SES HD PLUS Ghana Switches to Free-to-Air Broadcasting Starting June 2024
Accra, Ghana — SES HD PLUS Ghana, a leading provider of high-definition (HD) satellite broadcast services, has announced a significant shift in its business model, transitioning from a subscription-based service to a free-to-air (FTA) platform starting June 13, 2024. This change is set to revolutionize the television landscape in Ghana by making HD broadcasting accessible to a broader audience.
Transforming Television Access in Ghana
Under the new FTA model, SES HD PLUS Ghana aims to extend the reach of HD channels to approximately 5 million homes across Ghana, leveraging the West African Platform Services (WAPS) platform, also known as MultiTV. This strategic decision not only aligns with the evolving market dynamics but also positions SES to foster growth and innovation within the West African broadcasting sector.
Key Changes and Dates for Consumers
- April 16, 2024: End of sales for HD+ subscription packages and activation of new HD+ devices.
- May 30, 2024: Decommissioning of the My HD PLUS TV operator and mobile Apps. Users must update their HD+ Decoders with new software to access the FTA HD channel lineup.
- June 13, 2024: Official switch to the FTA model. Active HD+ subscriptions will continue until this date, and subscribers with service extending beyond this date will be contacted for compensation starting April 30, 2024.
- June 20, 2024: Support for the decoder software update concludes.
Impact on the Market and Consumer Benefits
The shift to an FTA model is anticipated to significantly enhance the advertising reach of channels on the WAPS platform, scaling up from 250,000 to 5 million homes. This expansion is not only a boon for broadcasters but also for advertisers who will now have a much larger audience at their disposal.
Leadership Insight
Adelaide Abbiw-Williams, CEO of SES HD PLUS Ghana, expressed enthusiasm about the transition, stating, “We are proud to enable this game changer for the Ghana market. At SES HD PLUS Ghana, we believe that everyone deserves access to premium TV pictures, and this transition underscores our unwavering commitment to making that vision a reality.”
Future Prospects
As SES HD PLUS Ghana integrates its operations with West African Platform Services by the end of June 2024, the company remains committed to driving innovation and enhancing the quality of television viewing in Ghana.
With this strategic shift, SES HD PLUS Ghana is set to empower viewers with the best of television entertainment, making premium HD content available to all, without compromise.
