Disney Plus is set to get a vertical video stream later this year, Disney announced at the Global Tech & Data Showcase for advertisers at CES, according to Deadline.
See also: Get Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN Unlimited for $29.99/month
According to a Disney statement cited by Deadline, the company's goal is to "explore its use in various ways across categories and types of content, for a personalized and dynamic feed. This will include expanding into news and entertainment, turning Disney+ into a must-visit everyday destination."
Based on an interview with a Disney executive, Deadline reports that vertical videos on the app could include “original short-form programming, repurposed social clips, reimagined scenes from longer-form episodic or cinematic projects, or a combination of all of these.”
Last year, Disney added a vertical video tab called “Verts” to its revamped ESPN. Netflix has also been testing a vertical video stream with clips from Netflix shows and movies — and it’s not the first time the company has experimented with the format.
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The addition of vertical videos to Disney Plus shows the company's intention to adapt to modern content consumption trends, which have been significantly influenced by social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram. The vertical video format has become particularly popular, as it is easier to watch on mobile devices, which are now the primary means of accessing the internet for many users.
Disney recognizes the importance of delivering content that resonates with users, and the integration of vertical video into Disney Plus is part of that strategy. The company aims to deliver a more interactive and enriched user experience that will drive engagement and daily usage of the platform.
The move could also attract new subscribers, especially younger users who are used to consuming content in a vertical format. Disney Plus, by adding vertical videos, can differentiate itself from other streaming platforms and offer unique experiences that will appeal to a wider audience.
See also: You can no longer subscribe to Hulu or Disney+ through Apple's App Store
This strategy is part of Disney’s overall effort to expand its presence in the digital space and strengthen its position as a leading entertainment platform. By adding new features and adapting to market trends, Disney Plus continues to evolve and offer innovative solutions to its users.
