Disney has announced that it will begin enforcing restrictions on password sharing for Disney+ users in the United States starting September 2024. This move is part of a broader effort by the company to curb the widespread practice of sharing a single Disney+ account across multiple households.
The decision follows a similar crackdown by Netflix, which has already implemented stricter password-sharing policies, including in India. However, Disney has yet to confirm when or if these measures will be introduced in markets outside the United States, including India.
In addition to the crackdown on password sharing, Disney plans to increase subscription prices for its streaming services—Disney+, ESPN+, and Hulu—starting in October 2024. This price hike is expected to be accompanied by the introduction of new features designed to enhance the user experience. These include the integration of ABC News Live and the introduction of specially curated playlists, which Disney CEO Bob Iger believes will justify the increased cost.
The move to enforce password-sharing restrictions and raise subscription fees comes as Disney seeks to boost revenue from its streaming services amid a competitive landscape in the digital entertainment industry. By limiting account sharing, Disney aims to ensure that more users are subscribing to its services individually, thereby increasing its subscriber base and revenue.
With these changes on the horizon, Disney+ subscribers in the United States should prepare for the upcoming policy shifts, which will likely influence how they access and share their streaming accounts.