Big Changes Are Coming To Disney+

Summary of Main Points

• Disney+ may add ads even for ad-free subscribers (via updated Terms of Service): Disney+ is reportedly rolling out updated Terms of Service that would allow ads to run at the beginning and end of movies and TV shows, including content watched under the ad-free plan. The presenter says this hasn’t happened yet, but the wording suggests Disney+ is considering (or preparing for) this change—similar to tactics used by services like Netflix and Paramount+. They frame “ads vs. trailers” as a gray area, implying viewers may soon see more ad-like promotional inserts.

• Star Wars 50th anniversary: 1977 “A New Hope” gets an IMAX 70mm release: A new IMAX 70mm version of the original 1977 film is set for the first time for IMAX viewers as part of Star Wars’ 50th anniversary. The presenter states it will arrive on February 19, 2027, and expresses excitement—especially to see the original cut in theaters/IMAX. They’re less sure about attending the IMAX release of another Star Wars title mentioned in the video.

• Tablo DVR reportedly adding ads upon pausing (more ad-supported behavior): The presenter reports that Reddit users noticed an update to Tablo’s Apple TV app that shows an ad when pausing playback. Tablo is described as moving further toward an ad-supported model after shifting users to a newer app/device ecosystem. The presenter says they reached out to Tablo for comment and will update if confirmed, but predicts more ad placement across platforms.

• More options for ad-free streaming under $10: The presenter briefly highlights a “cord-cutting update”: multiple streaming services offer ad-free plans for under $10 (with Hayu and other examples mentioned). They suggest viewers who dislike ads explore these lower-cost alternatives.

• Roku streaming hardware: upgrading old devices with a cheaper remote: The video notes that streaming players (Roku, Fire TV, Apple TV, etc.) have become more expensive, and recommends Roku owners may not need to replace their devices. Instead, it points to Roku’s upgradeable remote (specifically Remote Pro 2) as a lower-cost way to add features like voice control and “find my remote” style functionality.

• Paramount / Warner Bros. Discovery & California lawsuit settlement talks (CNN advisory board proposal): Citing reports from outlets including The New York Times and Bloomberg, the presenter says Paramount is reportedly having serious settlement talks with California. The proposed settlement reportedly includes an independent advisory council to oversee CNN. The dispute is summarized as whether Paramount’s deal and CNN usage will be viewed as too politically aligned—while California and other Democratic AGs want changes and Paramount argues California’s concerns are mostly about CNN’s perceived political leaning.

• Apple TV update (tvOS 27): minor app changes + improved “fall asleep” pausing: The presenter reports an update for Apple TV 4K devices (tvOS 27). Changes are described as mostly minor: refreshed or newly presented Apple Podcasts and Apple Music apps, plus clearer access to a feature that detects when you’re falling asleep (pausing playback). Bug fixes are included, and the presenter emphasizes the update isn’t major.

• Local broadcast TV layoffs (automation/graphics workflow changes): The video claims more layoffs are coming to local stations tied to ABC, CBS, Fox, and NBC. The presenter suggests contributing factors include automation and restructuring graphics production—moving tasks previously done by station staff (like lower-thirds and weather/graphics) to centralized systems, or shifting work to reporters and producers.

• “ER” 32 years later: question whether it’s worth rewatching: The presenter notes ER premiered 32 years ago and asks whether it’s worth revisiting in 2026, particularly for viewers who didn’t watch when it originally aired. They also mention that The Pit is widely viewed as a related sequel, with some discussion of a lawsuit.

Presenters / Contributors

• Luke Bouma (Host/Presenter) — Cord Cutters News