Disney channels: included in the Orange TV offer
From January 2, Orange TV subscribers will have access, at no additional cost, to the Disney Channel and National Geographic channels. These channels will be available on Orange decoders as well as on the mobile application and certain connected televisions. On the other hand, Disney Junior and National Geographic Wild will not be part of the agreement and will remain accessible only via Disney+.
We still have one point to clarify, the Disney Channel is supposed to close on January 1, 2025, the fact that it is announced in this agreement is somewhat contradictory. We are awaiting more information on this specific point.
Films available on VOD after 4 months
The agreement with Orange also introduces a notable change for Disney films. The latest productions from the studios (Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Lucasfilm, and 20th Century Studios) will be available on video on demand (VOD) on the Orange platform four months after their theatrical release. This allows Disney to bypass the 17 months required by the media timeline to integrate this content into Disney+. Be careful though, these VOD films will not be included in a subscription: they will be offered for purchase or rental.
An interesting Disney+ offer
Subscribers to Orange’s Livebox Max offer will benefit from a permanent reduction of 5 euros on their Disney+ subscription, whether they are new or already subscribed. Other Orange TV subscribers will be able to benefit from a free month to try the platform. Compared to the old partnership between Disney and Canal+, this offer is less advantageous, because it does not include other services, such as Netflix or Prime Video.
With this agreement, Orange becomes a strategic partner for Disney in France. By integrating linear channels and facilitating access to Disney+, the operator is expanding its catalog while targeting families. For its part, Disney is securing a transition which limits the impact of its departure from Canal+, by continuing its expansion on the French market.
The challenge nevertheless remains for Disney to convince Canal+ subscribers to migrate to other platforms or to subscribe directly to its services. As for Orange, this collaboration enriches its offer, but under conditions that will not suit everyone.
