ESPN is showing off its overhauled app ahead of the launch of its live sports streaming service. On Wednesday, ESPN detailed all the new features that will be featured in the ESPN app, including Tiktok-style vertical video feeds.
ESPN's much-anticipated live sports streaming service costs $29.99 per month, with 12 linear channels in the network, including ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNU, SECN and more, placed within the new app. The service will officially launch on August 21st, but ESPN has been rolling out several features within the app starting today.
The personalized feed of the mobile app displays bite-sized sports videos within the standalone “Verts” tab and the carousel of the homepage. There is also a new “sc for you” feature that will be released in beta. Sports Center Anchor offers daily versions of shows tailored to your favorite teams, leagues and sports. This feature is available on the ESPN mobile app and ESPN.com and several smart TVs.
Another update allows you to connect the ESPN mobile app to your TV app while watching live sporting events. During the game, you can get statistics and automatic alerts sent to your phone, along with play-by-play updates, betting info, and access to ESPN fantasys. You can also use the mobile app to control ESPN live streams on your TV.
If you are late in tuning into the game, ESPN will provide you with a set of highlights for your selected event to help you keep up with what's happening now. There is also the option to play the game from the start and watch it live.
ESPN also offers multi-views on the All Major smart TV platform, allowing you to watch up to four games at the same time. ESPN Head Jimmy Pitaro said the app will “enhance and evolve regularly over time,” so the network plans to build new apps with more features in the future.
Additionally, ESPN folds its full-featured streaming service to Disney Plus for bundled subscribers. As part of this change, Disney Plus will roll out a new “live” hub in the coming weeks, allowing you to watch sports, news and other live content. ESPN is currently offering ad-supported Disney Plus and Hulu plans in a $29.99 per year bundle before increasing the price to $35.99 per month.
