Showmax is pulling the plug on its standalone app on Thursday, forcing millions of Nigerian subscribers to switch to DStv Stream if they want to keep watching their shows and movies.
The streaming service, which has operated independently since Multichoice launched it years ago, is consolidating its operations under the DStv Stream umbrella. Subscribers will need to transfer their accounts and login details to access the same content on the new platform.
The move marks Multichoice's push to streamline its streaming presence in Nigeria and across Africa. Rather than maintain two separate apps competing for the same audience, the company decided to merge Showmax into DStv Stream, which already bundles live television, on-demand content, and sports in one place.
Users who have active Showmax subscriptions will receive notifications with instructions on how to migrate. The company has set the transition date for Thursday, though Multichoice has not announced exactly what time the original app will become unavailable. Those who delay the migration risk losing access to their watchlist, saved shows, and personalized recommendations.
Showmax offered a catalogue of local and international content, from Nigerian Nollywood films to Hollywood blockbusters and series. Some subscribers have complained about overlapping features between the two apps, with DStv Stream already offering much of what Showmax provided. The shutdown consolidates these offerings and simplifies Multichoice's platform strategy.
For DStv Stream, the integration will expand its user base significantly. The app currently serves customers who want flexible streaming without a traditional television package, and it already competes with Netflix and other platforms in Nigeria. Absorbing Showmax's subscriber numbers strengthens DStv Stream's position in the market.
Multichoice has encouraged subscribers to complete their migration before the shutdown deadline. Accounts with valid subscriptions will transfer automatically, but users should verify their login credentials work on DStv Stream by Wednesday to avoid any interruption. The company's customer service team will handle migration issues through its standard support channels.
