Disney+ is launching short-form videos this year

In a strategic move to enhance user engagement, Disney has announced plans to introduce short-form video content on Disney+ in the United States this year. This decision comes on the heels of the popularity of platforms like TikTok and Instagram Reels, and was unveiled during Disney's Tech + Data Showcase at CES 2026. According to a blog post from the company, this new feature aims to create a more personalized and dynamic experience for users, positioning Disney+ as an essential daily entertainment destination. The short-form video offerings may encompass a variety of content, including original clips, repurposed social media snippets, and scenes from existing movies and TV shows. Erin Teague, Disney Entertainment and ESPN's EVP of Product Management, emphasized the importance of a seamless user experience, stating, "We’re obviously thinking about integrating vertical video in ways that are native to core user behaviors. So, it won’t be a kind of a disjointed, random experience." This initiative follows the successful launch of a personalized vertical video feed in the ESPN app last year. Disney's venture into short-form content is particularly aimed at attracting younger viewers who prefer quick, engaging clips over traditional long-form programming. Notably, Disney+ is not the only streaming service exploring this format; Netflix also introduced a vertical video feed last year, allowing users to scroll through clips from its original content.