MultiChoice’s Showmax has announced a partnership with QVWi — the biggest Google TV partner in the world — which will see it launch a range of streaming devices and 4K TVs.
The devices, which include a streaming stick, streaming box, and 4K TVs, will be available to purchase from 1 August 2024 through leading South African retailers.
Each device comes with a complimentary two-month subscription to Showmax Entertainment.
“Leading African streaming service Showmax has partnered with KwaZulu-Natal’s largest local manufacturer of electronic products, QVWi, a Skyworth Digital Company, to bridge the technology and accessibility gap with a range of affordably priced streaming devices,” said MultiChoice.
“From 1 August 2024, select devices will come preloaded with Showmax as a pre-installed app and a complimentary two-month subscription to Showmax Entertainment.”
Showmax noted that the devices will not allow screen casting of its mobile plans.
For R999, South African residents can get the QVWi Leap TV S2 streaming stick, while the Leap S3 streaming box will start at R1,199.
“Also available is a range of smart TVs, which provide easy access to Showmax’s extensive library of movies, TV shows, documentaries, and more, at an affordable price point,” said MultiChoice.
The smart UHD TVs will also carry the QVWi brand name.
It added that the streaming devices will eliminate the expense, waste, and inconvenience of upgrading a non-smart TV.
MultiChoice said the Leap TV streaming devices are compatible with a wide range of TVs and home entertainment systems and provide a “premium HD” viewing experience.
It added that the devices feature fast processors, dual-band Wi-Fi, and support Ethernet connectivity up to 100Mbps.
With built-in Chromecast technology, users can cast content to their TV from a smartphone, tablet, or laptop.
Recommended pricing for the full range of devices is as follows:
- Leap S2 streaming stick + 2 months Showmax Entertainment — from R999
- Leap S3 streaming box + 2 months Showmax Entertainment — from R1,199
- 50-inch 4K TV + 2 months Showmax Entertainment — from R5,999
- 55-inch 4K TV + 2 months Showmax Entertainment — From R6,799
- 65-inch 4K TV — From R9,999
MultiChoice noted that prices may vary by retailer.
Showmax CEO Marc Jury said the partnership will help the streaming platform achieve its goal of making entertainment available to everyone.
“We are thrilled to partner with QVWi to bring these innovative, affordable streaming devices to the market,” he said.
“This partnership helps us achieve our mission to be the home of streaming for Africa by providing our customers with more affordable options to enjoy our fantastic content.”
QVWi Retail CEO Nazim Casim said the devices provide a smooth and lag-free experience.
“Collaborating with Showmax allows us to leverage our technological expertise to create products that enhance the user experience,” he added.