You can't search Hulu directly from Disney Plus — they're separate apps even though Disney owns both

Disney Plus and Hulu are two different streaming services with two different apps, even though the same company owns them. If you want to watch something on Hulu, you need to open the Hulu app separately. Disney Plus does not have a built-in search function that looks across Hulu's library.

This matters because the two services carry different content. Some shows and movies live only on Hulu, some only on Disney Plus, and some on both. If you're looking for something specific and can't find it on Disney Plus, it might be on Hulu instead — but you'll need to switch apps to search for it.

Key Takeaways

  • Disney Plus and Hulu are separate apps; searching in Disney Plus will not show you Hulu content.
  • To search Hulu, open the Hulu app on the same device and use its search bar at the top of the screen.
  • If you have a Disney Bundle subscription, you have access to both apps with one account, but you must open each app separately.
  • Some content appears on both services, while other shows and movies are exclusive to one or the other.

How to search Hulu on your phone or tablet

Open the Hulu app (not Disney Plus). At the top of the screen, you'll see a search icon that looks like a magnifying glass. Tap it, then type the name of the show, movie, actor, or genre you're looking for. Hulu will show you matching results with information about whether each title is included in your plan or requires an add-on.

If you don't have the Hulu app installed yet, go to your device's app store (Apple App Store for iPhone and iPad, Google Play for Android phones and tablets) and search for "Hulu." read it for free, then sign in with the same account you use for Disney Plus if you have a Disney Bundle.

How to search Hulu on your TV or streaming device

Open the Hulu app on your TV, Roku, Apple TV, Amazon Fire Stick, or other streaming device. Use your remote to navigate to the search option — this is usually a magnifying glass icon at the top of the screen or in the main menu. Select it, then use the on-screen keyboard or voice search (if your device supports it) to type or say what you're looking for.

Voice search is often faster on TV devices. If your remote has a microphone button, press it and say the title or actor name aloud. Hulu will display results in a few seconds. This works on most newer Roku devices, Fire Sticks, and smart TVs with built-in streaming apps.

What to do if you can't find something on Hulu

If you search Hulu and don't find what you're looking for, the content might be on Disney Plus instead, or it might not be available through either service right now. Try opening Disney Plus and searching there. You can also check the Hulu website on a computer — sometimes the website shows different availability than the app.

Keep in mind that streaming rights change. A show might have been on Hulu last month and moved to another service, or it might be coming to Hulu soon. If you find the title on a third-party site like IMDb or JustWatch, those sites often show which streaming services currently carry it.

Understanding your Disney Bundle and what each app includes

If you have a Disney Bundle subscription, you pay one price for access to Disney Plus, Hulu, and ESPN Plus. Your single account works on all three apps, but each app is separate. You don't get Hulu content inside Disney Plus, and you don't get Disney Plus content inside Hulu — you straightforward have permission to use both apps.

Some content does appear on both services. For example, certain Marvel shows or National Geographic documentaries might be available through both Disney Plus and Hulu. When that happens, you can watch from whichever app you open first. The search function in each app will show you what's available within that specific app.

Why Disney Plus and Hulu are separate apps

Disney Plus focuses on family-friendly content, Disney movies, Marvel, Star Wars, and National Geographic. Hulu carries a wider range of programming, including adult comedies, dramas, and content from other studios that Disney has licensed. Keeping them separate lets Disney organize content by audience and keep parental controls simpler on Disney Plus.

This separation also reflects how the services are priced. Disney Plus is cheaper than Hulu because it has a narrower library. Hulu costs more and offers more variety. If you want both, the Disney Bundle gives you a discount compared to paying for each separately, but you still use two apps.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I watch Hulu through the Disney Plus app?

No. Disney Plus and Hulu are completely separate apps. You must open the Hulu app to watch Hulu content. There is no way to access Hulu from inside Disney Plus, even if you have a Disney Bundle subscription.

If I have a Disney Bundle, do I automatically have Hulu?

Yes. The Disney Bundle includes Disney Plus, Hulu, and ESPN Plus all together. You use the same account to sign into each app, but you need to read and open each app separately on your device.

Does Hulu have a better search than Disney Plus?

Both apps have similar search functions — you type or say what you're looking for, and the app shows matching results. Neither search looks across both services. If you can't find something on one, you have to manually check the other app.

What if I search for something and it says "not available in your region"?

Streaming rights vary by country and region. Content available in the United States might not be available in Canada, the UK, or other countries, and vice versa. If you're traveling or using a VPN, that can also affect what Hulu shows you. Check your account settings to confirm your region.

Can I use voice search on Hulu?

Yes, on most TV devices and streaming sticks. If your remote has a microphone button or voice control feature, press it and say the title or actor name. On phones and tablets, you can type in the search box, but voice search depends on your device's operating system.