New 'free' streaming service launches across Africa
South Africans know Openview as one of the country’s biggest free-to-air television platforms. Now, its owner is taking the brand into the streaming era. eMedia, the company behinde. tvandOpenview, has. . .
South Africans know Openview as one of the country’s biggest free-to-air television platforms. Now, its owner is taking the brand into the streaming era. eMedia, the company behinde. tvandOpenview, has officially unveiledOpenview Stream, a new free ad-supported streaming television (FAST) platform designed to bring live TV and streaming content to audiences across Africa. The launch marks eMedia’s latest push into digital entertainment as demand for streaming services continues to accelerate across the continent. What is Openview Stream?Unlike subscription platforms that require monthly payments, Openview Stream is aFAST (Free Ad-Supported Streaming Television)service. That means viewers canwatch content for freewhile advertisements fund the platform. According toeMedia, the service combines:Live television channelsStreaming entertainmentFree access for viewersAdvertising-supported contentMobile and smart TV compatibilityThe platform was developed in partnership withRunnTV, eMedia’s strategic over-the-top (OTT) and FAST technology partner. Building on the success of OpenviewAccording to eMedia CEOKhalik Sherrif, the new platform represents the next stage in the company’s evolution as an African entertainment business. “Building on the success of Openview, we are extending one of our strongest consumer brands into the streaming market, ensuring audiences can continue to enjoy quality entertainment,” he said. He added that the partnership with RunnTV aims to create a streaming platform that benefits viewers, broadcasters, advertisers and content creators alike. eMedia said that Openview Stream expands the familiar Openview experience beyond traditional television by making its content available throughdigital streaming. Where is it launching?Interestingly, the service isnot launching in South Africa, at least not yet. Instead, Openview Stream will initially roll out in:KenyaGhanaRwandaZambiaBotswanaNamibiaMauritiusThe broadcaster says additional African markets will be added as part of a phased expansion strategy. Although South Africa was not mentioned in the launch announcement, eMedia already operates theeVODstreaming platform locally, which may explain why Openview Stream is debuting elsewhere on the continent. Over the coming months, Openview Stream plans to expand:Its library of contentThe number of available channelsIts reach into additional African countrieseMedia also says the platform creates new opportunities for broadcasters and content owners by allowing them to reach viewers across connected TVs and mobile devices while generating advertising revenue.