Original article ISPreview UK:Read More
Customers of Sky’s broadband-based Sky Glass and Sky Stream pay TV streaming devices and service are gaining access to a new feature called “Real Time“, which is designed to improve the experience of watching live sports content online by “reducing latency between the live action and what viewers see on screen“.
The issue of broadcast lag (latency) in live online TV sport streaming is a well-known frustration. The problem typically causes streamed content to display a few seconds behind the action itself, which in some cases can even stretch into the tens of seconds. As a result, somebody listening via the radio or watching the live action via a terrestrial digital TV (DTT) channel may hear a key event take place before those viewing an online stream.
The latency created is the product of various aspects of how live video content must be processed / compressed, cached and redistributed over modern digital networks. Over the years we’ve seen various network operators and companies come up with ways of reducing the impact of this and Sky’s new Real Time feature for Sky OS is the latest example.
Sadly, Sky hasn’t provided any technical details to explain exactly what they’ve changed and how much of a real-world improvement it will actually deliver (it doesn’t completely remove lag as they state: “see the action almost instantly – watch what’s happening on the pitch within seconds“), although it does appear as if ‘Real Time’ performance attracts some stronger broadband connection requirements. In addition, the Rewind Live TV feature won’t work at the same time:
Internet Connection Recommendations for Sky ‘Real Time’
- Streaming in High Definition (HD) – 25Mbps
- Streaming in Ultra High Definition (UHD) – 30Mbps
- Streaming in Real Time – 40Mbps
- Rewind Live TV is not available while using Real Time
Sky Real Time is currently only available on select live sports, including the 2026 World Cup on BBC and ITV, via the opt-in button or via the dedicated channels listed below. Customers just need to select the Real Time option on-screen during supported live sports to adjust the stream.
Dedicated Channels with Real Time Support
BBC One HD RT – EPG number 926-944 (depending on region)
ITV1 HD RT – EPG channel 945
ITV4 HD RT – EPG channel 946