ESPN is showing off its overhauled app ahead of the launch of its live sports streaming service. On Wednesday, ESPN detailed all of the new features coming to the ESPN app, including a TikTok-style vertical video feed.
ESPN’s long-awaited live sports streaming service costs $29.99 per month and puts all 12 of the network’s linear channels, including ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNU, SECN, and others, inside its new app. The service officially launches on August 21st, but ESPN is rolling out some features inside its app starting today.
The mobile app’s personalized feed will show bite-sized sports videos in a standalone “verts” tab as well as within a carousel on the homepage. There’s a new “SC For You” feature launching in beta, too, which uses the AI-generated voices of SportsCenter anchors to deliver a daily version of the show that’s tailored to your favorite teams, leagues, and sports. This feature will be available on the ESPN mobile app, along with ESPN.com and some smart TVs.
Another update will give you the ability to connect the ESPN mobile app to its app on TV while you watch a live sporting event. During the game, you can get stats and automated alerts sent to your phone, along with access to play-by-play updates, betting information, and ESPN Fantasy. You can also use the mobile app to control ESPN’s livestream on your TV.
If you’re late tuning into a game, ESPN will offer a series of highlights for select events to help you catch up to what’s happening now. You’ll also have the option to play a game from the beginning or watch it live.
ESPN is rolling out multiview on “all major” smart TV platforms as well, allowing you to watch up to four games at the same time. The network plans on building out the new app with even more features in the future, as ESPN head Jimmy Pitaro said the app “will evolve with regular enhancements over time.”
Additionally, ESPN is folding its full-featured streaming service into Disney Plus for bundle subscribers. As part of this change, Disney Plus is rolling out a new “Live” hub in the coming weeks where you can watch sports, news, and other live content. ESPN is currently offering a bundle with ad-supported Disney Plus and Hulu plans for $29.99 per month for the first year before increasing the price to $35.99 per month.