The highly anticipated ESPN streaming service is set to launch on August 21, 2025, marking a significant expansion for the sports media giant owned by Disney. The service, simply named ESPN, aims to offer a comprehensive sports streaming experience, including multiple channels in addition to the traditional ESPN network.
This new platform follows a lengthy development process that included a brief foray into Venu Sports. While the launch promises an array of content, potential subscribers may find themselves questioning whether to sign up, especially if they already receive ESPN through cable or other streaming services.
Understanding the ESPN Streaming Service
ESPN is more than just a single channel. It is a new streaming service that encompasses various ESPN networks, including ESPN, ESPN2, and ESPN Deportes, while also incorporating content from ESPN Plus. The ESPN Unlimited plan will cost $29.99 per month or $299.99 annually upon launch, providing access to twelve channels initially, with additional channels expected to be added in the future.
The existing ESPN Plus service will undergo a rebranding to become the ESPN Select plan, which will retain its monthly price of $11.99 or $119.99 annually. ESPN Select will offer only ESPN Plus content, while the new ESPN streaming service will include all linear ESPN networks.
Channels and Bundles Available
The ESPN Unlimited plan will feature a variety of channels, including:
– ESPN
– ESPN2
– ESPNU
– SEC Network
– ACC Network
– ESPN Deportes
– ESPN on ABC
– ESPN Plus
– ESPN3
– SEC Network Plus
– ACC Network Extra
It is important to note that the ESPN streaming service does not grant access to local ABC channels, only ESPN-branded broadcasts such as Monday Night Football.
Looking ahead, ESPN plans to enhance its offerings by adding WWE Premium Live Events in 2026 and is negotiating to acquire the NFL Network, pending regulatory approval. If the deal proceeds, NFL Network content will be available on ESPN Unlimited without additional costs.
Currently, ESPN offers two bundles to provide savings for subscribers. The first is a combination of ESPN Unlimited, Disney Plus, and Hulu, priced at a promotional rate of $29.99 for the first twelve months, after which it will revert to $35.99 monthly. The second bundle pairs ESPN Unlimited with the new Fox One streaming service, which will include a variety of Fox sports networks at a cost of $39.99 monthly, catering to sports enthusiasts looking for extensive live coverage.
The differences between ESPN and the rebranded ESPN Plus, now known as ESPN Select, are crucial for potential subscribers to understand. While ESPN Select will continue to provide access to a vast library of sporting events and shows, it will no longer feature a live feed of ESPN’s linear channels. To access those, subscribers must opt for the ESPN streaming service.
ESPN’s linear channels will still be available through traditional cable providers, satellite services, and live TV streaming platforms, ensuring that fans can choose how they want to experience their favorite sports content.
For U.S. residents, the ESPN streaming service will be accessible through the enhanced ESPN app. Those already subscribed to cable or satellite services, such as Charter, DirecTV, or Hulu, may have free access to ESPN Unlimited, although users of YouTube TV, Xfinity, or Sling will not have the same arrangement at this time.
As the launch date approaches, many sports fans are eager to see how the new ESPN streaming service will shape the landscape of sports broadcasting, particularly as it aims to offer a competitive alternative to existing cable packages.
