Earlier today, on August 21, 2025, ESPN officially launched its new direct-to-consumer streaming service within the already familiar ESPN App. The update brings a significant change for sports fans: for the first time, the full ESPN lineup can be streamed directly without a cable subscription. But what does that actually mean? Let’s break it down.
What Is ESPN Direct-to-Consumer?
Think of it this way: it’s the ESPN you know, now available as a streaming subscription. That includes:
- 12 ESPN networks and services (ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNU, SEC Network, ACC Network, ESPN Deportes, and more)
- 47,000 live events each year
- ESPN originals, documentaries, replays, and exclusive new shows
At the same time, the ESPN App has been redesigned with new personalized features, making it easier to watch games, highlights, and even shop for team gear — all in one place.
Subscription Options and Pricing
Here’s the part that gets confusing, so let’s simplify it:
- ESPN Unlimited ($29.99/month)
Everything ESPN offers — all 12 networks, every event, all the shows, plus exclusive deals like NFL, WWE, NBA, UFC, college sports, soccer, golf, and more. - ESPN Select ($11.99/month)
Basically, what ESPN+ used to be — 32,000 live events, studio shows, originals, and replays.
Both plans can be bundled with Disney+ and Hulu. The bundle, which includes Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN Unlimited, is also $29.99/month for the first year, allowing you to stream sports, entertainment, and family programming in one place.
New ESPN App Features
The updated ESPN App introduces a wave of interactive tools:
- Verts – A TikTok-style vertical video feed with highlights, news, and viral sports clips.
- StreamCenter – Sync your TV stream with your phone for stats, fantasy updates, and ESPN BET info without spoilers.
- Interactive Features – Check live stats, fantasy scores, odds, or even shop Fanatics gear while watching.
- Multiview – Watch up to four games at once on your connected TV.
- Catch Up to Live – Miss a big play? Instantly replay highlights, then jump back into the live game.
- SportsCenter For You – A personalized, AI-driven version of SportsCenter that tailors highlights and news to your favorite teams (currently in beta).
How Does This Affect ESPN+ Subscribers?
Good news: ESPN+ isn’t going away. If you already have ESPN+, you’re automatically moved to the new ESPN Select plan. Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+ bundle subscribers will keep the same content — now with added app upgrades.
Watching on Disney+
If you subscribe to the Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN Unlimited bundle, you can watch ESPN directly inside Disney+. A new “Live” hub is rolling out, where sports sit alongside Disney and Hulu content — making Disney+ a true one-stop destination for live events and entertainment.
Bottom Line:
The ESPN app is no longer just highlights and scores — it’s now a full streaming service. Whether you’re a diehard sports fan or casual viewer, the choice comes down to how much you want. ESPN Select is the basic option, ESPN Unlimited is the all-access pass, and the Disney+ bundle may be the best deal of all.
