Sky has confirmed the release of a blockbuster free upgrade, and the timing could not be better. Just in time for the World Cup, which kicks off on Thursday, Sky is bringing a new feature to some customers called "Real Time". This essentially reduces the latency when streaming live sports, addressing a major frustration for viewers watching football and other events.
Most live streams, via services such as BBC iPlayer and ITVX, are often up to 40 seconds behind terrestrial and satellite feeds. This delay means that when a goal is scored, homes with broadband-powered equipment experience an annoying lag. Thanks to "Real Time", that problem is fixed.
How Real Time Works
Sky originally introduced lower latency on its Premier League action back in 2024, but now it is coming to BBC and ITV content as well. Sky confirmed in an email: "Sky is launching Real Time, a new feature for Sky Glass and Stream, powered by Sky OS. It brings live sport closer to the moment by reducing latency between the live action and what viewers see on screen."
The feature is available on select live sports, including the World Cup on BBC and ITV, helping fans follow matches with less lag and fewer spoilers.
How to Switch It On
Users can select the Real Time option on screen during supported live sports to adjust the stream. Real Time is available on Sky Glass and Sky Stream via an opt-in button or via dedicated channels:
- BBC One HD RT - EPG number 926-944 (depending on region)
- ITV1 HD RT - EPG channel 945
- ITV4 HD RT - EPG channel 946
Sky Glass and Stream: The Future
Sky Glass and Sky Stream represent the future of Sky's devices, with the firm slowly moving away from its Sky Q box, which is connected via a dish. Glass and Stream offer advantages including DIY installation, more regular feature upgrades, and improved integration with other streaming services such as Netflix, Apple TV, and Disney+.
