MultiChoice’s revamped streaming platform, Showmax 2.0, promises a sleek interface, an innovative app, and even more content. But can it dethrone the reigning champions and capture the hearts (and wallets) of African viewers? We put Showmax 2.0 to the test to see if it’s a streaming crown contender or destined for the flop bin.
A Visual Upgrade, But Onboarding Hiccups:
Showmax 2.0 stuns with a stunningly redesigned interface, replacing the previous clunkiness with intuitive navigation and tempting categories. Dive into a treasure trove of content from Universal, Warner Bros., and HBO, neatly organized into sections like “Top 20,” “Fresh Arrivals,” and “Critic-Acclaimed Gems.” However, the initial onboarding experience still requires users to visit a web browser for account setup and subscription—a jarring detour in the user journey. Remember, MultiChoice, a smooth process is key!
Sports Fans: Not All Games Included:
While Premier League enthusiasts celebrate, fans of La Liga, PSL, Serie A, NBA, and IPL cricket might feel left out. Showmax’s limited sports selection might leave them seeking a different pitch. While Showmax 2.0 caters to various devices, downloading content for offline viewing is currently a mobile-only feature. This might be a drawback for users who prefer watching on larger screens without an internet connection. The app is exploring ways to bring this functionality to other devices in the future.
New Devices, Familiar Features:
The new app offers a wide range of compatible devices, including:
- Web browsers: Chrome, Firefox, Edge, and Safari.
- Mobile devices: iOS 14+, Android 7.0+, Huawei with HMS/AppGallery.
- TVs and streaming devices: Android TV, Apple TV (4th Gen+), LG TVs (2016+), Samsung TVs (2016+), Hisense TVs (2020+), Chromecast, Explora Ultra, Streama.
- Gaming consoles: PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/A.
Switching Platforms Seamlessly:
Showmax is transitioning to a new platform powered by Peacock technology. Your account details will automatically move to the new app. You’ll receive an email or notification with instructions on downloading the app or signing in with your existing credentials. Inactive accounts (over 12 months) won’t transfer, but you can create a new one.
A Fresh Start, But No Carryover:
The New Showmax is a new app, offering a fresh start. Your viewing history and downloaded items won’t be available. However, you can enjoy up to six profiles, including Kids Profiles with PIN protection, and download 25 titles for offline viewing.
More Languages and Content to Come:
The new app and website are currently available in English and Portuguese, with more languages planned for the future. The content library is also expanding, bringing you even more shows and movies to explore.
Pricing Plans:
Showmax 2.0 offers several subscription plans to suit different viewing preferences and budgets:
- Entertainment (All Devices or Mobile): Watch series, movies, and more on all devices or just mobile. Watch on two screens simultaneously. Stream up to full HD or download. Price: ₦1,200
- Premier League (Mobile): Stream all Premier League games, enjoy highlights, and access all-access content. Stream FHD or choose your quality. Price: ₦2,900
- Entertainment + PL (All Devices + Mobile): Enjoy all the benefits of the Entertainment plan, plus stream all Premier League games on all devices or just mobile. Stream up to full HD or download. Price: ₦3,200
Showmax Availability:
Calling all movie and series lovers across Africa! The new Showmax is available in a wide range of countries, including:
- Angola
- Benin
- Botswana
- Burkina Faso
- Cameroon
- Cape Verde
- Central African Republic
- Chad
- Comoros
- Congo (Republic of Congo)
- The Democratic Republic of the Congo
- Djibouti
- eSwatini (formerly Swaziland)
- Equatorial Guinea
- Eritrea
- Ethiopia
- Gabon
- Gambia
- Ghana
- Guinea
- Guinea-Bissau
- Ivory Coast
- Kenya
- Lesotho
- Madagascar
- Malawi
- Mali
- Mauritania
- Mauritius
- Mozambique
- Namibia
- Niger
- Nigeria
- Rwanda
- Sao Tome and Principe
- Senegal
- Seychelles
- Sierra Leone
- South Africa
How to Get the New Showmax App:
As Showmax transitions to the new platform, getting the app depends on whether you’re an existing subscriber or a new one.
Existing Subscribers (between January 23rd and February 12th, 2024):
- Wait for an email from Showmax informing you about your account migration to the new app.
- Follow the link in the email to download the new app on your device.
- If you forgot your password, click the “I don’t know my password” option and receive a reset link.
- Create up to six new profiles and start streaming!
Note: If you haven’t received the email yet, your account hasn’t moved yet. Don’t worry, they’ll get to you!
Existing Subscribers (outside the Jan 23rd–February 12th window):
- Download the new app from the App Store or Google Play Store on your mobile device.
- On your smart TV, search for the new app in your app store.
- Remember to download the “New Showmax” app, not Showmax 1.0.
- Log in with your existing Showmax account credentials.
- If you don’t remember your username, find it in the “My Account” section on showmax.com.
New Subscribers:
- Head to preview.showmax.com and create a new account.
- Download the new app from the App Store or Google Play Store on your mobile device.
- On your smart TV, search for the “New Showmax” app in your app store.
- Make sure you download the “New Showmax” app, not 1.0.
- Follow the app’s prompts to sign in and set up your profiles.
- Dive into the content library and discover your new favorites!
Remember: You need to create an account on the Showmax website before logging in on any device.
Recommended: GOtv Stream App: Unlocking Live TV and On-Demand Entertainment on Your Devices
The Verdict:
Exploring Showmax 2.0 is a significant improvement over its predecessor. The new interface, wider content library, and improved profile options are welcome additions. However, the limited sports selection, mobile-only focus for some features, and lack of data carryover from the old platform hold it back.
Whether Showmax 2.0 becomes a streaming champion or a flop remains to be seen. It can solidify its position by addressing user concerns, expanding its content library, and offering a seamless streaming experience across all devices.
With the information on how to access the new app readily available, viewers can now easily join the Showmax experience and decide for themselves if it reigns supreme in the African streaming landscape.
