It seems like South African households have to keep plugging in an additional smart streaming device or laptop to enjoy Disney+ on their Hisense TVs for now as there has been no Disney+ app for Hisense TVs on the company’s Vidaa and Vidaa U operating systems in South Africa.
That Hisense’s Vidaa U operating system already supports a wide range of streaming apps, which includes Netflix, YouTube, Prime Video, DSTV, Viu, Showmax, StarTimes, Premium Free, and SABC+, makes Disney+’s absence all the more noticeable. Even though not available in SA, there is already a Disney+ app for Hisense’s smart TV operating system in several countries, which includes the US, Canada, Europe, and Australia, though it is different from the version offered to African customers.
The Disney+ app launched in more affluent countries like the US, UK, and Europe features much of the same content, however, the Disney+ Hotstar app is more basic on several fronts. One of the key differences is that it uses an SMS-based user authentication system instead of an email and password.
Not long after Disney+ launched in SA back in May 2022, Hisense revealed that a Vidaa U app was in testing and would be released “soon”. It also told customers on its Facebook page that it was working with Disney+ to release an app at the “earliest possible time”.
Reports say the company did mention that it understood customers’ disappointment but explained the app’s development had been slower than expected due to technical complexities, and it said it takes this matter seriously and appreciate its customers’ patience and loyalty. “We strive to provide a fast, easy, and secure entertainment platform, integrating with various global and local content providers. Although selected Hisense Smart TVs can access Disney Plus through its browser, we assure you that we are working closely with Disney to add the Disney Plus app to our existing list of content providers.” – the company added.
Hisense also mentioned that Walt Disney was committed to delivering the best user experience and is collaborating with Hisense on a roadmap for Disney+ availability, so it will continue to provide updates and transparent communication. “Thank you for your understanding, and we will share more information as soon as possible.” – the company added.
Disney said that its approach to delivering the best Disney+ user experience across as many devices as possible was “ongoing and iterative”.
