Disney has been consistently working towards establishing a cohesive experience for Hulu and Disney+ subscribers, with new features arriving that further this initiative. While the Hulu app will remain operational for the time being, the entertainment giant continues to blend the two applications, aiming for a behind-the-scenes integration of both. This endeavor began in 2024 when Hulu was incorporated into Disney+.
Per a press release (as reported by Variety), Disney+ is introducing features that will assist in unifying it with the Hulu app, including options for subscribers to synchronize their Hulu profiles with Disney+ and a novel method for accessing that content. Additional new aesthetics are on the way, and Disney indicates that more features will follow, including live TV options. Hulu subscribers will also gain access to extra content, possibly as a strategy to encourage users toward a bundled subscription.
Although the ultimate aim appears to be combining the two experiences into a single platform, Variety mentions that independent Hulu subscriptions remain available in the U.S. Naturally, Hulu users will still have access to some beloved content, including captivating miniseries that can be enjoyed over a single weekend. Continue reading to discover the changes being implemented.
What’s coming to the Disney+ app
Starting May 19, 2026, certain Hulu subscribers will have the ability to connect their profile to Disney+, enabling them to synchronize watch lists, recommendations, and viewing history with the app. This feature is only applicable for adult accounts, and qualifying Disney+, Hulu, ESPN Bundle, and Hulu Bundle and Disney+ subscribers are expected to see this update “in the coming days.” Other bundle accounts will be able to synchronize “later this year.”
Moreover, Hulu subscribers with an active account will also be capable of signing into Disney+ through their MyDisney credentials, allowing access to Hulu media via the Disney+ app, even without a Disney+ subscription. This modification will not alter a Hulu subscription, and Hulu users will receive “a small sampling” of ESPN and Disney+ content. For those who might have overlooked it, ESPN was integrated into Disney+ back in December 2024.
Lastly, concerning the new features coming soon, Hulu avatar icons are now present in the Disney+ app, offering users even more choices for personalizing their profiles. While these features are slated to begin rolling out soon, the Disney+ app is expected to see additional updates, as Hulu Live TV and add-ons will be introduced to the platform “at a later date.” Disney is also piloting a new Live Guide that permits Disney+ and select ESPN subscribers to search for live content, including offerings such as ABC News Live and Disney+ Playtime. Subscribers should stay alert for further developments.
