DStv kicks off 2026 with added value for South African consumers
DStv is starting 2026 with a renewed focus on everyday value, rolling out a series of practical enhancements designed to make its service more accessible, flexible and rewarding for South African households. As the popular Upsize promotion wraps up at the end of January, the shift moves away from temporary package upgrades towards long-term improvements that customers can rely on month after month.
After nearly three months of package upgrades that drove improved subscriber growth during November and December, DStv has announced new offers and product updates aimed at reducing barriers to entry, supporting shared households and rewarding loyalty.
Stronger value at entry level
DStv has enhanced its Access package by permanently adding three new channels: Trace Ngoma (formerly Trace Africa), Trace Gospel and WWE. These additions expand the range of music, faith-based and live entertainment available on one of DStv’s most affordable packages, ensuring customers who are managing costs still enjoy a rich and relevant viewing experience.
Lower decoder pricing reduces the cost of entry
To make getting connected even easier, DStv has maintained lower upfront hardware costs. The entry-level HD decoder remains available at a promotional price of R499 (or R799 with installation), while Explora decoders are discounted by up to 57%.
These reduced prices are designed to help new customers join the platform, existing customers replace older equipment, add extra TVs, or reconnect after time away — without hardware costs becoming a stumbling block.
“What matters now is how DStv fits into people’s lives month after month. We want customers to have options that make it easier to stay connected, even when budgets are tight.”
says Willington Ngwepe, CEO of MultiChoice, the broadcasting service licensee
New payment feature reflects shared households
Recognising the reality of shared living arrangements, DStv has introduced a new payment-splitting feature on the MyDStv App. The primary account holder can now send a payment link to a friend or family member, allowing the monthly subscription to be split between two people.
This feature simplifies cost-sharing, making it more transparent and better suited to modern households where entertainment expenses are often shared.
Rewards continue to return value to customers
DStv Rewards remains a key pillar of the value offering. Since the launch of DStv Coins as a payment option in October 2025, customers have already redeemed more than 20 million Coins to reduce their subscription costs through full or hybrid Coins-and-cash payments.
In addition, customers now stand a chance to win R3 million worth of DStv Rewards Coins, along with once-in-a-lifetime FIFA World Cup experiences. The Rewards programme is positioned as an ongoing benefit for loyal customers, rather than a short-term promotion.
The MyDStv App, available free to all subscribers, brings together self-service tools, account management, Rewards and in-app games in one place, giving customers greater control over how they manage their DStv experience.
Decoder pricing highlights
Promotional prices are available until 30 April 2026, with savings based on standard recommended retail prices:
- HD Single View decoder: from R899 to R499 (R299 online exclusive)
- HD Single View with installation: from R1,299 to R799
- Explora (model 3B): save up to R1,300 (up to 57% online)
- Explora Ultra: save R300
With lower costs, stronger entry-level packages, flexible payments and meaningful rewards, DStv is positioning itself for 2026 as a more accessible and adaptable entertainment choice for South African consumers.
