SKY’S brand new TV product has been released today after weeks of speculation about what it may be.
The firm revealed two fresh Sky Glass models at a special event in London yesterday – but only one is available to buy for now.
Jamie Harris / The SunThe displays now use brighter 4K UHD Quantum Dot tech[/caption]
SkyThe sound system is one of the big improvements[/caption]
Sky Glass gen 2 is the new version of the company’s internet-based TV service, which does away with the traditional satellite dish and box, packing everything you need into the telly itself.
A cheaper Sky Glass Air is set to follow later this year.
The Sun got an early glimpse of the Sky Glass gen 2 before it was released to the public.
Here are the big improvements to look out for by Jamie Harris, Assistant Technology and Science Editor.
Better display
The display sizes for Sky Glass gen 2 remain the same as last year, which are 43-inches, 55-inches and 65-inches.
But the quality of the screens appear to have been improved quite a bit, with new brighter 4K UHD Quantum Dot tech.
The first Sky Glass lacked oomph in my experience, with less impressive detail and the black zones lacked depth too.
I’m pleased to see these niggles seem to have been fixed.
Sky showed a demo with a clip from A Star Is Born and I could really notice a positive difference.
There’s also a new “extra vivid” viewing mode to really make the colours standout, exaggeratedly so, which I really love, especially for movies.
However, gamers might want to note that the refresh rate remains at 60Hz – below the widely desired 120Hz.
A sound winner
The other big area Sky has boosted is sound.
An extra speaker has been added to the built-in sound system, bringing the total up to seven.
There are three that point outward, two that point up above the screen and two subwoofers.
I actually thought the first Sky Glass model had pretty decent audio but the gen 2 is on a different level.
The sound really resonated around the room with beautiful clarity.
Music and vocals stand out beautifully and crisp, without needing the volume all the way up.
Easier installation
The first Sky Glass was one heavy lump to carry – and you really do need at least two people to lift it.
Fortunately, the hassle of installing has been made much easier (though I’m yet to try it first hand – you’ll have to wait for my full review to hear about that).
Sky has simplified the installation process with a new stand that slots into the TV.
This means no screws or tools are needed.
KEY DETAILS ABOUT SKY GLASS GEN 2
The Sky Glass gen 2 is available in three colours:
Volcanic Grey
Arctic Silver
Atlantic Blue
The Sky Glass experience remains the same on the new gen 2 with Sky’s own operating system Sky OS (which has been renamed from the previous “Entertainment OS”).
So, the features remain the same.
Bosses say there are improved processors inside, so this should help things run smoother on the TV too compared to before.
The prices for Sky Glass gen 2 are also unchanged from before.
Sky Glass gen 2 starts at £14 per month for 48 months + £20 upfront.
Buy Sky Glass gen 2 now from Sky.com
All prices in this article were correct at the time of writing, but may have since changed.
Always do your own research before making any purchase.