Following its recent acquisition of MultiChoice, Canal+ is crafting an all-encompassing “super app” that will integrate content from both DStv and Canal+. This cutting-edge platform aims to unify leading third-party streaming services such as Netflix, Apple TV+, HBO Max, and Paramount+ into a single, intuitive interface.
After restructuring its corporate framework to comply with South African legislation, Canal+ officially assumed control of MultiChoice.
By proposing R125 (around $7) per share-a bid accepted by more than 90% of MultiChoice shareholders-Canal+ increased its ownership from 46% to an impressive 94.36%, securing near-complete control. The company plans to invoke section 124(1) of the Companies Act to acquire the remaining shares.
Collectively, the merged entity now caters to over 40 million subscribers across 70 countries, with a dominant footprint in Africa spanning 40 nations, positioning it as a premier entertainment provider on the continent.
A Single Platform for All Entertainment Needs
Canal+ CEO Maxime Saada has shared his vision to streamline how audiences engage with the company’s vast content library.
“We aim to deliver a seamless and captivating experience that combines world-class international programming with local sports and entertainment,” Saada remarked.
The strategy involves consolidating all Canal+ and DStv offerings into one super app, providing users with a unified entertainment destination.
Currently, Canal+ and MultiChoice maintain separate streaming services: Canal+ targets French-speaking viewers, while MultiChoice operates DStv Stream and Showmax across Africa. The company is exploring the possibility of merging these platforms under a single brand identity.
By integrating its proprietary content with partner services like Apple TV+, HBO Max, Netflix, and Paramount+, Canal+ plans to offer bundled streaming options in select regions, enhancing subscriber convenience and value.
This super app is anticipated to simplify content discovery, subscription management, and serve as a centralized hub for both African and international entertainment.
It remains to be seen whether the app will retain the DStv or Canal+ branding or launch under a new name. While Canal+ has yet to enter the South African market, it competes with DStv in other African territories.
Showmax’s Position in the New Landscape
A significant point of interest is the future of Showmax, MultiChoice’s streaming platform relaunched in 2024 through a partnership with NBCUniversal, where MultiChoice holds a 70% stake and NBCUniversal 30%.
The relaunch, supported by a R4 billion ($231.36 million) investment, introduced a platform powered by Peacock’s streaming technology, improved video quality, and an expanded content catalog, collectively enhancing user satisfaction and subscriber growth.
According to entertainment data firm Fabric, Showmax ranks as Africa’s third most popular streaming service, trailing only Netflix and Amazon Prime Video.
Despite these successes, Canal+ intends to conduct a thorough review of the Showmax partnership. Saada highlighted the necessity of understanding the financial and operational intricacies before making strategic moves.
“While we are familiar with the publicly available details about Showmax, the underlying economics and investment agreements require a comprehensive assessment,” Saada noted. “We anticipate reaching a conclusion within the next few weeks or months.”
Also read: Key milestones in Canal+’s $3.17bn acquisition of MultiChoice
This ongoing evaluation leaves Showmax’s future within Canal+’s streaming portfolio uncertain. Although Saada has indicated no immediate plans to retire the Showmax brand, the review could result in operational or content distribution changes.
If Canal+ opts to phase out Showmax, some of its programming might be absorbed into the forthcoming super app. Given that much of Showmax’s local content already airs on DStv channels, this transition could be executed smoothly.
Transforming Africa’s Streaming Landscape
The launch of a combined Canal+/DStv super app could represent a transformative moment for Africa’s pay-TV and streaming sectors.
For millions of viewers across Africa, this innovation promises a single platform to access a broad spectrum of content-from live Premier League football to acclaimed Netflix originals-eliminating the hassle of managing multiple apps and subscriptions.
This merger bolsters Canal+’s competitive edge against global streaming giants like Netflix and Amazon by delivering a comprehensive service that combines user-friendly design, diverse programming, and content tailored to regional tastes, potentially increasing subscriber retention.
Nonetheless, this integration raises important considerations regarding pricing strategies, data privacy, and continued support for local productions. Showmax’s substantial investment in African original content, for instance, highlights concerns about how such initiatives will be maintained and promoted under Canal+’s stewardship.