By the recent launch of the new DStv Explora Ultra decoder, MultiChoice has once again proved its front-line role in digital satellite TV technology mastery. The DStv Explora Ultra is not the Explora decoder rather, it is much more than the Explora. Today, I share with you everything you need to know about the new DStv Explora Ultra. The complete features, specifications, how to install, prices of the Explora Ultra in all countries where DStv services are available. Therefore, this article seeks to provide a reliable and complete information and knowledge on the new DStv Explora Ultra. However, I am glad to inform you that the DStv Explora Ultra is far better than the regular Explora decoder in so many ways. These ranges from;
- 4K and HDR display capabilities
- Built-IN WiFi for fast internet connectivity
- Dolby ATMOS capabilities
- enhanced PVR (Personal Video Recorder) with over 110 hours of recording
- Live streaming Apps including Showmax, Netflix, many more
- 3-Decoder ExtraView linking capability
All these new features are available on the new DStv Explora Ultra, in addition to all the features already existing on the regular Explora decoder as we already knew. Therefore, we shall review all the new features and specs of the Explora Ultra as well as common features with the Explora. As a result, this article brings you the complete features of the new DStv Explora Ultra, including its installation.
Lastly, you will better understand how all three HD decoders from DStv – the new Explora Ultra, Regular Explora and the HD Zappa Single View decoders differ. Now let’s jump in.
Internet Streaming Apps Features on New DStv Explora Ultra
You can now enjoy Applications for world-class live streaming and on-demand shows and movies entertainments on the new Explora Ultra. You can now enjoy streaming services including DStv, Showmax, Netflix, Prime Video and YouTube – directly from the APPS button on your remote control. A press on the Apps buttons on the DStv Explora Ultra remote control launches the streaming Apps so you can make your selection. Furthermore, it is now possible to integrate Netflix streaming services to your DStv account. However, internet data charges will apply based on your internet service provider. There are many other streaming Apps available on the new DStv Explora Ultra decoder, waiting for you to explore.
To stream on the Explora ultra decoder, you need to connect to the internet. Gladly, it is now easier than ever to connect the DStv Explora Ultra to the internet via its built-in WiFi and Ethernet port. Although a normal capped connection will serve, high data consumption arising from live streaming will go best on an uncapped connection. A faster internet connectivity ensures seamless and fast streaming experience, which the futuristic DStv Uncapped Fibre Internet Bundles will guarantee.
To have the best of streaming and download experience on the new DStv Explora Ultra, here are my recommended internet connectivity speeds;
- minimum of 2Mbps for SD (Standard Definition) downloads
- 4Mbps for SD streaming
- a minimum of 10Mbps for HD (High Definition) streaming. You need to connect this Ultra decoder to a HD or smart TV to enjoy full HD display.
- To enjoy 4K streaming and downloads, I recommend you look up the individual requirements from the 4K content provider. In addition, you must connect the decoder to a 4K capable TV.
4K, HDR, DOLBY ATMOS features
The 4K display technology ranks among the latest in High Definition digital display technologies in the world today. For the new DStv Explora Ultra to have 4K capability, this shows it is at par with the future. However, one must connect this decoder to a 4K Ultra HD TV in order to enjoy the 4K display coming from the decoder. Furthermore, the HDR is another level of HD display capability to reckon with. Some devices currently settle for the HDR content display screens in order to accommodate media devices built on HDR display technology. However, the HDR is relatively higher in quality of clarity than the regular HD display.
In addition, the Dolby effect on the Explora Ultra decoder creates a balance between ultra clear screen displays and sound. The Dolby-surround system creates a crystal clear bass home theatre or cinema sound effect for maximum pleasurable entertainment.
Enhanced PVR, Pause, Rewind, Fast-Forward Live and Stored Channels, Programs
The enhanced PVR (Personal Video Recorder) features on the new DStv Explora Ultra can record, rewind and fast forward live TV as well as stored contents. While watching a channel, you can record another channel simultaneously. You can pause live TV for up to two hours and record up to 110 hours of your favorite shows, while another channel is on screen. What about turning your live watch into a slow motion? the Explora Ultra PVR features can do it comfortably.
