Dynamic Launch of ESPN's Direct-to-Consumer Service Enhanced by Stephen A. Smith and Inaugural Mascot
ESPN is taking a significant step forward in the digital streaming era with the launch of its new subscription service, ESPN Unlimited. Starting Thursday, the service will cost $30 per month and promises to bring all of ESPN's content to one place.
Jimmy Pitaro, ESPN's chairman, announced that the new service is still a work in progress. However, it already boasts several exciting features. The service will allow cable consumers to use in-app authentication to view games airing on ESPN's linear networks, a significant convenience for many.
One of the standout additions is the ability to shop via Fanatics while watching action, with ESPN receiving a portion of revenue generated from sales. This feature is available across the ESPN app, including on mobile and TV devices.
The new service also offers multi-view presentations of up to four streams combined, a feature previously limited to Apple TV and Xbox devices. This feature, along with personalization options such as ESPN Bet and Fantasy results, an algorithmic feed of highlights called Verts, and a daily SportsCenter For You series narrated using artificial intelligence and ESPN anchor voices, promises a more immersive and customised viewing experience.
ESPN is also collaborating with other entities. In the coming months, Disney will sell two other ESPN bundles, one with the Fox One streaming service and the other tied to the NFL+ service. Additionally, WWE will sign a contract with ESPN to offer joint digital services, including streaming WWE premium live events exclusively on ESPN's ESPN DTC platform starting in 2026. The NFL Network content has also been integrated into ESPN's streaming services.
Content from partners will also be available within their own apps. For example, ESPN content will live in the Disney+ app as well as the sports-specific platform for bundled subscribers.
ESPN is also focusing on improving its relationship with TV providers. While Xfinity and YouTube TV subscribers won't have access to digital-only events and features this week, ESPN aims to close contractual gaps with additional TV providers in the coming months.
Cable subscribers, including Spectrum and Verizon customers, will also be able to authenticate their access to ESPN Unlimited using credentials from their TV provider. For those buying the Disney bundle, ESPN's entire game portfolio will be available in two places.
The full suite of ESPN video and features, dubbed ESPN Unlimited, will be tied to a single ESPN log-in. Users will be able to watch five streams simultaneously on an account. Pitaro mentioned deeper betting integrations coming in future versions of the app.
ESPN is also investing in marketing, including using Stephen A. Smith's voice on the New York City subway system. The company has also created a new mascot named App-E and a new tagline: All of ESPN, All in One Place.
Last year, Disney implemented stricter password sharing policies across its services. With the launch of ESPN Unlimited, it seems the company is committed to providing a premium, personalised streaming experience.
