Recently, MultiChoice has made significant changes to its streaming offerings by relaxing the concurrent streaming limits on its DStv Stream and Showmax plans. This move comes amid a broader trend among streaming platforms, including Netflix, which have begun tightening restrictions on concurrent streams to combat password sharing. This practice has gained traction as consumers look to save money.
Despite this crackdown, the demand for multiple concurrent streams remains high. Viewers want the flexibility to share their credentials with friends or watch on various devices throughout their households, which often now include multiple screens, such as TVs, tablets, and smartphones.
With a subscription cost of R125 per month, Apple TV+ currently ranks first in concurrent streaming options, allowing up to six devices to stream simultaneously. Although it may not be as popular in South Africa as other services, Apple TV+ has made a name for itself by curating high-quality content, particularly in the sci-fi genre.
Apple TV+ stands out as the most economical option for concurrent streaming. With hit shows like Severance, Silo, Foundation, and Slow Horses, subscribers can enjoy diverse content at just US$1.16 per stream.
Following closely, Netflix offers a premium subscription that permits up to four concurrent streams for US$2.76 each. As a leader in the streaming industry, Netflix boasts an extensive library of content, though it has faced criticism for prioritising quantity over quality in recent years.
Disney+, specialising in family-friendly content, also allows up to four concurrent streams with its subscription plan, which costs US$2.16 per stream for 4K-quality viewing. Popular shows like Loki, Only Murders in the Building, and The Mandalorian contribute to its appeal across various age groups.
On the other hand, MultiChoice’s DStv Stream and Showmax share the lowest limit among the major platforms, with just two concurrent streams allowed at any time. At US$38.67 per month, DStv Stream Premium is the most expensive option in South Africa, but it does offer access to top-tier sports programming from SuperSport. In contrast, Amazon Prime Video, priced at US$4.42/month, provides a robust library of acclaimed content, including Citadel, The Boys, and The Lord of the Rings: Rings of Power, while also allowing two concurrent streams.
DStv’s steep price point is somewhat justified by its extensive sports offerings, making it a unique player in the competitive streaming landscape. However, despite this premium pricing, both DStv Stream Premium and Showmax currently max out at 1080p resolution, even as 4K TVs become increasingly common in South African homes.
While Apple TV+ emerges as the top value for concurrent streaming, DStv’s premium pricing is largely supported by its unparalleled sports content. As the competition in the streaming market intensifies, consumers can expect additional shifts in pricing and offerings across these platforms.
