JioHotstar, the newly launched streaming platform born from the merger of JioCinema and Disney+ Hotstar, officially debuted on Friday under the JioStar banner. This unified platform will offer an extensive content library, incorporating the vast catalogues of both original OTT services while also providing access to content from leading international studios and streaming platforms. Notably, the joint venture (JV) has introduced a free-tier model, allowing users to stream a wide selection of content without a subscription.
JioStar, which came into existence following the successful merger of Viacom18 and Star India in November 2024, formally announced the launch of JioHotstar through a press release, detailing the platform’s expansive offerings. According to the company, the service will provide approximately 300,000 hours of content, spanning multiple genres and formats, alongside live sports coverage. At its inception, JioHotstar will boast a combined user base exceeding 500 million, drawn from the existing audiences of JioCinema and Disney+ Hotstar. However, it remains unclear whether this figure accounts for duplicate accounts, where users may have subscriptions to both original platforms.
As part of its rebranding, JioHotstar has introduced a fresh logo featuring the platform’s name alongside an asymmetrical seven-pointed star. For now, the service will be entirely free, enabling users to access its extensive library without requiring a subscription. However, JioStar has hinted at a tiered model, with premium plans available for those seeking an enhanced, uninterrupted viewing experience. Subscribers to these plans are expected to enjoy an ad-free experience and superior streaming quality. Existing subscribers of JioCinema and Disney+ Hotstar will be seamlessly transitioned to JioHotstar. Upon their first login, they will be prompted to set up their new subscriptions, ensuring a smooth migration. Meanwhile, new users can explore subscription plans starting at Rs. 149, offering a range of benefits tailored to different viewing preferences.
JioHotstar will support content in 10 Indian languages, catering to a diverse audience with a rich mix of movies, television shows, anime, documentaries, and live sporting events. Furthermore, the platform is set to host international premieres and will feature content partnerships with global media giants such as Disney, NBCUniversal Peacock, Warner Bros., Discovery HBO, and Paramount. A standout initiative on JioHotstar is ‘Sparks,’ a flagship programme designed to spotlight India’s most prominent digital creators through exclusive and innovative content formats. This initiative underscores JioStar’s commitment to fostering local talent and delivering fresh, engaging content to its expansive user base. With its comprehensive content library, international collaborations, and innovative initiatives, JioHotstar is poised to redefine the Indian streaming landscape, offering audiences an unparalleled entertainment experience.
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