I can reveal that MultiChoice is busy with something new (and intriguing to say the least) which the pay TV platform will reveal, implement, unveil or change within the next few months and which somehow ties in with the issue of repeats and rebroadcasts and that will somehow address, aleviate or mitigate subscribers' ongoing irritation/dislike/gripe regarding repeats.
Although MultiChoice is not responsible for repeats (remember that DStv only add channels and make them available on the various bouquets - in essence it aggregates TV content and bundles it together for subscribers at a price), MultiChoice is busy working on and developing ... something that will impact on repeats and rebroadcasts.
This new MultiChoice development will - although not much else is known at this stage (and believe me, if I know I would tell you) - somehow lessen or circumvent in a sense, repeats. It will not necessarily reduce the number of repeats on all channels (repeats are and will forever be part of the model of linear TV programming) but MultiChoice seems to be working on something that in some way is going to speak to DStv subscriber's exposure or limited options regarding being subjected to repeat programming.
It could also be that MultiChoice will impose stricter terms on the maximum number of repeat hours a channel is allowed to have (although repeats there will always be), or it could be something else that gives subscribers another option.
The widely-respected Aletta Alberts, general manager of content at MultiChoice said MultiChoice is very aware of the frustration that subscribers feel over repeats. She said that MultiChoice is addressing it and that MultiChoice always listens to subscribers. Then she said this about the issue of addressing repeats and limiting/circumventing repeat programming - and only this:
''There are great developments at MultiChoice around that in the next few months,'' Aletta Alberts said.
''I can't at this stage say too much. I can't discuss any of that. But it's not like we are not hearing you. In the next few months more will be revealed.''
