SABC+ scales up
The SABC's streaming platform, SABC+, has achieved over three million registered users, nearly doubling its sign-up rate since May. Growth peaked around…
The Full Story
The SABC's streaming platform, SABC+, has achieved over three million registered users, nearly doubling its sign-up rate since May. Growth peaked around South Africa's participation in the FIFA World Cup, although the SABC did not directly attribute this surge to the tournament.
CEO Nomsa Chabeli highlighted that the platform's registration rate accelerated to approximately 225,000 new sign-ups a month in the recent months, reflecting a strong interest in sports content and free-to-air broadcasts. This success contrasts with other streaming services facing challenges in subscriber retention and profitability.
Why It Matters
The rapid growth of SABC+ suggests a significant shift in viewing habits among South Africans, with free-to-air options gaining traction. This trend is crucial for the SABC as it seeks to adapt to digital consumption trends and capitalise on the popularity of live sports events.
Who Is Affected
The rise in registrations for SABC+ indicates a growing demand for accessible content. Viewers seeking free streaming options benefit from the service, especially during major events like the World Cup. This presents a challenge to traditional television models and other streaming platforms, pushing them to rethink their strategies.