By Jan Vermeulen.
DStv has launched a new payment feature in the MyDStv App that lets customers split the cost of a single DStv subscription with a friend or family member.
Using the app, the primary account holder can send a payment link to another person to contribute towards the monthly subscription, with the bill able to be split between two people.
“The feature reflects the reality of shared living arrangements, where subscription costs are often divided across households, and is designed to make cost-sharing simpler and more transparent,” said DStv.
DStv’s new split bill feature was announced with channel changes to its entry-level Access package and changes to its decoder specials.
With its Upsize promotion ending at the end of January, DStv said its focus is shifting from temporary upgrades to practical product enhancements that deliver everyday value for South African households.
DStv strengthened its Access package by adding three channels, including Trace Ngoma (formerly Trace Africa), Trace Gospel, and WWE permanently.
“The additions broaden the mix of music, faith and live entertainment available on one of DStv’s most affordable packages,” the company stated.
“It ensures that customers who choose to manage costs by staying on Access continue to receive a great service that meets their needs.”
DStv said it has also maintained a lower upfront cost of hardware, including the promotional price for the entry-level HD decoder to R499 (R799 installed), alongside reductions of up to 57% on Explora decoders.
The discounted pricing is designed to remove hardware as a barrier, whether customers are new DStv customers, replacing older equipment, adding an extra TV or reconnecting after a break.
“What matters now is how DStv fits into people’s lives month after month,” said Willington Ngwepe, CEO of MultiChoice, the broadcasting service licensee for DStv in South Africa.
“We want customers to have options that make it easier to stay connected, even when budgets are tight.”
DStv’s decoder price promotions are summarised in the table below. Promotional prices available until 30 April 2026. Percentage savings are based on standard recommended retail prices.
| Decoder | Original price | December offer | Current offer | Saving |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HD Single View | R899 | R399 R299 (online exclusive) |
R499 | R400 (±45%) |
| With installation | R1, 299 | R899 R699 (online exclusive) |
R799 | R500 (±39%) |
| Explora (model 3B) | R2,299 | R1,499 R999 (online exclusive) |
Up to R1,300 (±35%–57%) | |
| Explora Ultra | R3,299 | R2,999 | R300 (±9%) |
MultiChoice also reported that more customers were using the DStv Rewards programme, including redeeming rewards to pay their monthly subscriptions.
As part of the broader DStv Rewards programme, the ability to pay DStv subscriptions using DStv Coins, which launched in October 2025, continues to see strong uptake.
“Since launch, customers have redeemed more than 20 million DStv Coins to offset the cost of their DStv subscriptions through both full and hybrid Coins-and-cash payments,” it stated.
“The feature gives customers more flexibility in how they manage their monthly subscription and reinforces Rewards as an ongoing benefit rather than a once-off promotion.”
Customers can now also stand a chance to win R3 million worth of DStv Rewards Coins as well as once-in-a-lifetime FIFA World Cup experiences.
MultiChoice said the Rewards programme is positioned as an ongoing benefit for loyal customers rather than a short-term promotions.