DStv switching off 10 old decoders in 2027: full list and R199 offer

If your DStv decoder is one of 10 old models, it will start losing some channels from 1 January 2027 and won't show any DStv channels from 1 September 2027, according to DStv's notice to affected customers (DStv notice).

DStv says the models aren't compatible with upgrades to the MultiChoice satellite system. It's offering a limited-time R199 decoder special from 1 November 2026 (DStv notice).

Which DStv decoders are affected?

Source: DStv customer notice.

MultiChoice told MyBroadband that some of these decoders were discontinued more than 20 years ago (MyBroadband).

What happens on 1 January 2027?

The decoder won't go dark at once. MultiChoice told MyBroadband that viewing "will not end abruptly" on 1 January, but customers may gradually lose channels or features (MyBroadband). From 1 September 2027, no channels will work on the affected models (DStv notice).

How much is a new decoder?

Sources: MyBroadband, Stuff.

DStv says compatible decoders are sold online at the DStv Store, at MultiChoice service centres, through accredited installers and at selected retailers (DStv notice). DStv hasn't said when the R199 special ends.

Will you lose your DStv package if you switch?

No, according to MultiChoice sources quoted by TV critic Thinus Ferreira. He said switching decoders won't affect your current package, including older legacy packages (EWN; TV with Thinus).

Ferreira also writes that you'll need to ask MultiChoice to link the new decoder to your account, or the signal will stay scrambled (TV with Thinus).

Is the DStv decoder message a scam?

The notice is real. DStv's notice is hosted on its own dstv.com messaging domain (DStv notice), and Ferreira told CapeTalk his MultiChoice sources confirmed it (EWN). To be safe, buy a new decoder only through the channels DStv lists: the DStv Store, MultiChoice service centres, accredited installers or selected retailers.