DSTV iDrifta Launched In Lagos For Apple Users in Nigeria

South Africa-based digital satellite TV network DStv is growing its mobile offering. Following its launch of the iDrifta in Ghana, they have also launched the same product to the Nigerian market. Building on the ongoing success of the Drifta, Drifta USB and Walka, DStv Mobile, Africa’s foremost mobile TV Company has announced the launch of the iDrifta and Walka 7 – adding to its range of pioneering devices reported Guardian NewsPaper of Nigeria.

“The iDrifta is a plug and play mobile DVB-H receiver specifically designed for Apple mobile devices,” says Mayo Okunola, General Manager of DStv Mobile Nigeria. “It is portable and lightweight, and will allow users with Apple devices to enjoy all of the great entertainment they’ve come to expect from DStv Mobile.”

The iDrifta is compatible with the iPod 4th generation, iPhone 4/4S and iPad 1/2/3. “After plugging it into your iOS device, the iDrifta device redirects the user directly to the DStv Mobile application on the apple store and the user only needs to download it for free to start watching their favourite programmes.” explains Okunola. “This means that viewers with Apple mobile devices can now access our full range of channels anywhere, anytime – from Sound City all the way through to SuperSport 3N.”

This further goes on to show the value proposition that brands can offer to their customers as they position themselves to meet them where they are. These days there are three essential items we move around with and we hardly leave the house without them. They are our house keys, wallet [cash] and our mobile phone. Most people sleep with their phone by their bedside. It is the first thing some of us pick up when we wake.

The iDrifta will retail at the recommended price of N9, 500 ($60 USD). “We will also continue using our learning across Africa to enhance local subscribers’ experiences from both a content and technology perspective. This is a strategy that we’ve built on since first launching mobile TV in Nigeria in 2008,” adds Okunola.

One can say this is a big move by DSTV to make its contents available to people wherever they are thereby disrupting themselves. This is not a new move by DSTV. They first made the Nokia DSTV Mobile 5530 available from MTN. Obviously you don’t have to be on a particular network to use it as it works on the iPod too that doesn’t use SIM card. Once you have the iDrifta and you have downloaded the mobile app from the app store and paid for your subscription, you are good to go.

I am looking forward to get one and try it with my iPhone 4. As soon as I do, you’re sure to read a review about it from me.

Are you using any of the DSTV mobile offering? What has been your experience?