The highly anticipated merger between JioCinema and Disney+ Hotstar is set to transform the streaming landscape in India. As two of the largest OTT platforms in the country, their consolidation could lead to significant market dominance. While specifics about the merger remain unclear, reports suggest the creation of a unified platform called JioHotstar. However, this plan may face complications, as the domain name JioHotstar has already been registered by a tech entrepreneur from Delhi.
Currently, the JioHotstar domain leads to a simple webpage that advertises “JioHotstar: Best of Entertainment, Streaming Soon,” but lacks any branding or logos. The page features a message from the domain’s owner addressed to “dear executive of Reliance Industries,” the parent company of JioCinema.
In the message, the developer explains their motivation for acquiring the domain. They recalled a news article from early 2023 about Disney+ Hotstar’s declining user base following the loss of the IPL streaming rights, prompting speculation about a potential merger or sale. Recognizing that Reliance could be a key player in such a deal, they anticipated that the platform might rebrand as JioHotstar, similar to Jio’s acquisition of the music service Saavn.
The developer, who is currently pursuing a startup, expressed their willingness to sell the domain to Reliance, hoping the funds would allow them to attend Cambridge University, where they wish to study entrepreneurship. They noted, “For a multi-billion dollar company like Reliance, this will be a minor expense, but for me, the sale of this domain would be truly life-changing.”
HT has reached out to both JioCinema and Disney+ Hotstar for comments but has yet to receive a response. The article will be updated with any developments from either party.
