End of your satellite dish? Sky confirms vital update for millions of UK homes

Since Sky launched its Sky Glass TV in 2022, there has been a major shift towards streaming content rather than using traditional satellite signals. Head to Sky’s website and there’s hardly any mention of an outdated Sky Q system, with the company clearly advertising its internet-connected devices, which now also include the option to buy the diddy Stream box to stream live and on watch demand TV.

Logically, these gadgets don’t require expensive installation – no need for technicians to visit, install a dish or run cables around the house – and it’s easier for Sky to release new features over your broadband connection.

All this may make Sky Q and Sky HD users worry about being forgotten, but that doesn’t seem to be the case.

Sky has just confirmed that it has signed a new contract with SES – a provider that broadcasts Sky content across the UK – to keep things running until at least 2029.

That means homes that love their Sky Q boxes can be safe in the knowledge that they will continue to work for at least another 5 years.

“We are pleased to continue our long-standing partnership with SES, reinforcing our commitment to providing the best viewing experience for all customers – whether they are watching on our beloved Sky Q satellite platform or through our IP products, Glass and Stream” , said Nick Herm, Chief Business Officer at Sky. “This contract extension provides us with the reliability we need to continue delivering our market-leading TV offering and broad channel mix to Sky Q customers in the UK and Ireland.”

And Norbert Hölzle, Global Head of Media at SES, added: “This important contract extension with Sky reflects our continued commitment to delivering the highest levels of performance, service reliability and reach to our customers.

“As one of Europe’s leading media and entertainment companies, Sky is confident that our satellite network will provide its viewers with a first-class TV experience. This expansion underlines the value that satellites continue to deliver in the evolving media landscape for both broadcasters and audiences.”

What are Sky Stream and Sky Glass and how do they work?

This latest news is obviously good if you have Sky Q, but the future certainly seems to belong to streaming.

Sky’s Glass TV and Stream don’t require a dish stuck to the wall and everything is beamed to the big screen via the internet.

This has its advantages as the devices can be installed themselves and the signal is not affected by weather or trees getting in the way and causing the image to freeze.

Sky Glass and Stream are also built for the connected future, with more streaming services and better integration of apps like Netflix, Disney+ and Apple TV+.

Sure, they don’t have built-in hard drives and Sky Q has a better multi-room experience, but in the coming years, expect Sky to try to bring more people over to its streaming TVs and set-top boxes.