South Africans are ditching traditional television in favor of streaming alternatives, with linear viewership declining 12.5% between 2019 and 2023.
Many South Africans are abandoning traditional pay-TV packages in favor of streaming sites such as Netflix and Showmax.
This shift in how people watch shows and movies has been developing in recent years, as on-demand viewing, rather than scheduled programming, appears to be popular among those who can afford TV.
According to the Broadcast Research Council (BRC), the number of households watching traditional linear television has decreased dramatically.
The BRC reported that households watching linear TV declined by 12.5% between 2019 and 2023. Even though the total number of households climbed from 17.3 million to 18.2 million, the number of people viewing traditional television fell from 15.9 million to 13.9 million.
Showmax increases costs, except for Premier League packages.
TV usage is gradually dropping as Generation Z camps on streaming platforms.
DStv is losing subscribers due to price increases and repetitive content, resulting in a decrease from 92% in 2019 to 76% by 2023.
According to the BRC, this shift in South African watching habits was prompted by a number of factors, including lockdown, power shedding, more inexpensive streaming options, more internet and smartphone access, and the deactivation of analogue television broadcasts.
Furthermore, the loss of money caused by the lockdown and other economic issues made it impossible for people in lower-income households to purchase or repair TV sets, contributing to the decline in linear TV watching.
However, this does not imply that everyone has quit watching TV.
Many households still prefer traditional television, particularly those that use services such as SABC and DSTV.
Traditional television, on the other hand, is frequently perceived by viewers as less adaptable. With DStv, you must wait for scheduled programming to enjoy your favorite shows.
Abigail Radebe of Welgedacht, Springs, who uses both traditional TV and streaming services, discusses the versatility of streaming.
“I love DStv, but sometimes I miss my shows because I can’t always be at home at the right time.”
On the other hand, streaming provides greater ease and freedom. Viewers can watch whatever and whenever they want. She stated, “Streaming has changed the way I watch TV.” I can binge watch my fave series without having to stick to a timetable.”
This is a frequent sentiment among those who love the diverse content offered through streaming services.
Streaming services also provide a wider range of programming than traditional television.
With original series, movies, and exclusive shows, streaming services cater to a wide range of tastes, making it easier for users to find something they enjoy.
DStv has recently joined the streaming trend, launching DStv Stream, which allows viewers to watch their favourite shows on demand.
This gives consumers greater flexibility while still providing access to traditional television material.
Moreover, streaming services are frequently cheaper than regular cable packages.
Viewers may access a large amount of content at a lesser cost, encouraging more people to migrate to streaming.
“I can get so much more for my money with streaming, and I don’t have to pay for channels I don’t watch,” said Thulani Mabena, a Welgedacht (Springs) resident who primarily uses Netflix and ShowMax.
While traditional TV, particularly through services such as DStv, remains popular in many South African homes, the advent of streaming services indicates a significant shift in how people watch television.
As more people appreciate the ease and flexibility of streaming, the way we watch TV evolves.
