Complete Guide on How to Develop a Video Streaming App like Disney+

Key Takeaways

• If you want to develop a video streaming app like Disney+, lets you tap into the rapidly growing on-demand entertainment market.

• Features like user profiles, offline downloads, parental controls, AI recommendations, and multi-device support are critical for retaining viewers.

• Subscription (SVOD), ad-supported (AVOD), transactional (TVOD), hybrid, in-app purchases, and sponsorships help turn your app into a profitable venture.

• Choosing the right frontend, backend, CMS, and cloud solutions ensures smooth performance, security, and the ability to handle millions of users.

• Integrating AI personalization, interactive social features, cloud streaming, and AR/VR experiences keeps your app future-ready and engaging.

• JPLoft delivers end-to-end app development, providing intuitive UI/UX, robust backend, and AI-powered features to launch a profitable OTT platform.

Have you ever wondered “How to develop a video streaming app like Disney+” and step into the billion-dollar OTT industry? It all starts with smart planning, advanced features, and a robust tech stack.

The demand for on-demand entertainment is skyrocketing, and platforms like Disney+ are setting new benchmarks in user experience and content delivery. 

If you’re planning to build an app like Disney+, you need to understand that the key is delivering seamless streaming, engaging design, and diverse monetization options.

In this blog, we’ll break down everything you need to know, from development steps to launching your own high-performing video streaming platform with ease. Let’s move to the depth of the discussion. 

What is the Disney+ Video Streaming App?

When you are planning to build a video streaming app, the first question that comes to mind is, “What is the Disney+ app, isn’t it?” Simply put, Disney+ is one of the most successful OTT platforms in the world, launched in 2019 by The Walt Disney Company. 

Within just a few years, it has grown into a global entertainment hub, offering blockbuster movies, timeless classics, exclusive series, and original shows from Disney, Marvel, Pixar, Star Wars, and National Geographic.

But what makes Disney+ truly special is not just its content, but also the way it delivers it. From a working perspective, Disney+ relies on advanced servers and adaptive streaming technology to provide high-quality videos across different internet speeds and devices. 

Whether it’s smartphones, smart TVs, or gaming consoles, users get a seamless, ad-free experience.

For businesses looking into OTT app development, Disney+ serves as the perfect case study. Its success comes from the perfect blend of engaging content, intuitive UI/UX, secure architecture, and monetization strategies that keep users hooked. 

In short, Disney+ is more than just an app; it’s a benchmark for what an ideal video streaming platform should look like.

Why Build a Video Streaming App Like Disney+?

Nowadays, many entrepreneurs are eager to develop a video streaming app like Disney+, but why? The answer lies in the massive growth of the OTT industry. 

Here are some reasons why building your own platform is a smart move:

• Rising Demand for OTT Content-: Audiences worldwide are shifting from traditional TV to on-demand entertainment. By choosing to create a video streaming app like Disney+, you tap into a rapidly growing market with billions of active users.

• High Revenue Potential-: With subscription models, in-app purchases, and advertising, OTT apps generate consistent income. If you make an app like Disney+, you can explore multiple revenue streams while scaling globally.

• Strong Brand Opportunities-: Launching your own streaming service helps you build authority in the digital entertainment space. When you make a custom video streaming app like Disney+, you’re not just offering content; you’re creating a unique brand experience.

• Flexible Business Model-: You can target niche audiences or go global. Whether you focus on sports, education, movies, or regional content, starting your own platform allows you to start an online video streaming business that fits your vision.

• Future-Ready Investment-: The OTT industry is projected to grow exponentially in the coming years. By deciding to develop an app like Disney+, you’re positioning yourself for long-term success in a future-proof industry.

In short, building your own streaming app isn’t just about following a trend; it’s about entering a booming market with endless possibilities. If you’ve ever dreamed of launching a platform like Disney+, now is the perfect time to make it happen.

Must-Have Features of a Video Streaming App Like Disney+

When it comes to building an OTT platform, features are one of the most important steps to make a video streaming app like Disney+. The right video streaming app features are what keep users engaged, satisfied, and coming back for more. 

Think about it, no matter how good your content is, if the app isn’t user-friendly or lacks essential functionality, viewers will switch to competitors.

So, here’s a breakdown of the key features that you should include:

By blending these necessary features, you not only match Disney+ like app development, but also offer something fresh that users can’t resist. Remember, in the world of OTT apps, innovation is your biggest competitive advantage.

How to Develop an App Like Disney+ – Step-by-Step Process

If you’ve ever opened Disney+ app and thought, “Wow, I wish I could create something like this,” you’re not alone. Many entrepreneurs are asking the same question: “how to build a video streaming app like Disney+?”

