New Delhi: JioHotstar the newly formed joint venture between Viacom18 and Star India was launched recently following the merger of JioCinema and Disney+ Hotstar. According to the company the latest platform will bring nearly 3 lakh hours of entertainment and live sports coverage to its 500 million users. However it is important to note that the free streaming of the Indian Premier League (IPL) will no longer be available. As per a Reuters report JioStar will only offer a limited portion of IPL matches for free with users being allowed to watch a few minutes before being directed to a subscription page. The subscription plans will start at Rs 149 and fans will need to pay to access the full match after the free minutes expire. JioCinema had been offering free streaming of IPL matches since acquiring the broadcasting rights for five years starting in 2023 for USD 3 billion. However with the launch of JioStar in 2025 fans will now need a subscription to watch the entire tournament. “What sets JioHotstar apart is its elevated streaming experience — featuring ultra-HD 4K streaming AI-powered insights real-time stats overlays multi-angle viewing and range of ‘culture’ and ‘special interest’ feeds — ensuring fans enjoy deeper more immersive access to the sports they love” the company in an official release. JioCinema and Disney Hoststar merger The change in plan came after Mukesh Ambani’s Reliance and Walt Disney merged their India media assets in an USD 8.5 billion deal last year. According to reports the platform’s subscription model will kick in once users become loyal to the platform after enjoying the free content. Each user may start their subscription at different times the sources said though they remained anonymous due to the confidentiality of the plans. JioHotstar subscription plans JioHotstar will offer a basic subscription plan starting at Rs 149 while an ad-free version will be available for Rs 499 for three months. The platform will host major sporting events including ICC tournaments IPL WPL and grassroots cricket leagues like the Indian Street Premier League. Apart from cricket JioHotstar will also feature the Premier League Wimbledon Pro Kabaddi and ISL.