According to reports, South Africans have responded with outrage over DStv’s new and limiting one-device-at-a-time streaming policy, including calls for a boycott.
MyBroadband reports that DStv announced that from 22 March 2022, its subscribers will be limited to streaming DStv on one device at a time.
TheSouthAfrican.com explains that the new policy basically means is that two or more people will no longer be able to stream their favourite shows at the same time.
DStv said it is one of the measures to counteract password sharing and piracy — a challenge for streaming providers globally.
It explained that DStv subscribers are allowed four registered devices for streaming and can still download DStv content on selected devices for offline viewing.
In a notice published on its website
We are proud that all our customers can enjoy streaming their favourite DStv channels, shows and movies anywhere, anytime on our world-class platforms.
However, password sharing and piracy are challenges for streaming providers globally.
As part of our ongoing efforts to counteract password sharing and piracy, while continuing to bring you the best viewing experience, we will be introducing measures to limit concurrent streaming.
From 22 March 2022, customers will be limited to streaming DStv on one device at a time. They will still be able to watch previously downloaded content on a second device.
When is this change taking place?
Tuesday 22 March 2022
Why are you making this change?
It’s one of many ongoing measures to counteract password sharing and piracy.
Does this change apply to all DStv subscriptions?
Yes, the change will made to all DStv subscriptions across Africa, however, only customers making use of more than one concurrent stream will be directly affected by the change.
Does this impact the number of devices I have registered or offline viewing of content I’ve downloaded?
No, customers are allowed 4 registered devices for streaming and still have the option to download DStv content on selected devices for offline viewing as a way to allow for more than one family member to enjoy DStv at the same time.
How does this impact customers with more than one decoder linked in XtraView?
There is no change to viewing DStv on decoders – customers can continue to enjoy viewing DStv on up to 3 decoders linked to the same subscription in XtraView.
Does this mean only one person can be logged in at a time?
No, we will not limit the number of people using a login, however, we are limiting (to one) the number of people who can stream at the same time.
Is there any change to pricing because of this change?
No.
Will this impact Showmax customers?
No, this change only applies when streaming DStv.
