Viewers will be able to access Sky’s satellite dish-free service on their own TV, with the launch of Sky’s new palm-sized Sky Stream device.
A year after launching Sky Glass – an all-in-one TV giving access to Sky TV through the internet, Sky is launching Sky Stream. Based on the same platform as Sky Glass, the device plugs into any TV with HDMI connection. Sky Stream launches in the UK on the 18th October 2022. No date has been set for the Republic of Ireland.
Sky Stream will offer users the same interface as a Sky Glass TV, with access to a range of TV channels, plus content from Apple TV+, Amazon Prime, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, ITV Hub, All4, YouTube, Discovery+, Peacock, Fiit and more. The device is an evolution of the existing Puck that was available to Sky Glass users who wanted multiroom access, now designed as a standalone item.
The new service offers a choice between a flexible rolling 31-day contract or a cheaper 18 month contract option. Packages that combine Sky TV and Netflix start from £26 a month.
How does it work?
To work, Sky Stream will need a connection to your wi-fi router and requires a minimum speed of 10Mbps. It will work with any broadband provider. It also needs its own power supply, so that effectively means two cables running from the back (as shown in the promotional image above).
Functionality
- Most channels are HD as standard, with UHD content also available.
- Supports HDR and Dolby Atmos.
- Sky Stream includes features including Restart live TV and Playlist. Playlist saves programmes you want to watch later in the cloud.
- Voice remote to enable control of the device and to find content on the platform.
- Regular updates for a constantly evolving experience
How to get Sky Stream
Sky Stream launches in the UK on 18th October 2022. It will be available to buy from Sky.com, with next-day delivery as standard.
Alternatively, Sky Stream will be available from Sky retail stores.
Packages
- There will be a 31-day rolling contract from £29 a month, or an 18-month contract from just £26 a month, both of which include Sky Ultimate TV & Netflix Basic.
- Additional packs & services are available as add-on extras. These include: Sky Cinema, Sky Sports, BT Sport and UHD & Dolby Atmos.
- Multi-room: Five additional Sky Stream devices for use elsewhere in the house for an extra £12 a month.
Multi-room access will require sufficient broadband speeds and connectivity, especially if they are all being used at the same time.
Set-up fee
There is a £39.95 set-up fee (or £20 if you take an 18-month contract).
But bad news for engineers/installers: they’re not required. The device is designed to be set up by customers with next day delivery as standard.
Sky Stream comes with a one-year warranty.
Satellite service still available
Sky has emphasised that viewers who want to access its satellite-based service can still do so despite the launch of Sky Stream. This means Sky Q will continue to be available to new customers.
Sky Go
Viewers who opt for Sky Stream will also have access to Sky Go. This allows access to content on mobile devices while on the go.
Stephen van Rooyen, Executive Vice President & CEO, UK & Europe commented:
“Sky’s always reinvented the TV experience and offered the best content – but it’s not always been accessible to everyone. There couldn’t be a better time to launch our latest innovation using the Sky Glass Platform – whether you want to stream House of the Dragon, Gangs of London or Stranger Things, Sky Stream has it all. It’s the most affordable and easiest way to get Sky TV and Netflix together, offering consumers the value they are seeking right now.”
Iain Hatton, RXTV
[Image: Sky PR]