Without a doubt, over the past fifteen or so years, Netflix has disrupted the delivery of content. Back when it first started, its delivery of DVDs to homes was definitely a gamechanger, but the business really took off once streaming video became possible. Now, audiences could get instant access to some of their favorite shows and TV. With other services, like Hulu, also taking shape around the same time, cable-cutting became a very real option for consumers.

Over the past four or so years, ever since House of Cards was first put onto the streaming service, Netflix has upped its game in original programming. From comedy specials, to films and TV, Netflix has become synonymous not just with streaming content, but with quality original entertainment. In their constant drive to become less dependent on the big studios — who were always looking to creating their own services, so that they could cut loose from Netflix — Netflix has upped their game substantially, and even borrowed heavy sums of money so that their library may eventually be comprised of 50% original content.

READ: NETFLIX TO RAISE DEBT BY $800 MILLION MORE FOR ORIGINAL PROGRAMMING

Though as capable as Netflix has become as a standalone entity, it’s difficult to stand up to these big entertainment conglomerate companies. Now, with the potential merger between AT&T and Time Warner, the outlet Tech Crunch is speculating this could lead to a DirecTV service that could horn into Netflix’s bottom line, and give an alternative that could include live TV, and shows made up from Time Warner’s various networks.

Of course, Time Warner and AT&T won’t be the only ones to challenge Netflix. YouTube, Amazon, and Hulu are all ramping up their own productions, and it’s only a matter of time before Netflix becomes just another face in the digital crowd.

At least, that could be the case if this rumor is not true. The rumor I speak of also comes from Tech Crunch, and according to the outlet, there’s some scuttlebutt out there that Disney is looking to buy Netflix very soon. This comes on the heels of a decline in their ESPN subscribers.

Fact is that cable-cutting is a thing, and Disney is in no position to change that. Why not absorb one of the more innovative services out there — a service with an already-built content-tracking platform, and take advantage of its installed user base? In one fell swoop, the House of Mouse would secure the Netflix library, the licensing for many of its shows (depending on the contracts for each specific series, of course), and it would be able to utilize the mountains of data Netflix has collected over the years.

Given the successful acquisition and utilization of such companies as Pixar, Marvel, and Lucasfilm, this seems like a natural move for them to ensure their space on the web as content consumption evolves. This could also end up being a huge plus for consumers, as there could potentially be a shortened window between when a Disney film leaves theaters, to when it hits Netflix. Additionally, with Disney’s own expansive library of content, it’d be enough to persuade a healthy number of customers who grew up watching their movies.

What do you think of this rumor? Do you think it’s possible, and even more importantly, do you think it would be a good move for Disney, Netflix, and consumers? Let us know your thoughts down below!

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SOURCE: Tech Crunch