MultiChoice ready for Netflix

As Netflix prepares to tap into untapped markets around the world, just how prepared is Naspers-owned MultiChoice for the impending competition?

This week, the Economist was able to establish just what exactly MultiChoice Namibia intends to do as it readies itself for the entry of internet marvel, Netflix.
Roger Gertze, MultiChoice Namibia General Manager said, “MultiChoice welcomes competition as we believe that it benefits the broadcasting and production industries.
It contributes to the sustainability and diversification of economies, as well as providing a pluralism of services for consumers.
Ultimately, television viewers may benefit through the additional volume and variety of content that will be distributed by the various operators to enter the local market.”
In anticipation, MultiChoice has ventured into the demand market following the launch of its BoxOffice and CatchUp products as well as the launch of a nifty mobile application available through the popular Android and iOS platforms since late last year.
“MultiChoice launched the DStv Now app across Africa that allows subscribers to watch Live TV, enjoy DStv Catch Up and view the TV Guide from their mobile phones and tablets. DStv Now provides for sports, movies, series and so much more is now available anytime, anywhere.
The mobile app is currently on offer to DStv Premium subscribers with a PVR or Explora decoder, on both iOS and Android tablets and mobile phones through 3G, 4G or Wi-Fi internet connections,” said Gertze.
Other products that speak to the on-demand market are BoxOffice and Catch Up, including the recently launched Catch Up Plus, a connected services product that will enable Namibian subscribers with an internet connection to be able to connect their DStv Explora to the Internet and unlock a world of entertainment through DStv Catch Up Plus, as well as gain access to Remote Recording capabilities via DStv Now, explained Gertze.
While MultiChoice may offer its viewers access to 300 titles of movies at the swift touch of a button, Netflix offers its users access to a bigger movie and series catalogue while additionally enabling access via video gaming consoles, Sony Playstation, Microsoft Xbox and tablets and mobile phones. Access to BoxOffice and CatchUp platforms are also via mobile devices but a weakness is its limitation to the top of the range PVR decoders.
Concluded Gertze, “BoxOffice is another move to provide DStv subscribers with the ultimate in home television entertainment.
This service allows subscribers to conveniently rent and watch the latest blockbuster movies in the comfort of their homes, right on their PVR decoders.
With BoxOffice, DStv subscribers can now rent and keep movies for up to 48 hours, for a minimal fee per movie. Movie categories vary from comedy, drama and family movies, to horror, fantasy and so much more.”