DStv Explora update details
The DStv Explora will receive a software update that will introduce a number of new features to subscribers who use the PVR device as their DStv decoder.
MultiChoice said when it first launched the Explora the intention was to continuously push updates to the device to improve the user experience.
This coming update focuses on the way subscribers find and view content across the various services MultiChoice offers to PVR users, with some features exclusive to DStv Premium subscribers.
“One of the biggest issues we face is content discovery,” said Nyiko Shiburi, head of broadcast technology at MultiChoice SA.
“If you consider the amount of content we play out over linear TV and offer on the box, there’s a lot people must search through.”
Instant search
DStv Explora Instant search on Catch Up
DStv Explora instant search through playlist
DStv Explora instant search specific result
The first change coming to the Explora is an instant search feature, which lets subscribers search for TV shows and movies by keyword.
The results update as you type, and include titles from DStv Catch Up, Catch Up Plus, and items that have been recorded. Currently it excludes the live TV guide.
DStv Catch Up Plus is an online video on demand service for DStv Premium subscribers. It lets users download content from the Internet to the Explora decoder, from where it can be watched.
Online downloading changes
DStv Explora download queue management
Another change coming to the Explora is the ability to begin watching Catch Up Plus content while it is being downloaded.
When you begin downloading an episode of a series or a movie, you can choose to immediately begin watching while the download continues as quickly as your Internet connection allows in the background.
You can fast forward through the content as it is being streamed, too, but it will automatically pause 10 seconds before it reaches the end of the buffer. The user must then manually unpause it to continue.
The software update will also include improvements to the download management feature.
MultiChoice said the new download manager offer subscribers a more visual method for administering their download queue.
The update is set to roll out next week (mid-April 2015) and will be pushed out to subscribers automatically.
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