England's World Cup campaign kicks off against Croatia on June 17, and Sky has unveiled a significant upgrade for football fans. The broadcaster is offering 'Real Time' channels that minimize the delay between live action and what appears on screen, ensuring viewers avoid spoilers from notifications or neighbours.
What Are Real Time Channels?
Sky's new Real Time channels provide its 'lowest latency streaming experience', allowing viewers to see events almost instantaneously. While Sky hasn't confirmed the exact delay, it states that viewers can watch on-pitch action 'within seconds'. The channels are available on BBC One HD RT (EPG 926-944), ITV1 HD RT (EPG 945), and ITV4 HD RT (EPG 946) across the UK.
How to Access the Service
Real Time channels are available at no extra cost to Sky Stream and Sky Glass subscribers. To use them, customers select the Real Time option on screen during supported live sports. A reliable broadband connection of at least 40Mbps is recommended.
Sky Glass World Cup Promotion
Sky is offering 20% off its entire Glass TV range until June 17 to mark the World Cup. Prices start at £4.50 per month (was £6) for Sky Glass Air, and £11 (was £14) for Sky Glass Gen 2. Both TVs feature 4K HDR Quantum Dot displays and a dedicated sports mode for vivid colours and enhanced sound.
Sky Glass Gen 2 Features
- Dolby Atmos audio with a seven-speaker system and integrated soundbar
- Pre-installed Sky channels and streaming apps
- WiFi connectivity with plug-and-play installation
New customers must combine Sky Glass with a Sky TV package, such as the Essential TV bundle (£15/month) or Ultimate TV bundle (£24/month), which include free-to-air and premium channels. Both require 24-month contracts, while Sky Glass requires a 48-month loan with £20 upfront. Sky notes that prices may change during the contract.
Alternative Viewing Options
Football fans can also enhance their experience through Raylo, offering 4K LG TVs from £19.85 per month, or EE, which discounts TVs like the Hisense A7QTUK from £289.
Expert Review
Dave Snelling, Technology Editor at the Mirror, tested Sky Glass Gen 2 and praised its improvements: 'The refreshed Quantum Dot 4K screen is so much better, with content looking bright, rich and colourful. It can't match full OLED but is perfectly watchable for most consumers. The built-in sound system with Dolby Atmos also delivers decent audio without extra accessories.'
