Showmax is an online subscription video-on-demand (SVOD) service that offers a broad spectrum of TV shows, movies, documentaries, and exclusive original content. Launched by Multichoice in August 2015, Showmax has rapidly gained traction as one of the leading streaming platforms, particularly within Africa.
Its extensive and diverse library is designed to cater to a wide range of audiences, making it a favorite for those looking for everything from blockbuster movies to locally produced series. In this article, we’ll cover all you need to know about the Showmax streaming service. Let’s get onto it.
About Showmax Streaming Service?
Showmax was introduced to the market on August 19, 2015, by Multichoice, a prominent media company based in South Africa. The launch of Showmax represented Multichoice’s foray into the competitive world of streaming services, aiming to provide an alternative to international giants like Netflix and Amazon Prime Video.
Since its launch, Showmax has expanded significantly, extending its services to more than 40 countries, including a robust presence in Africa, Europe, and Asia. This expansion underscores Showmax’s commitment to bringing diverse and quality entertainment to a global audience.
While Showmax originated in South Africa, its availability has since expanded to numerous countries worldwide. The content catalog available on Showmax can vary significantly depending on the region due to licensing agreements and regional preferences.
However, Showmax strives to offer a rich selection of both local and international content, ensuring that users in different regions have access to programming that is relevant and entertaining.
Showmax Features
Let’s dive into some notable features of Showmax:
User Interface and Experience
One of Showmax’s standout features is its intuitive and user-friendly interface. The platform is designed to make navigation simple and enjoyable, ensuring users can quickly find the content they want. Here are some key aspects of the Showmax user interface:
- Personalized Recommendations: Showmax uses advanced algorithms to suggest content based on your viewing history and preferences. This feature helps users discover new shows and movies they might enjoy.
- Multiple User Profiles: Each Showmax account can support multiple user profiles, allowing different family members to have personalized viewing experiences. Each profile can have its watchlist and recommendations.
- Easy Navigation: The interface is organized into clear categories such as genres, new releases, popular titles, and more. This makes it easy to browse and find something to watch.
- Search Functionality: The robust search feature allows users to find content by title, actor, genre, or keyword, ensuring quick access to desired shows or movies.
Content Library
Showmax boasts an extensive library of content that spans multiple genres and caters to a wide range of tastes. Here’s a closer look at what’s available:
- Movies: Showmax offers a vast selection of movies, from Hollywood blockbusters and indie films to classic movies and foreign films. The library is regularly updated with new releases and timeless favorites.
- TV Shows: The platform features popular international series, critically acclaimed dramas, sitcoms, reality TV, and more. Whether you’re looking for the latest hit show or a classic series, Showmax has something for everyone.
- Documentaries: Showmax’s documentary section covers a wide array of topics, including nature, history, true crime, science, and more. These documentaries are both informative and entertaining, appealing to curious minds.
- Kids’ Content: Showmax provides a robust selection of family-friendly programming, including animated shows, educational content, and kids’ movies. Parents can be assured that there is plenty of safe, age-appropriate content for children.
- Showmax Originals: The platform has invested heavily in original productions, known as Showmax Originals. These include exclusive series and films that are produced specifically for Showmax, often focusing on regional stories and talents.
Offline Viewing
One of the standout features of Showmax is its offline viewing capability. Users can download content to their devices and watch it later without an internet connection. This feature is particularly useful for:
- Travel: Download your favorite shows and movies before a trip to watch on the go.
- Areas with Limited Internet: Ideal for users in regions with unreliable internet access or data restrictions.
- Data Savings: Save on data costs by downloading content over Wi-Fi and watching it offline.
Multiple Device Support
Showmax supports streaming on a wide range of devices, ensuring flexibility and convenience for users. Here’s a detailed look at the supported devices:
- Smartphones and Tablets: Showmax is available on both Android and iOS devices. Users can download the app from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
- Smart TVs: The Showmax app is compatible with several smart TV brands, including Samsung, LG, Hisense, and others. This allows for a seamless big-screen viewing experience.
- Streaming Devices: Showmax can be accessed on popular streaming devices such as Apple TV, Google Chromecast, and Roku. These devices make it easy to stream content on any TV with an HDMI port.
