Last updated on December 15, 2025
Ready to explore a world of entertainment? MTN Showmax bundles offer a convenient way to access a vast library of movies, series, kids’ shows, and live sports, all with dedicated data. This means you can stream your favorites without worrying about your general data running out.
These bundles are available for MTN subscribers in both Nigeria and South Africa, bringing top-tier content directly to your mobile device. MTN South Africa states that these bundles are designed for seamless entertainment. This guide covers everything you need to know, from activation steps for both countries to plan comparisons and troubleshooting tips. For a more detailed look at how to get started, check out Activate MTN TikTok Data Bundles in South Africa. You can also explore MTN Double Data Bonus for even more savings.
Unlock a world where entertainment and data come together in one package!
Understanding MTN Showmax Mobile & Pro Mobile Bundles
When considering an MTN Showmax bundle, it’s helpful to understand the two primary mobile-centric options: Showmax Mobile and Showmax Pro Mobile. Both are tailored for on-the-go viewing, catering to different entertainment preferences.
Showmax Mobile provides access to the full Showmax entertainment catalog. This includes a wide array of local and international movies, binge-worthy series, captivating kids’ shows, and exclusive Showmax Originals. It’s ideal for those who enjoy drama, comedy, thrillers, and more.
For sports enthusiasts, there’s Showmax Pro Mobile. This premium bundle includes all the content available in Showmax Mobile, plus live sports from SuperSport. Catch all the action from the Premier League, La Liga, Serie A, boxing matches, athletics, and much more, right on your phone.
MTN Nigeria highlights that these bundles are designed to keep you connected to your favorite content.
Both Showmax Mobile and Showmax Pro Mobile plans are specifically designed for streaming on a single mobile device, such as a smartphone or tablet. To optimize data usage and provide an affordable mobile-first experience, content streams in Standard Definition (SD) quality. These mobile plans typically restrict features like casting or Airplay and are not viewable on smart TVs or computers.
The value of MTN bundles often lies in their cost-effectiveness, as they include dedicated data specifically for Showmax streaming, ensuring your entertainment doesn’t consume your general internet allowance.
How to Activate MTN Showmax Bundle in Nigeria (Step-by-Step)
Activating your MTN Showmax bundle in Nigeria is a straightforward process, primarily done through USSD codes. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get you streaming:
To get started with an eSIM on your MTN line, you’ll need to ensure your device is compatible. Most modern smartphones now support eSIM technology, but it’s always best to check with your phone manufacturer. Once confirmed, you can proceed to request an MTN eSIM activation through the MyMTN app, SMS, or by visiting an MTN store. You’ll receive a QR code or activation code which you’ll use to download and activate the eSIM profile on your phone. Remember to keep your SIM PIN handy, as you may need it during the process.
Activating your MTN Showmax bundle in Nigeria is a straightforward process, primarily done through USSD codes. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get you streaming: If you’re looking to further enhance your MTN experience, check out this advanced guide to MTN eSIM activation.
- Dial the USSD Code: From your MTN line, dial either *131*8*4# or *447*2*2#. Both codes will lead you to the Showmax bundle options.
- Navigate the Menu: Follow the prompts on your screen to navigate the USSD menu. You’ll typically find options for Showmax Mobile and Showmax Pro Mobile bundles.
- Select Your Bundle: Choose your preferred Showmax plan. Ensure you understand the difference between the standard entertainment-focused Showmax Mobile and the sports-inclusive Showmax Pro Mobile.
- Confirm Payment: The system will prompt you to confirm payment. Ensure you have sufficient airtime balance on your MTN line, as the bundle cost will be deducted from your airtime.
- Receive Confirmation: Once the transaction is successful, you’ll receive an SMS confirmation. This message will detail your activated data bundle and include a crucial link to activate your Showmax subscription on the Showmax Official Website. Click this link and follow the instructions to create or link your Showmax account.
