Cuba Launches Online TV Streaming Amidst Widespread Blackouts

What Happened

Cuba's multimedia platform, Picta, has introduced a new feature allowing users to watch state television channels live over the internet using mobile data. This initiative is a direct response to the persistent and widespread electricity blackouts affecting the island, with some areas experiencing over 20 hours without power daily.

Official media outlets have been promoting this new functionality as a way for citizens to maintain access to television programming despite the severe energy crisis. However, the service comes with additional expenses for users.

Where and When

The live streaming service became available as of March 2026, aiming to provide a continuous viewing experience during prolonged power outages across Cuba. The initiative is promoted by official state media as a solution for citizens struggling with frequent blackouts.

The service is specifically targeted at users with phone numbers registered in Cuba, as the account is linked via a Cubacel line. The application itself is available for Android devices and can be downloaded from the official Apklis portal.

Why It's Important

This development highlights the significant impact of the ongoing energy crisis on daily life in Cuba, forcing the government to seek digital alternatives for traditional media consumption. It represents an effort to maintain state control over information dissemination even as infrastructure challenges persist.

The move also underscores the growing importance of digital platforms in Cuba, though it introduces new costs for consumers. It exists alongside a strong informal media consumption culture, such as the widely distributed 'Paquete Semanal'.

What the Parties Say

Official Cuban media have encouraged citizens to utilize the Picta platform for live TV access during blackouts. The project developers emphasize that the service has been optimized to leverage the 300 MB of data included monthly in the Nauta Hogar domestic connection service.

They also note that Picta surpassed four million monthly visits by the end of 2025, positioning itself as a local alternative to international streaming services. The platform also offers on-demand content and interactive features for registered users.

What Comes Next

The success of this initiative will likely depend on user adoption, considering the added subscription and data costs. It remains to be seen how this digital alternative will compete with the entrenched informal 'Paquete Semanal' content distribution system.

This digital push by the state aims to adapt to the current realities of power shortages and evolving media consumption habits, seeking to keep the population engaged with official programming through technological means.