Sky has launched upgraded FIFA World Cup coverage for certain viewers, introducing new Real Time channels that reduce broadcast lag. This comes as Scotland prepares for their opening Group C fixture against Haiti on Sunday, June 14, in the 2026 World Cup.
Real Time Channels Address Streaming Delays
Many households now stream live TV over the internet, which can cause a delay compared to traditional terrestrial channels. This lag can be frustrating during football matches, as goals may be spoiled by mobile notifications or neighbors' cheers. Sky's new Real Time channels offer the company's lowest latency streaming experience, allowing viewers to see action almost immediately and avoid spoilers.
While Sky has not confirmed the exact lag reduction, it states that viewers can watch what is happening on the pitch within seconds. The channels are available at no additional cost to Sky Stream and Sky Glass customers. Supported live sports, including the World Cup on BBC and ITV, can be accessed via the opt-in button and dedicated channels across England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland:
- BBC One HD RT – EPG numbers 926-944 (depending on region)
- ITV1/STV/UKT HD RT – EPG number 945
- ITV4 HD RT – EPG channel 946
Reliable broadband is required, with Sky recommending speeds of 40Mbps.
Sky Glass World Cup Sale
Sky is also offering a 20% discount on its entire Glass TV range until June 17 to mark the World Cup. The Sky Glass Air, described as the TV designed for football, starts from £4.50 per month (was £6) when taken with a Sky TV and Netflix package. The more advanced Sky Glass Gen 2 starts at £11 per month (was £14). Both models feature a 4K HDR Quantum Dot screen and a dedicated sports mode for enhanced visuals and sound.
Sky Glass Gen 2 includes a seven-speaker system with built-in soundbar and Dolby Atmos audio. The TVs come with Sky channels and streaming apps built in, connecting via WiFi with a plug-and-play setup. New customers must pair the TV with a Sky package, such as the Essential TV bundle at £15 per month or the Ultimate TV bundle at £24 per month, both on 24-month contracts. Sky Glass itself is on a 48-month loan with £20 upfront.
Expert Review of Sky Glass Gen 2
Technology Editor Dave Snelling of The Mirror tested the Gen 2 at launch, noting decent improvements over the original. He said: "The refreshed Quantum Dot 4K screen is so much better, with content looking bright, rich and colourful. This QLED panel still can't match full OLED technology, but those screens are very expensive. Sky Glass Gen 2 is perfectly watchable, and most consumers will genuinely enjoy bingeing on boxsets, watching sporting action and tuning into a blockbuster." He added that the built-in sound system has also improved, with enhanced Dolby Atmos, though it cannot beat full surround sound systems.
Alternative TV Options
For those not purchasing outright, Raylo offers 4K LG TVs on monthly subscriptions, such as the 55-inch LG QNED70 AI MiniLED 4K Smart TV from £19.85 per month over 36 months with no upfront cost. EE also provides price reductions on TVs, including the Hisense A7QTUK QLED AI Smart TV starting at £289 for the 43-inch model.
