ESPN (streaming service)

The ESPN direct-to-consumer service, officially known as simply ESPN and also referred to as ESPN DTC or ESPN Unlimited, or simply the ESPN app, is an American over-the-top sports video streaming service launched by ESPN, a majority-owned subsidiary of the Walt Disney Company (via indirect subsidiary ABC Inc.) in partnership with Hearst Communications and the National Football League, on August 21, 2025. Initially known by the project code name "Flagship" (or as ESPN Flagship), the service makes ESPN's previously available range of content—including its core linear cable television channels and associated digital content—available to consumers on a fully standalone, direct-to-consumer (DTC) basis for the first time. Much of the content was previously only available as part of traditional subscription television bundles offered by cable, satellite, and virtual MVPD providers. The service subsumes the programming of ESPN's supplemental streaming service ESPN+ as an entry-level "Select" tier, and also include enhanced features on ESPN digital properties. ESPN intends the new service to also be available via TV Everywhere authentication for existing subscribers, pending carriage negotiations.