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 experience content on its platform. The company 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.
For the uninitiated, vertical videos are short-form content that is optimized for viewing on mobile devices. They are typically shot in a 9:16 aspect ratio, which is the same orientation as most smartphones. This format has become incredibly popular on platforms like TikTok, where users can scroll through a feed of short, engaging videos that are often set to music or other audio.
The introduction of vertical videos on Disney+ is a strategic move by the company to cater to the changing viewing habits of its users. With more and more people consuming content on their mobile devices, Disney+ wants to provide a seamless and personalized experience that is similar to what users are accustomed to on social media platforms.
So, what can users expect from the new vertical video feed on Disney+? According to Disney, the feature will allow users to scroll through a feed of short vertical videos that cover a wide range of topics, including sports, news, and entertainment. The content will be curated based on the user’s viewing history and preferences, ensuring that they see videos that are relevant and interesting to them.
The vertical video feed will be integrated into the Disney+ app, and users will be able to access it from the home screen. The feed will be constantly updated with new content, and users will be able to interact with the videos by liking, commenting, and sharing them with their friends and family.
One of the key benefits of the vertical video feed is that it will provide users with a more personalized experience. By using algorithms to curate content based on user behavior, Disney+ can ensure that users see videos that are tailored to their interests and preferences. This will not only make the viewing experience more enjoyable but also increase user engagement and loyalty.
Another advantage of the vertical video feed is that it will provide content creators with new opportunities to produce and distribute short-form content. Disney+ has already announced that it will be partnering with a range of creators and producers to develop exclusive content for the platform. This will not only help to drive user engagement but also provide new revenue streams for creators and producers.
The introduction of vertical videos on Disney+ is also a response to the growing popularity of short-form video platforms like TikTok and YouTube Shorts. These platforms have become incredibly popular among younger audiences, and Disney+ wants to ensure that it remains relevant and competitive in the market.
In terms of the types of content that will be available on the vertical video feed, Disney+ has announced that it will include a wide range of topics and genres. Sports fans will be able to watch highlights and analysis from their favorite teams and leagues, while news junkies will be able to stay up-to-date with the latest developments from around the world. Entertainment fans will also be able to watch behind-the-scenes footage, interviews, and other exclusive content from their favorite movies and TV shows.
Overall, the introduction of vertical videos on Disney+ is a significant development that is set to change the way users experience content on the platform. With its personalized feed, short-form content, and interactive features, the vertical video feed is set to become a major draw for users who are looking for a more engaging and immersive viewing experience.
As the streaming landscape continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how Disney+ and other platforms adapt to changing user behavior and technological advancements. One thing is certain, however: the introduction of vertical videos on Disney+ is a bold move that is set to pay off in the long run.