Disney+ Vertical Video Engagement 2026: The TikTokization of Premium Streaming

Disney+ is betting big on the vertical scroll. In a move to capture the attention of a generation raised on TikTok, the streaming giant announced it's adding vertical video to its service, Deadline reported. The announcement came during the Tech and Data Showcase at CES 2026, signaling a major shift in how legacy media views mobile consumption.

Disney+ Vertical Video Engagement 2026: Not Just Trailing Behind

According to Erin Teague, EVP of product management for Disney Entertainment and ESPN, this isn't about simply recycling old trailers. The new vertical feed will feature diverse content including original short-form productions, social-first clips, and iconic scenes reimagined for the upright screen. "We're thinking about integrating vertical video in ways that are native to core user behaviors," Teague told Deadline, promising an experience that feels integrated rather than disjointed.

Following the Success of ESPN's 'Verts'

The blueprint for this expansion was drawn in August 2025, when Disney launched the "Verts" tab on the ESPN app. By treating vertical video as a primary experience rather than a marketing tool, the company saw a significant spike in user engagement. Now, Disney+ is scaling this strategy to its entire library, aiming to turn passive viewers into active scrollers.