Sky has recently released a significant update for its popular Glass TVs and Stream boxes, and the best part is that it’s available at no cost for users owning these devices. The update, which started rolling out last week, brings several new features. Users can now control Sky’s internet-connected devices through their smartphones and set program reminders for any listings in the TV guide.
The settings menu has been revamped for easier navigation, and additional accessibility options have been included, such as enhanced contrast controls for text and backgrounds within Sky apps. Sky mentioned, “Sky’s continuously evolving operating system, Sky OS, has been enhanced to provide smarter control options for Sky Glass and Stream customers.”
For those with Sky Glass TV, Sky Glass Air device, or Sky Stream box, these new features are on their way without requiring any manual intervention. The update is set to install automatically.
Among the new features available, users can now set reminders for their favorite shows. This feature is accessible on all Sky Glass and Stream devices, allowing users to schedule reminders for programs listed in the TV guide easily. Sky advises users to navigate to the show page they wish to watch and select “Set a reminder.” A notification will then appear at the top of the screen when the show is about to start.
A new feature enables users to control their TV differently. Users of Sky Glass and Stream have the option to control their devices via the new digital Sky remote app, compatible with both iOS and Android. The app allows quick access to favorite shows, channel changes, and playback controls with a simple tap. Additionally, the remote app incorporates built-in accessibility features like screen reader support.
Sky has streamlined its settings interface for easier access. By pressing the three dots on the Sky remote and scrolling right, users can now quickly reach settings without the need to scroll down. Moreover, the quick access menu has been relocated for faster navigation to settings like picture and sound adjustments, parental controls, and accessibility options.
Several new accessibility features have been introduced, including an upgraded voice guidance experience. Customers can adjust the voice guidance speed to their liking when navigating through the UI and various apps like Sky Sports +, Sky Store, Netflix, YouTube, Prime Video, and RTE. Additionally, users can now modify the contrast between background and text in Sky apps by activating High contrast via the Sky Glass or Sky Stream settings.
Furthermore, users can utilize the magnification feature by enabling it through Accessibility settings to zoom in up to 400% and use number keys on the remote to pan across the UI. Audio Description on demand is also being rolled out for Sky on-demand shows, extending the accessible experience from Sky broadcast channels to Sky Cinema and Sky Entertainment on-demand content.
