Disney is intensifying its efforts to make ESPN the future of sports streaming, with plans to offer its content through multiple channels and distribution methods. According to Disney CEO Bob Iger, the company aims to provide viewers with various ways to access ESPN, including a standalone app, linear channels, and rival sports streaming bundles.

Iger's comments came during an earnings call on Wednesday, where he emphasized the importance of making ESPN's content as accessible as possible. The entertainment giant is looking to capitalize on the emergence of "skinny" streaming bundles, which have gained popularity since ESPN, Fox, and Warner Bros. Discovery announced the now-defunct Venu sports streaming venture.

DirecTV and Comcast have already launched their own sports streaming bundles, while Fox plans to introduce a service that combines news and sports by the end of 2025. Iger believes that these bundles present a significant opportunity for ESPN to expand its reach and distribution.

In addition to its distribution plans, Disney is also working on a standalone ESPN streaming service, which is slated to launch in the fall of 2025. Iger revealed that the service will feature "some form of betting and fantasy" as well as a high degree of customization and personalization. The offering will be more extensive than ESPN's linear channels, and users will have the option to bundle it with Disney Plus and Hulu.

The standalone app will also be available within the Disney Plus app, similar to ESPN Plus and Hulu. Iger emphasized that the new service is designed to grow ESPN's business in a rapidly evolving market, rather than simply preserving its existing customer base.

Younger viewers are increasingly turning to streaming experiences, both on fixed TVs and mobile devices, Iger noted. By providing a product that caters to this demographic, Disney hopes to ensure the long-term success of ESPN's business.

The move is a significant one for Disney, as it seeks to establish ESPN as a leading player in the sports streaming market. With the rise of streaming services and the decline of traditional linear TV, Disney is betting on ESPN's ability to adapt and thrive in a changing media landscape.

As the sports streaming war heats up, Disney's aggressive push into the market is likely to have significant implications for the industry as a whole. With its extensive resources and brand recognition, ESPN is well-positioned to become a major player in the sports streaming space.

As the company continues to roll out its plans, it will be interesting to see how ESPN's new service is received by consumers and how it impacts the broader sports streaming market.