ESPN streaming service, explained: Prices, plans and more to know to watch live sports on new app

ESPN streaming service, explained: Prices, plans and more to know to watch live sports on new app originally appeared on The Sporting News

For the first time ever, ESPN is bringing all of its offerings directly to sports fans.

The Disney-owned company is launching a direct-to-consumer streaming service and enhancing the ESPN app, giving subscribers the ability to watch thousands of live sporting events each year.

What does this massive move in the streaming market mean for cord-cutters?

Here is everything you need to know about the ESPN streaming service, including the plans that are currently available for subscribers.

What is the ESPN streaming service?

The streaming service, simply called "ESPN," places all of ESPN's coverage under one umbrella for sports fans. It allows subscribers to follow along with live sporting events and catch their favorite ESPN shows like "SportsCenter," "College GameDay" and "First Take."

When does the ESPN streaming service launch?

The ESPN streaming service will officially launch on Thursday, Aug. 21.

What are the ESPN streaming service subscription plans and prices?

ESPN offers two basic plans. Here is a breakdown of each plan:

Select plan

• $11.99 per month or $119.99 per year
• Access to ESPN+ content
• More than 32,000 live sporting events each year
• Studio shows, on-demand replays and original content

Unlimited plan

• $29.99 per month or $299.99 per year
• Access to all of ESPN's linear networks (see full list below) and other services, including ESPN+
• 47,000 live sporting events each year
• Studio shows, on-demand replays and original content

Are there any promotional offers for the ESPN streaming service?

Yes, there is a special offer with the Unlimited plan. You can purchase the Disney+, Hulu and Unlimited bundle for $29.99 per month over the first 12 months of service.

What channels are on the ESPN streaming service?

While the Select plan only features ESPN+ content, the Unlimited plan gives viewers the ability to watch all of ESPN's networks:

• ESPN
• ESPN2
• ESPNU
• ACC Network
• SEC Network
• ESPNews
• ESPN Deportes
• ESPN on ABC
• ESPN+
• ESPN3
• SEC Network+
• ACC Network Extra

How do I sign up for the ESPN streaming service?

If you are interested in becoming a subscriber, you can visit stream.espn.com.

Will I have access to the ESPN streaming service with an existing cable, satellite or streaming package?

ESPN has reached agreements with certain distributors, including Charter, DirecTV, Fubo, Hulu and Verizon. Subscribers to those services will have access to ESPN.

Deals with other distributors have not yet been finalized, but ESPN is working to ensure that all sports fans will eventually have access to the streaming service.

What happens if I am already an ESPN+ subscriber?

If you have already purchased an ESPN+ subscription, that existing plan will automatically transition into a Select plan. You will not lose access to ESPN+ content.

Subscribers who have already purchased a bundle (Disney+, Hulu and ESPN+) will also continue receiving the same content.

Will the ESPN streaming service have advertising?

Yes, similar to linear television, ads will air during live events and studio shows. There are not ad-free versions of the Select plan or Unlimited plan.

What is new on the ESPN app?

The ESPN app will provide a personalized experience for each fan. There are new multi-view options and integrated game stats as well as updated information on betting odds and fantasy sports.

There is also a "SportsCenter for You" feature that customizes coverage based on your preferences.

How can I get the ESPN-Fox One streaming bundle?

Viewers will soon be able to bundle ESPN with Fox One, a direct-to-consumer streaming service that will place all of Fox's sports, news and entertainment brands on one platform. Fox One will include sports on Fox, FS1, FS2 and the Big Ten Network.

Starting on Thursday, Oct. 2, the ESPN and Fox One bundle will be available to purchase for $39.99 per month.