A few months ago, Disney announced that it was planning to launch its own streaming video service as it ended its deal with Netflix. Variety now reports that Disney is turning to a former Apple director to lead that effort…
The report says that Disney’s technology subsidiary BAMTech has hired Kevin Swint as a senior vice president and GM of its upcoming streaming service.
Swint began his career at Walmart, leading digital products and services for the retail giant. He then moved to Apple, where he was head of the iTunes movie business. At Apple, he led efforts to expand iTunes internationally and launch HD movies, while he also spearheaded the iTunes Extras feature.
Most recently, Swint worked for Samsung, helping lead its Milk streaming video and music services. Those services, however, never gained traction and ultimately shut down in 2016.
Disney announced its plans for a streaming service back in August, saying it would cut ties with Netflix in favor of its in-house solution. Disney’s streaming service is expected to launch in 2019, preceded by an ESPN streaming service early this year.
Disney’s streaming service is said to offer movies from the Disney library, much like its Netflix deal, as well as Disney Channel, Disney Junior, and Disney X D films.
More specific details like pricing and app information remain unclear at this point. Are you interested in Disney’s streaming service, or do you dread the idea of yet another subscription service? Let us know down in the comments.
