Are you wondering what happened to Disney+ Hotstar and JioCinema? Both services merged into a new streaming platform called JioHotstar.
The platform launched in February 2025 and has continued evolving through 2026. Let’s explore what changed and what viewers should know before subscribing.
Why did Disney+ Hotstar become JioHotstar?
Disney+ Hotstar didn’t simply rename itself JioStar. The transformation followed a business merger between Reliance Industries’ media operations and The Walt Disney Company’s Indian media business.
The joint venture was completed on November 14, 2024. The companies then combined JioCinema and Disney+ Hotstar into JioHotstar, which officially launched on February 14, 2025.
This brought content from both streaming services to a single platform. Viewers could explore a broader collection of films, television programs, and live sporting events.
What is JioStar?
JioStar is the media and entertainment company formed by combining Viacom18 and Star India. It manages television and digital entertainment businesses, including the JioHotstar streaming platform.
Reliance and Disney formed the venture to combine their Indian entertainment businesses. Reliance also announced a ₹11,500 crore investment in growth capital upon completing the transaction.
The company operates several established television brands and has expanded its digital entertainment activities. JioHotstar is its main streaming platform. Data source: Walt Disney
What content is available on JioHotstar?
JioHotstar brings together entertainment from different genres and languages. You can explore Indian films, international productions, regional television shows, and original series.
- Live sports: Cricket remains an important part of the platform. Indian viewers can find coverage of major tournaments such as the IPL, subject to current broadcasting rights.
- Movies and original series: The library includes Bollywood films, regional cinema, international entertainment and original productions.
- Regional entertainment: You can watch selected programs in languages such as Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, Bangla, and Kannada.
- Family entertainment: JioHotstar also offers children’s programming, animation, and other family-focused content.
The available catalog depends on your subscription and country. You should check the application for the latest titles and viewing options.
JioHotstar subscription plans and pricing in 2026
JioHotstar updated its Indian subscription structure on January 28, 2026. New subscribers can choose between Mobile, Super, and Premium plans with monthly, quarterly, or annual billing.
Here are the published prices for new subscribers in India. (Data source: Fortune India)
| Plan | Monthly | Quarterly | Annual |
| Mobile | ₹79 | ₹149 | ₹499 |
| Super | ₹149 | ₹349 | ₹1,099 |
| Premium | ₹299 | ₹699 | ₹2,199 |
Plan details:
- The Mobile plan supports one mobile device at a time and includes advertising. Hollywood titles require a separate add-on under this tier.
- Super supports up to two simultaneous devices and includes Hollywood entertainment, but viewers will still see advertisements.
- Premium supports up to four simultaneous devices and removes advertisements from most entertainment content. However, live sports and other live programs may still include ads.
These prices apply to the Indian subscription structure announced in January 2026. Confirm current prices and renewal terms before purchasing.
What features does JioHotstar offer?
You can watch JioHotstar through compatible smartphones, browsers, and connected televisions. The platform also offers personalized recommendations to help you discover programs based on your viewing interests.
Some content supports enhanced picture and audio quality, depending on your subscription, device, and internet connection. You may also find interactive features during selected sports and entertainment events.
Important notes:
- Playback quality varies by title.
- Your device capabilities and network conditions can affect the experience.
What happens to existing Disney+ Hotstar subscribers?
If you previously subscribed to Disney+ Hotstar or JioCinema in India, the platform introduced a transition process for existing users. You can check your account in the official JioHotstar app or on the website. Your available subscription benefits depend on your account and plan.
JioHotstar stated that customers continuing eligible auto-renewals could retain their existing pricing under the January 2026 changes. If your subscription doesn’t appear correctly, contact official customer support. Avoid creating additional paid accounts before checking your existing subscription.
Is JioHotstar available outside India?
Yes. JioHotstar officially expanded into the United Kingdom, Canada, and Singapore on September 2, 2026. The international service offers Indian films, original series, and regional programming through market-specific subscriptions.
Existing Hotstar subscribers in those countries can transition to JioHotstar using their existing credentials.
On October 6, 2026, JioStar also announced JioHotstar’s expansion into the Middle East and North Africa through a partnership with STARZPLAY. Viewers in participating markets can explore JioHotstar’s entertainment offerings through STARZPLAY’s applicable subscription plans.
News source: Times of India
Important notes:
- Content libraries and pricing vary by country.
- Always use the official service available in your location.
How to start watching JioHotstar
Visit the official JioHotstar website or download the app from a supported app store. Check that the service is available in your country before creating an account.
Then, choose a suitable subscription and sign in using the required account details. Once your account is active, you can browse the available catalog and start watching on a compatible device.
For safer streaming, use official applications and protect your account with a strong password or supported verification method.
Conclusion
JioHotstar brought Disney+ Hotstar and JioCinema together under one streaming platform. Viewers can now explore a broader entertainment catalog and choose from updated subscription options. With its international expansion in 2026, JioHotstar has also reached audiences beyond India. Before subscribing, check the latest plans, supported devices, and content available in your country.
Frequently asked questions
No. JioStar is the media company, while JioHotstar is its streaming service.
JioCinema and Disney+ Hotstar merged into JioHotstar in February 2025. Use the current official app for supported streaming services in India.
JioHotstar introduced some content without requiring a subscription when it launched. Current availability varies, so check the application for titles you can watch without a paid plan.
Yes, supported connected TVs can run JioHotstar. Compatibility depends on the television model, operating system, and subscription.