Pay-TV operator MultiChoice has partnered with US-based video-streaming service Netflix. The company has launched its DStv Explora Ultra decoder, which allows users to access streaming service Netflix.
In a statement, the pay-TV company says the new Explora Ultra will be available at participating retail stores from next week.
It notes the new-generation decoder offers customers an enhanced viewing experience and the best available local and international content from DStv and Showmax.
As part of the new experience, Netflix will be available for the first time on the Explora Ultra decoder, it adds.
Since Netflix entered the South African market in 2016, it has given MultiChoice a serious run for its money, with premium subscribers leaving in droves in favour of the US-based video-on-demand service.
As the company felt the pressure, MultiChoice CEO Calvo Mawela told ITWeb that Netflix and over-the-top players such as Amazon Prime, Google and Facebook were presenting a serious threat to local players.
In August, MultiChoice said it is harnessing the power of technology to fend off competition from video-streaming services such as Netflix.
The first-generation Explora launched seven years ago, with updated versions of the device released over the years, culminating in the Explora 3B decoder. The Explora Ultra builds on its predecessor with exciting new features, MultiChoice says.
“The DStv Explora Ultra has a range of amazing features developed to cater for how our customers watch content today,” says Mawela.
“It delivers seamless enjoyment of broadcast, recording, streaming, downloaded and CatchUp content in one easy-to-use environment. The Explora Ultra makes it easier than ever before to find, explore and enjoy new content from across DStv channels and third-party streaming apps.”
As part of the partnership, the Netflix app will be integrated into the new Explora Ultra to allow DStv customers the option to sign up or sign into their Netflix account to enjoy the Netflix experience.
MultiChoice says the partnership also grants DStv customers with an Explora Ultra the possibility of adding their Netflix subscription to their monthly DStv bill.
It notes DStv viewers already have access to over 140 channels of local and international movies, series, documentaries, sport, news, kids and educational content.
According to MultiChoice, the addition of the Netflix app to a DStv Explora Ultra connected to the Internet opens the door to Netflix’s critically acclaimed local and international entertainment across a wide variety of genres.
These include titles such as Blood &Water, Queen Sono, Money Heist, The Witcher, Tiger King, Project Power, A Fall From Grace and more series, feature films, documentaries and stand-ups which will be available to customers with a Netflix subscription.
“Shifting consumer preferences and technological advances drive changes in the way video entertainment services are provided and consumed. This partnership leads with an expanded choice of content, ease and convenience of subscription and payment with the DStv Explora Ultra as an enabler,” says Mawela.
Noaf Ereiqat, Netflix director of business development, says: “We’re excited about this partnership with the MultiChoice Group. Bringing Netflix to the Explora Ultra set-top box will make it easier for our members to seamlessly stream their favourite Netflix shows. That’s a win for avid entertainment fans in South Africa.”
The recommended retail price is R2 499 for the standalone device and R3 699 including installation.
Share