Big announcement about DStv Stream

MultiChoice has announced several enhancements to its DStv Stream platform, including better Watch from Start functionality and Cloud PVR Recordings, which it will introduce this month.

With the Cloud PVR Recording feature, viewers can record live shows, which will be available to watch or re-watch within 30 days.

MultiChoice said the new features will start rolling out to web users on Tuesday, 12 November 2024. Gradual updates for iOS, Android, and other platforms will follow.

The improved Watch from Start functionality will enable viewers to rewind up to 24 hours on select channels, including various SuperSport channels, M-Net, Mzansi Magic, and kykNet.

“The 24-hour Watch from Start functionality allows customers to go back in time by up to 24 hours, so they never miss key live events, whether it’s a sports match or a fan-favourite show,” said MultiChoice.

Programming saved through the Cloud PVR Recordings feature is accessible in the “My Stuff” section and can be viewed at any time, provided it is within 30 days of the recording date.

“Both features are set to roll out with automatic updates where possible, ensuring minimal disruption,” MultiChoice added.

The new features follow a DStv Stream interface update earlier this year, which made it easier for users to discover new content through personalised recommendations and auto-play trailers for featured shows.

“With Watch from Start and Cloud PVR, we’re giving viewers more control over their viewing experience,” said MultiChoice South Africa CEO Marc Jury.

“We know customers want the freedom to enjoy content on their schedule, and these new features bring the flexibility of streaming to the live TV experience. Our customers can now enjoy the best of both.”

MultiChoice also highlighted some of the new content coming to its DStv platform in November, including the debut of Dune: Prophecy alongside the final season of Yellowstone on 18 November.

It added that DStv Premium subscribers can look forward to live Springbok rugby matches against England and Wales and the Indian cricket tour of South Africa.

Big DStv Stream subscriber growth

MultiChoice’s latest annual financial results, released in June 2024, showed strong subscriber growth for DStv’s streaming platform, while its Extra Stream product also saw increased uptake during the reporting period.

Initially called DStv Now, followed by just DStv, MultiChoice rebranded its streaming service to DStv Stream in July 2023.

Since the relaunch in 2023, DStv Stream active users have risen by 139%, with MultiChoice saying that 90% of users were new to the service.

In August 2023, the broadcaster also launched Extra Stream, which allows subscribers to add additional mobile-only simultaneous streams to their accounts.

MultiChoice has reported that active Extra Stream subscribers have grown by 13% since its introduction.

By signing up for Extra Stream, customers can view DStv Stream on their TV while another user streams content on a smartphone, tablet, or laptop without disrupting the primary stream.