- Gaming Consoles: Showmax is available on major gaming consoles like PlayStation and Xbox, making it easy for gamers to switch between playing and watching.
- Web Browsers: Users can stream Showmax directly from a web browser by visiting the Showmax website. This is convenient for those who prefer watching on a computer or laptop.
Parental Controls
Showmax includes robust parental controls, allowing parents to manage what their children can watch. Here’s how it works:
- Age Restrictions: Parents can set age restrictions on each profile to ensure children only access age-appropriate content.
- PIN Protection: Specific content can be locked behind a PIN, preventing children from accessing it without parental permission.
- Kids’ Profiles: Dedicated kids’ profiles offer a curated selection of family-friendly content, ensuring a safe viewing environment for young viewers.
Content and Genres Available on Showmax
Categories of Content
Showmax offers an extensive range of content across various genres, ensuring that there’s something for everyone. Here are the primary categories available:
- Action: From high-octane blockbusters to gripping thrillers, the action genre on Showmax features an array of heart-pounding films and series.
- Comedy: Enjoy a wide selection of comedies, including stand-up specials, sitcoms, and comedic movies that promise plenty of laughs.
- Drama: Dive into compelling narratives and powerful performances with Showmax’s extensive drama offerings, spanning from historical epics to contemporary tales.
- Thriller: Keep on the edge of your seat with an assortment of thrillers, encompassing psychological suspense, crime dramas, and mystery series.
- Horror: For those who enjoy a good scare, Showmax provides a variety of horror movies and series, ranging from supernatural horrors to slasher films.
- Romance: Experience love stories from around the world, with romantic comedies, dramas, and classic love tales available for streaming.
- Sci-Fi: Explore futuristic worlds and alternate realities with Showmax’s collection of science-fiction movies and TV shows, featuring advanced technology and imaginative scenarios.
- Documentaries: Learn and be entertained with a wide array of documentaries covering topics such as nature, history, true crime, science, and more.
- Kids’ Programming: Showmax offers a robust selection of family-friendly content, including animated shows, educational programs, and kids’ movies, ensuring safe and entertaining viewing for younger audiences.
Popular Titles
Showmax features a mix of popular international and local titles that cater to various tastes and preferences.
Here are some of the top titles available on the platform:
International Hits
- “Game of Thrones”
- “Succession”
- “Westworld”
- “Big Little Lies”
- “The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills”
Local Favorites
- “The River”
- “Gomora”
- “Isibaya”
- “Lockdown”
- “The Real Housewives of Durban”
Critically Acclaimed Documentaries
- “Planet Earth”
- “The Last Dance”
- “Making a Murderer”
- “Our Planet”
- “Tiger King”
Exclusive Content
Showmax also offers a range of exclusive content that sets it apart from other streaming services. This includes:
Showmax Originals: These are exclusive productions created specifically for Showmax, featuring unique stories and regional talents. Some notable Showmax Originals include:
- “Tali’s Wedding Diary”
- “The Girl from St. Agnes”
- “Trackers”
- “Life with Kelly Khumalo”
- “Binge Euphoria”
Regional Content: Showmax has a strong focus on African content, showcasing local series, movies, and documentaries that celebrate and explore the diverse cultures, histories, and stories of the continent.
Exclusive International Content: In addition to local productions, Showmax also secures exclusive rights to international content not available on other platforms in certain regions.
Subscription Plans and Pricing
Different Subscription Plans
Showmax offers a variety of subscription plans tailored to meet the needs and budgets of different viewers. Here’s an in-depth look at the options available:
Showmax Standard: The Showmax standard plan provides full access to the extensive Showmax library, including movies, series, documentaries, kids’ content, and Showmax Originals. It allows for streaming on multiple devices and supports high-definition (HD) viewing.
Showmax Mobile: Designed for users who prefer to watch content on their mobile devices, this plan is a more affordable option. It offers the same extensive content library as the Standard plan but is limited to streaming on a single mobile device.
Showmax Pro: The premium offering from Showmax, this plan includes all the features of the Standard plan plus live sports, news, and music channels. It is ideal for sports enthusiasts and those who enjoy live TV content.
