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ZEE5 Faces Backlash Over Poor World Cup Broadcasts
16 Jun
Summary
- Football fans report constant buffering and app crashes during broadcasts.
- Video quality issues persist, with 480p on browsers due to piracy.
- Frustrated users criticize pricing and changing device access terms.

Football fans across India are encountering significant technical difficulties with ZEE5's broadcasts of the 2026 World Cup. Persistent complaints about buffering, application crashes, and subpar video quality have flooded social media platforms. Many viewers are expressing deep dissatisfaction, particularly after purchasing World Cup packages.
The criticism highlights issues such as video resolution limitations, with streams capped at 480p on web browsers due to anti-piracy measures, a stark contrast to the 4K streams available globally. Reports also detail frustrations over pricing and confusing terms regarding device access, with some users noting changes after their purchase.
While streaming an event of this magnitude presents challenges, ZEE5's ability to resolve these technical glitches is crucial. The company secured broadcasting rights for numerous FIFA events, aiming to establish a stronger presence in India's competitive sports broadcasting landscape, currently dominated by JioStar. The success of its World Cup gamble may hinge on improving fan sentiment in the coming weeks.