by Thinus Ferreira
Like what has been possible with DStv decoders, MultiChoice has now added "Watch from Start" functionality to its DStv Stream app, making it possible for subscribers to begin watching content that has already started.
The Watch from Start functionality is something that is available in Sky's smart TV known as Sky Glass that works with an internet connection and no need for a mounted satellite dish.
MultiChoice is on track to launch a localised version of Sky Glass, rebranded as DStv Glass, by the end of this year in South Africa which will have to incorporate this function as well, hence its addition to DStv Stream.
Like with traditional DStv decoders where subscribers can drag back the cursor in the buffer bar to go back to the beginning or another point in the timeline, Watch from Start allows users to restart any live event by clicking a button.
According to MultiChoice, the newly added functionality is designed "to provide subscribers with greater control and flexibility over their streaming experience".
MultiChoice says Watch from
Start "is a first step in bringing full cloud PVR functionality - recording live events from any device, to watch later - to DStv Stream customers, who could previously only access this if they were a PVR
decoder viewer".
The Watch from Start feature is
currently available in South Africa and the Rest of Africa on iOS, Android mobile, web, Hisense, tvOS,
and most Samsung TVs. MultiChoice says it will be rolling out on other platforms soon.
"Along with this is a new and improved version of the smart TV user interface (UI) including enhancements that have made the app simpler for the
customer to use and navigate. These updates have been rolled out on LG, Samsung
and Hisense and will also be rolled out to DStv's connected Streama device
soon."
Rochani Steenkamp, executive head of DStv Stream Product, says "These features not only improve convenience but also allow our subscribers to enjoy their favourite shows and live events exactly how and when they want".
According to MultiChoice the navigation for mobile has also been reworked to help subscribers with content discovery in the main section of the
app.
Daniel Courtenay, DStv Stream executive head, says "These are just the first in
a list of innovative improvements on our road map for the year".
