SAVuka TV app enters crowded streaming market

Johannesburg - Video streaming is becoming a crowded market in South Africa but this hasn’t stopped another online service from entering this space.

A Google Android app dubbed SAVuka TV plans to launch on December 9, joining other local video on demand offerings such as Naspers-owned ShowMax, MTN’s VU, PCCW’s ONTAPtv.com and Times Media Group’s Vidi.

However, the makers of the SAVuka TV app, Pecil Productions, have said their service differs in that it “strictly provides local content”.

Also, the app’s shows are typically eight minutes in length and range from dramas, reality shows, documentaries and other lifestyle programmes. Content partners are also expected to benefit from the profit share model called ‘Sidla Sonke’, said the company.

“The Sidla Sonke production funding model ensures mass ownership of content, with rights holders keeping them in perpetuity,” said Siphamandla Kunene, SAVuka TV’s creative producer, in a statement.

“Furthermore, SAVuka TV seeks to create and develop an audience that appreciates innovative, edgy and probing local content, directly on their mobile phones,” Siphamandla said.

Pricing for the offering will range range from R9.99 for a day, R19.99 for 5 days and R35.00 for a monthly subscription.

Also, the service has pay-per-view prices are range from R5.50 for ‘Premium’, R3.50 for ‘Fresh’ and R1.50 for ‘Lite’.

The service will also debut with six reality shows – Soap Stars, Straight back, Out and Living It, Salon Nightmares, Diski Hits and Mrs and Behind the Pulpit.

The company said that shows that are currently in production also include a breakfast show and other magazine and lifestyle shows.