The new Sky Glass Smart TV version brings all-in-one functionality, making Pay TV quicker, clearer, and free from satellite use, proving to be one of the top models available compared to its predecessors.
The Sky Glass Gen 2 serves as the direct successor to the initial 2021 model, which introduced Sky’s broadband-based TV service, eliminating the need for satellite dishes. Available in three sizes, the smallest being 43 inches, it can be purchased with a one-time payment over four years, after which you fully own it.
Starting at £15 per month for Sky Essential TV Packs, a Sky subscription is necessary for full access. While you can’t use the TV without a subscription, should you decide to cancel in the future, it functions as a basic smart TV with access to streaming apps like BBC iPlayer, equipped with a basic aerial and multiple HDMI inputs.
The Gen 2 is available in three colors, complete with a matching remote control. Photo: Sky UK
From the front, the Gen 2 closely resembles its predecessor, featuring a sleek, monolithic design with an aluminum body, a slim bezel, and a soundbar cleverly concealed behind a mesh that matches the bottom colors. The voice-activated microphone responds to “Hello Sky.” Although the Glass Gen 2 is thinner and lighter than the previous model, it remains on the heavier side compared to newer models. The 43-inch version weighs 14.7kg, while the larger 55-inch and 65-inch variants necessitate the assistance of two people for safe handling.
The newly designed stand simplifies setup, even for the tested 65-inch model, as the TV easily slots into two prongs and requires a stable mount secured with screws and tools. For internet connectivity, a power cable and WiFi or Ethernet connection are essential. Wall brackets are sold separately.
The TV detects movement and powers on/off as needed, displaying full-screen recommendations for the latest shows and movies. Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian
The vibrant 4K LCD display is notably brighter than the previous version, with improved black depths and significantly reduced halo effects. The screen’s automatic brightness adjustments can make content look overly dark in rooms that aren’t brightly lit, but turning this feature off enhances viewing.
Sky has included an automatic image optimization mode that detects content types such as entertainment, sports, and movies. Additionally, modes like manual, vibrant, and film are available for those who prefer more intense colors. The entertainment mode can make skin tones appear overly warm, while I found the film mode to be more balanced, also offering a custom mode for personalized adjustments.
The screen’s capabilities shine when displaying HDR content, be it films, shows, or sports. The Premier League looks crisp and lively, while titles like Mad Max: Fury Road in Dolby Vision are particularly impressive. However, this TV isn’t the most suitable option for gaming on consoles like the Xbox or PS5, as it lacks variable refresh rates up to 120Hz, which are advantageous for console games.
Impressive Sound and Clarity
The speakers are positioned on the grill at the top and the fabric strip at the bottom of the screen. Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian
A significant benefit of Sky Glass over conventional TVs is the built-in speaker soundbar. Vocals maintain clarity at nearly all volumes, sidestepping the common lip-sync issues found with external soundbars. Even without an additional subwoofer or rear speakers, it impressively delivers substantial sound.
However, it struggles to produce deep, rich bass, and while the sound has impressive width, virtual surround effects are limited, necessitating more complex systems with additional speakers to achieve this.
The TV also features night mode, audio enhancement, and bass boost settings. The night mode is especially handy for lowering loud sounds while ensuring dialogue remains comprehensible, making it ideal for late-night screenings without disturbing others.
Enhanced Sky Over Broadband
To stream HD, a minimum of 25Mbps is required; for UHD broadcasts, 30Mbps is necessary, but Sky’s broadband service does not need to operate at these levels. Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian
Since the original Glass launched in 2021, the robustness of the Sky OS service has greatly improved. It still offers excellent search capabilities and advanced playlist features, alongside multiple user profiles that allow each family member to maintain their own lists and recommendations, including children’s profiles.
The playlist feature automatically tracks new episodes from shows or movies you are interested in, directing you to a “Continue Watching” section, making it easy to return to the content you’ve already begun.
Features like live TV, pause, and rewind function seamlessly. Recent reductions in broadcast delays greatly enhance the experience, ensuring thrilling moments aren’t missed for friends relying on satellite or aerial feeds.
On-demand content from the Sky Platform works effectively, and third-party services like BBC iPlayer, ITV X, and Channel 4 have seen significant enhancements compared to previous reliance on recordings. While not quite as seamless and speedy as local recordings on Sky Q and similar PVRs, most apps launch quickly, perform well, and lead directly to the desired episode from your playlist or search result.
It supports most leading on-demand services, including My5, YouTube, Prime Video, Disney+, Paramount+, Apple TV+, Discovery+, and others, allowing for all content to be easily accessed in one location.
Voice control is operational via remote buttons, though the TV’s voice activation is somewhat unpredictable, comprehending commands about 60% of the time. Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian
Sustainability
The TV is designed for repair, featuring 22% recycled materials, such as aluminum, fabric, tin, and plastic. The manufacturer also recycles old devices and packages the TV using plastic-free materials.
Pricing
The price for Sky Glass Gen 2 is £699 for the 43-inch model, £949 for the 55-inch model, and £1,199 for the 65-inch model, with no-interest payment plans available for either 24 or 48 months for all models.
The 24-month plans for Sky Essential TV start at £15 monthly; Sky Ultimate TV begins at £22 per month; UHD with Dolby Atmos costs an additional £6, along with options to skip ads. Other available add-ons include Sky Sports starting from £31 monthly, TNT Sports from £31, Sky Cinema from £13, and Sky Kids at £8. Discounts are possible with certain combinations, although pricing varies for different packages every 31 days.
Conclusion
While the first generation of Glass needed refinement, the Gen 2 addresses many of its shortcomings effectively.
It offers a brighter, faster display with higher contrast and impressive handling. Additionally, it boasts the best sound quality among available TVs. It remains competitive in the mid-range market, although aesthetically pleasing screens can be found at similar price points without a soundbar. For those in search of the absolute finest display, alternatives are available.
The Sky OS service has advanced significantly to reach performance levels comparable to the leading competitors in the sector. Live broadcasts work smoothly, whether from satellite or cable. Sky’s on-demand offerings are just as effective as local recordings, while third-party apps like BBC iPlayer and ITVX have reached acceptable performances. Featuring robust search and playlist capabilities that support all major streaming services makes content discovery effortless.
Ultimately, the convenience of the Glass Gen 2, providing an all-in-one solution with solid sound and a unified remote for all TV functions, is a major draw.
Pros: All-in-one streaming and pay TV device, remarkable sound quality, no need for satellite or cable, excellent remote control functionality, robust search and playlist features, improved apps, enhanced display with excellent HDR, customizable image modes, and integrated voice control.
Cons: Image quality not as strong as some competitors, certain image modes need improvement, auto brightness settings can be bothersome, gaming consoles lack faster refresh rates, heavier and bulkier design, no Chromecast support, and some third-party on-demand services remain subpar.
The Power and Microphone Mute buttons are conveniently positioned on the right side of the TV. Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian
Source: www.theguardian.com
