Sky has recently released a significant update for its popular Glass TVs and Stream boxes, which is now available for free to all users who own these devices. This update, which started rolling out last week, brings a range of new features, including the ability to manage Sky’s internet-connected devices using a smartphone and set reminders for programs listed in the TV guide.
The latest update includes a simplified settings menu for easier navigation and introduces new accessibility options such as enhanced contrast controls for text and backgrounds within Sky applications. According to the company, this update enhances the functionality of Sky’s operating system, Sky OS, providing customers with even smarter ways to operate their TVs.
Owners of Sky Glass TV, Sky Glass Air device, or Sky Stream box can expect these features to be automatically installed without the need to restart their devices or modify any settings. These new features are now accessible on your television.
One of the key additions is the ability to set reminders for favorite shows on all Sky Glass and Stream devices. This feature eliminates the need to search for the remote when it’s time for a Premier League match or a season finale. Users can set reminders for any program in the TV guide by visiting the show page and selecting “Set a reminder,” which will prompt a notification when the show begins.
A new way to control the TV is introduced, where users can now utilize the digital Sky remote app on iOS and Android to manage their viewing experience. The app allows users to effortlessly find favorite shows, change channels, and control playback functions like play, pause, and skip with a simple tap. Additionally, the remote app offers built-in accessibility features such as screen reader support.
Sky has also streamlined its settings, making them more accessible by simply pressing the three dots on the Sky remote and scrolling right without the need to scroll down. The quick access menu has been relocated for quicker navigation to essential settings like picture and sound adjustments, parental controls, and accessibility features.
Moreover, several new accessibility features have been introduced, including an upgraded voice guidance experience that allows customers to adjust the voice guidance speed. High contrast options in Sky apps enable users to modify the contrast between background and text, while magnification mode allows zooming in up to 400% and panning across the UI using the remote’s number keys. Additionally, Audio Description is now available for on-demand shows on Sky, offering an inclusive viewing experience similar to that on Sky broadcast channels for on-demand content in Sky Cinema and Sky Entertainment.