Sky is set to launch a new feature called Real Time, aimed at reducing streaming delays for millions of Sky users just in time for the upcoming World Cup. The feature is designed to address the frustration of sports fans who currently experience up to a 40-second delay compared to traditional broadcast services like BBC iPlayer and ITVX. This delay often results in situations where viewers hear about game events from neighbors before seeing them on their own screens. With Real Time, Sky intends to minimize this lag and provide a more immediate viewing experience.
Initially introduced for Premier League matches in 2024, the Real Time technology is now expanding to include BBC and ITV coverage, making it accessible for major events such as the World Cup. According to Sky, the feature will be available on select live sports broadcasts, allowing fans to follow matches with reduced lag and fewer spoilers.
To enable Real Time on Sky Glass and Sky Stream devices, viewers can opt-in during supported live sports broadcasts by selecting the Real Time option on screen. The feature can be accessed through dedicated channels like BBC One HD RT, ITV1 HD RT, and ITV4 HD RT.
Sky’s shift towards internet-based services like Sky Glass and Sky Stream signifies a strategic move away from the satellite-dependent Sky Q platform. These services operate over broadband, offering advantages such as 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 remain central to the company’s strategy. This update is crucial for Sky’s streaming future, catering to the evolving preferences of modern viewers seeking optimized and seamless viewing experiences.