The answer lies in following a clear, step-by-step development process that turns your OTT idea into a successful platform.

While it may sound overwhelming at first, the process becomes much simpler when broken down into actionable steps. Here’s a quick look at the roadmap:

Steps to Create a Video Streaming App Like Disney+

• Conduct Market Research & Define Your Niche

• Choose the Right Business Model

• Plan Features & App Design

• Select the Tech Stack & Platform

• Develop the App (Frontend + Backend)

• Integrate Content Licensing & Management

• Ensure App Security & Scalability

• Test the App Rigorously

• Launch & Market Your Platform

• Maintain & Upgrade Continuously

Now, let’s walk through the complete process to develop a video streaming app like Disney+ in detail:

Step 1: Conduct Market Research & Define Your Niche

Before you build a video streaming app like Disney+, the first step is understanding the market. Analyze competitors like Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime, and of course Disney+. Also, explore smaller niches, like anime streaming, sports streaming, or educational content. 

This helps you decide whether to make a custom video streaming app like Disney+ for mass entertainment or to target a niche audience.

It is the pro tip that studying the best video streaming apps already in the market gives you insights into what works and what can be improved.

Step 2: Choose the Right Business Model

When you make an app like Disney+, monetization plays a key role. Popular models include Subscription-Based (SVOD), where platforms like Disney+ and Netflix charge monthly or annual fees, and Ad-Supported (AVOD), which offers free content with ads, similar to YouTube. 

Another option is Transactional (TVOD), a pay-per-view model for specific content. Some businesses also adopt a Hybrid model, combining subscriptions, ads, and premium purchases.

The right monetization model depends on your audience and revenue goals, and choosing wisely ensures your Disney+ like app development becomes financially sustainable.

Step 3: Plan Features & App Design

Features are the backbone of any streaming app. If you want to create an app like Disney+, list out all must-have features like user profiles, offline downloads, parental controls and unique features like AI recommendations or watch parties.

At this stage, partnering with a professional UI/UX design service becomes crucial to shaping a user-friendly and visually appealing app. Focus on clean navigation, engaging visuals, and a seamless user experience that makes content discovery effortless.

Remember, if the design feels confusing or cluttered, users will switch to competitors instantly. A well-planned feature set combined with thoughtful UI/UX design is what truly differentiates a good streaming app from a great one.

Step 4: Select the Tech Stack & Platform

The next step in video streaming app development like Disney+ is choosing the right app tech stack. For the frontend, popular choices include React, Angular, Swift, and Kotlin, while the backend can be built using Node.js, Python, or Java. 

To manage data effectively, developers often rely on databases such as MySQL, MongoDB, or PostgreSQL. For cloud hosting and content delivery, platforms like AWS, Google Cloud, and Akamai are widely preferred. 

In terms of streaming protocols, HLS and MPEG-DASH ensure smooth and high-quality video delivery. Along with the technology, you must also decide whether to build an app like Disney+ for iOS, Android, Smart TVs, or opt for a cross-platform solution to maximize reach.

Step 5: Develop the App (Frontend + Backend)

Now comes the actual Disney+ like app development phase. Developers build the front-end interface users interact with and the back-end that powers streaming, authentication, payments, and analytics. 

When you develop an app like Disney+, prioritize scalability for smooth high-traffic performance, and hire iOS app developers to ensure a secure, high-quality streaming experience.

It’s also important to ensure seamless integration between both ends so that all the features work smoothly. At this stage, when you create an app with a strong technical foundation, you set the path for long-term performance and reliability.

Step 6: Integrate Content Licensing & Management

A streaming app is nothing without quality content. You can either buy licenses from studios, collaborate with content creators, or produce original shows similar to Disney+ Originals.

To manage content efficiently, you’ll need a robust Content Management System (CMS) that enables seamless uploading, organizing, and delivery of media. Partnering with the best mobile app development company ensures your CMS is scalable, secure, and optimized for high-performance streaming.

This step is crucial to building an app like Disney+ that attracts users and keeps them engaged long-term. High-quality and exclusive content remains the key differentiator that sets your platform apart from competitors.

Step 7: Ensure App Security & Scalability

Security is a critical part of video streaming app development. To protect content from piracy, implement Digital Rights Management (DRM), encryption, and secure payment gateways. 

This is where you also address video streaming app security, ensuring your platform prevents hacking, unauthorized logins, or illegal downloads. 

Strong security combined with scalability builds user trust and helps your app handle massive traffic without compromising performance.

Step 8: Test the App Rigorously

Before launch, app testing is everything: video playback, payment systems, login processes, and multi-device compatibility. The goal is to ensure a seamless user experience similar to Disney+.