Showmax Pro Mobile: Similar to the Showmax Pro plan, but limited to streaming on one mobile device. This plan is perfect for users who want the premium features but prefer watching on their smartphones or tablets.
Pricing Details
Pricing for Showmax subscription plans varies by region, reflecting local economic conditions and currency differences. Below are the general price points for the South African market:
- Showmax Standard: Approximately ZAR 99 per month
- Showmax Mobile: Approximately ZAR 39 per month
- Showmax Pro: Approximately ZAR 449 per month
- Showmax Pro Mobile: Approximately ZAR 225 per month
Requirements for Signing Up
To sign up for Showmax, you’ll need:
- A Valid Email Address: Used for account creation and communication.
- A Compatible Device: Showmax can be accessed on smartphones, tablets, smart TVs, streaming devices, gaming consoles, and web browsers.
- A Payment Method: Showmax accepts various payment methods, including credit/debit cards, PayPal, and mobile payment options.
How to sign up for Showmax
Signing up for Showmax is a straightforward process. Here’s a detailed step-by-step guide to getting started:
- Visit the Showmax Website or App: Go to the Showmax website (www.showmax.com) or download the Showmax app from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
- Click on the “Sign Up” Button: On the homepage, click on the “Sign Up” button to start the registration process.
- Enter Your Email Address and Create a Password: Provide a valid email address and create a secure password. This email will be used for account verification and communication.
- Choose Your Subscription Plan: Select the subscription plan that best suits your needs. You can choose between Showmax Standard, Showmax Mobile, Showmax Pro, or Showmax Pro Mobile.
- Enter Your Payment Details: Provide your payment information. Showmax accepts various payment methods, including credit/debit cards, PayPal, and mobile payment options.
- Start Your Free Trial (if applicable): If you’re eligible for a free trial, you’ll be able to start watching immediately. The trial period allows you to explore the platform before committing to a subscription.
- Begin Streaming: Once your account is set up, you can start browsing the content library and begin streaming your favorite shows and movies.
How to Login to Showmax
Logging into Showmax is a straightforward process that can be done across various devices. Here’s a detailed guide on how to log in:
Web Browser
- Open Your Web Browser: Use your preferred web browser (Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Edge, etc.).
- Go to the Showmax Website: Visit the Showmax website by typing showmax.com into the address bar and pressing Enter.
- Click on the ‘Sign In’ Button: On the top right corner of the homepage, click the ‘Sign In’ button.
- Enter Your Credentials: Input your registered email address and password into the respective fields.
- Click on ‘Sign In’: Press the ‘Sign In’ button to access your account.
Mobile App
- Download the Showmax App: If you haven’t already, download the Showmax app from the Google Play Store (for Android) or Apple App Store (for iOS).
- Open the App: Launch the Showmax app on your device.
- Tap on ‘Sign In’: Tap the ‘Sign In’ button usually located on the welcome screen.
- Enter Your Credentials: Enter your email address and password.
- Tap ‘Sign In’: Press the ‘Sign In’ button to log into your account.
Smart TV
- Open the Showmax App: Navigate to the Showmax app on your Smart TV. If you don’t have the app, download it from your TV’s app store.
- Select ‘Sign In’: On the app’s welcome screen, select ‘Sign In’.
- Enter Credentials: Use your TV remote to input your email address and password.
- Confirm Login: Select ‘Sign In’ to access your Showmax account.
How to Activate Showmax Account
Activating your Showmax account involves registering and verifying your account. Here’s how:
Registration Process
- Visit the Showmax Website: Go to showmax.com on your web browser.
- Click on ‘Sign Up’: Find and click the ‘Sign Up’ button usually located on the homepage.
- Enter Your Details: Provide your email address, create a password, and fill in any other required information.
- Select Your Subscription Plan: Choose the subscription plan that suits you (Standard, Mobile, Pro, or Pro Mobile).
- Enter Payment Information: Provide your payment details to complete the registration.
- Verify Your Email: Check your email for a verification link sent by Showmax. Click on the link to verify your email address.
Activation Process for Existing Subscriptions
If you have an existing subscription bundled with a service provider (e.g., DStv), you may need to activate Showmax through their platform.
- Visit the Service Provider’s Website: Go to the website of your service provider.
- Log into Your Account: Use your credentials to log into your account on the service provider’s site.
