Disney+ Explores Free Tier to Lift Revenue as YouTube Gains Share in 2026
Updated
Updated · 9to5Mac · Aug 3
Disney+ Explores Free Tier to Lift Revenue as YouTube Gains Share in 2026
3 articles · Updated · 9to5Mac · Aug 3
Summary
Disney+ is weighing a free tier to widen access beyond its paywall, aiming to pull in new viewers and convert regular users into paid subscribers.
Adam Smith, Disney’s chief product and technology officer, reportedly discussed enabling free-tier content at a streaming town hall as the company looks to boost advertising revenue and audience reach.
Paramount+ is pursuing a similar plan to expand access to movies and shows without a subscription, while Netflix co-CEO Greg Peters said in July that a free offering could make sense in some markets.
YouTube’s rising engagement and market share are driving the shift, underscoring how major streamers increasingly see free access as a competitive tool rather than just a promotional add-on.