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ESPN’s Flagship Streaming Service and Rebuilt App Launch Thursday

Disney will gauge success by engagement rather than reporting subscriber totals.

ESPN
Courtesy: Derek Futterman, Sports Media Watch
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Overview

  • Debuting Aug. 21, the enhanced ESPN app consolidates live streams of all 11 ESPN networks into a direct-to-consumer hub.
  • Two tiers launch at $29.99 per month for Unlimited and $11.99 for Select, with bundles offered with Disney+ and Hulu, Fox One, and NFL+ Premium and no‑added‑cost access for some authenticated pay‑TV customers.
  • Key features include an AI-personalized SportsCenter (beta on mobile and select connected TVs), StreamCenter second‑screen controls, Verts short‑form video, multiview for up to four games, Catch Up to Live, Fanatics shopping, and ESPN BET integrations, with additional capabilities rolling out over time.
  • An ESPN representative said the new service will integrate with Apple’s TV app and queue, enabling ESPN programming to appear in Apple’s unified watchlist.
  • A wide marketing push spotlights John Cena and new mascot App‑E, an NYC E Train wrap with Stephen A. Smith announcements, a Complex SoHo pop‑up, and Lyft and vehicle branding.