- Locate the Showmax Activation Section: Find the section where you can activate Showmax. This is typically under ‘My Products’ or a similar tab.
- Activate Showmax: Follow the prompts to link and activate your Showmax subscription.
- Confirm Activation: You may receive a confirmation email from Showmax. Follow any further instructions to complete the activation.
How to Cancel Showmax Subscriptions
Canceling your Showmax subscription is a simple process, whether you are doing it via the web or mobile app.
Cancel via Web Browser
- Log into Your Showmax Account: Go to showmax.com and log in with your email and password.
- Go to ‘My Account’: Click on your profile icon in the top right corner and select ‘My Account’ from the dropdown menu.
- Select ‘Manage Subscription’: Under the ‘Subscription’ section, click on ‘Manage Subscription’.
- Click on ‘Cancel Subscription’: Follow the prompts to confirm cancellation. You may be asked to provide a reason for cancellation.
- Confirm Cancellation: Confirm your choice and your subscription will be set to cancel at the end of your current billing period.
Cancel via Mobile App
- Open the Showmax App: Launch the Showmax app on your mobile device.
- Go to ‘Account’ Settings: Tap on the menu icon (usually three horizontal lines) and go to ‘Account’ or ‘Profile’ settings.
- Manage Subscription: Tap on ‘Manage Subscription’ or a similar option.
- Cancel Subscription: Follow the prompts to cancel your subscription.
- Confirm Cancellation: Confirm your choice to cancel, and your subscription will end after the current billing cycle.
How to Change Showmax Password
Changing your Showmax password can be done easily via the web or mobile app.
Change Password via Web Browser
- Log into Your Showmax Account: Visit showmax.com and log in with your email and current password.
- Go to ‘My Account’: Click on your profile icon in the top right corner and select ‘My Account’.
- Select ‘Change Password’: Under the ‘Account Details’ section, click on ‘Change Password’.
- Enter Current and New Passwords: Input your current password and then your new password twice for confirmation.
- Save Changes: Click on ‘Save’ or ‘Submit’ to update your password.
Change Password via Mobile App
- Open the Showmax App: Launch the Showmax app on your device.
- Go to Account Settings: Tap the menu icon and navigate to ‘Account’ or ‘Profile’ settings.
- Select ‘Change Password’: Tap on ‘Change Password’.
- Enter Current and New Passwords: Enter your current password followed by the new password twice to confirm.
- Save Changes: Tap ‘Save’ or ‘Submit’ to change your password.
How to pay for Showmax?
Paying for your Showmax subscription is a straightforward process, and the service offers a variety of payment methods to cater to different preferences and regions.
Here’s a detailed guide on how to pay for Showmax:
Credit or Debit Card
Paying with a credit or debit card is one of the most common methods. Showmax accepts major credit and debit cards, including Visa and MasterCard.
- Sign Up or Log In: Visit showmax.com and either sign up for a new account or log in to your existing account.
- Go to ‘Subscription’: Navigate to the ‘My Account’ section and click on ‘Manage Subscription’.
- Select a Plan: Choose the subscription plan that best suits your needs (Standard, Mobile, Pro, or Pro Mobile).
- Enter Payment Details: Select ‘Credit/Debit Card’ as your payment method. Enter your card details, including the card number, expiry date, and CVV.
- Authorize Payment: Confirm the payment. You may be required to authenticate the transaction through your bank’s security process.
- Payment Confirmation: Once the payment is processed, you will receive a confirmation email from Showmax.
PayPal
PayPal is a widely used online payment system that provides a secure way to pay for your Showmax subscription.
- Log In or Sign Up: Go to showmax.com and log in or create a new account.
- Access ‘Manage Subscription’: Click on your profile icon, select ‘My Account’, and then go to ‘Manage Subscription’.
- Choose Your Plan: Pick the subscription plan you want.
- Select PayPal: Choose ‘PayPal’ as your payment method.
- Log into PayPal: You will be redirected to the PayPal login page. Log into your PayPal account.
- Authorize the Payment: Confirm the payment authorization for Showmax.
- Payment Confirmation: Once authorized, you will be redirected back to Showmax, and you’ll receive a confirmation email.
