New channel for DStv rival in South Africa

eMedia has announced the addition of eXplore to the Openview channel offering, effective Tuesday, 1 September 2026, to replace a channel it is dropping from the platform.

According to the broadcaster, eXplore will provide viewers with a new source of wildlife, survival, real-life mystery, and true-crime programming.

“eXplore will replace People’s Planet and offer a broader mix of real-world stories based on the premise that our everyday world is stranger than we imagine,” eMedia said.

“The programming moves between the natural world, life-or-death tales of survival, and the darker side of human behaviour.”

It added that viewers can expect wildlife and conservation titles, as well as documentaries and true-crime investigations.

“Adding eXplore reflects Openview’s continued focus on bringing greater variety to viewers,” eMedia stated.

On launch day, eXplore will begin with wildlife and conservation programming before shifting to true crime and investigations into real events.

Programming on Tuesday, 1 September, will include Cheetah Diaries at 18:00, Chameleons of the World at 18:25, Kalahari Meerkats at 19:20, and Endangered with Michaela Strachan at 19:45.

Thereafter, programming will shift from nature and conservation. *Evil Unmasked: The Station Strangler *will air at 20:10, and A Mother’s Madness at 21:00.

“Openview thanks People’s Planet for the nature, sustainability and outdoor programming it has brought to viewers,” eMedia said, adding that eXplore will be available on Openview Channel 115.

eMedia’s Openview competes directly with various DStv packages in South Africa. However, it operates very differently.

While DStv charges hardware and installation costs, as well as a monthly subscription fee, Openview only charges the upfront fees, with viewing free of monthly charges.

The eMedia-owned satellite TV platform has also entered the streaming world. In July 2026, eMedia announced the launch of Openview Stream.

Openview Stream is a free ad-supported streaming television (FAST) service developed in partnership with RunnTV, eMedia’s strategic over-the-top (OTT) and FAST technology partner.

eMedia CEO Khalik Sherrif said the launch marked an important milestone in Openview’s evolution as a leading African entertainment business.

“Building on the success of Openview, we are extending one of our strongest consumer brands into the streaming market, ensuring audiences can continue to enjoy quality entertainment,” Sherrif said.

“Together with RunnTV, we are creating an African streaming service that delivers value for viewers, broadcasters, advertisers, and content creators.”

The pay-TV broadcaster said Openview Stream combined recognised entertainment brands, quality content, and a deep understanding of African audiences, with world-class FAST capability.