Skip to main content

This is SportsCenter: Disney brings WatchESPN app to Android TV

watchespn access android tv app
Image used with permission by copyright holder
Disney has been working to bring its content to Google’s Android TV, and the mass-media conglomerate’s latest step to that end will make sports fans cheer. As of Tuesday, Android TV users can now stream live and on-demand ESPN programming through the WatchESPN app, provided they subscribe to a major TV provider.

As any sports fan will tell you, the sports viewing experience is far better on a TV screen than a mobile device or tablet; therefore, the arrival of the app on Android TV is welcome news. Users can find live games and shows from a range of ESPN networks: ESPN, ESPN2, ESPN3, ESPNU, SEC Network, SEC Network Plus, ESPNews, ESPN Deportes, and Longhorn Network. However, it’s worth noting that access varies by cable provider. The app also offers on-demand clips, ranging from ESPN Classic content to highlights and news.

Recommended Videos

Android TV joins a growing list of devices that carry the WatchESPN app at launch, including Sony 4K HDR Ultra HD TVs, Sharp Aquos Android TV, Google Nexus Player, Nvidia Shield, and Razer Forge TV. Disney plans to add access to the app to some Phillips and RCA models down the road. Additionally, the company intends to bring similar apps from Disney/ABC Television Group to Android TV in the near future, according to Tuesday’s announcement.

Please enable Javascript to view this content

“Delivering our content seamlessly within this app-like user interface on Android TV embraces a growing trend in consumer behavior and consumption habits,” said Sean Breen, senior vice president of affiliate sales for Disney and ESPN Media Networks, in a press release. “We will continue to work with both traditional providers and new entrants to distribute Disney/ABC and ESPN networks in new and unique ways.”

It’s exciting to hear that more Disney apps are coming, but in the meantime, we’ll just enjoy WatchESPN.

Stephanie Topacio Long
Former Digital Trends Contributor
Stephanie Topacio Long is a writer and editor whose writing interests range from business to books. She also contributes to…
ESPN will join Hulu in the Disney+ app by the end of 2024
A mock-up of what an ESPN tile could look like in the Disney+ app.

A mock-up of what an ESPN tile could look like in the Disney+ app. Phil Nickinson / Digital trends

It's going to become easier — if not downright unavoidable — to get all the Disney-owned streaming services in a single app. Following the addition of a Hulu tile inside the Disney+ app, ESPN will find itself available there by the end of 2024, CEO Bob Iger said during the company's fiscal second-quarter earnings call.

Read more
You can now watch Hulu inside the Disney+ app
Disney+ homescreen featuring Hulu content.

After a limited beta launch in late 2023, Hulu content is now officially available via the Disney+ app for those who subscribe to both services via the Disney Bundle, according to Disney. To mark the occasion, the Disney+ app icon has been given a new Hulu-esque greenish hue that the company calls "Aurora," which replaces the previous blue background.

With the launch, bundle subscribers now have access to Hulu content throughout the Disney+ app, including discovery areas like Continue Watching and recommendations.

Read more
What is Android TV? Google’s smart TV platform fully explained
Hisense 70A6G 70-inch 4K UHD Android Smart TV in living room on stand.

When it comes to smart TVs, these monolithic QLEDs and OLEDs require an internet connection to get you connected to services like Netflix and Disney+. But like any good computer or mobile phone, there’s an operating system taking care of apps, navigation, and all things user interface-oriented behind the scenes. For Samsung TVs, this OS is called Tizen, for LG TVs, it’s webOS, and for brands like Sony, TCL, and Hisense, it used to be called Android TV, but now (for the most part) it’s called Google TV. 

While Google TV is really just an evolutionary leap based on the building blocks of Android TV, you’ll still see the Android TV moniker on a modern TV or two. Many modern home theater projectors also use the Android TV OS. That being said, it’s a platform that’s still relevant. Here’s everything you need to know about Android TV.
An important note on Android TV and Google TV

Read more