ESPN Launches New Streaming Service and Revamped App for Fans
Big news is hitting the sports world this week: ESPN is officially stepping into the direct-to-consumer streaming space. After years of planning, acquisitions, and preparing for a major shift in how fans watch sports, the network is finally rolling out its new streaming service this Thursday, alongside a completely redesigned app. This is being called one of the most significant moves in ESPN’s history, reflecting how quickly viewing habits are evolving.
For the first time, fans will be able to access all 12 ESPN-related networks, including live games, original content, and studio shows, without needing a traditional cable subscription. The standalone subscription is priced at $29.99 per month. Existing cable subscribers from services like Charter, DirecTV, Hulu, Fubo, and Verizon can also authenticate their accounts to gain full access. The goal, according to ESPN executives, is to give fans more control over their viewing experience, allowing them to follow specific teams, leagues, or personalities, and to personalize alerts and highlights.
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The new app is packed with features designed to make sports viewing more interactive. While watching a game, users can “squeeze back” the video to reveal tabs with live stats, key plays, fantasy updates, ESPN Bet integration, and even a shopping tab in partnership with Fanatics. Another exciting addition is “Verts,” a vertical video feed similar to TikTok, which delivers highlights, viral clips, and social content. Personalization is further enhanced through the “SportsCenter for You” feature, which uses AI to create highlight reels tailored to each fan’s interests. Multiview options are also included, allowing multiple games to be watched at once.
ESPN chairman Jimmy Pitaro described this as a defining moment for both the network and the sports industry. He emphasized that this transition is about connecting with fans on the devices they use most, in ways that fit their individual preferences. The new platform also fits into Disney’s broader streaming strategy, complementing Disney+ and Hulu while offering opportunities for bundled subscriptions. Fans could combine ESPN with other services like NFL+ Premium or Fox One for added value.
Behind the scenes, Disney and ESPN have spent years preparing for this launch, securing rights and investing in technology to make the experience seamless. They are aware that navigating multiple subscription options could be complicated for some consumers, and marketing will focus on helping fans understand how to access the service and enjoy all of its features.
Ultimately, this move signals ESPN’s ambition to lead in the digital sports space. With thousands of live events across major leagues like the NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, and international competitions, the network is positioned as a one-stop destination for sports fans. The launch isn’t just a new product — it’s a strategic evolution designed to meet the modern fan where they are, anytime, anywhere.
This Thursday marks the start of what ESPN is calling a new era of sports streaming — and it’s clear the network is aiming to make every fan experience smarter, more interactive, and fully personalized.
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