ShowMax: broadband requirements, pricing, and supported devices

ShowMax, the Netflix competitor from Naspers, has launched in South Africa.

The streaming service went live on 19 August, featuring international and local TV shows along with Hollywood movies as part of its content library.

Tablets, smartphones, smart TVs, and PCs are all supported by the video on demand service.

Following its launch, ShowMax outlined which broadband connection you will need to run the service, which devices are supported, and the pricing structures of its two content tiers.

Broadband and device requirements

It is recommended that ShowMax users have at least a 2Mbps Internet connection, while the company suggests a 4Mbps uncapped account or faster for an “improved viewing experience”.

Internet browsers compatible for PC viewing are:

• Internet Explorer
• Chrome
• Firefox
• Safari

Tablets, smartphones, and smart TVs will require the free ShowMax application to stream content.

Pricing and payment options

ShowMax offers a free account, which gives you limited access to its content library. Users can sign up using an email address, or their Twitter or Facebook account.

The service’s “premium tier” gives full access to the content library, and costs R99 per month. Payment options include debit or credit card, PayPal, or ShowMax voucher codes.

A free 7-day trial of the “premium” service is available with no obligations.

In terms of using multiple devices to stream ShowMax content: five devices can be registered to an account, with two allowed to access content simultaneously.

Content will be delivered via adaptive streaming in resolutions up to 720p high definition.

The following devices are supported:

• iPhone and iPads running iOS 7 or higher
• Android phones and tablets running Android 4.1.0 or higher
• Samsung Smart TVs (2012, 2013, 2014, 2015)
• Samsung Tizen Smart TVs (2015)
• LG NetCast Smart TVs (2012, 2013, 2014)
• LG WebOS Smart TVs (2014, 2015)
• PCs and laptops

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