- - Disney is Embracing the Vertical Video Craze to Reach a New Generation of Fans

Will SayreJanuary 8, 2026 at 4:41 AM

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Beyond Gen Z is a new batch of youngings known as Generation Alpha, in case you haven't heard.

Forward-thinking trends like artificial intelligence and so-called vertical videos — ones that are more smartphone-friendly — are in store for this new generation's future. And one entertainment powerhouse is now taking note.

At the 2026 Consumer Electronics Show that's currently underway in Las Vegas, Disney recently took time to showcase upcoming product enhancements to its beloved streamer.

To keep up with its rival platforms in terms of daily engagement, Disney+ will welcome vertical videos (also known as "verts") in the near future, according to media outlets including Deadline. The company behind Mickey Mouse unveiled the news during its Tech + Data Showcase on Wednesday, Jan. 7.

“We’ll look to evolve the experience over time,” a Disney announcement said regarding the vertical video plan, per Deadline, with the aim to “explore its use in a variety of ways across categories, and content types, for a personalized and dynamic feed. That will include expanding across news and entertainment, turning Disney+ into a must-visit daily destination.”

The push into vertical video comes after ESPN entered the space with verts within its ESPN app, The Hollywood Reporter noted on Wednesday.

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“We want to bring the best of what makes our live products great, from ESPN to ABC News to Hulu Plus Live TV, all into this unified environment,” said Erin Teague, executive VP of product management, onstage at the event, per THR. “We’re also thinking about mobile-first experiences. We know that mobile is an incredible opportunity to turn Disney+ into a true daily destination for fans, so that’s exactly what we’re going to do.”

Disney executives also leaned into artificial intelligence during Wednesday's presentation — no surprise there — spotlighting AI-powered ad-planning tools and an AI video-generation feature so that advertisers can develop spots more quickly, according to THR.

This story was originally published by Parade on Jan 8, 2026, where it first appeared in the News section. Add Parade as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

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Source: “AOL Entertainment”