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Johannesburg - Some Fin24 users are willing to cut the cord and cancel their DStv satellite television subscriptions after internet streaming service Netflix launched in South Africa.
Netflix switched on its South African service on Wednesday night as part of a launch in 130 countries.
READ: Netflix goes live in South Africa
Netflix enables South Africans to watch popular shows such as Suits, Dexter and Weeds. However, South Africans still can’t watch other shows on Netflix such as House of Cards and Orange is the New Black owing to content rights held by broadcasters.
Nevertheless, Netflix told Fin24 that it’s working on ensuring that South Africa gets more content after launching Wednesday.
READ: Netflix explains 'missing' content for SA service
UPDATE: MultiChoice comments
DStv owner MultiChoice told Fin24 that "MultiChoice welcomes competition in the pay television and entertainment industry - we believe it is good for consumers as it gives them more options and the ability to compare services."
The company further said that "we already offer a number of shows express from the US within hours of the US broadcast time" and that it offers a Catch Up service to its Premium, Extra and Compact customers. Premium customers, meanwhile, also have access to Catch Up content via the DStv Now mobile app, MultiChoice said.
In the meantime, several Fin24 users have said they they’re willing to ditch their DStv satellite subscriptions and sign up with Netflix.
Fin24 user Danny wrote:
“I have DStv – unfortunately they have become just too expensive at R799p/m for a premium subscription. I will most definitely be cancelling my subscription to that (DStv) and go over to Netflix. DStv have ripped people off for far too long now and I think that they will face a huge decline in their premium subscription in the coming months – hopefully that will ensure that they come out with a more competitive pricing strategy.”
Fin24 user Liza wrote
“Will definitely say goodbye to DStv now… Thank you Netflix.”
Meanwhile, Fin24 user Pieter said he has ended his subscription with DStv, despite possibly missing out on live sport.
“As the news broke I ended my relationship with Repeat TV ( also known as DStv) and created my Netflix account. Only thing that I will miss is the sport. But then again we can always visit the local pub for that. Lets hope that DStv will launch a revised package that will include sport channels.”
Fin24 user Sandrine said that Netflix is ‘more affordable’ than DStv. Netflix costs $7.99 per month in SA.
“I will definitely sign up! I don't have DStv because it is is way too expensive. Netflix is affordable and offers a good range of viewing choices. I am familiar with Netflix having used it in the USA.”
Fin24 user Allan Duff, though, said that he won’t be signing up to Netflix but will rather wait for a UK video on-demand service to launch in SA. Duff said he still planned to cancel his DStv subscription.
“I SHALL NOT be signing to Netlix if its' offerings are solely American. I shall wait for a British based network with superior language use and programmes. I cannot wait for decent competition to our present sad and low quality offerings. I am on the verge of cancelling my DSTV service as it is far from value for money.”
Finally, Fin24 user Eugene wrote:
“Cancelling DStv end of the month. No way it's value for money. Netflix on demand, when you want, what you want at a very good price....who can argue with that.”
*Fin24 is part of Media24 which is owned by Naspers.
Disclaimer: All articles and letters published on Fin24 have been independently written by members of the Fin24 community. The views of users published on Fin24 are therefore their own and do not necessarily represent those of Fin24.
