Sky will be launching a new feature called Real Time tomorrow, aimed at enhancing the viewing experience for millions of Sky customers just in time for the upcoming World Cup. This feature is designed to reduce the streaming delay that has been a common frustration for sports fans using services like BBC iPlayer and ITVX, often lagging up to 40 seconds behind traditional broadcasts. With Real Time enabled, Sky plans to minimize this delay, providing a more immediate viewing experience.
Initially introduced for Premier League matches in 2024, Sky’s lower-latency streaming technology is now being expanded to include BBC and ITV coverage, ensuring a seamless experience for major events like the World Cup.
According to Sky, Real Time, powered by Sky OS, aims to bridge the gap between live action and on-screen viewing, offering fans a closer-to-real-time experience. This feature will be available for select live sports broadcasts, including the World Cup matches on BBC and ITV, enabling fans to follow the action with minimal delay and fewer spoilers.
To activate Real Time on their screens, viewers can opt for the feature during supported live sports broadcasts by selecting the Real Time option on their Sky Glass or Sky Stream devices. The feature can be accessed through an opt-in button or dedicated channels such as BBC One HD RT (EPG channels 926–944) and ITV1 HD RT (EPG channel 945).
Sky’s transition to Sky Glass and Sky Stream signifies a shift away from the satellite-based Sky Q platform towards internet-based services. These new services operate over broadband, offering advantages like easy self-installation, regular software updates, and seamless integration with popular streaming platforms like Netflix, Apple TV+, and Disney+.
As Sky focuses on internet-delivered television and enhanced streaming experiences, Sky Glass and Sky Stream play a pivotal role in the company’s strategy, catering to the evolving preferences of viewers seeking a modern and streamlined entertainment experience.