![The restrictions introduced by DSTV are meant to curb password sharing. [Photo/ Myofflinestash]](https://i0.wp.com/businesstoday.co.ke/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/dstv-now-tv.jpg?fit=768%2C511&ssl=1)
Multichoice-owned pay-tv service DSTV has attracted discontent from customers in countries including Kenya and South Africa over new restrictions introduced on its DSTV Now streaming app.
In the changes set to take effect on March 22, streaming on DSTV will be limited to one device at a time. This poses a challenge to users today in connected households, who prefer to enjoy tailored content experiences on multiple devices including phones, smart TVs, tablets and laptops.
Where one person is watching football, for instance, another in the same household might be unable to watch cartoons or soap operas on a different device. To enjoy content on multiple devices simultaneously, you’ll have to download content for offline viewing on one of the devices.
Customers will still be allowed to have up to 4 devices registered for streaming. It will not affect viewing on decoders. Customers can view DSTV on up to 3 decoders linked to the same subscription on Xtraview.
In a FAQ accompanying the announcement, DSTV explained;
“It (the change) is one of many ongoing measures to counteract password sharing and privacy.”
“Yes, the change will be 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.”
DSTV will not limit the number of users who can login using the same subscription. It will, however, limit those who can stream concurrently.
There will be no related change to the pricing of DSTV subscriptions.
The changes will also notably not affect Multichoice’s Showmax streaming service – which includes local and international movies, series and live sports.
DSTV has in recent years been countering the threat posed to is bottom line by streaming services and illegal streaming of live sports.
The new restrictions have, however attracted negative sentiments from DSTV customers across the continent, particularly Kenya and South Africa
Sample some of the reactions:
It’s shocking at how @DStv_Kenya @DStv still believe that families still hurdle up and watch t.v. together. And they proudly display this on their advertising/commercials. How can they be so blind to the new way of consuming entertaiment
— Martin Kariuki (@Karizmat) February 28, 2022
I’m cancelling my subscription coz for the amount I’m paying , this is nowhere near being worth it @DStv_Kenya
— Bena (@Reddevils_ke) February 28, 2022
@DStv_Kenya one step forward, twenty steps back, why then have the service available?
— Nick (@ngashnick) February 28, 2022
![A traffic police officer. The crackdown begins on February 28, 2022 across the country. [Photo/ Courtesy]](https://i0.wp.com/businesstoday.co.ke/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/PO.jpg?resize=150%2C150&ssl=1)
Not do they only put restrictions but also repetitions of programmes…do you have new programmes, films on your channels..why should we still be watching moves ,comedy and programmes of 90s ..this is 2022 and we are still watching everybody hates Chris…change your doings other wise this is theft…DSTV MALAWI
I wish dstv could then just as well get rid of the Fake News channels!
Here in Malawi it is the same ,very untrustworthy, we pay our money in good time, but still ,they treat is like dogs,same old programs they give us over and over again.
I stopped using dstv when you removed my favourite channel ‘Travel channel’ over the years you have continually shortchanged us by reducing channels yet your packages especially in 🇰🇪 continues to be very high.
DSTV is trying to rob Africans. If they continue this way…. more than 80% will stop using it. If this is how DStV can discriminate Africans, its a shame
Same issues here in Nigeria, watching old movies,programmes over and over again, movies in the 80’s,90’s. Are you guys not ashamed atall. Atleast have some conscience as human. Why charging so much on old programmes and now imposing restrictions on old programmes. Of what benefits is this to your customers.
Sikuizii munabore watu na channel za uwongo na kupandisha beii ya kulipa jooohhh
Only watch dstv for football, should we find another way of watching football you gone for good, don’t know why you still air things for the 90s.
Can someone pls tell us why Nigerians can’t watch hgtv,when clearly we pay more than other countries??