Always ensure you have enough airtime balance before attempting activation to avoid any interruptions. For a complete guide on the MTN Showmax Bundle, see our detailed instructions.
MTN Showmax Bundle Options in Nigeria
Bundle Type
Data Allowance
Price (Naira)
Activation Code
Validity
Showmax Mobile (Subscription + Data)
2.5GB Showmax Data
N1500
*131*8*4#
30 Days
Showmax Mobile (Subscription + Data)
5.5GB Showmax Data
N1750
*131*8*4#
30 Days
Showmax Mobile (Subscription + Data)
3GB Showmax + 1.5GB General Internet
N2050
*131*8*4#
30 Days
Showmax Mobile (Subscription + Data)
5GB Showmax + 3GB General Internet
N2570
*131*8*4#
30 Days
Showmax Pro Mobile (Subscription + Data)
Specific data bundle (check USSD)
N2100 (approx)
*131*8*4# or *447*2*2#
30 Days
Exact data allowances and prices may vary slightly, so always confirm the latest offers through the USSD menu.
How to Activate MTN Showmax Bundle in South Africa (Step-by-Step)
For MTN subscribers in South Africa, activating a Showmax bundle is flexible, allowing you to bill your subscription directly to your MTN account. This simplifies managing your entertainment expenses.
MTN South Africa offers both Showmax Mobile and Showmax Pro Mobile plans, which can be seamlessly integrated with your MTN billing. Here are the common activation methods:
- Via the MyMTN App:
- Download and open the MyMTN App on your smartphone.
- Navigate to the ‘Bundles’ or ‘Services’ section.
- Look for Showmax offers and select your desired Showmax Mobile or Showmax Pro Mobile plan.
- Follow the prompts to confirm the subscription, which will then be added to your MTN bill.
- Using USSD Codes:
- You can typically dial specific USSD codes, such as
*136*2#, to access data bundle options. While this code primarily focuses on data, it can sometimes lead to promotional offers or direct you to the Showmax website to complete the subscription by linking your MTN number. - Once on the Showmax website, you’ll select ‘Add to MTN bill’ as your payment option.
- You can typically dial specific USSD codes, such as
- Directly on the Showmax Website:
- Visit the Showmax Official Website.
- Choose your preferred Showmax Mobile or Showmax Pro Mobile plan.
- During the payment process, select ‘Add to MTN bill’ as your payment method.
- You’ll be prompted to enter your MTN number and follow a verification process to link your account and confirm the subscription.
Understanding the billing cycle is important; your Showmax subscription will integrate with your existing MTN account, and charges will appear on your monthly bill or be deducted from your prepaid airtime. If you decide to switch between plans, billing and credits are typically managed to ensure a smooth transition, though instant versus delayed switches might apply depending on the specific terms.
MTN Showmax Bundle Options in South Africa
| Bundle Type | Price (Rand) | Activation Method | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Showmax Mobile | R49 | MyMTN App / USSD (*136*2#) / Showmax Website (add to MTN bill) | Monthly |
| Showmax Pro Mobile | R225 | MyMTN App / USSD (*136*2#) / Showmax Website (add to MTN bill) | Monthly |
Showmax Mobile vs. Showmax Pro Mobile: A Detailed Comparison
Choosing the right Showmax plan can significantly enhance your streaming experience. Both Showmax Mobile and Showmax Pro Mobile offer entertainment, but their core differences cater to distinct viewing preferences. It’s also useful to understand how they compare to standard Showmax plans for broader context.
