Ayesha Omer attends Tapmad TV launch. PHOTO: FILE
Tapmad TV is a new addition to the market which is already shared by the likes of Netflix and Malaysia-based iflix. Addressing the attendees, Tapmad TV CEO Yassir Pasha said, “We believe the future of TV is apps. And I’m proud to say this app has been developed by Pakistanis in Pakistan.”
Move over Netflix, there is a new ‘flix’ in town
Available on the web and as an app, Tapmad TV has a collection of 140 local and international channels, as well as a video-on-demand section comprising Pakistani, Indian and English dramas and Bollywood films. Pasha mentioned that the app also features a DVR option. “If the viewers missed a show, they can download and replay it within seven days,” he shared.
Only three months after its launch, the app has managed to get one million engaged users. Pasha said the goal is to reach two million users in the next three months. “So far, people have consumed over one million minutes of content on Tapmad TV’s web and app together and that too without having a formal launch.”
He added that the streaming platform offers HD quality at low bandwidth, making it useful for everyone, even those with slow internet connections. The extension of the app is an HDTV box, which can be connected with a TV or any other device. What makes Tapmad TV a viable option is its low cost. After a one-month trial, the app and web services only cost Rs15 per week and can be paid via phone credit. As for the HDTV box, it’s Rs250 per month.
iflix pledges to promote local content at Pakistan launch
As for Pakistani films, there are none available so far. Tapmad is still in talks with the film-makers to bring local films on their network. Sharing the future plans and content curation strategy of the product, Pasha revealed that Tapmad is going to be the official streaming partner of Quetta Gladiators in HBL Pakistan Super League 2017.
Moreover, Nadeem Hussain, the founder of Tapmad’s partner, Planet N, shared a story about how he came on board with the project. “I met Yassir through a friend. When he came to pitch his idea to me, I thought I had never seen a more nervous person in my life. But five minutes into the presentation, I had made up my mind to invest in it,” he said.
Apart from Tapmad, Hussain added that they are planning to launch another app, which would help users take mini loans in under one minute through their phones. “You can get credit and mini loans in under a minute using your online presence. No salary slips and documents required. You can use it to pay bills or whatever you want.”
After the app launch, mystery performer Shaheer Khan came on stage to stun the crowd with his mind-reading tactics. Using the host Omar and other volunteers, he entertained the fans. Jimmy Khan ended the event after crooning quite a few numbers, including his Coke Studio track Nadiya.
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