09 May 2023 , 06:25
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Sky is no longer just offering TV to those happy to have a satellite dish stuck to the outside of their homes. Since 2021 the firm has also been beaming premium content to its clever Glass TVs - along with the more recent addition of its mini Stream box - via the web instead. Both of these gadgets use a standard internet connection to get movies, shows and sporting action into homes. It’s a simple and effective idea that cuts down on the need for disruptive installation but it seems a slight change to Sky’s terms could now mean some may need to consider upgrading their broadband speeds.
When Sky Glass and Stream launched, Sky confirmed on its website that the minimum speeds required to view content was just 10Mbps. However, as spotted by the eagle-eyed team at ISPreview, that’s now changed with the Sky bumping this figure up to a much faster 25Mbps.
Mirror Online has now had this update confirmed by Sky with the firm saying it has increased the recommended minimum speed.
Although those with a 10Mbps connection will still be able to use Stream and Glass, Sky is recommending the upgrade to make sure users “have the best possible experience.”
With many homes still only getting basic 36Mbps speeds and lower, this news could prove costly as to get uninterrupted viewing - and be able to watch in 4K - it’s now wise to upgrade to something much faster.
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It’s worth noting that even if you have 36Mbps speeds (which is fast enough for Sky) it may still not be good enough.
The Sky Stream puck starts from £26 per month (SKY)That’s because the more devices that are connected to the broadband the slower it becomes and the more chance you’ll notice buffering. Think of it like the M25 - the more traffic that runs along it, the slower things get.
Families wanting to watch 4K on Sky Glass whilst also downloading games to PS5 consoles, streaming music and making Zoom calls should probably consider switching to speeds of a least 76Mbps or faster.
Clearly, the quicker your broadband the more you’ll pay but it could be worth that extra money if you don’t want to be frustrated by stuttering.
Here’s how much Sky charges for different broadband speeds.
Superfast 35 • 36Mbps speeds
Standard price £34.50 per month
Ultrafast • 145Mbps speeds
Standard price £38 per month
Ultrafast Plus • 500Mbps speeds
Standard price £48 per month
Gigafast • 900Mbps speeds
Standard price £53 per month