SABC Goes Digital With Launch of Streaming Service
The SABC has officially launched its streaming service SABC+ in partnership with Hisense, a global leader in consumer electronics and home appliances. The service will feature various local content, including 19 radio stations and three free-to-air TV channels, SABC 1, SABC 2, SABC 3, and SABC Sports. The app also offers 24-hour news stations by the SABC.
Viewers will have access to international content such as the 2022 FIFA World Cup Qatar. The SABC and Hisense will work together to broadcast the sporting event from November 20 via the SABC+ app to Hisense smart TVs and mobile home screens for free.
The SABC’s Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO), Mr. Madoda Mxakwe, said in a statement:
“As we forge ahead with our digital and streaming strategies, it is essential for the public broadcaster to partner with a company such as Hisense to enable us to fulfil our public mandate while utilising innovative ways to provide cutting-edge content to the public.”
Mxakwe added that the SABC+ app also shows exponential growth towards enhancing revenue and building “a strong foundation for future financial sustainability of the SABC.”
“We are excited to team up with SABC in a joint effort to bring a better quality of life to local fans,” said Vivi Liu, the CEO of Hisense South Africa.
“Hisense has been pursuing scientific and technological innovation and bringing happiness to millions of families. We believe that through this partnership, we can create the best possible viewing experience at home for football fans to allow them to focus on enjoying every moment of a FIFA World Cup match. Powered by the VIDAA smart TV operating system, Hisense is dedicated to bringing more of the best video streaming content to its big screens.”
The launch of the SABC+ app could usher in a new dawn for the national broadcaster, whose financial problems have increased through the years. At the end of March 2021, the SABC reported a net loss of R530 million, a 4% decline compared to the previous year. What has also dealt a massive blow to ratings is load shedding which has negatively affected ‘average minute ratings’ used as a currency to trade in airtime with advertisers. In addition, the percentage of unpaid TV licenses has reached a whopping 82%.
Therefore, the transition to digital content is something the SABC believes will benefit viewers and create financial viability for the broadcaster.