Disney+ to bring TikTok-style vertical videos this year
The world of streaming services is constantly evolving, and Disney+ is no exception. At the recently concluded Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2026, Disney made a significant announcement that is set to change the way users consume content on its platform. The media giant revealed that it will be introducing vertical videos to Disney+ in the US this year, a feature that is reminiscent of social media platforms like TikTok and YouTube Shorts.
The new feature will allow users to scroll through a feed of short vertical videos, offering a personalized experience that is tailored to their interests. The content will range from sports and news to entertainment, providing users with a diverse range of options to choose from. This move is seen as a strategic attempt by Disney to attract a younger audience and increase user engagement on its platform.
The vertical video feed will be designed to provide users with a seamless and intuitive experience, allowing them to easily discover and watch content that resonates with them. The feed will be populated with a mix of user-generated content, as well as content created by Disney’s partners and studios. This will not only provide users with a unique perspective on various topics but also offer a platform for emerging creators to showcase their talent.
The introduction of vertical videos on Disney+ is a significant departure from the traditional horizontal video format that has been the norm on streaming services. However, with the rise of social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram Reels, vertical videos have become increasingly popular, especially among younger audiences. By embracing this format, Disney is acknowledging the changing viewing habits of its users and adapting its platform to meet their evolving needs.
The personalized experience offered by the vertical video feed will be powered by Disney’s advanced algorithms, which will take into account a user’s viewing history, preferences, and interests. This will ensure that users are served content that is relevant to them, increasing the likelihood of engagement and discovery. The feature will also include interactive elements, such as likes, comments, and shares, allowing users to interact with the content and with each other.
The implications of this move are significant, as it could potentially disrupt the traditional TV viewing experience. With the rise of streaming services, users are no longer bound by traditional TV schedules and can watch content on-demand. The introduction of vertical videos on Disney+ takes this concept a step further, providing users with a unique and immersive experience that is tailored to their individual preferences.
The move is also seen as a response to the growing competition in the streaming space. With the likes of Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video, the market is becoming increasingly crowded, and streaming services need to innovate to stay ahead. By introducing vertical videos, Disney is differentiating itself from its competitors and providing users with a unique reason to choose its platform.
In conclusion, the introduction of TikTok-style vertical videos on Disney+ is a significant development that is set to change the way users consume content on the platform. With its personalized experience, interactive elements, and diverse range of content, the feature is poised to attract a younger audience and increase user engagement. As the streaming landscape continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how Disney’s competitors respond to this move and how the market shapes up in the coming months.