Walt Disney World is once again redefining the guest experience, bringing its flagship streaming service, Disney+, directly into resort hotel rooms. With over 36,000 hotel rooms spread across the property, this is a monumental rollout, signaling Disney’s commitment to seamlessly blending its digital and physical entertainment ecosystems.
Previously, guests staying at Walt Disney World hotels could access Disney+ only by casting from their personal devices to the in-room TVs. Now, with the Disney+ app fully integrated into the TV systems, streaming your favorite Disney classics, Marvel blockbusters, or Star Wars epics has never been easier. However, there are some important details guests should keep in mind.
First, Disney+ access on hotel TVs is not complimentary. Guests must log in using their own Disney+ account credentials, as an active subscription is required to enjoy the service. This means that while the app is available to everyone staying at participating resorts, only existing subscribers can use the feature.
Another important feature is the automatic logout system. For security purposes, Disney+ will sign users out of their accounts automatically at the end of their stay. Guests also have the option to manually log out before checking out, ensuring their personal information is protected. This thoughtful addition eliminates concerns about leaving accounts logged in for the next occupant.
The rollout of this feature is happening gradually across Walt Disney World’s resort hotels, so availability may vary depending on the property. Guests are encouraged to check their in-room TVs to see if Disney+ is accessible during their stay. As this initiative continues, more hotels are expected to join the list of participating properties, ensuring widespread access in the near future.
Enhancing the Disney+ Platform
This in-room integration comes at a time when Disney+ itself has undergone significant evolution. The platform now offers live content, including ESPN On Disney+ and news from ABC News Live, in addition to its vast library of on-demand movies and shows. These additions reflect Disney’s effort to make Disney+ a one-stop streaming destination for a variety of entertainment needs.
To address concerns about the live content’s lack of traditional ratings, Disney+ has implemented new parental control settings. Guests can now disable unrated titles, such as live sports and news, on specific profiles. This feature is particularly useful for families who want to ensure younger viewers are not exposed to inappropriate material. By navigating to the “Parental Controls” section of their profile settings, subscribers can turn off the “Allow titles without ratings” feature, limiting access to unrated content. This setting is enabled by default but can be adjusted at any time, making it easy to tailor the streaming experience to individual preferences.
The Bigger Picture: Disney+ Pricing and Strategy
The integration of Disney+ into Walt Disney World hotel rooms aligns with the company’s broader streaming strategy. Over the past year, Disney has made significant changes to its pricing structure, introducing a more affordable ad-supported tier, Disney+ Basic, at $7.99 per month. Meanwhile, the cost of the standard ad-free tier has risen to $11.99. This pricing shift reflects Disney’s growing reliance on ad revenue to support its streaming ambitions.
During a recent earnings call, Disney CEO Bob Iger inadvertently disclosed that 37% of U.S. Disney+ subscribers and 30% of global subscribers are on the ad-supported plan. While this revelation was unintentional, it underscores the importance of the ad-supported tier in Disney’s overall streaming strategy. By making Disney+ accessible in hotel rooms, the company is likely aiming to further boost subscriptions and encourage more guests to explore its platform.
A Monumental Rollout Across 36,000 Rooms
The rollout of Disney+ across Walt Disney World’s vast network of hotel rooms is a major milestone, showcasing Disney’s commitment to innovation and guest convenience. With over 36,000 rooms to outfit, this initiative represents one of the largest in-room entertainment upgrades in the hospitality industry. For guests, it’s a significant enhancement, offering a new way to unwind after a long day at the parks.
This integration also highlights Disney’s effort to create a seamless experience that connects its parks, resorts, and digital platforms. By bringing Disney+ into hotel rooms, the company reinforces its brand presence and ensures that the magic of Disney is never more than a click away.
Looking Ahead
As the Disney+ rollout continues, guests can expect the service to become a standard feature across all Walt Disney World resort hotels. With the ability to stream a wide range of content, including family favorites and live programming, Disney+ adds a new layer of entertainment to the resort experience. For families planning their next Disney vacation, this feature offers a modern convenience that enhances their stay while bridging the gap between the magic of the parks and the comfort of home.
This massive rollout demonstrates Disney’s commitment to staying at the forefront of both hospitality and entertainment. Whether relaxing after a day at the parks or winding down before bed, Disney+ on in-room TVs ensures that every moment of your Disney vacation is filled with magic.
Is this new secret costly add-on worth it during your Disney vacation?
