In a move that surprised many, Airtel Networks Kenya has officially discontinued its Airtel TV service as of September 30, 2024. The telecommunications giant announced that its video streaming platform will no longer be available to customers, marking the end of a service that sought to compete in Kenya’s growing streaming market.
Airtel TV, launched with great promise, allowed users to stream a wide array of content, including live TV channels, movies, and shows. However, it struggled to gain traction against fierce competition from more established platforms like Netflix, Showmax, and YouTube. Airtel Networks Kenya Limited, in a notification sent to its users, stated that access to Airtel TV content and channels had ceased.
The company offered an apology for the inconvenience caused to its customers, advising them to reach out for further information via various communication channels, including their website, social media handles on X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
While the announcement is a setback for Airtel’s foray into digital entertainment, the telecom company continues to be a significant player in the telecommunications and mobile money industries. Industry insiders speculate that the discontinuation could indicate a strategic pivot, as Airtel seeks to refocus its resources on core services like mobile internet and fintech solutions.
The exit of Airtel TV leaves a gap in the market for affordable streaming options in Kenya. It remains to be seen whether this decision will push competitors to ramp up their offerings, especially in terms of local content.
For Airtel TV users, this marks a transition period where they will need to find alternative platforms to access their favorite shows and live TV broadcasts. Airtel Kenya’s focus now turns towards improving its other services and ensuring seamless experiences in data connectivity, mobile payments, and other telecom solutions.
If you were an Airtel TV subscriber and have any queries about the shutdown, Airtel’s customer service remains available via their website and social media channels.
