If you searched for "jio hotstar download", you are not alone. After the big consolidation of streaming services in India, users are confused about which app to download, what changed, and how to watch their favourite shows and live sports. This article explains the situation in plain English, covers where to get the app, how to download it on different devices, and what the merger means for viewers.
What happened — short and clear
In early 2025 the two big streaming services in India — JioCinema and Disney+ Hotstar — were combined into one platform called JioHotstar. The merger was part of a larger joint venture and rebrand so that both libraries and sports rights could be offered from one place. This change created a single app and brand for many users who previously used one of the older apps. (Wikipedia)
Why this matters to you
Before the merge, some content and sports matches were split between different apps and sometimes free on one but paid on another. With JioHotstar, the companies aim to put most of that content under one roof. That affects where you go to watch the IPL, major international movies or big TV shows. The combined service aims to offer a very large catalog and to sell subscriptions that cover both movies and sports in one place. News reports and the official site said the new platform presents a larger content library and a fresh brand. (Hotstar)
Where to download the official app
The safe and recommended places to download JioHotstar are:
-
Google Play Store for Android phones and tablets. Search for “JioHotstar” or use the official publisher name shown on Play Store. (Google Play)
-
Apple App Store for iPhone and iPad. Search “JioHotstar” and download from the official listing. (App Store)
-
The official website (the platform’s web player) if you want to watch on a PC or laptop — simply open the JioHotstar site in a browser and sign in. (Hotstar)
Avoid downloading APKs or apps from unofficial sites unless you know exactly what you’re doing. Unofficial files can contain malware or old versions that will not work properly.
How to download and set up (step-by-step, simple)
On an Android phone
-
Open Google Play Store.
-
Type “JioHotstar” in the search box. Look for the official app listing (publisher name will match the brand). (Google Play)
-
Tap Install. Wait for the app to download and install.
-
Open the app. You can browse for free content or sign in with your existing account. If you had a Hotstar or JioCinema account, the new platform may ask you to log in or link accounts. (Hotstar)
On an iPhone or iPad
-
Open the App Store.
-
Search for “JioHotstar” and select the official listing. (App Store)
-
Tap Get then Install.
-
Open the app to sign in or browse.
On a laptop or desktop
-
Open a browser and go to the JioHotstar website. (Hotstar)
-
Sign in with your account or create a new one.
-
You can stream directly from the browser — no download needed for basic viewing.
On a smart TV or streaming device
-
Open your TV’s app store (Samsung, LG, Android TV, Fire TV, etc.).
-
Search for JioHotstar and install. If your TV store still shows JioCinema or old Hotstar, look for an update or follow official guidance from the app store/help section. Official launch notes said the new app is available across common living room devices. (Hotstar)
What about older Hotstar or JioCinema apps?
When two big apps merge, older installations might either update automatically or be replaced by the new app. Providers typically push an update that converts existing app installations into the new branded app, or they ask users to install the new JioHotstar app. If you have an older app and it does not update, go to the official store and install the new app manually. Press releases and news coverage after the merger said existing subscribers could retain their plans but would use the new JioHotstar platform. (India Today)
Plans, free tier, and pricing (simple overview)
JioHotstar launched with multiple plan types—ranging from ad-supported lower-cost plans for mobile viewing to ad-free premium plans that work on multiple devices. There is also a free tier with limited content. Exact prices and plan names can change over time, but at launch the platform announced entry-level options for a few months or a yearly fee, mid-tier “super” plans with more devices, and premium ad-free tiers. If you are price-sensitive, check the app’s subscription section or official help pages for the most current offers.
Can you download shows for offline viewing?
Yes. Like many streaming apps, JioHotstar offers the ability to download selected movies or episodes for offline viewing on mobile devices. This is useful for travel or when your internet is slow. The download button appears on content pages where offline viewing is allowed. The availability of downloads and how long they stay on your device depends on rights and content type. This feature is usually explained on the app’s help or FAQ page. (Hotstar)
Safety tips and what to avoid
-
Use only official stores (Play Store, App Store, TV stores) to download apps.
-
Avoid APK download sites unless you know the source; these can be unsafe and may host outdated versions. Third-party app stores sometimes carry modified apps that can steal data. (hotstar.en.softonic.com)
-
Check app permissions after installation. The app should only request the permissions it needs for video playback and downloads.
-
Keep the app updated for the latest security patches and features.
Common problems and quick fixes
-
App not found in store: Make sure your device region is set correctly. Some regions get different app listings. Check the official website for links. (Hotstar)
-
Video won’t play: Restart the app, check your internet, or update to the latest version.
-
Login issues: If you used Hotstar or JioCinema before, try logging with the email or phone number you used earlier; links between accounts were part of the migration process. (India Today)
Short analysis of the brand and user impact
Merging two major services into one reduces confusion over where to find content, but it does mean a period of transition. Some users who enjoyed free access to certain live sports found that a hybrid subscription model was introduced. The idea behind the merge was to build a stronger single platform that can compete with other global and local streaming services by offering a very large catalogue and strong live sports rights. This can be good for users who want a one-stop service, but it can also mean that some previously free content becomes paid or ad-supported. News agencies and industry coverage at launch focused on the consolidation of content, sports rights, and the company’s long-term strategy. (Reuters)
Final tips — simple and practical
If you only want to watch: download the official JioHotstar app from your device store, sign in, and check if a free trial or a low-cost mobile plan suits you. If you want to save money, compare plans and consider a yearly plan if you watch a lot. If you care about sports, check which rights and live events are included in the plan you’re buying. Always read the subscription terms in the app before confirming payment. (Hotstar)
Sources and further reading
I used a mix of official app listings and recent news reports to summarize what changed and how to download the app. For the official app pages, see the Google Play and Apple App Store listings. For background on the merger and launch, see major coverage and the platform’s site.