
DStv launches new channel to combat load shedding disruptionsMultiChoice has announced the launch of a new channel called DStv SWITCH'D ON to help combat the load shedding crisis.
by Garrin Lambley
24-01-2023 09:08
in Entertainment
MultiChoice has announced the launch of a new channel called DStv SWITCH'D ON to help combat the load shedding crisis. Image via Multichoice
South African broadcasters are having to get creative in response to the ongoing load shedding in Mzansi.
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The latest initiative announced by MultiChoice is the launch of pop-up channels dedicated to repeating popular content that viewers may have missed while sitting in the dark.
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MultiChoice has launched such a channel on DStv called SWITCH'D ON, while Openview has launched Power-UP!.
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According to BusinessTech, MultiChoice said that the channel is an intervention to lessen the frustration of DStv viewers due to the impact of the ongoing load shedding, which reduces their opportunity to consistently watch prime-time television .
This intervention will give viewers up to five times to watch their favourite primetime shows when the lights come back on, it said.
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DStv SWITCH'D ON will operate on channels 109 and 110, starting TODAY, Tuesday, 24 January 2023.
The two new pop-up channels will air selected prime-time content from Mzansi Magic, Mzansi Wethu and Kyknet & Kie.
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According to BizCommunity, some of the shows that will be airing include The River, DiepCity, Gqerberha the Empire, Gomora and Arendsvlei, which will repeat multiple times over a 24-hour period.
DStv subscribers can continue to watch MultiChoice added that DStv Premium and DStv Compact Plus subscribers will continue to be able to view their favourite content through Catch-up and on the DStv app as well.
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The move from MultiChoice follows a similar anti-load shedding' channel announced by Openview, which launched on Monday this week.
Openview's channel, called Power-UP!, offers 18 hours of catch-up content. It operates on channel 114, showing prime-time shows like Durban Gen, House of Zwide, Scandal! and Imbewu.
Shows repeat from Monday to Friday, running in two-hour loops from 06:00 to 00:00.
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