ESPN Plus is poised for a significant overhaul; here's all you ought to be aware of regarding the upcoming changes.
ESPN is set to launch a new direct-to-consumer (DTC) platform, named simply "ESPN", on August 21, 2022. This move replaces the earlier ESPN+ subscription and offers two subscription tiers: the Unlimited Plan and the Select Plan.
The Unlimited Plan, priced at $29.99 per month or $299.99 annually, offers a significant upgrade from the existing ESPN+ subscription. It includes access to all 12 of ESPN's linear networks, such as ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNU, SEC Network, and ACC Network. With this plan, subscribers will have access to more than 47,000 live sporting events annually, a large increase compared to the 32,000+ live events on ESPN+ Select.
The Unlimited Plan also offers full access to all ESPN+ content, on-demand replays, studio shows, and original programming. Additionally, it comes with bundling options with Disney+ and Hulu, starting at $35.99/month with ads or $44.99/month without ads.
In contrast, the Select Plan costs $11.99/month or $119.99/year and resembles the existing ESPN+ offering, providing access to ESPN+ content, including over 32,000 live events and a library of studio shows and replays.
The enhanced ESPN app accompanying the service launch will feature personalized multiview options, integrated game stats, sports betting information, and fantasy sports content. These upgrades will be available to existing ESPN Plus subscribers as well.
This new streaming service marks a significant change for sports streaming fans, marking the first in a while after several combo streamers were announced but then fell apart. The Unlimited Plan is predicted to include a wide range of sports events, including many WWE Premium Live Events, such as WrestleMania in 2026.
For existing ESPN Plus subscribers, there will be no changes. If you're already on ESPN Plus and like it just fine, then nothing's changing for you. The standard ESPN Plus tier will continue to be on the Disney Bundle.
The new ESPN platform will include all of the broadcaster's studio shows and its large library. This is the first time that ESPN's cable channels can be streamed over the air from one service. The new service's launch may cause confusion for users, but with its extensive live sports coverage and full ESPN linear network access, it's set to be a popular choice for sports enthusiasts.
[1] ESPN Press Release [2] CNET Article
- Subscribers can now watch a wide variety of sports events, including WWE Premium Live Events like WrestleMania in 2026, with the new ESPN streaming service.
- The Unlimited Plan, priced at $29.99 per month or $299.99 annually, offers access to all 12 of ESPN's linear networks, including ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNU, SEC Network, and ACC Network.
- With the Unlimited Plan, users can stream more than 47,000 live sporting events annually, a significant increase compared to the 32,000+ live events on ESPN+ Select.
- The new ESPN platform, which includes all of the broadcaster's studio shows and a large library, marks the first time that ESPN's cable channels can be streamed over the air from one service.
- The enhanced ESPN app accompanying the service launch will provide personalized multiview options, integrated game stats, sports betting information, and fantasy sports content. These upgrades will be available to existing ESPN Plus subscribers as well. [1] ESPN Press Release, [2] CNET Article