When you create an app like Disney+, testing across different devices (smartphones, TVs, tablets, browsers) ensures consistency for all users. 

Rigorous quality assurance also helps identify hidden bugs early, saving you from costly fixes after launch.

Step 9: Launch & Market Your Platform

Once testing is done, it’s time to launch. Roll out your app on app stores and web platforms, but remember, launching without marketing is a failure. 

To make your app accessible to a wider audience, you’ll need to submit your iOS app to the App Store, ensuring it meets Apple’s strict guidelines for quality and performance. On the other hand, when you publish an app in the Google Play Store, you gain access to a massive Android user base across the globe.

But launch alone isn’t enough; you need strong promotion strategies to stand out. Spread the word through social media campaigns, influencer collaborations, SEO blogs, and paid ads. 

Step 10: Maintain & Upgrade Continuously

The final step is ongoing support and app maintenance service. When you make an app like Disney+, you must keep improving, add new features, fix bugs, scale servers, and release updates.

Think about how Disney+ regularly updates with new Originals and improvements. That’s how you develop an app like Disney+ that stays relevant in a competitive OTT landscape.

By following these steps to create a video streaming app like Disney+, you can not only launch your own platform but also compete with global giants.

Whether you aim to build an app like Disney+ for a niche audience or go global, the opportunity is massive. 

Tech Stack for Developing an App Like Disney+

When you plan to develop a video streaming app like Disney+, one of the most crucial steps is choosing the right video streaming app tech stack. 

The tech stack defines how smooth your app performs, how secure it remains, and how well it scales to millions of users. The wrong choice can lead to glitches, poor video playback, or even user drop-offs. 

Below is a breakdown of the recommended tech stack for a Disney+ like app development project:

Selecting the right tech stack to make a video streaming app like Disney+ ensures smooth playback, faster load times, and long-term scalability. 

Partnering with the mobile app development companies helps you build a reliable foundation that can compete with top industry players while keeping users engaged and satisfied.

Cost to Develop a Video Streaming App Like Disney+

Estimating the cost to build a video streaming app is one of the biggest concerns for entrepreneurs planning to enter the OTT market. 

The development cost depends on multiple factors, such as app features, UI/UX design, chosen tech stack, platforms (iOS, Android, Smart TVs, or cross-platform), and the experience level of your development team. On average, the cost to develop a video streaming app like Disney+ ranges between $30,000 – $100,000.

Are you thinking about why the cost varies so much?

Because every business has different needs. If you only need a simple MVP to test the market, your investment will be minimal. But if you’re aiming for a full-scale Disney+ alternative with advanced features, cross-platform support, and high-end scalability, the costs will naturally increase.

Let’s break down the cost in detail.

Keep in mind, these figures are only estimates. The final mobile app development cost will vary depending on whether you hire freelancers, build an in-house team, or work with a professional app development company.

While costs may seem high, remember that investing in scalability, security, and unique features is what makes your app stand out in a competitive space dominated by giants like Disney+, Netflix, and Amazon Prime Video.

Challenges in Developing a Video Streaming App Like Disney+

If you’re wondering, “What are the biggest hurdles in creating a Disney+ like app?”- you’re not alone, many business owners have asked the same. Video streaming app development challenges can be tricky, but knowing them up front helps you plan better. Here are the most common obstacles:

1. Scalability Issues

Handling thousands or even millions of concurrent viewers requires a robust backend architecture.

Solution: Use cloud-based infrastructure with auto-scaling to ensure smooth performance during peak traffic.

2. Content Management

Organizing, uploading, and delivering high-quality videos seamlessly demands a strong CMS and reliable storage solutions.

Solution: Implement a centralized content management system with CDN integration for faster content delivery.

3. Security Concerns

Protecting content from piracy, securing payments, and preventing unauthorized access are critical challenges.

Solution: Apply DRM, encryption, and secure authentication protocols to safeguard content and user data.

4. Cross-Platform Compatibility

Ensuring consistent performance across iOS, Android, Smart TVs, and web platforms can be difficult.

Solution: Adopt cross-platform development frameworks and conduct extensive multi-device testing.

5. Bandwidth Optimization

Delivering high-quality video without buffering requires efficient data handling.

Solution: Use adaptive bitrate streaming and advanced video compression technologies.

6. Cost Management

Balancing features, design, and infrastructure while staying within budget is challenging for startups and small businesses.

Solution: Prioritize essential features first and scale gradually based on user growth and revenue.

Understanding these challenges and their solutions early on helps you build a streaming app that delivers a smooth user experience.

