Is Hulu Still Free with Spotify? Unraveling the Streaming Bundle Mystery

No, Hulu is no longer offered as a completely free add-on with Spotify Premium. This once beloved bundle, a godsend for entertainment-hungry students and budget-conscious consumers alike, officially ended in 2021. However, all is not lost! While the free ride is over, Spotify and Hulu still maintain a strong relationship, offering discounted bundle options that can save you some serious cash. Let’s dive into the details and explore what your options are now.

The Demise of the Free Hulu + Spotify Bundle: A Eulogy

Remember the good old days? For a reasonable monthly fee, students could access Spotify Premium (ad-free music streaming) and Hulu (ad-supported). It was the ultimate entertainment package, fueling late-night study sessions and binge-watching weekends. Unfortunately, like all good things, this free offer came to an end.

Why did it disappear? Several factors likely contributed, including the increasing cost of content for both streaming giants, adjustments to business strategies, and perhaps a shift in focus toward attracting and retaining different subscriber segments. Ultimately, offering a bundled service at essentially the cost of one was unsustainable long-term.

Spotify and Hulu’s Current Relationship: It’s Complicated (But Still Beneficial)

While the free bundle is gone, Spotify and Hulu are far from strangers. They currently offer a compelling bundled subscription that can significantly reduce your overall entertainment spending.

The Spotify Premium and Hulu Bundle (Ad-Supported)

This is the main surviving bundle. For a single monthly price, you get Spotify Premium and Hulu (with ads). It’s a cost-effective way to enjoy ad-free music alongside a vast library of TV shows and movies. The price is definitely lower than subscribing to both services individually.

The Spotify Premium, Hulu (No Ads), and Showtime Bundle

For those who despise commercials with every fiber of their being and crave premium content, this is the ultimate upgrade. This bundle offers Spotify Premium, Hulu (No Ads), and Showtime, all for a single, albeit higher, monthly price. It’s the perfect package for students who want it all.

Who is Eligible for These Bundles?

Eligibility often hinges on your Spotify Premium subscription status. Typically, existing Spotify Premium users can switch to a bundled plan. However, there are usually a few conditions to keep in mind:

• You must be eligible for Spotify Premium: This generally means you’re not already on a family plan or another discounted plan.
• Account location: The offer is typically limited to subscribers within the United States.
• Hulu account status: Sometimes, you can’t be a current Hulu subscriber (or you might need to cancel your existing subscription before bundling).

Why Choose a Bundle? The Obvious and Not-So-Obvious Benefits

Bundling your streaming services might seem like a no-brainer (and often, it is!). But let’s delve deeper into the advantages:

• Cost Savings: This is the most obvious benefit. Bundling is almost always cheaper than paying for each service separately.
• Convenience: One bill, one payment date, less administrative hassle. Streamlining your subscriptions simplifies your life.
• Expanded Entertainment Library: Access to both ad-free music and a vast library of TV shows and movies ensures you always have something to watch or listen to.
• Discovery: Bundling can introduce you to content you might not have explored otherwise, expanding your entertainment horizons.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some of the most common questions surrounding Spotify, Hulu, and their relationship:

1. Can I still get Hulu completely free with any Spotify plan?

No. The completely free Hulu offer with Spotify Premium ended in 2021. Currently, you can only get Hulu at a discounted rate through bundled subscription plans.

2. What exactly does the current Spotify and Hulu bundle include?

The standard bundle includes Spotify Premium (ad-free music) and Hulu (ad-supported) for one monthly price. There is also an upgraded bundle that adds Showtime to the mix, and removes the ads from Hulu.

3. How much does the Spotify Premium and Hulu bundle cost?

The price varies, so it’s best to check the official Spotify website for the most up-to-date pricing. However, it’s typically less expensive than subscribing to both services separately.

4. Am I eligible for the Spotify and Hulu bundle if I already have Spotify Premium?

Yes, typically! Existing Spotify Premium subscribers can usually switch to the bundled plan. However, double-check the eligibility requirements on the Spotify website, as they can change.

5. What happens to my existing Hulu subscription if I sign up for the Spotify and Hulu bundle?

You might need to cancel your existing Hulu subscription before activating the bundle through Spotify. Check the specific instructions provided by Spotify during the signup process.

6. Can I use my existing Hulu account with the Spotify bundle?

In most cases, you can link your existing Hulu account to the Spotify bundle. However, you might need to ensure that the email addresses associated with both accounts match.

7. Is the Spotify and Hulu bundle available outside of the United States?

No, the Spotify and Hulu bundle is primarily available in the United States. Availability in other regions may vary.

8. Can I get the Spotify and Hulu bundle if I have a Spotify Family plan?

No, the bundle is not available for Spotify Family plan subscribers. It’s usually restricted to individual Spotify Premium accounts.

9. If I cancel my Spotify Premium subscription, what happens to my Hulu access?

If you cancel your Spotify Premium subscription, your Hulu access through the bundle will also be canceled. You would then need to subscribe to Hulu separately if you want to continue watching.

10. Does the Spotify and Hulu bundle include live TV through Hulu?

No, the standard Spotify and Hulu bundle does not include Hulu + Live TV. It only includes access to Hulu’s on-demand library of TV shows and movies.

11. Are there any other streaming bundles that Spotify offers?

While the Hulu bundles are the most prominent, Spotify occasionally partners with other companies for limited-time promotional offers. Keep an eye on the Spotify website and your email inbox for announcements.

12. Where can I find the most up-to-date information about Spotify and Hulu bundles?

The official Spotify website is the best source for the most accurate and current information about their bundled subscription options, pricing, and eligibility requirements.

The Future of Streaming Bundles: What to Expect

The streaming landscape is constantly evolving. While the free Hulu + Spotify ride is over, the concept of bundling remains alive and well. As competition intensifies, expect to see more creative and enticing bundle offers from various streaming services. This might include combinations of music, video, gaming, and even other types of subscriptions, all designed to provide consumers with maximum value and convenience. The key is to stay informed, compare your options, and choose the bundle that best suits your individual entertainment needs and budget. So, happy streaming!