https://www.theverge.com/2018/4/12/17226998/espn-plus-preview-hands-on-features-disney-streaming

Today is the debut of ESPN+, a $4.99 direct-to-consumer subscription video service that offers a little bit of MLB and NHL action with a lot of stuff that you don’t typically see on ESPN when channel surfing. There’s no separate app to download; ESPN+ is part of the redesigned, improved ESPN app that’s also available today on Android, iOS, and connected TV devices. A 7-day free trial is available, and if you sign up by April 18th, that test period will be extended to 30 days.

ESPN+ is overseen by Disney’s BAMTech division, the streaming powerhouse that’s behind video apps for other companies including HBO and WWE. BAMTech will also power Disney’s own family-oriented standalone video service when it launches sometime in 2019. Those two offerings — combined with Disney’s stake in Hulu (which will likely grow to majority ownership under the Fox deal) — make up what the company refers to as its “Direct-to-Consumer and International” segment. That name sounds mighty bland, but this will be a crucial area of Disney going forward as it builds out a full-on Netflix rival with animated hits and superhero blockbusters as the foundation. ESPN+ is literally being described by ESPN executives as “the maiden voyage” of that streaming segment.