Key Differences at a Glance
| Feature | Showmax Mobile | Showmax Pro Mobile | Standard Showmax (for context) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Content Library | Movies, Series, Kids, Showmax Originals | Movies, Series, Kids, Showmax Originals + Live Sports (SuperSport) | Movies, Series, Kids, Showmax Originals |
| Live Sports | No | Yes (Premier League, La Liga, Serie A, boxing, athletics, etc.) | No |
| Device Compatibility | Mobile devices only | Mobile devices only | Mobile, PC, Smart TV, Gaming Console, etc. |
| Concurrent Streams | 1 | 1 | 2 |
| Streaming Quality | Standard Definition (SD) | Standard Definition (SD) | HD (where available) |
| Casting/Airplay | Disabled | Disabled | Enabled |
| Approx. Monthly Price (NGN) | N1250 – N2570 (with data) | N2100 (base, with data) | N2900 (approx) |
| Approx. Monthly Price (ZAR) | R49 | R225 | R99 |
The primary differentiator is the inclusion of live sports in Showmax Pro Mobile. If you’re a sports fanatic who can’t miss a game, Pro Mobile is a strong option. Both mobile plans are restricted to mobile devices and stream in SD quality, optimized to conserve data and provide a smooth experience on smaller screens.
In contrast, standard Showmax plans offer broader device compatibility (including smart TVs and PCs) and higher streaming quality (HD where available).
When choosing a plan, consider your primary viewing habits: are you mainly interested in entertainment, or is live sports a non-negotiable part of your streaming diet?
Managing Your MTN Showmax Subscription: Cancellations, Data & Trials
Once you’ve activated your MTN Showmax bundle, it’s helpful to know how to manage your subscription effectively, from cancellations to understanding data usage and free trial policies.
Cancelling Your Subscription: Should you decide to cancel your Showmax subscription, you can easily do so via the ‘MyAccount’ section on the Showmax Official Website. Even after cancellation, your access to Showmax content will continue until the end of your current billing period. This means you can still enjoy your shows and movies for the remainder of the month you’ve paid for.
Understanding Showmax Data: The data bundles included with MTN Showmax offers are typically specific to Showmax streaming. This means the dedicated data allowance is for watching content within the Showmax app and does not apply to general internet usage. If your Showmax data runs out, you might find yourself unable to stream until your next bundle renews or you purchase additional data.
You can often buy additional video streaming data packages via MTN USSD codes like *131# or *447# if you need more data before your next bundle cycle.
Free Trial Policies: Free trials are generally offered for new Showmax Mobile and standard Showmax plans, especially when billing via MTN. These trials allow you to experience the service before committing. However, free trials are usually not available for Showmax Pro Mobile or the full Showmax Pro plans due to the inclusion of live sports.
Additionally, if you switch plans during an active free trial, you may forfeit the remaining trial period, so it’s best to decide on your preferred plan before starting a trial or making any changes.
Optimizing Your Streaming: Data Saving Tips & Device Compatibility
Getting the most out of your MTN Showmax bundle means understanding how to manage your data and the specific limitations of mobile plans. Here are some tips to optimize your streaming experience:
Standard Definition for Data Saving: Both Showmax Mobile and Showmax Pro Mobile plans are designed to stream content in Standard Definition (SD) quality by default. This is a deliberate choice to conserve your data allowance and ensure a smoother streaming experience, especially on mobile networks.
Adjust Streaming Quality: While SD is the default, you can often adjust streaming quality settings within the Showmax app itself. If you’re trying to stretch your data, selecting the lowest quality setting can significantly reduce consumption, potentially allowing you to stream for up to 10 hours per 1GB of data, depending on the content.
Download for Offline Viewing: One of the best ways to save mobile data is to download content. The Showmax app allows you to download movies and series episodes when you’re connected to Wi-Fi. Once downloaded, you can watch them offline without using any of your mobile data bundle, perfect for commutes or areas with poor network coverage.
Device and Stream Limitations: Showmax Mobile and Pro Mobile plans are strictly limited. They are designed for use on one registered mobile device only, and you can only have one concurrent stream active at a time. This means you can’t share your mobile plan across multiple devices or with family members simultaneously.
Casting and Airplay Disabled: To maintain the mobile-centric nature and specific pricing of these plans, casting features like Chromecast and Airplay are disabled for Showmax Mobile and Pro Mobile subscriptions. If you wish to cast to a larger screen, you would need a standard Showmax plan.
