Reliance-backed JioHotstar is stepping onto the international stage for the first time, replacing Hotstar in the UK, Canada and Singapore as part of a broader global rollout.
The platform will debut with more than 160,000 hours of entertainment content, while live sports will not be included at launch. JioStar says existing content agreements are the reason, though sports could be added later.
In India, sports remain a major part of the service's identity, alongside a large library of films, TV originals and reality formats. The domestic offering also spans major cricket, tennis and league coverage, but the overseas version is taking a different path by focusing first on entertainment.
From September 2, Hotstar will be phased out in the three launch markets. Current users will move to JioHotstar with their existing login details, and the app will be available on mobile devices and connected TVs through major app stores.
The new international catalog includes Indian films, original series, reality shows such as Bigg Boss, and live TV channels under the Star banner. Content will be available in 12 languages, including English, Hindi, Gujarati, Malayalam, Kannada and Marathi, with dubbing and translations designed to widen access.
JioStar says the rollout is aimed not only at South Asian audiences, but also at viewers seeking stories from different cultures. With pricing set for the UK, Canada and Singapore, the service is positioning itself as a regional entertainment hub with global reach. This move could help shape a more multilingual streaming future for international audiences.
