The standalone Hulu app is nearing its sunset as Disney prepares to fold the service fully into Disney+, marking a significant step in the company’s broader streaming overhaul. Disney has announced plans to begin merging Hulu into Disney+ from February 2026, a transition that is expected to gradually phase out the separate Hulu app across multiple devices, with a complete shutdown likely by mid-year.

According to an Economic Times report, the move reflects Disney’s long-term strategy to simplify its streaming ecosystem and offer viewers a single, unified destination for content. Instead of navigating between multiple apps, subscribers will be able to access Hulu’s catalogue directly within Disney+, streamlining both discovery and viewing.

Hulu has operated as a standalone service despite overlapping content and bundled offerings with Disney+ and ESPN+. Disney gained majority control of Hulu in 2019 following agreements with Comcast and other stakeholders, but the platforms continued to function independently. In recent years, however, Disney has increasingly pushed combined subscription packages, signalling a gradual shift toward integration.

With the upcoming merger, Hulu’s extensive library of shows, films and original series will be available through Disney+, removing the need for users to switch apps. Disney believes this will improve navigation, strengthen personalised recommendations and deliver a more seamless viewing experience.

The consolidation also underscores Disney’s intent to sharpen focus on fewer, stronger platforms amid intensifying competition in the streaming market. As the integration rolls out through 2026, Hulu’s identity will increasingly live within Disney+, bringing an end to the standalone app that has been a key player in the streaming landscape for over a decade.