MultiChoice to discontinue Showmax streaming service

MultiChoice Group has announced plans to discontinue its streaming platform, Showmax, following a strategic review by the company’s board.

The development comes about five months after Canal+ Group, a French television company, completed the takeover of MultiChoice, the South African pay TV operator.

In a notice sent to subscribers on March 5, MultiChoice said the decision was reached after a “comprehensive review” of the platform and forms part of efforts to strengthen its broader digital strategy.

According to the company, the move is aimed at ensuring long term sustainability in an increasingly competitive global streaming market.

“Following a comprehensive review, the Showmax Board has taken the decision to discontinue the Showmax service in the near future,” the company said.

Despite the announcement, MultiChoice assured customers that the service will continue to operate for now, adding that subscribers will not experience any immediate disruption.

“Importantly, at the moment there will be no interruption to your current service. You can continue streaming as usual, and no action is required from you at this time,” the notice said.

The company noted that further information regarding the shutdown timeline and transition arrangements will be communicated to subscribers ahead of any changes.

“We understand that this news may raise questions. Showmax subscribers are a priority for us, and we are working on plans to ensure clear communication and a smooth transition when the time comes,” it added.

MultiChoice also reiterated that streaming remains a key part of its long term strategy, stating that it will continue to invest in content, technology innovation, and partnerships to enhance customer experience.

“Streaming remains central to our strategy. We will continue to invest in premium content, technology innovation and partnerships to deliver the best possible entertainment experience to our customers,” the company said.

Showmax, a subscription video on demand platform, was launched in South Africa in August 2015 by MultiChoice to compete with global streaming services and meet the growing demand for online entertainment.

The platform offers movies, television series, and documentaries streamed over the internet rather than through scheduled television broadcasting.