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Reliance-Disney JV Launches JioHotStar: What It Means for JioCinema, HotStar Subscribers

JioStar was formed as a joint venture between Reliance-led Viacom18 and Star India in November 2024, creating an $8.5 billion media giant

JioCinema and Disney+ Hotstar

JioHotStar, the joint OTT platform of Reliance's Viacom18 and Disney's Star India, has been launched. The platform combines JioCinema and Disney Hotstar into one, bringing together their 300,000 hours of content and a user base of 500 million, JioStar said in a statement.

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JioStar was formed as a joint venture between Reliance-led Viacom18 and Star India in November 2024, creating an $8.5 billion media giant. The JV is controlled by Reliance through its 46.82% stake in Viacom18, 16.34% stake directly held by Mukesh Ambani-led Reliance Industries, and a 36.84% stake owned by Walt Disney.

“Our promise of Infinite Possibilities ensures that entertainment is no longer a privilege, but a shared experience for all. By integrating AI-driven recommendations and offering streaming in over 19 languages, we are personalizing content like never before,” said Kiran Mani, CEO – Digital, JioStar, as per MoneyControl

What Happens to JioCinema and HotStar Subscribers?

The new OTT platform will offer content to users without any subscription for now. However, the firm says a Rs 149 subscription plan will be offered for those seeking an enhanced and uninterrupted experience.

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Earlier, a Reuters report said that the merged Reliance-Disney JV would offer free content consumption up to a limit, opting for a hybrid model of subscription.

It seems the venture would follow the playbook of Reliance's telecom arm Jio, offering free products until users become loyal, after which subscriptions will kick in.

JioStar, in its release, said that those currently subscribed to JioCinema or Disney Hotstar will be able to "seamlessly transition" and set up their JioHotStar plan.

Aside from the much sought-after IPL broadcasting rights, the new platform now holds the rights to the English Premier League, Pro Kabaddi, Indian Super League, Wimbledon, and many others.

It will also offer content from Disney, NBCUniversal Peacock, Warner Bros. Discovery HBO, and Paramount. JioHotStar will compete with Netflix, Amazon Prime, and others.

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