Claiming to have introduced a ‘game-changer’, South African video-on-demand (VOD) provider ShowMax has enhanced its service with an offline download capability to the product’s Android app.
The move is said to be a recognition of the realities and limitations of wireless broadband in the firm’s catchment area. Indeed it says that by making it possible to save TV shows and movies to tablets and smartphones for viewing offline, potential viewers won’t be excluded due to having limited Internet access.
The new feature allows up to 25 TV shows and films to be stored at any one point using the app on Android tablets and smartphones, depending on the available storage capacity on the device. The content will be visible for 30 days and once viewing of a particular show or movie has started, it will be available for completion over the next 48 hours. The same content can be downloaded again if needed.
“South Africa isn’t the USA or Europe - we have our own unique needs ... Adding downloads is a bigger deal than it might appear at first glance. Yes, it’s a great way to keep people entertained while travelling to their hometown or to the coast for the summer holidays, but we think the potential impact is much wider,” said John Kotsaftis, ShowMax South Africa general manager.
“Many South Africans are still Internet have-nots, and have been excluded from using services like ShowMax. While there may not be suitable Internet access at home, more and more public Wi-Fi services and other connectivity options are popping up. By adding download functionality we’re enabling people to take advantage of these connections and fill up on some great shows to watch later.”
Source: http://www.rapidtvnews.com/2015121441006/showmax-adds-vod-download-feature.html#axzz3uMTD0Ryn