From R979 per month to R400… how MultiChoice’s split bill option reduces DStv premium price

MultiChoice has clarified that DStv’s recently introduced split bill option works across both decoder-based and streaming subscriptions, opening the door for South Africans to significantly cut their monthly TV costs. In practical terms, the feature allows two people to share the cost of a DStv package — meaning a Premium subscription can effectively be reduced to about R400 per person per month, depending on the plan.

The broadcaster stressed that the split payment option is only accessible through the MyDStv mobile app. It also revealed that the current setup, which limits cost-sharing to two people, could soon be expanded to include multiple members within the same household.

According to MultiChoice, the functionality applies to all DStv packages, whether streaming-only or decoder-based, and is available across different contract types. For now, subscribers can divide a single account between the main account holder and one additional person, but plans are underway to allow broader sharing.

The split bill feature was officially rolled out in late January 2026. Using the MyDStv app, the primary subscriber can generate and send a payment link, allowing another person to pay their portion of the subscription directly.

MultiChoice said the move reflects changing living arrangements and financial realities, where households increasingly share expenses. The company described the feature as a way to make subscription cost-sharing simpler, clearer, and more transparent.

The launch comes against the backdrop of DStv’s most recent price review, which took effect on 1 April 2025. At the time, decoder-based packages rose by between R1 and R50 per month, while streaming prices were left unchanged.

As it stands, a full DStv Premium subscription costs R979 per month for decoder users and R799 per month for streaming customers when paid by a single account holder. With the split bill option activated, those costs can be divided roughly in half — bringing Premium down to about R490 per person on decoder or R400 per person on streaming.

The same applies across other packages. For example, DStv Compact Plus can be shared at approximately R330 per month for decoder users or R275 per month on streaming. Entry-level options become even cheaper: EasyView drops to around R15 per person, while Access streaming can be split to R50 per person per month.

Alongside the billing update, DStv also announced changes to its Access package and new decoder pricing deals, marking a shift away from short-term promotions toward permanent value improvements.

With its popular Upsize promotion now concluded, the broadcaster has added three permanent channels to the Access bouquet: Trace Ngoma (previously Trace Africa), Trace Gospel, and WWE. The additions aim to strengthen the mix of music, faith-based content, and live entertainment available on DStv’s most affordable tier.

MultiChoice said the changes are designed to ensure cost-conscious customers still receive solid value, even when choosing lower-priced packages.

On the hardware side, the company is offering discounted decoder pricing to reduce upfront costs. The entry-level HD decoder is now available for R499, or R799 including installation, while DStv Explora decoders are being sold at discounts of up to 57%, depending on the model and purchase channel.

MultiChoice CEO Willington Ngwepe said the company’s focus is now on long-term affordability rather than temporary upgrades. According to him, the goal is to ensure DStv remains relevant and accessible in a challenging economic environment.

“What matters now is how DStv fits into people’s lives month after month,” Ngwepe said. “We want to give customers flexible options that help them stay connected, even when money is tight.”

The current decoder promotions are set to run until 30 April 2026, with savings calculated against standard recommended retail prices.

FAQs

What is DStv’s split bill feature?
It allows subscribers to divide the cost of a DStv subscription between two people using the MyDStv app, lowering monthly costs.

Which DStv packages can be split?
All decoder and streaming packages, including Premium, Compact Plus, Compact, Family, Access, and EasyView, can use the split bill feature.

How much can I save on DStv Premium?
With split billing, the decoder plan drops from R979 to R490 per person, and streaming goes from R799 to R400 per person.

Can more than two people split a DStv subscription?
Currently, only two people can share a bill, but MultiChoice plans to expand this feature to include more household members.

Do I need the MyDStv app to split a subscription?
Yes, the split bill option is exclusively available through the MyDStv mobile app.

Are there any promotions for DStv decoders?
Yes, entry-level HD decoders are discounted to R499 (or R799 with installation), and Explora decoders have savings of up to 57%.