Disney+ unveils vertical video push

Disney+ is set to launch a new vertical video offering in the US later this year as it looks to tap into the fast-growing short-form market.

The move was unveiled at the annual Consumer Technology Association (CES) event in Las Vegas and will see the streamer offering subscribers tailored content across entertainment, news and sports genres.

Original short-form could sit alongside clips and social media content, with the roll-out designed to lure in users on a daily basis.

“The experience will evolve as it expands across news and entertainment and delivers a more personalised, dynamic experience that reinforces Disney+ as a must-visit daily destination,” the US giant said.

Erin Teague, Disney’s executive vice president of product management, said the streamer would “explore applications for a variety of formats, categories, and content types for a dynamic feed of just what you’re interested in refreshed, in real time based on your last visit.”

Broadcast International revealed in October that Disney+ was exploring a move into microdramas, which have boomed in popularity over the past two years.

That came after Disney+ sibling streamer ESPN+ introduced its own swipeable, vertical videos with Verts last year, which allow viewers to watch sports content via a dedicated tab in the app.

In related news, Disney has upped long-standing exec Jimmy Zasowski to become president of platform distribution for Disney Entertainment and ESPN.

Zasowski, who joined in 2009, now has oversight of global distribution and monetisation for streamers including Disney+, Hulu and ESPN, as well as linear TV networks including flagship ABC.

Zasowski reports to Disney Entertainment co-chairmen Alan Bergman and Dana Walden, and ESPN chairman Jimmy Pitaro.

Sean Breen, who had been executive vice president of platform distribution sales for all global accounts and the North American business, has also taken on a broader remit with direct oversight of EMEA, LatAm and APAC.