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Sky Glass review: does the broadband provider’s new TV launch live up to the hype?

 (Sky)
(Sky)

Not content with being just an internet or TV provider, Sky has ventured into devices with its latest launch. Europe’s leading media and entertainment company has unveiled the Sky Glass – an all singing, all dancing TV with built-in everything.

I must admit, I have never purchased a TV. I’ve only inherited old models from family members – that’s until the Sky Glass and now, I can never go back.

 (Sky)
(Sky)

Specs

  • Display Type: 4K Ultra HD Quantum Dot

  • Video: HDR, HDR 10, Dolby Vision®, HLG

  • Resolution: 3840x2160

  • Viewing Angle: 178 degrees

  • Refresh Rate: 60Hz

  • Screen Sizes: Small 43”, Medium 55” and Large 65

  • Processor: Quad core ARM A55

  • Colour Depth: 10 bit

  • Speaker Configuration: 3x Outwards Firing, 2x Upwards Firing and 1x Subwoofer

  • Sound output: Up to 215W

  • Sound features: Bass boost, Night mode, Enhance speech quality and Custom sound settings

  • HDMI: 3x HDMI 2.1 eARC (HDMI 2) and CEC supported

Set-up

It’s not always easy to install a satellite – whether you’re renting your place, or your neighbours are particular - and so the broadband service’s all-encompassing device integrates all the hardware that you require without the need for a box, nor installation. It’s the first of its kind.

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As soon as it arrives, you can set it up with no assistance needed. You literally just plug it in, connect to the WiFi and you’re ready to go. The lack of untidy cluttered wires is a dream, especially when you’re short on sockets.

Channels

You’ll find all the streaming services that you could want built right into the telly – Netflix, Amazon Prime, Disney+ as well as traditional Sky TV and the new addition of BT Sport. It simplifies the entire thing too, collating all the listings so you can just search for a specific show in Sky and it will show up – even if it’s on one of the aforementioned apps. I can tell you now, I’ve never been so decisive over what to watch.

On top of all the classic content, there’s the additions of Spotify, Peloton, Fiit, and more to step your home workout up a few notches as well as getting your home ready for hosting – your TV becomes your sound system and your personal trainer.

 (Sky)
(Sky)

Interface

The traditional Sky guide has been brought into the smart age. It’s being constantly updated to become more user-friendly. The home button takes you to new and improved interface with recommendations based on shows that you’ve watched as well as the latest releases. Bringing it in line with the smart home revolution, you only need to say “Hello Sky” to choose a show, saving your fingers from scrolling.

 (Sky)
(Sky)

There’s a Playlist rail that displays shows that you’re in the middle of watching, making it quicker to drop back in (the option to remove from the list if you didn’t enjoy it is coming too). You can easily add a series to your Playlist with the plus button on the remote and if it’s upcoming, it will appear when possible. Restart gives you the chance to go the beginning of any live show if it’s already on demand – we found this particularly helpful for movies.

 (Sky)
(Sky)

Visuals

The TV comes in five colours (Ocean blue, Ceramic white, Racing green, Dusky pink, or Anthracite black) to fit seamlessly among your interiors and in three sizes - Small 43”, Medium 55” and Large 65”. The mounting bracket is part of the TV so there’s no surprise extra costs or delays on placing on the wall when it arrives. There’s an accompanying stand too.

 (Sky)
(Sky)

It comes complete with Ultra HD and Quantum Dot technology as standard, producing over a billion colours for a truly realistic picture. The specs speak for themselves; the 10-bit HDR screen supports HLG, HDR10 and Dolby Vision for more depth and colour intensity as well as a crystal-clear picture to enhance your favourite films. The state-of-the-art Intelligent Zonal Technology adapts the picture and sound based on what you’re watching to add drama when it needs it or brighten things up so you don’t miss a single minute of the game. This is as hi-tech as it gets.

 (Sky)
(Sky)

Sound

No need for a soundbar or surround sound system as the built-in speakers and sub-woofer (for that bass) offers 360 degrees audio care of Dolby Atmos. The quality is excellent.

Eco-credentials

It doesn’t hurt too that it’s a CarbonNeutral product – better weekly Succession streaming and better for the planet at the same time. The device has auto-switch-off, automatically adjusts the brightness and without all the additional cables, it is more energy efficient. The packaging is also recyclable with no single-use plastic.

Payment

Payment options are more adaptable. You can opt for interest-free monthly payments on 24 or 48 month contracts that begin from £39 a month (£13 for TV + £26 for Sky Unlimited TV) and £10 upfront. This includes the Sky Originals, Sky Exclusive, Freeview, and Netflix too. It’s £4 extra for 55” (£43 total) and £8 more for 65” (£47 total). It comes with a two-year warranty.

Shop the Sky Glass here

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