Millions of Sky households are set to enjoy a new feature launching tomorrow, just in time for the World Cup kickoff on Thursday. The Real Time upgrade by Sky aims to minimize the streaming delay that many viewers currently experience, particularly during live sports events. Services like BBC iPlayer and ITVX have been known to lag up to 40 seconds behind traditional TV broadcasts, causing inconveniences such as hearing neighbors react to a goal before seeing it on their own screens. With Real Time now activated, Sky promises a more immediate and synchronized viewing experience.
Initially introduced for Premier League matches in 2024, the lower-latency streaming technology by Sky is expanding to include BBC and ITV coverage, ensuring a seamless experience for major events like the World Cup.
Sky’s statement highlights the launch of Real Time, a feature powered by Sky OS for Sky Glass and Sky Stream. This enhancement aims to bridge the gap between live action and on-screen viewing, providing viewers with a closer-to-real-time experience, especially during live sports events like the World Cup.
To enable Real Time on their screens, viewers can opt for the feature during supported live sports broadcasts by selecting the Real Time option available on both Sky Glass and Sky Stream devices. The feature can be accessed through an opt-in button or designated channels such as BBC One HD RT (EPG channels 926–944) and ITV channels.
The shift towards Sky Glass and Sky Stream reflects the company’s transition away from the satellite-based Sky Q platform. These 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 emphasizes its focus on internet-based TV and enhanced streaming experiences, Sky Glass and Sky Stream remain pivotal to the company’s strategy, catering to viewers seeking a modern and streamlined entertainment solution.