DStv is experiencing a significant subscriber decline in South Africa, having lost over a million users in the last two years. A shift is evident, with many households opting for more cost-effective streaming services rather than traditional satellite packages.
As per MultiChoice’s financial report for the year ending March 31, 2023, the company recorded 9.3 million active subscribers, but this figure dropped to 8.6 million by March 2024 and further to 7.9 million by March 2025. MultiChoice attributes this decline to economic pressures and fundamental changes in content consumption habits. The Old Mutual Savings and Investment Monitor indicates that during financial strain, households prioritise cutting expenses on video entertainment.
The move from traditional television to over-the-top (OTT) platforms is a notable trend. OTT services, which require only a stable internet connection, are often viewed as more affordable and convenient than DStv’s satellite offerings, which demand additional hardware and higher costs. Consumers who can afford DStv’s premium packages are likely already using fast internet, making the transition to streaming seamless.
Despite a drop in DStv’s subscriber base, its streaming services, DStv Stream and Showmax, are gaining traction. MultiChoice reported modest overall growth of 12% in its online user base year-on-year, with Showmax seeing a substantial 26% increase in paying subscribers. The relaunch of Showmax in February 2024 and the partnership with Comcast have positively impacted its growth trajectory.
DStv Stream experienced remarkable growth, with a 139% increase in subscribers from April 2023 to March 2024, thanks to a revamped platform and improved user experience. By March 2025, the active subscriber base for DStv Stream grew by 38%, alongside a 44% increase for Showmax.
To attract more subscribers, DStv has launched promotions, reducing the prices of its decoders and introducing features such as cost-splitting. Their Thol-iUpsize promotion saw decoder prices reduced significantly, removing barriers for users entering DStv’s streaming ecosystem. Furthermore, with plans for a cost-splitting feature, subscribers can share their bills, accommodating shared living arrangements.
Under the ownership of French media giant Groupe Canal+, MultiChoice has confirmed there will be no subscription price hikes in 2026, with a focus on maintaining affordability for consumers.
