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On August 6, Disney+ unveiled its new price list for the American market with a historic increase in its prices. The increase affects all packages, with increases ranging from 14.3% to 25%. A hard blow for subscribers, but an economic necessity for the entertainment giant. Here are the details of the new monthly rates:
- Subscription with advertising: $9.99 (compared to $7 ,99$ currently)
- Ad-free subscription: $15.99 (up from $13.99)
- The annual ad-free plan is increasing from $139.99 to $159.99.
These increases mark a turning point for Disney+. Until now, the platform had kept prices relatively low compared to its competitors. This new pricing positioning therefore brings it closer to industry giants such as Netflix and Amazon Prime Video.
Soon in France ?
While for the moment, only the United States is concerned, it's a safe bet that Europe, and France in particular, will follow.Disney+ has not yet announced its intentions for the French market. But recent streaming history shows us that price increases always end up crossing the Atlantic.
Netflix led the way in 2023 with an increase of up to 2 euros per month on certain packages. Apple TV+ followed suit in October, increasing its monthly price by 3 euros. These decisions have left their mark: the “Premium” Netflix's price has jumped 67% since 2014, while Apple TV+'s has simply doubled since 2019.
A streaming market in full transformation
These price increases are not really surprising. The streaming market is maturing and the giants of the sector are looking to make their colossal investments profitable. Production of original content, broadcasting rights, technological development: costs are exploding.
200% Deposit Bonus up to €3,000 180% First Deposit Bonus up to $20,000Faced with this economic reality, platforms have few options. Raising prices allows them to maintain investments while preserving margins. Some, such as Netflix or Disney, have also chosen to introduce ad-supported packages to diversify their revenues.
Disney+, despite its impressive catalog and growing subscriber base, is no exception to this logic. As Disney as it is, the platform must find a balance between attractive prices and profitability.
Return of piracy
Among consumers, these successive increases inevitably provoke anger and frustration. Streaming was supposed to offer a more affordable alternative to traditional television. But with the proliferation of services and the increase in prices, the bill is starting to add up. Even more so in such a complicated economic period.
In France, where purchasing power is a major concern, a possible increase in the prices of Disney+ could be very poorly received. Especially since the French market is already saturated, with many players competing for the attention of viewers.
The future will therefore tell whether Disney+ will apply the same strategy in France as in the United States, but there is little hope that the company will be content to apply this positioning only across the Atlantic. One thing is certain: the streaming landscape is changing, and consumers will have to adapt to this new economic reality. Some are already doing so, by returning to more economical solutions such as IPTV or piracy, even if it means breaking the law.
- Disney+ is increasing its prices in the United States, with increases of up to 25%
- This decision is part of a general trend in the streaming market
- A similar increase could soon affect France
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