Direct Carrier Billing
Showmax allows you to pay for your subscription through your mobile network provider. This method is convenient as the subscription fee is added to your monthly phone bill or deducted from your prepaid balance.
- Log In or Sign Up: Visit showmax.com and either login or create an account.
- Navigate to Subscription Management: Click on your profile, go to ‘My Account’, and select ‘Manage Subscription’.
- Choose Your Plan: Select the subscription plan that you prefer.
- Select Carrier Billing: Choose ‘Direct Carrier Billing’ as your payment option.
- Select Your Mobile Network: Pick your mobile network provider from the list.
- Enter Your Mobile Number: Input your mobile number. You will receive a confirmation code via SMS.
- Confirm the Payment: Enter the confirmation code received on your mobile to authorize the payment.
- Payment Confirmation: Once confirmed, the subscription fee will be added to your phone bill or deducted from your prepaid balance, and you will receive a confirmation message.
Voucher or Gift Card
Showmax vouchers or gift cards are another convenient payment method. These can be purchased from retail stores or online.
- Purchase a Voucher: Buy a Showmax voucher or gift card from a participating retailer or online.
- Log In or Sign Up: Go to showmax.com and log in or sign up for an account.
- Access ‘Manage Subscription’: Click on your profile icon, select ‘My Account’, and go to ‘Manage Subscription’.
- Select Voucher Payment: Choose ‘Voucher’ as your payment method.
- Enter Voucher Code: Input the voucher code found on your card or receipt.
- Redeem Voucher: Click on ‘Redeem’ to apply the voucher value to your subscription.
- Payment Confirmation: You will receive confirmation of the applied voucher and the updated subscription status.
Bank Transfer
Some regions allow payment through bank transfers. This method involves transferring the subscription fee directly from your bank account.
- Log In or Sign Up: Visit showmax.com and log in or create an account.
- Go to ‘Manage Subscription’: Click on your profile icon, navigate to ‘My Account’, and select ‘Manage Subscription’.
- Choose Your Plan: Select the subscription plan you want to subscribe to.
- Select Bank Transfer: Choose ‘Bank Transfer’ as your payment method.
- Follow Payment Instructions: You will receive bank transfer details, including the Showmax bank account number and reference code.
- Make the Transfer: Log into your online banking or visit your bank to make the transfer using the provided details.
- Confirm Payment: Once the transfer is complete, it may take a few days for Showmax to verify and confirm your payment.
- Payment Confirmation: You will receive a confirmation email once the payment has been processed and your subscription is active.
Through Service Providers
If you have a bundled service with providers like DStv, you can activate Showmax through their platform.
- Log into Your Service Provider Account: Go to your service provider’s website and log in to your account.
- Find Showmax Activation: Navigate to the section where Showmax is offered, often under ‘My Products’ or similar.
- Activate Showmax: Follow the prompts to link your Showmax account with your service provider.
- Payment through Provider: The subscription fee may be included in your monthly service bill.
- Confirm Activation: You’ll receive a confirmation from both the service provider and Showmax.
Which devices support Showmax?
Showmax is designed to be accessible across a wide range of devices, ensuring that users can watch their favorite content anytime, anywhere.
Here’s a comprehensive list of supported devices:
Smartphones and Tablets
- Android devices (phones and tablets)
- iOS devices (iPhones and iPads)
Smart TVs
- Samsung Smart TVs
- LG Smart TVs
- Hisense Smart TVs
- Other smart TV brands supporting the Showmax app
Streaming Devices
- Apple TV
- Google Chromecast
- Roku
Gaming Consoles
- PlayStation 4 and 5
- Xbox One and Xbox Series X/S
Web Browsers
- Chrome
- Firefox
- Safari
- Microsoft Edge
How to Install Showmax on Various Devices
Installing Showmax on different devices is straightforward. Here’s how to get started on various platforms:
Smartphones/Tablets
- Android: Download the Showmax app from the Google Play Store, then open the app and sign in or sign up.
- iOS: Download the Showmax app from the Apple App Store, then open the app and sign in or sign up.
Smart TVs
- Samsung: Access the Samsung App Store on your TV, search for the Showmax app, download it, and sign in.