It also sets the foundation for long-term growth and enables your platform to compete with the best video streaming apps in the market.

Future Trends to Create an App Like Disney+

Keeping an eye on trends in video streaming apps is key for entrepreneurs looking to develop a video streaming app like Disney+ that stays competitive. 

Here are the trends shaping the industry:

• Interactive & Social Features: Watch parties, polls, and live chat options make apps more engaging. Features like these differentiate your Disney+ like app from competitors.
• Multi-Platform & Cloud Streaming: Users expect seamless experiences across devices. Cloud streaming, edge computing, and cross-platform support are essential for modern OTT apps.
• AI & Personalized Recommendations: AI algorithms suggest content based on user behavior, increasing engagement and retention. Leveraging AI app development services to implement smart personalization is becoming a standard for top video streaming apps.
• AR/VR & Immersive Experiences: Virtual reality content, 360-degree videos, and immersive experiences are gaining popularity. Incorporating these trends can give your app a futuristic edge.

Staying updated with these trends not only helps in building a competitive app but also ensures long-term user engagement and higher monetization potential.

Monetization Models for Apps Like Disney+

Monetizing a video streaming app effectively is crucial for turning your platform into a profitable business. 

Here are the main strategies to monetize a video streaming app:

1. Subscription-Based Model (SVOD)

Charge users monthly or annual fees for unlimited access to content, just like Disney+ or Netflix. This model provides a predictable revenue stream and encourages long-term user retention. 

You can also offer tiered subscription plans, such as standard and premium, to cater to different audience segments and increase profitability.

2. Ad-Supported Model (AVOD)

Offer free content to users while generating revenue through ads displayed before, during, or after videos. Platforms like YouTube have successfully implemented this model. 

To maximize earnings, you can integrate targeted advertising based on user behavior, demographics, and preferences, making ads more relevant and engaging.

3. Transactional Model (TVOD)

Charge viewers per content item or event, such as pay-per-view movies, live concerts, or exclusive shows. This is ideal for premium or highly anticipated content, providing a one-time revenue boost while keeping regular subscription plans optional.

4. Hybrid Model

Combine subscriptions, ads, and pay-per-view options to maximize revenue potential. This flexible model allows users to choose how they want to access content, improving satisfaction while diversifying income streams for your Disney+ like app.

5. In-App Purchases & Premium Content

Offer exclusive features such as early access to new releases, virtual gifts, or bonus content. This encourages loyal users to spend more within the app, increasing customer lifetime value and engagement.

6. Partnerships & Sponsorships

Collaborate with brands, events, or influencers to generate additional revenue while promoting your content. Sponsored shows, co-branded events, and affiliate campaigns can create mutually beneficial opportunities and strengthen your app’s market presence.

7. Paywall & Freemium Strategy

Offer a free tier with limited access to content and a premium tier with full features. This approach attracts a larger user base while converting engaged users into paying subscribers over time.

Selecting the right monetization strategy depends on your audience, content type, and long-term business goals. Implementing multiple strategies often helps startups create a video streaming app like Disney+ that is both user-friendly and profitable.

Launch a High-Quality Streaming Platform Like Disney+ with JPLoft

Looking to develop a video streaming app like Disney+? JPLoft is a leading video streaming app development company that transforms your OTT app ideas into reality. 

We provide comprehensive, end-to-end solutions, from designing a highly intuitive and user-friendly interface to building a robust backend infrastructure that supports seamless streaming, multi-device access, and real-time updates.

Whether you want to create an app like Disney+, integrate advanced features like AI-powered recommendations, offline downloads, parental controls, or cloud-based content management, we ensure your app performs flawlessly while offering top-notch security and scalability. 

Our team also focuses on optimizing bandwidth, preventing piracy with DRM solutions, and ensuring smooth cross-platform compatibility, so your users enjoy an uninterrupted and premium viewing experience.

Partner with us to transform your vision into a fully-featured, scalable, and revenue-generating OTT app today.

Final Wrap-Up

Developing a video streaming app is a rewarding yet complex journey that requires careful planning, strategic decision-making, and technical expertise. 

By understanding how to develop a video streaming app like Disney+, you can successfully navigate every stage, from conceptualizing and planning essential features to selecting the right tech stack, designing an intuitive user interface, and addressing challenges.

Moreover, keeping an eye on trends, such as AR/VR content, interactive features, and cloud-based multi-platform streaming, allows your app to stay competitive in a rapidly evolving OTT market. 

By following these strategies and leveraging professional support, you can create a high-performing, scalable, and profitable streaming platform that stands out alongside giants like Disney+, Netflix, and HBO Max.