience a $2 per month increase. On the other hand, the Disney+/Hulu Basic bundle with ads will see a $1 increase. It's important to note that the pricing adjustments for ad-free tiers of Disney+ and Hulu, as well as ESPN+, were last implemented in October 2023.

In contrast, the Disney+/Hulu/Max package will remain unchanged at $16.99 per month with ads and $29.99 per month without ads. This package, which combines the streaming services of Disney, Hulu, and Warner Bros. Discovery, has proven to be a popular choice among viewers.

As part of their commitment to providing enhanced content offerings, Disney will also introduce new playlists on Disney+. These curated playlists are designed to cater to various interests and will include Seasonal Content, Epic Stories, Throwbacks, and Real Life, featuring a diverse range of content from across the Disney+ catalog.

"Playlists are the latest example of how we're providing the best value and experience for our subscribers every time they open Disney+," said Alisa Bowen, President of Disney+. "Whether it's news, kids' content, popular genres, hit TV shows, or blockbuster films, there will be something for everyone in a lean-back viewing experience based on seasonality and interest."

Disney's earnings report for the third quarter of fiscal year 2024 is scheduled to be released on Wednesday, August 7th, giving insight into the company's financial performance during the June quarter.