Safaricom, a leading mobile network operator in Kenya has launched a new Over-the-Top (OTT) mobile HD TV service, ‘The BigBox’ via a DVB-2 device. The media streaming box will offer over 30 local free-to-air TV channels as well as access to the Internet via Wi-Fi, 3G/LTE or a wired connection and in addition, serves as a Wi-Fi hotspot, allowing sharing of data with up to 10 other devices.
Safaricom's BigBox package includes an allocation of up to 6GB a month in mobile data bundles in addition to free YouTube viewing. The BigBox will be available to subscribers through two payment plans - through a one-off payment of Sh9,999 or a six month installment plan that will cost them an initial Sh4,999 with an additional Sh999 being charged monthly for six months. Subscribers can also opt to buy data bundles of up to 50GB for an additional Sh4,000 and top up their data allowances by using their airtime or the M-PESA mobile money service.
According to Safaricom, it has optimized the streaming service for its growing 4G network, enabling subscribers to access several TV channels in High Definition (HD) format.
Safaricom hopes to target untapped demand in the home broadband market as well as reach the estimated 2.4 million households out of the 3.2 million households that have access to digital television sets but are not using any of the set top boxes currently available in the market.
Bob Collymore, CEO, Safaricom
Our vision is to enable a differentiated broadband internet solution that will enable our subscribers to harness the power of the internet to watch new and exciting content from anywhere in the world from the comfort of their homes. This market first is only possible through our continued investment in building a robust data network which can support the provision of data heavy services to our subscribers. The BigBox is inspired by our continued focus to democratize data use across all segments of society.
