Astro is preparing to make its entertainment service much simpler for households that prefer streaming over traditional TV hardware. Its new Astro X3 offering is designed as a streaming-first option, allowing customers to start watching through a compatible smart TV without waiting for a decoder box, technician visit, or installation appointment.
Announced during the Astro Presents: Fandom showcase, Astro X3 reflects a wider shift in how people now consume television. Many viewers already expect video platforms to be available immediately after registration, whether they are watching dramas, live sport, movies, or children's content. Astro X3 aims to bring that same convenience to its own entertainment and sports catalogue.
A Simpler Way to Access Astro Content
Instead of relying on a physical set-top box, Astro X3 works through the Astro app on supported smart TVs. Once subscribed, viewers can begin streaming directly from their television, making it a potentially attractive choice for renters, smaller households, or anyone who wants to avoid extra devices and cables around the home.
The service also includes Cross-Screen streaming through Astro GO, giving customers the flexibility to continue watching on supported mobile devices and other screens. This matters especially for households where different family members may want to follow separate programmes, live matches, or series at the same time.
Astro X3 will provide access to Astro Originals, entertainment channels, and major live sporting events. The sports line-up includes popular competitions such as the Premier League, AFC competitions, UEFA Champions League, Formula 1, MotoGP, Wimbledon, and more.
Two Launch Packages Arriving in July 2026
Astro X3 subscriptions are set to open from 20 July 2026. At launch, the company will introduce two packages that come with a 12-month commitment.
The more affordable option is the Astro X3: Entertainment 12 Pack, priced at RM39.99 per month. It provides access to more than 65 channels, aimed at viewers who mainly want dramas, movies, family content, news, and general entertainment.
For sports-focused households, Astro will offer the Astro X3: Sports 12 Pack at RM89.99 per month. This package includes the entertainment content from the lower-tier plan while expanding the selection to more than 80 channels, including live sports coverage. Subscribers will also receive beIN SPORTS CONNECT and Sun NXT Lite as part of the package.
Contract-Free Options Will Follow Later
While Astro X3 is being positioned as a more flexible streaming option, the first plans will still require a one-year commitment. Customers who prefer not to be tied to a contract will need to wait until December 2026.
From then, Astro plans to introduce the Astro X3: Entertainment Pack for RM59.99 per month and the Astro X3: Sports Pack for RM109.99 per month. These will offer the same content as the corresponding 12-month plans, but at a higher monthly price in exchange for the freedom to cancel without a year-long agreement.
This structure gives viewers a straightforward choice: pay less by committing for 12 months, or pay more each month for greater flexibility.
What Astro X3 Does Not Include
Astro X3 is intended to be a simpler, app-based service rather than a complete replacement for every feature available under Astro One. Some optional add-ons and package combinations offered through Astro One may not be available with Astro X3.
Still, for viewers who mainly want a quick route to Astro entertainment and major live sports on their smart TV, the service could be a practical alternative. The absence of installation and hardware requirements may be especially appealing to customers who want to start watching immediately after signing up.
Final Thoughts
Astro X3 shows how traditional pay-TV providers are adapting to a market where convenience is becoming just as important as content. By removing the need for a box and installation, Astro is lowering the barrier for people who want access to its channels but do not want the usual setup process.
The service will not suit everyone, particularly those who want the wider add-on ecosystem available through Astro One. However, for customers looking for a clean, app-based entertainment and sports subscription, Astro X3 could become one of Astro's most accessible options when registrations open on 20 July 2026.
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