Unlimited DStv Catch Up and up to 8-Day TV Guild Display
Ordinarily, the DStv Explora Ultra offers you up to 775 Catch Ups to follow up on when you would have missed the programs. However, you have unlimited Catch Ups when you connect the Explora Ultra to internet. By this features, you will never miss out on any past program even after one week or more.
Furthermore, the TV Guild on Explora Ultra displays over 8 days of listed programs on channels. You can now follow up on previous, current and future programs on any channel of choice.
BoxOffice and Video-On-Demand Available on New DStv Explora Ultra
Renting a movie from the DStv Explora Box Office is now easier and more pleasurable than ever. As on the regular Explora decoder, you can enjoy a rent duration of 48 hours (2 days). Once you rent and download a movie from Box Office, it remains available for watch on your decoder for 2 days, after which it self-deletes. However, an access fee for BoxOffice renting is required to activate the Box Office services.
Other programs, shows and videos are also available for watch via the Video-on-demand platform of the Explora Ultra. Here, you have access to unlimited contents including m,movies, shows and other programs through the on-demand services on DStv Explora Ultra.
Remote Control for the New DStv Explora Ultra
Now let us look at the remote control for the Explora Ultra decoder. What are you really expecting? Anyways, here is what thrills me about the new remote control for Explora Ultra decoder. Aside all other features and functions of remote control buttons for DStv decoders, let’s check out these new features.
The new remote controller gives you full control of your Explora Ultra. There you can see an APPS button to give you quick access to streaming apps. In addition, a HOME button where you’ll find recommendations. There’s also quick access to your Playlist, Catch Up, BoxOffice and the TV Guide.
This remote features backlighting and can be programmed to control other audio/visual equipment.
Installation, Subscription Payment, Other Technical info on DStv Explora Ultra
Installation of the DStv Explora Ultra decoder works exactly like all our other Explora models. Therefore, you will require an 80cm dish and a DStv Smart LNB. However, a perfect installation for the new Explora Ultra would require the use of a genuine qualified accredited DStv installer.
Subscription Payments for DStv Explora Ultra
A payment of a monthly Access Fee and active DStv subscription packages are required to experience the full Ultra experience. This also covers for a connection to an additional decoder in XtraView and access to streaming apps.
More so, an additional monthly Access Fee is required if you’d like to add a third decoder in the 3-in-1 decoder XtraView arrangement.
Do not forget that data charges apply when connected to the internet and, in some cases, separate subscriptions may be required for streaming apps. The quality of your streaming depends on your internet connection and line speed.
In all situations and circumstances, the features open for use on the Explora Ultra at any given time vary based on active subscriptions.
On its display technicalities, the DStv Explora Ultra can deliver standard-definition video via RCA, HD and 4K video via HDMI. However, RF Coaxial connection is not supported. You can enjoy crisp and vivid HD, 4K, HDR and Dolby Atmos in content where available and if the decoder is connected to the correct equipment such as a 4K TV.
Price for New DStv Explora Ultra
In South Africa, the new Explora Ultra costs R2 299 when installation and insurance charges are not included. However, the new decoder with full installation costs R3 499 once off payment but still, without decoder insurance charges.
In Nigeria, you can buy the new Explora Ultra at the cost of NGN 87,500 without installation charges. However, those who wish to swap (exchange) their old Explora or other decoders for the new Explora Ultra will pay NGN 65,000 at any Multichoice outlet where it is available. Furthermore, the installation charges within Nigeria are subject to negotiations between you and the installer.
In other countries where the New Explora Ultra is available, the prices are relative. A conversion of the South African cost equivalence to your country’s currency would give you an idea of its cost in your country. However, these calculated costs may differ by a little margin due to decoder and other hardware importation charges.
The DStv Explora Ultra has a 12-month warranty from the date of purchase.
Hi, the ultra does not have an indication that a recording is underway
There is no tv guide button on the remote
Is this correct?
Mike