Double the fun with 2 new channels

Published Oct 20, 2014

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IN the words of Heraclitus: “The only thing that is constant is change.” And that has certainly been an apt phrase for MultiChoice in recent years, more specifically last year, when more than 20 channels were launched across the various bouquets.

That expansion has cut across channels, content and its digital platform.

Now the entertainment playground is even wider with the addition of M-Net Edge, which kicks off today. It will also be the official home for HBO shows, and Vuzu Amp, which started last Monday, to DStv’s premium package.

It means that M-Net Series Showcase (DStv channel 113) and M-Net Series Reality (DStv channel 114) will cease to exist.

“M-Net Edge and Vuzu Amp are taking the curation of top-notch premium television content to an exciting next level,” says Yolisa Phahle, M-Net chief executive: South Africa. “These two contrasting entertainment channels have been created to make it easier for viewers to find out what to watch, where to watch it and at what time.

“There is now more choice than ever, so it is important to create channels that are clearly positioned, allowing viewers to find what they feel like as fast as possible.

“Both channels will schedule a combination of first-run programming and iconic shows with schedules designed to correlate with the latest worldwide viewing trends,” says Phahle.

And in this rat race to simplify the way viewers watch TV and heighten their experience, there are many new changes implemented à la Sony channel recently colour-coding its genres and the Express option available to DStv viewers.

Of course, let’s not forget about the holy grail of decoders – the Explora – which offers an array of smart and user-friendly options.

Bottom line, it keeps getting bigger and better, reducing the need to download pirated international content.

But change is sometimes accompanied by confusion. With the birth of the two new channels, viewers are unsure of what that means with regards to their favourite shows and their new home.

M-Net Edge, a full HD channel, will only operate between 7pm and 5am. That’s because the content is aimed at viewers with a more discerning palate and fanatics – and it carries an age restriction. The content will border on risqué but retain that pioneering benchmark.

To whet the appetite, it will be the go-to channel for hugely anticipated offerings like: Orange is the New Black, Masters of Sex and Satisfaction, Defiance, The Americans and American Horror Story 4. On weekends, there’s a chance to binge-watch with double bill offerings of series like Sleepy Hollow or premieres that might have been missed in the week. And during weekdays, The Sopranos has been scheduled for fans feeling nostalgic.

With Vuzu Amp, the bill features a mélange of international and home-grown content. Last week, the sixth season of The Vampire Diaries and second seasons of Devious Maids and Mistresses debuted on the channel. Other offerings that will be added to the menu include: Love Thy Neighbour, Basketball Wives LA, Project Runway All Stars, 10 Over 10, La La’s Full Court Life, Dineo’s Diary and more. This also belongs to the full HD stable. Oh, and Vuzu Amp plans to build its local content by commissioning more shows. However, nothing is confirmed yet.

• For more information on the new channels and programming, viewers can log on to: www.vuzu.tv, www.mnet.tv as well as DStv.com

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