In a notable shift for streaming services, Canal+ subscribers will no longer have access to Disney+ as of January 1, 2025, following the expiration of thier partnership. This change means that viewers who previously enjoyed Disney, Marvel, and Pixar content through Canal+ will need to secure their own Disney+ subscriptions. Disney has clarified that affected customers have been notified via email about the status of their subscriptions, with some potentially seeing their accounts reactivated if they had previously subscribed directly to disney+. To entice former Canal+ subscribers,disney+ is offering a limited-time promotion: a Standard subscription with advertising for just €1.99 per month for the first year, available until January 21, 2025. After this promotional period, the subscription will revert to the standard rate of €5.99 unless canceled beforehand.
Interview: The Future of Streaming After Disney+ Leaves Canal+
Time.news Editor: Thank you for joining us today to discuss the significant shift in the streaming landscape as Canal+ subscribers lose access to Disney+ starting January 1, 2025. Can you explain what led to this change in their partnership?
Expert: Absolutely, it’s a pivotal moment in the streaming industry. This change arises from the expiration of Disney’s distribution deal with Canal+, which has allowed Canal+ subscribers to enjoy Disney, Marvel, adn Pixar content as the partnership began in 2019. Disney has made it clear that they will not renew this deal, prompting users to seek their own subscriptions to Disney+ directly from the platform, as reported recently[1[1[1[1].
Time.news Editor: What does this mean for Canal+ subscribers specifically in terms of access to content?
Expert: For many viewers who enjoyed Disney and it’s vast array of franchises, including Marvel and Pixar, this will be a significant loss.As of January 1, 2025, Canal+ subscribers will no longer have access to Disney+ content. Disney has communicated that affected customers have been notified via email about the transition, and some might see their accounts reactivated if they previously had direct subscriptions[2[2[2[2].
Time.news Editor: It sounds like Disney is making an effort to retain thes viewers. Can you elaborate on the strategies they’ve implemented to encourage Canal+ users to switch to disney+?
Expert: Certainly! Disney is aware of the potential churn and has introduced a promotional offer to entice former Canal+ subscribers. They’re offering a Standard subscription with ads for just €1.99 per month for the first year, which is a compelling deal. This promotion lasts until January 21, 2025, after which the rate will revert to the standard €5.99 unless canceled[3[3[3[3]. Such promotions are key in the competitive streaming space to convert channel subscribers into direct digital subscribers.
Time.news Editor: How significant is this growth in the broader context of streaming services? Are we seeing a trend where content providers are pulling back from aggregators?
Expert: This is indeed part of a larger trend where content creators are seeking to regain direct control over their distribution channels. By moving away from partnerships with aggregators like Canal+, Disney can foster a more profound brand relationship with its audience and capitalize on its vast library of original content, which continues to grow. This shift reflects a strategic pivot towards direct-to-consumer models that many companies are adopting to enhance customer loyalty and diversify revenue streams.
Time.news Editor: what advice can you offer to readers who are affected by this change?
Expert: The most practical advice is to consider taking advantage of the promotional subscription to explore Disney+ content. For many viewers, especially those with families, accessing Disney’s extensive library of shows, movies, and new releases can be an attractive option. Additionally, it’s wise for subscribers to evaluate their viewing preferences and compare costs across diffrent platforms to make informed choices, especially as more streaming services are adopting similar competitive practices[1[1[1[1].
Time.news Editor: Thank you for your insights. This transition certainly raises significant considerations for both consumers and industry stakeholders as we move further into 2025.