Disney is quietly shifting Hulu into Disney+ through Project Gemini, a multi-phase plan to merge content and features despite public denials of shutting down Hulu. Internal documents reveal reduced development on the standalone app, signaling a phase-out. Users can now access Hulu’s library, live TV, and DVR via Disney+, a move that could streamline the Disney ecosystem. This contradicts Disney’s recent statements that Hulu remains independent, creating confusion among subscribers.

The strategy reflects years of integration efforts, including profile linking to sync viewing history between services. By consolidating, Disney aims to cut costs from maintaining dual tech stacks and enhance content discovery. However, Hulu subscribers face no immediate changes; the standalone app remains functional. Disney’s push to merge services prioritizes a unified experience, blending Disney+, Marvel, Star Wars, and Hulu originals into one platform. This could frustrate users who value Hulu’s unique content or pricing, though convenience may offset concerns.

The shift underscores Disney’s broader consolidation strategy in streaming. With competitors like Netflix and Amazon Prime dominating, merging Hulu into Disney+ strengthens its catalog and reduces operational complexity. For consumers, this means fewer apps but potential loss of Hulu’s niche appeal. While Disney insists Hulu isn’t disappearing, the technical and strategic focus suggests otherwise. Users invested in the ecosystem may adapt, but the contradiction between public messaging and internal actions raises questions about transparency.