JioHotstar has officially launched as a unified streaming platform, merging JioCinema and Disney+ Hotstar into a single app. With this integration, JioCinema users will be redirected to JioHotstar, while Disney+ Hotstar has also rebranded with a new logo. The transition is designed to be seamless for existing subscribers of both services, with JioCinema premium users being auto-upgraded to the new premium tier. The new platform offers a vast content library that includes not only original productions from the merged entities but also exclusive titles from major international studios like NBCUniversal’s Peacock, Warner Bros, Discovery, HBO, and Paramount. This eliminates the need for multiple OTT subscriptions, allowing users to stream both Game of Thrones and Marvel movies on a single platform.
JioHotstar will cater to a broad audience with content available in 10 languages, and CEO Kiran Mani has emphasized the platform’s vision of making premium entertainment accessible to all Indians. The app will feature AI-driven recommendations and streaming options in over 19 languages for a highly personalized experience. At launch, JioHotstar is free to access, though it is unclear whether some content will be paywalled in the future. Subscription plans for ad-free and high-resolution streaming start at Rs 149 per quarter.
A major highlight of JioHotstar is its focus on sports streaming, consolidating cricket, football, tennis, kabaddi, and other major sporting events under one platform. Previously, JioCinema and Disney+ Hotstar competed for sports broadcasting rights, particularly in cricket and IPL coverage. Now, users will no longer need to check which platform holds streaming rights, as JioHotstar becomes the central hub for sports content, including IPL, WPL, ICC tournaments, Premier League, Wimbledon, Pro Kabaddi, and ISL.
Additionally, JioHotstar has introduced “Sparks,” an initiative aimed at showcasing India’s top digital creators. Alongside traditional entertainment, the platform will integrate live cultural events, starting with the overwhelming response to Coldplay’s "Music of the Spheres" live stream. Sanjog Gupta, CEO – Sports, JioStar, highlighted the app’s role in redefining sports engagement in India, blending storytelling, technology, and fan-centric experiences. Features such as AI-powered insights, real-time stats overlays, multi-angle viewing, and personalized content feeds will further enhance user experience.
While JioHotstar presents a promising shift in the Indian streaming landscape, questions remain about potential content restrictions, future monetization strategies, and whether reported user figures account for duplicate subscribers from the merged platforms. More details are expected to emerge as the service evolves.
