Sky Q box is finally getting a overdue update - here's what you need to know

Sky Q boxes are getting a much-needed upgrade this month.
-Credit:Sky


No matter what kind of broadband-connected device from Sky you have, it seems like they have it all and you were never starved of options of programs and films to watch. However, it may come as a surprise, but the older Sky Q boxes are actually in need of an overdue upgrade.

For those who have this ageing satellite-powered device in your homes, you may already be aware of the issue. For those who are none the wiser, the upgrade to this device will finally allow users to have full access to Channel 5's streaming service - My5.

This may seem a bit odd, but until later this month, the app has been missing from Sky Q boxes even though it has always been fully available on Sky's other devices, Sky Stream and Sky glass, reports the Express.

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Sky Q box users will be getting full access to the wide range of genres on My5.
Sky Q box users will be getting full access to the wide range of genres on My5. -Credit:Getty Images

It should be said that Sky Q users have not been completely devoid of Channel 5 shows, as they could still access them but only through the on-demand section of the homepage. This meant there was a limited range of what users could watch, but the upgrade will give full access to a much wider range of genres.

The change comes ahead of Channel 5 rebranding, which will entail the terrestrial service and the app getting a more simplified '5' branding. Kiaran Saunders, VP distribution at Paramount UK, explained: "Our expanded distribution across Sky Q marks an important milestone in My5’s ongoing growth, enabling us to reach more homes than ever before.

"With the upcoming refresh to 5, we’re thrilled to deliver an even more engaging, streamlined and richer viewing experience for all of our audiences."

The updates don't stop there, as Sky has confirmed that it will also be revamping its NOW streaming service. The service will take on a new look in the update and will also include improved features as it moves onto a new system - NBCUniversal's technology.

Carli Kerr, managing director of NOW and Sky content explained: "Migrating to NBCU’s Global Streaming Platform means NOW members will benefit from the ongoing delivery of customer features that enhance the viewing experience and leverage the latest technologies and innovations across the platform."

The name and branding of NOW will stay the same, but Sky says that the switch will hopefully help deliver a "world class streaming experience" for users. Some of the NOW upgrades include:

  • New rails such as Top 10s

  • Smoother search

  • SkySports+ streams will be housed as curated collections

  • More choice

  • Introduction of Kid's profiles with over 10,000 episodes from award-winning kids' content

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