- LG: Open the LG Content Store, search for the Showmax app, install it, and sign in.
- Hisense: Visit the Hisense App Store, find the Showmax app, download it, and sign in.
Streaming Devices
- Apple TV: Go to the App Store on your Apple TV, search for Showmax, install the app, and sign in.
- Google Chromecast: Use the Google Home app to set up Chromecast, then cast Showmax from your mobile device or computer.
- Roku: Access the Roku Channel Store, search for Showmax, add the channel, and sign in.
Gaming Consoles
- PlayStation: Go to the PlayStation Store, search for the Showmax app, download it, and sign in.
- Xbox: Open the Microsoft Store on your Xbox, search for Showmax, install the app, and sign in.
Web Browsers
Open your preferred web browser, visit the Showmax website, sign in, and start streaming directly from the browser.
How Showmax Compares to Other Streaming Services
When comparing Showmax to other popular streaming services like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, etc., several factors come into play.
Here’s an in-depth look at how Showmax stacks up against its competitors:
Content Variety
Showmax offers a rich mix of international and local content, making it unique compared to Netflix and Amazon Prime Video, which predominantly feature international content. Showmax’s strong focus on African content sets it apart and caters to regional audiences.
Pricing
Showmax’s pricing is competitive, often more affordable than Netflix and Amazon Prime Video, especially with its mobile-only plans. This affordability makes it an attractive option for users looking for value for money.
Live Sports
The Showmax Pro plan stands out by offering live sports, something not available on Netflix or Amazon Prime. This feature is a significant draw for sports enthusiasts who want access to live events alongside on-demand content.
Regional Focus
Showmax’s strong focus on African content and regional stories sets it apart from other services. This regional emphasis makes Showmax particularly appealing to viewers interested in local productions and culturally relevant content.
User Interface
While all major streaming services offer user-friendly interfaces, Showmax’s interface is designed to cater to the diverse needs of its audience, with easy navigation, personalized recommendations, and multiple user profiles.
Pros and Cons of Showmax
Pros
- Affordable Subscription Plans: Showmax offers a range of plans to suit different budgets, including cost-effective mobile-only options.
- Wide Variety of Content: With an extensive library that includes international hits, local favorites, and exclusive Showmax Originals, there’s something for everyone.
- Showmax Originals: The platform’s investment in original content provides unique and high-quality productions that you won’t find elsewhere.
- Offline Viewing Capability: The ability to download content for offline viewing is a significant advantage for users with limited internet access or those who travel frequently.
- Live Sports (Showmax Pro): Access to live sports makes Showmax Pro a compelling choice for sports fans.
Cons
- Content Library Varies by Region: Due to licensing agreements, the availability of certain content can vary by region, which might limit the library in some areas.
- Smaller International Catalog Compared to Netflix: While Showmax offers a robust selection of international content, its catalog is not as extensive as that of Netflix or Amazon Prime.
- Limited Availability Outside Africa: Showmax’s primary focus is on the African market, which means its availability and content might be limited in regions outside of Africa.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Can I Pay for My Showmax Subscription?
You can pay for Showmax using various methods:
- Credit or debit cards (Visa, MasterCard)
- PayPal
- Direct carrier billing (via your mobile network provider)
- Showmax vouchers or gift cards
- Bank transfer (in some regions)
- Through bundled services with providers like DStv
Can I Watch Showmax Offline?
Yes, Showmax allows you to download content for offline viewing. This feature is available on the Showmax app for mobile devices and tablets.
How Do I Activate Showmax with My DStv Account?
If you have a DStv subscription, you can activate Showmax by:
- Logging into your DStv account on the DStv website.
- Finding the Showmax activation section under ‘My Products’.
- Follow the prompts to link your DStv and Showmax accounts.
Can I Share My Showmax Account?
Showmax Standard and Showmax Pro plans allow streaming on up to two devices simultaneously. Showmax Mobile and Showmax Pro Mobile are limited to one mobile device.
Is There a Free Trial Available?
Showmax occasionally offers free trials. Check the Showmax website or promotional materials for the latest information on available trials.
Can I Watch Live Sports on Showmax?
Yes, live sports are available with the Showmax Pro and Showmax Pro Mobile plans, which include coverage of major sports events and leagues.
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