Millions of Sky households are set to experience a new feature activation tomorrow, just in time for the upcoming World Cup kickoff. The Real Time upgrade aims to minimize the existing streaming delay that many users encounter, particularly during live sports events. Traditionally, services like BBC iPlayer and ITVX have been known to lag up to 40 seconds behind standard TV broadcasts, leading to instances where neighbors celebrate a goal before it is seen on one’s own screen. With the introduction of Real Time, Sky seeks to significantly reduce this latency, providing viewers with a more immediate and seamless viewing experience.
Initially launched for Premier League matches in 2024, the lower-latency streaming technology is now expanding to encompass BBC and ITV coverage, including major events like the World Cup. Sky has officially announced the introduction of Real Time, a new feature for Sky Glass and Sky Stream, powered by Sky OS. This enhancement is designed to bring live sports closer to real-time action by diminishing the delay between the live event and what viewers witness on their screens.
To activate Real Time during supported live sports broadcasts, viewers can access the feature by selecting the Real Time option on their screens. This feature is accessible on both Sky Glass and Sky Stream devices through an opt-in button or dedicated channels:
– BBC One HD RT – EPG channels 926–944 (varies by region)
– ITV1 HD RT – EPG channel 945
– ITV4 HD RT – EPG channel 946
Sky’s shift towards streaming with Sky Glass and Sky Stream marks a significant 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 such as 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 strategic direction.
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