ArpuPlus, a subsidiary of A15 and MENA’s biggest content aggregator with more than 400,000 pieces of diversified content, has launched Shofha smart application to enable subscribers and users of its video-on-demand (VOD) portal ‘Shofha’ to access the content platform on their smart phones with just one click.
Based on research findings that show people feel more comfortable and are more attached to mobile apps thanks to the convenience they offer, Shofha’s new smart app has been designed to offer subscribers a much faster performance with the use of locally stored data on their devices. It is launched in the MENA region and will also be available in Europe and US in the initial phase of the launch, providing the service for the Arab audiences there.
Additionally, Shofha is also gearing up to launch its SMART TV app this year. The SMART TV app will further enhance the entertainment experience by enabling users to enjoy the content on bigger screen types.
Developed with a clear understanding of consumer needs and expectations, Shofha application enhances user experience by many folds. Apart from providing easy access Shofha content catalogue, the smart application guarantees a more personalized experience as well. This personalization is achieved by understanding the preferences of users based on their watching history to make most relevant suggestions. Furthermore, it will bring customers closer to the brand by enabling better communication in the form of notifications and updates. The user-friendly front end is also set to contribute and maintain customer loyalty by making users come back for more.
 
 
The integration of technological advancements has significantly reduced content loading time and internet usage on the new Shofha app. Multiple payment methods are also available to meet all preferences of users.
Medhat Karam, CEO, ArpuPlus, said: “With an aim to continually enhance the viewing experience of our subscribers and users, we have incorporated brand new features and advanced technology into the new Shofha app, which is set to offer users faster performance and uninterrupted streaming of their favorite series or movies. The user interface of the application is easy to navigate as well, thanks to its well-organized content.”
The launch of the new app comes amid the massive growth of the digital entertainment industry in light of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic. As governments worldwide have been urging people to stay at home to help contain the spread of COVID-19, people’s engagement with digital platforms has increased exponentially. Reflecting on this, Shofha platform also recorded higher user engagement and viewership during this period.
“With the current circumstances prompting people to stay indoors, we have dedicated all our efforts to effectively engage our active customer base that has more than 1.5 million subscribers. These include regular content updates to guarantee freshness, with a constant focus on better categorization to ensure easier navigation. Additionally, we are always working on Shofha Originals to add more value, which also makes our platform unique,” Karam added.
Shofha platform was launched in 2016 to provide the ultimate video streaming experience to users. Currently available in 13 MENA countries, the platform’s library consists of a wide of variety of content that makes up around 100,000 minutes that include Arabic movies, series, the top plays that are well known among Arab audiences, and many more.