O2 Becomes Exclusive UK Mobile Network Distributor of Disney+

Mobile operator O2 has today signed a new deal that will make them the “exclusive UK mobile [network] distributor” of the Disney+ video streaming service, which is due to launch this side of the pond on 24th March. New and upgrading Pay Monthly customers will be able to select 6 months free Disney+ when they purchase online.

We should point out that the Disney+ streaming platform – when taken independently of any other mobile, TV or broadband operator – normally costs £5.99 per month by itself, although early subscribers who go direct will currently pay just £49 for the first year of access (equivalent to £4.08 per month).

Meanwhile O2 states that existing customers can also select to add the feature via their My O2 platform for the normal price of £5.99 per month, but they will then “receive a £2 reduction off their monthly airtime bill” (i.e. effectively making it roughly the same price as the first year discount above).

Mark Evans, CEO of O2, said:

“We’re delighted to be working with Disney to bring these incredible shows and movies to our customers, demonstrating that there are more reasons than ever to join the UK’s No.1 network.”

At launch the Disney+ service will be home to over 500 films, more than 350 TV series and a slate of 26 exclusive Disney+ Originals (mostly from Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars and National Geographic). This includes the highly anticipated series “The Mandalorian,” among others.

“With Disney+ customers can create up to 7 different user profiles, with unlimited downloads on up to 10 devices, Subscribers will also be able to enjoy commercial-free viewing and stream across 4 screens simultaneously with a wide selection of 4K Ultra HD and HDR titles. Furthermore, the service also provides parental control functionality in the form of Kids Profiles,” said the operator.

However the press release fails to be completely clear about whether or not O2 customers who take the Disney+ service will benefit from free data usage (mobile broadband) while streaming via the related app. We have asked the operator to clarify this point and will update when they report back.

It’s worth reminding readers that customers of Sky’s (Comcast / Sky Broadband) TV service have also recently agreed to a new multi-year deal, which will make Disney+ content available for purchase in the UK and Ireland on Sky Q and this will be followed by NOW TV in the “coming months“ (here).

UPDATE 9:24am

We’ve been informed by O2 that sadly any usage of Disney+ while connected via their mobile data connection “will come out of your data allowance,” although they did point out that the new streaming service allows shows and films to be downloaded for watching later (e.g. you could download via WiFi at home for free and watch it any time you like).

The confirmation is a little disappointing, particularly when some rival operators make a point of mixing free data usage with a few of their own video content partnerships.