by Thinus Ferreira
MultiChoice, in a message to affected DStv subscribers are telling them that they have to buy a new DStv decoder before the end of 2026 if they have one of 10 outdated decoder models that will start to lose signal and TV channels from 2027.
Affected DStv decoders are the DSD1110; DSD1131; DSD1132; DSD720; DSD910; DSD933; DSD990; DV1 (Dual View 1); PVR3000 (PVR1); and MCDSD.
Some of these decoder models are over 20 years old.
It's understandable that hardware like DStv decoders reaches obsolescence.
It is however bad that customers are only notified with 2 months' notice - many DStv customers are older, living off pensions or can't, in two months' time, afford to buy a new decoder.
Once a new decoder has been bought, the white satellite dish coax cable must be removed from the old decoder and put into the back of the new decoder.
But a DStv subscriber will also have to contact MultiChoice to activate the decoder on their account and profile and deactivate the old decoder, otherwise the signal coming through the new decoder will be scrambled.
DStv customers who switch decoders won't lose their existing DStv package - whether it's one of the current ones, or a legacy package that they keep paying for. What comes through the new decoder will be the same on their existing account.
"Due to ongoing updates to the MultiChoice satellite system to improve your viewing experience, the decoder models will no longer be compatible with the upgraded broadcasting infrastructure," MultiChoice says in a message to affected DStv subscribers that was sent to them at the start of this month.
"As your current decoder model is being retired, you will begin losing access to certain DStv channels from 1 January, 2027, and no channels will be supported on your decoder from 1 September 2027."
"To avoid disruption, please upgrade to a compatible decoder as early as possible so that you can continue enjoying your favourite sports, movies, series and entertainment in High Definition (HD), while benefiting from the best available DStv viewing experience, exploring our latest packages, and accessing future platform enhancements," MultiChoice notes.
"Compatible decoders are available to order online at the DStv Store, or through MultiChoice service centres, accredited installers, and selected retail partners. Please note that a limited-time R199 decoder special will be offered from 1 November 2026."
I've confirmed that this decoder at R199 is the DStv Single View HD decoder.
In a media query, I asked MultiChoice to please explain why DStv subscribers are given so little time to buy a new decoder.
If people pay to upgrade in the form of having to buy a new decoder, will they all be able to remain on their same/existing package?
What is the R199 decoder special on offer for these people from 1 November - what decoder model is this?
Stembiso Semenya, MultiChoice spokesperson, said in a reply, "MultiChoice is continuously focused on providing customers with the best viewing experience, and as such, technological upgrades are inevitable to improve the overall viewing experience".
"As part of this process, some older decoder models will no longer be supported from 1 January 2027."
"These devices are significantly outdated, with some having been discontinued more than 20 years ago. They are no longer compatible with the latest system requirements needed to ensure reliable service, enhanced security, and access to modern features."
"To support affected customers, MultiChoice is offering a limited-time decoder special of R199 available from 1 November 2026. Affected customers are being contacted directly and will need to move to a compatible decoder by 31 December 2026 to continue viewing without interruption."
MultiChoice gave no response on why it is giving its DStv subscribers only two months' notice to buy a new decoder.
