Popular American internet streaming media service provider,Netflix is now available in Kenya which means that finally DSTV and other pay tv service providers will come under intense pressure as Kenyans complain over the exorbitant charges.Netflix,which also launched in South Africa, Nigeria and 127 other countries said it has finally switched on its video streaming services in 130 new countries today including Kenya and all most the whole of Africa, meaning it’s now available just about everywhere on Earth as part of a plan to be a global TV network in 2016, NewYorkTimes reported.
Netflix service is available in 3 packages; Basic ($7.99 – Ksh. 817), Standard ($9.99 – Ksh. 1,022) and Premium ($11.99 – Ksh. 1,226). Customers will be able to watch their favourite TV shows and movies from their laptops, phones, tablets or smart TV’s. Payment is via PayPal, debit card or credit card. They are also offering a 30 day trial period.
While its expansion to Africa is a welcome development, the U.S.-based company could face challenges on the continent due to the high cost of Internet mobile data and lack of quality broadband infrastructure.
However, Netflix, like DSTV and other service providers, will be providing services targeted mainly at viewers who can afford streaming services.
On Wednesday, Netflix shares rose about 6 percent in midday trading and its market capitalization was about $47 billion — about two times that of TV group CBS, NewYorkTimes reported.
Other than customers, the winner in the Netflix launch is the Fiber to the home companies like Zuku, JTL and Safaricom who are bound to see uptake of their services. This is because Netflix works better on broadband and fiber is also relatively cheaper if one is streaming. Netflix also offers a wider range of content like Mark Wahlberg movies.
