Streaming arms race accelerates as ESPN, Fox roll out unified apps; CNN prepares its own digital push
The long-standing gap between traditional pay-TV and streaming is narrowing fast. After years of sports and live news keeping bundles intact while scripted content migrated to platforms like Netflix and Disney+, the major players are betting that the future of news, sports and live events will live outside the cable box in standalone apps and subscriptions that look nothing like the old bundles.
ESPN launches a direct-to-consumer flagship
Live sports have always been a key reason people stick with a TV package. ESPN is taking the next step by offering its full network lineup to cord-cutters through a new direct-to-consumer streaming service. The launch, timed with the start of major sports seasons, gives access to 12 linear networks plus the familiar ESPN+ content and staples like SportsCenter and First Take via a single updated ESPN app. New features include multiview camera angles and an AI-powered, personalized SportsCenter feed.
Two main packages are now available:
– ESPN Unlimited ($29.99/month or $299.99/year): This marks the first time all ESPN’s linear channels can be streamed directly by consumers without a traditional TV subscription. Previously, fans needed a cable subscription or a live-streaming service to access these channels.
– ESPN Select ($11.99/month or $119.99/year): Essentially a rebranded ESPN+, offering documentaries, studio shows and some live sports but excluding the main ESPN linear feeds.
Fox One bundles sports, entertainment and news
Fox is following with Fox One, a $19.99-per-month service that streams Fox News Channel live and combines sports and entertainment content in a single app. It also offers unlimited cloud DVR storage, personalized recommendations and highlights. Subscribers can add Fox Nation, and starting in October, can pair Fox One with ESPN’s new service for a combined $39.99 per month.
Fox emphasizes AI-driven personalization to help users discover new content and aims its appeal at cord-cutters and those who have never subscribed to traditional pay TV.
CNN sets course for a full digital extension
CNN plans to roll out its own streaming product this fall. Building on a subscription package launched in October 2024, which provides unlimited access to CNN.com and subscriber-only content, the new service will function as a true extension of the linear CNN channel. It will stream live news, offer on-demand video, and include original programming and documentaries. Pricing remains undisclosed, but current pay-TV subscribers will receive access to the new service for free. CNN’s approach differs from the short-lived CNN+ venture in 2022, which was not positioned as a full alternative to cable CNN.
Analysts and industry insiders say these moves reflect a broader shift in how audiences access news, sports and live events. By building direct-to-consumer platforms, the traditional cable players are aiming to own the full customer relationship—from discovery to subscription revenue—while offering enhanced personalization and flexible viewing options.
What this means for viewers
– More choice and control: Direct-to-consumer apps from ESPN, Fox, and CNN offer digital-first access to live and on-demand content without a traditional cable subscription.
– New price structures and bundles: The combination of services and tiered pricing could lead to more customizable options, though total costs may rise for some households depending on which bundles they select.
– A shift in strategy for content owners: Owning the consumer relationship via standalone apps allows these brands to monetize beyond traditional ads and carriage fees, while sharpening personalized recommendations and cross-platform promotions.
Summary
The era of the classic cable bundle is evolving. With ESPN’s full linear-channel access, Fox One’s consolidated app, and CNN’s upcoming digital extension, the biggest players in sports, news and live events are prioritizing direct-to-consumer experiences. The industry will be watching how pricing, content reach, and user experience influence the next wave of cord-cutting and “cord-never” households.
Additional notes for editors
– Consider adding a sidebar with a quick comparison chart of ESPN Unlimited, ESPN Select, Fox One, and the CNN plan (as pricing becomes available) to help readers understand options at a glance.
– Potential future angles: how advertising and data strategies evolve with standalone apps; device and platform availability; impact on regional sports networks and local affiliates; consumer guidance on choosing between bundles vs. à la carte streaming.