Disney Cracks Down on Streaming Password Sharing

Disney plans to intensify its crackdown on password sharing for its streaming services, including Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+, starting in September 2024, according to CEO Bob Iger. This follows a similar successful move by Netflix, which saw significant subscriber growth after implementing anti-password sharing measures. Disney aims to increase revenue and achieve double-digit margins in its direct-to-consumer operations by prohibiting sharing outside households and potentially introducing a paid sharing feature, although pricing details are not yet finalized. Additionally, Disney will raise prices for its streaming services in October, with Disney+ ad-supported plans increasing to $9.99 per month and ad-free plans to $15.99 per month. Despite potential consumer frustration, Disney expects its strong content catalog to retain subscribers. The company has already seen its streaming operations turn a profit for the first time this quarter.