Disney is set to introduce a TikTok-style short-form video feed on Disney+ later this year in the United States, part of a major shift in audience engagement. The new feature, revealed during Disney’s Tech + Data Showcase at CES 2026, aims to make content discovery faster and more intuitive for mobile users.
The Disney+plans update will allow viewers to scroll vertically through short clips, including original content, curated social-style videos, and highlights from Disney movies and TV shows. The experience is designed to mimic social media platforms, helping users find content effortlessly without traditional browsing.
Erin Teague, executive vice president of product management for Disney Entertainment and ESPN, said the goal is to match the way audiences naturally consume content on phones. “Users can casually scroll through clips that highlight shows, franchises, and moments aligned with their interests,” she explained.
Disney has tested similar features on its ESPN app, where personalized short-form feeds focused on sports highlights and real-time updates proved popular. These trials influenced the expansion of short-form videos to Disney+ as the company aims to compete with social media platforms for younger viewers’ attention.
Industry experts note that Disney+plans align with broader trends. Netflix launched a vertical discovery feed last year, while TikTok-style short videos continue to attract high engagement. Disney seeks to differentiate itself with personalized feeds, behind-the-scenes content, and franchise updates.
If successful, the update could transform Disney+ from a platform primarily used for watching new releases into a daily engagement app, blurring the line between streaming and social media. Disney+ has leveraged technology from its streaming arm, originally BAMTech, which helped launch ESPN+ in 2018.
Disney+plans reflect the company’s ongoing global expansion, with the platform now available across North America, Europe, Latin America, and Asia. By Q3 2024, Disney+ had 153.8 million subscribers worldwide, highlighting the growing impact of its streaming services.
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