(Image source from: DDnews.gov.in)

JioHotstar, the latest streaming service formed from the combination of JioCinema and Disney+ Hotstar, was unveiled by JioStar on Friday. This new platform will include the full content assets of both streaming providers. In addition to the films and series from the two parent companies, it will also feature offerings from several global studios and streaming services. The joint venture has also revealed a free access option for this streaming service. Significantly, the JioStar partnership was established in November 2024 following the merger of Viacom18 and Star India. In a media announcement, JioStar detailed the launch of JioHotstar and provided information regarding this new service. According to the company, this platform will offer approximately 300,000 hours of viewing content along with live sporting events. At its launch, the number of users is expected to surpass 50 crore by integrating the user bases of both platforms. Nevertheless, it remains uncertain if this figure accounts for duplicate accounts where individuals maintain subscriptions to both JioCinema and Disney+ Hotstar. The new service will also have a fresh logo, which consists of the word JioHotstar paired with an uneven seven-pointed star.

For the time being, JioHotstar will be free for users to access and enjoy content. There will be no need for subscriptions to view films, shows, or live sports. However, it remains ambiguous if any content will be restricted by a paywall. The joint venture mentioned that subscription options are available for those seeking a seamless and improved viewing experience. This likely indicates that paying users will have an ad-free experience and the option to stream at higher resolutions. Regarding subscriptions, current users of JioCinema and Disney+ Hotstar will be seamlessly transferred to the new service. The company stated that these users could activate their JioHotstar subscriptions during their initial login. New subscribers can explore the platform's various plans starting from Rs. 149. JioHotstar aims to offer content in ten Indian languages across diverse genres and formats. Viewers will have access to movies, shows, anime, documentaries, live sports events, and much more. The company also mentioned that the platform would present international premieres. Additionally, JioHotstar will include contributions from Disney, NBCUniversal Peacock, Warner Bros., Discovery HBO, and Paramount. The platform is also launching a key initiative called Sparks, designed to highlight "India’s leading digital creators" through innovative formats.