Disney announced plans to launch short-form video content on Disney+ in the U.S. this year, aiming to increase daily engagement following the popularity of TikTok and Instagram Reels.
The company revealed the initiative at its Tech + Data Showcase event during CES 2026. In a blog post, Disney stated the experience “will evolve as it expands across news and entertainment and delivers a more personalized, dynamic experience that reinforces Disney+ as a must‑visit daily destination.”
Speaking to Deadline, Disney indicated the videos could consist of original short-form content, repurposed social clips, scenes from TV shows or movies, or a combination. Erin Teague, EVP of Product Management for Disney Entertainment and ESPN, said, “We’re obviously thinking about integrating vertical video in ways that are native to core user behaviors.” She added, “So, it won’t be a kind of a disjointed, random experience.”
This feature builds on Disney’s launch of a personalized vertical video feed in the ESPN app last year. The addition targets younger users who favor quick clips on their phones over traditional long-form TV shows and movies.
Disney+ is not the first streaming service to adopt vertical video. Netflix introduced a vertical feed last year, allowing users to scroll through clips from its original titles.
