The Walt Disney Company has announced plans to shut down most of its mobile and smart TV apps next month.
Starting in late September, customers will no longer have access to “TV Everywhere.” Apps Related Disneybroadcast and cable networks.
A notice on the ABC app seen by The US Sun warns customers that the app will “no longer be available” from September 23rd.
Similar messages have appeared on platforms including FX Now, Disney Now, Nat Geo TV and Freeform.
These apps allow customers to watch on-demand episodes and live TV airing on Disney-owned networks.
However, other services are not expected to be affected.
Websites associated with Disney's broadcast and cable networks, as well as on-demand libraries within its cable and satellite services, will remain available.
This move is puzzling Disneyexpansion into free ad-supported streaming (FAST) TV.
The ABC app is the first of its kind to offer a service like this, offering nearly 30 programs including game shows and local newscasts.
FAST streaming services are sustained by advertisements that run before or during content, offsetting the need for a paid subscription.
As prices for services like Netflix and Hulu continue to rise, giants like Roku and Amazon Fire TV are gaining viewers.
When the “TV Everywhere” suite is gone, customers will be prompted to subscribe. Hulu If you want to continue streaming on your mobile devices or smart TV, check out Disney+.