by Thinus Ferreira

The Walt Disney Company late on Friday announced that it will be launching a cheaper version of its Disney+ video streaming service later in 2022 that will have advertising.

The advertising-supported version of Disney+ will launch in the United States in late 2022, and will then be rolled out internationally in 2023.

Disney plans to launch Disney+ in South Africa from around June this year.

“Expanding access to Disney+ to a broader audience at a lower price point is a win for everyone – consumers, advertisers and our storytellers,” says Kareem Daniel, chairman of Disney Media and Entertainment Distribution, in a statement.

“More consumers will be able to access our amazing content. Advertisers will be able to reach a wider audience, and our storytellers will be able to share their incredible work with more fans and families.”

Rita Ferro, president of advertising, Disney Media and Entertainment Distribution, says in the statement “Since its launch, advertisers have been clamouring for the opportunity to be part of Disney+ and not just because there’s a growing demand for more streaming inventory”.

“Disney+ with advertising will offer marketers the most premium environment in streaming with our most beloved brands, Disney, Pixar, Star Wars, Marvel and National Geographic. I can’t wait to share more with advertisers at the Upfront.”

With South African consumers waiting for Disney+, Paramount has announced that it plans to bring its streaming service Paramount+ to South Africa in early-2023.

South African consumers already have access to Netflix SA, Amazon Prime Video, MultiChoice’s Showmax, VIU, Apple TV+, Vodacom’s Video Play, eMedia’s eVOD and some smaller players.