Disney, which owns properties like ESPN and ABC, is one of the most powerful media companies in the world. For that reason, the Mouse House’s decision to include some of its channels on Dish Network‘s upcoming Sling TV service is an important one that shows a clear interest in streaming video. At the same time, Disney may ratchet up its digital efforts even more. During a call with analysts, Disney CEO Bob Iger hinted at the possibility of a more concerted direct-to-consumer offering. “We think we have that opportunity with a Disney branded service,” he said.
Disney isn’t rushing toward that goal, since its cable package remains a lucrative part of its business. At the same time, Iger called the company’s inclusion on Sling TV “a worthwhile experiment.” He hopes the $20-a-month service can “convince younger people to sign up to cable when they either wouldn’t have signed up for it at all or might have waited.”
Disney’s channels on Sling TV include ABC Family and ESPN. The company is also offering a “best of Internet video” package that will feature content from Maker Studios, the multi-channel network it owns.
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Should these channels prove popular, Disney could expand its streaming presence, and at that point, it may turn to its film properties. “We may have an opportunity with a Marvel type product and possibly even Star Wars,” explained Iger. We’re all for more digital content, so if Disney is looking at Sling TV to see how its properties perform, we hope the force is strong with Dish’s new service.