Troubleshooting Common MTN Showmax Subscription Issues
Even with clear instructions, you might occasionally encounter issues when activating or using your MTN Showmax bundle. Here are some common problems and their solutions:
- USSD Code Errors: If you’re getting an error when dialing the USSD code, first double-check that you’ve entered the code correctly (e.g., *131*8*4# or *447*2*2# for Nigeria, or *136*2# for South Africa). Also, ensure you are dialing from an active MTN line.
- Payment Failures: For prepaid users, verify that you have a sufficient airtime balance before attempting to purchase a bundle. If you’re on a contract, check your MTN bill for any direct debit issues or outstanding payments that might be preventing new subscriptions.
- Data Not Reflecting: After activation, if your Showmax data bundle isn’t reflecting, try restarting your device. You can also check your MTN data balance using the relevant USSD code for your country (e.g., *131*4# in Nigeria or *136# in South Africa). If it’s still missing, contact MTN customer service.
- Subscription Link Not Received: The SMS containing your Showmax activation link is crucial. If you haven’t received it, first check your SMS inbox thoroughly, including any spam or promotional folders. If it’s still missing after a few minutes, reach out to MTN support, as they can often resend the link.
- Content Not Playing: If your Showmax content isn’t playing, ensure you have an active data connection, either Wi-Fi or your MTN mobile data. Try updating the Showmax app to the latest version, or clear the app’s cache and data in your phone’s settings. Sometimes, a simple app restart can resolve playback issues.
- Contacting Support: For issues related to billing, data allocation, or USSD code problems, your first point of contact should be MTN customer service. For problems specifically with the Showmax app, content playback, or account linking after successful activation
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About MTN Showmax Bundles
Here are some quick answers to common questions about MTN Showmax bundles:
How do I check my MTN Showmax bundle balance?
You can typically check your Showmax data balance through your standard MTN data balance inquiry code (e.g., *131*4# in Nigeria or *136# in South Africa). The Showmax-specific data will usually be listed separately from your general data.
What happens if my Showmax data runs out?
If your dedicated Showmax data runs out, your streaming will pause. You’ll need to either wait for your next bundle renewal, purchase an additional Showmax-specific data bundle, or use your general internet data (if available) to continue streaming. Remember, general data will be consumed at standard rates.
Can I switch between Showmax Mobile and Showmax Pro Mobile plans?
Yes, you can generally switch between plans. However, the process and immediate effect might vary. For instance, if you upgrade, the change might be instant, while a downgrade might take effect at the end of your current billing cycle.
Always check the specific terms when initiating a switch via MTN or Showmax.
Is the MTN Showmax offer available to all MTN customers?
MTN Showmax bundles are typically available to all MTN prepaid and postpaid customers in Nigeria and South Africa, provided they have an active MTN line and meet any specific eligibility criteria (e.g., sufficient airtime for prepaid purchases).
Can I purchase Showmax bundles on the Showmax website or only via USSD?
While USSD codes are a primary method for MTN bundle activation, especially in Nigeria, South African users can often subscribe directly on the Showmax Official Website by selecting ‘Add to MTN bill’ as a payment option. In Nigeria, the USSD activation usually provides a link to complete the Showmax account setup on their website.
Final Thoughts: Enjoy Seamless Entertainment with MTN Showmax
Activating an MTN Showmax bundle is your gateway to a world of entertainment, combining a vast content library with integrated data for a truly seamless streaming experience. We’ve walked you through the easy activation steps for both Nigeria and South Africa, detailed the differences between Showmax Mobile and Showmax Pro Mobile, and provided essential tips for managing your subscription and optimizing your viewing.
Choose the plan that best fits your entertainment needs, whether it’s for movies and series or the excitement of live sports. By managing your subscriptions and data responsibly, you can ensure uninterrupted access to your favorite content. Activate your MTN Showmax bundle today and start streaming!
