NEW YORK โ ESPN announced on Tuesday the launch of its comprehensive new streaming service, which will retain the familiar โESPNโ name and debut in September priced at $29.99 monthly. This service will give viewers access to all of ESPNโs networks, including those dedicated to SEC, Big 10, and ACC college leagues, as well as incorporate content from the existing ESPN+ streaming service into its offerings.
The network is also enhancing its ESPN app for mobile devices by utilizing artificial intelligence to craft a personalized version of โSportsCenter.โ This feature will focus on delivering news and highlights tailored to the userโs favorite teams, sports, and athletes.
September marks a significant milestone for ESPN, akin to the cable sports networkโs initial launch in 1979, the advent of ESPN2 in 1993, and the launch of ESPN.com two years later, according to ESPN Chairman Jimmy Pitaro. The exact launch date for the new service will be announced in the future.
This development is also pivotal in the ongoing industry shift from traditional television to streaming services. ESPN, along with its sister channels, will continue being available on cable and satellite platforms.
While considering several potential names during development, affectionately referred to as โFlagship,โ Pitaro said executives concluded to keep the name simple, recognizing the strength and reliability associated with the ESPN brand.
Subscribers to the service can look forward to accessing all live events broadcasted on ESPN networks, including those shown on ABC-TV, ESPNโs broadcasting partner. Additional programming such as โSportsCenter,โ โPardon the Interruption,โ โFirst Take,โ โThe Pat McAfee Show,โ โNFL Live,โ and original films will also be part of the offering. Notably, former network personality Rich Eisen is set to return with his daily program, even as he continues his stint at the NFL Network.
ESPNโs streaming service is also available on an annual basis, with a subscription price of $299.99. The Disney-owned network offers bundle options, allowing customers to combine ESPN with Hulu and Disney+ for $35.99 monthlyโor at $29.99 monthly for the first year.
Consumers can also choose to purchase the more limited ESPN+ content separately, available for $11.99 monthly. However, Pitaro explained that ESPN has opted not to provide lower-cost alternatives that only cover certain selections of its programming, as this could potentially confuse customers.
ESPN continues to explore opportunities for acquisitions or partnerships to expand its programming. This includes considering collaborations with struggling regional sports networks airing baseball content, despite ESPNโs earlier decision to exit the final three years of its contract with Major League Baseball after the current season concludes.
โWhen the league is ready to have a conversation, we are ready to listen,โ Pitaro remarked.