Disney+ will be implementing a price hike for its streaming packages in Canada, with the new rates set to take effect in November. The standard high-definition subscription will see a $3 increase to $15.99 per month, while the premium 4K package will rise by $1 to $16.99 per month. However, the price for the ad-supported standard subscription will remain at $8.99 a month.
This move by Disney+ aligns with similar price adjustments in other regions like the United States and the United Kingdom, as streaming companies aim to promote their ad-supported options, which offer lower costs to subscribers while generating additional revenue from commercials.
The last time Disney+ raised prices in Canada was approximately two years ago, following suit with other platforms such as Netflix and Apple TV Plus, which have also adjusted their subscription fees this year. Another transition at Disney+ this week involves the retirement of the Star branding in favor of Hulu in all international markets, including Canada. This change is intended to bring Disney+ Canada more in line with the U.S. and global markets without impacting its content offerings.
Recently, Disney+ faced a public backlash resulting in some subscribers canceling their memberships due to the handling of the Jimmy Kimmel controversy. The incident involved ABC, a Disney-owned network, suspending Kimmel for remarks he made regarding the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk in mid-September, sparking debates on freedom of speech.