Sky is set to introduce a new feature called Real Time for Sky users, coinciding with the start of the World Cup. This upgrade aims to minimize the streaming delay that many viewers currently experience, especially during live sports events. Traditionally, services like BBC iPlayer and ITVX have been up to 40 seconds behind live broadcasts, leading to spoilers and awkward moments. Real Time, first introduced for Premier League matches in 2024, is now expanding to include BBC and ITV coverage, enhancing the viewing experience for major events like the World Cup.
According to Sky, Real Time, powered by Sky OS, will bring viewers closer to live action by reducing latency between the actual event and what is displayed on screen. The feature will be available for select live sports broadcasts, including the World Cup matches on BBC and ITV, allowing fans to enjoy matches with minimal delay and fewer spoilers.
To activate Real Time on Sky Glass and Sky Stream, viewers can opt for the feature during supported live sports broadcasts by selecting the Real Time option on the screen. It can be accessed on both devices through an opt-in button or dedicated channels such as BBC One HD RT (channels 926–944) and ITV1 HD RT (channel 945).
The introduction of Real Time underlines Sky’s shift towards internet-based services like Sky Glass and Sky Stream, moving away from the satellite-dependent Sky Q platform. These services run over broadband, offering advantages like easy self-installation, regular software updates, and seamless integration with popular streaming platforms like Netflix, Apple TV+, and Disney+. Sky Glass and Sky Stream are pivotal to Sky’s strategy as it focuses on internet-delivered television and enhanced streaming experiences.
