Disney+ Ad Policy Change

The Change

Section 2(k) of the Disney+ Subscriber Agreement states:

We offer different Disney+ and Hulu Service Tiers, some with advertisements and some predominantly without. Service Tiers described as "no ads" or "ad-free" are generally free of commercial interruptions, with certain exceptions that may change from time to time, including where: (i) streaming rights or other limitations require certain Content to play with ads; or (ii) ads are served in certain live or linear Content or special events (and replays thereof). Additionally, "no ads" or "ad-free" Service Tiers may contain limited promotional content, such as brief clips about the Bundles (including messages promoting an upgrade thereto) and other content available on any services associated with the Bundles, and branded content, product integrations, or sponsorship messaging.

Implementation

This policy affects all subscription tiers, including:

• Premium ("ad-free") subscriptions
• Basic (with ads) subscriptions
• Bundle subscriptions that include Disney+

The modification was done via an update to the service's terms & conditions, with subscribers being bound by the new terms unless they cancel their subscription; even those who had signed up prior to the change.

Historical Context

Prior to this change, Disney+ marketed and provided its premium tier as an entirely ad-free viewing experience. The introduction of advertisements into the premium tier represents a modification to the original service offering after purchase.

Documentation

The policy can be found in:

• Disney+ Subscriber Agreement (Updated January 27, 2025)
• Section 2(k) "Service Tiers With or Without Ads"

This document defines several categories of advertising content that may appear in "no ads" or "ad-free" tiers:

• Ads required by streaming rights or other limitations
• Ads in live/linear content and special events
• Promotional content about Disney bundles
• Branded content and product integrations
• Sponsorship messaging

Impact on Consumer Rights

This change is an example of modern consumer protection concerns:

• Post-purchase modification of service terms
• Alteration of a purchased service's fundamental characteristics
• Implementation through terms of service updates
• Affects existing subscribers who originally purchased under different terms

Maybe of interest

• Digital Service Modifications After Purchase
• Streaming Service Terms of Service Changes
• Ad-Free Service Definition Changes
• Post-Purchase Terms Modifications

References

Note: This article documents policy changes that occurred in 2025. For the most current information about Disney+ subscription terms, please refer to their official documentation.