MSE News: Sky Q prices revealed – is it worth it?

Former_MSE_Nick

Sky has announced the prices for Sky Q, its new premium TV service which launches next month – but it doesn't come cheap...

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'Sky Q prices revealed – but is it worth it?''

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chanz4

pointless really is it not

prowla

chanz4 wrote: »

pointless really is it not

Is the answer to an "is it not" question yes or no?

[Deleted User]

Not that impressed, really. Already have two Sky+HD boxes connected to Virgin internet via HomePlugs. Sky aren't even offering this to customers without Sky Broadband initially.

prowla

Well, it is a significant upgrade to the existing functionality, and offers an integrated whole-house solution with both satellite and internet connectivity.

However, whether it's worth more money (at least £42/month vs £20 for Sky+) is a question, and the initial set-up fees are a bit steep.

Me, I don't think I need the extra functionality.

creasechris

Seems pretty clear it's priced for early adopters at the moment. For the functionality you're getting - I especially like the ability to record anything and play it back anywhere - it seems like a good deal.

Sure, it'll appeal to certain crowds before others, but in time I expect it'll be standard! :T

The_Last_Username

I've been following news of this on a few sites with interest.

Sky's changes are a direct result of the undeniable fact that way we watch television is changing, insomuch as we already watch much more content via the internet (one way or another).
Netflix, Amazon Prime; Hulu; Vudu; YouTube ...... it seems like an endless list of content to suit every taste, available for you to watch whenever you want to watch it.

The result of this mass of accessible online content is that less viewers are watching terrestrial and/or satellite broadcasts.
By necessity, less viewers equals less profits - and therefore a further decline in the quality of broadcast programming.
(If you truly doubt that statement, consider your viewing habits over this recent "festive" period - where OTA broadcasts were AGAIN by-and-large dire!)

It seems then that Sky think that a "natty" new interface will do the job.
That plus the ability to watch (even what you have recorded) on multiple devices (TV.; phone; laptop; tablet etc.) and even to pause a programme on for example your TV and then re-start at the point which you paused on, say, your tablet will make "THE DIFFERENCE" to Sky's customers.

My own feeling is that - for Sky - this will not be enough to prevent decline.

The interface may look good.
You will get even more devices to play Sky on.
Different channels on different devices, too.
The functionality may impress.
Your "box" will even be covered against faults whilst you're in contract now - a 1st for sky!

BUT:
It's going to be expensive - there are various "bits" of whatever extra equipment you will need AND installation.
A few hundred pounds as a minimum, it would seem - MORE if you do not already subscribe?
Also (more regarding this below) the monthly "premium" will undoubtedly vary depending upon what you want, but it seems from my readings that the extra monthly payment will average about £20 + .

Next, there is no mention of any 4k content until later in the year.
On a "new" product this is very poor - and more-so when we consider the "push" in new televisions towards 4k.
Very few new-model televisions are being released which are not 4k-capable; as before, Amazon; Netflix; YouTube .... all have 4k content - and the amount of this content will increase.
So the chances are that your new/next TV will play 4k - but Sky has no content to show off your new TV yet?
Until "later in the year" anyway ............... and what's the betting this will cost extra?

Then - and this is the real BIGGIE - the competition are much, much cheaper.
Amazon Prime which includes 4k (all of which is included if you already use it for getting free deliveries when you shop with them) all-in is £79/year.
Netflix 4k/UHD version is £8-99/month.
YouTube is free.
(As an example only, newer Samsung; LG etc. televisions have all you need already on the television to let you play most of this content.)
Even BT's "Total Entertainment" package is currently £13-99/month - and this includes Netflix 4k AND BT Sport in 4k!

---

Sky will undoubtedly gain upgrade custom from its longstanding customer-base.
And I am not for one mad moment suggesting that this is the beginning of a RAPID decline for Sky.
The new interface may be good, but I just do not see Sky being able to use this alone to continue and dominate television the way they once did.

afc80

i notice that the sky q box is still owned by sky. not great when you are doing your yearly negotiations to get half price tv.

i have a 4k tv so would be mad not to get it, (when 4k content is confirmed) but the cat and mouse game every 12 months will mean that when you cancel they will be able to come and collect your sky Q box.

Just be a case of holding one's nerve more than usual.

jaxkesa

afc80 wrote: »

i notice that the sky q box is still owned by sky. not great when you are doing your yearly negotiations to get half price tv.

18 month negotiations now. I think I'll pass.

VisionMan

afc80 wrote: »

i notice that the sky q box is still owned by sky. not great when you are doing your yearly negotiations to get half price tv.

i have a 4k tv so would be mad not to get it, (when 4k content is confirmed) but the cat and mouse game every 12 months will mean that when you cancel they will be able to come and collect your sky Q box.

Just be a case of holding one's nerve more than usual.

Be warned... It's fully expected that when Sky launch 4K (probably August) it will be via hybrid distribution methods. Meaning SAT and fibre IP. Chris Johns from Sky Technical said the bit rates required will be between 28 to 35Mbps which would definitely mean fibre, and probably some form of SAT IP.

The_Last_Username

VisionMan wrote: »

Be warned... It's fully expected that when Sky launch 4K (probably August) it will be via hybrid distribution methods. Meaning SAT and fibre IP. Chris Johns from Sky Technical said the bit rates required will be between 28 to 35Mbps which would definitely mean fibre, and probably some form of SAT IP.

It will be interesting to see if there will be buffering problems.
No, it will be interesting to see HOW MANY buffering problems there will be. :cool:

PLUS the inevitable extra cost for whatever Sky will offer in 4k.
Because we know Sky has to make money somewhere, right?
Remember the HD surcharge?
Which is STILL applied?
See: http://helpforum.sky.com/t5/Live-TV-programming/9-years-on-why-is-there-still-a-HD-charge/td-p/2364769/page/2

As I say above; it's looking very much like an expensive option.

Can anyone else hear a Sky rep. saying "Ah, but where you are you'll need ...... " :rotfl: