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Latest Sky+ update helps you discover new movies
The last update for Sky+HD boxes was all about keepings the kids entertained, so it's only fair that the next give parents a few ideas of what to watch when the munchkins are all tucked up. Rolling out to set-top boxes from today (though it might take a few weeks to land on yours), the third Sky+ update this year is specifically aimed at Sky Movies customers. As part of continued efforts to make Sky+ more like Netflix and other streaming services by focusing on the discovery as much as the content, the new "More Like This" feature recommends other flicks based on your current selection.
New Sky+ app pushes pictures from your mobile devices to the big screen
For anyone with a Sky+HD box, the Sky+ app for Android and iOS gives you a handy way to manage recordings while away from home, and lets you use mobile devices as substitute remotes when you're plonked in front of the TV. Now, with an updated version of the app released today, you can also use it to push your summer holiday snaps to the biggest display in your living room. As long as the smartphone or tablet running the Sky+ app is connected to the same WiFi network as your set-top box, tap the new camera icon in the app's navigation bar and you'll be able to send any images stored on the device to your TV screen, or set a slideshow running.
Sky+ receiver upgrade brings as-you-type TV search with unified results
Sky+ viewers have had advanced search through the TV service's mobile app for a while. Starting today, they'll get that experience through their set-top boxes. Sky is rolling out an update to Sky+HD receivers that introduces as-you-type search, with unified results that include both live and on-demand shows. The upgrade will take a few months to reach all subscribers, but the days of slow searches may soon be at an end.
Sky+ app update brings remote control features to iPhone, iPod touch
It's been a few months since UK TV operator Sky added remote control features to its iPad app, and now there's a similar refresh for the iPhone and iPod touch. The v4.2 update gives users brings remote control with support for gestures, DVR scheduling and management, a new guide as well as revamped navigation and search on the smaller screens, as long as they're connected to the same WiFi network as the box. The Android app is still without the new features, however they're promised to arrive there "in the coming months." As usual the update app is available at no charge via iTunes, hit the link below to check it out, or check out the press after the break for more details along with a demo video of the iPad version.
Sky+ app gets Series Links just in time for them to become irrelevant
Demanding American consumers make sure that if a DVR app doesn't ship with global Spotify support or HDD-management capabilities, it's kicked to the kerb. Demure UK consumers command less respect -- we're happy if our software does anything useful at all. That's why Sky hasn't rushed in updating its Sky+ app for iOS and Android, but in December it'll finally enable users to add Series Links (like Season Passes, only shorter and with fewer filler episodes) at the push of a touchscreen. Sadly you don't get the option to stream from your home box, so don't uninstall that Sky Go app if you're looking for a profanity-laden dose of Deadwood at the grocery store.
Sky could open up HD launch queue
DigitalSpy is reporting that Sky (no relation, we're told) is currently "studying the technical feasibility of opening a new electronic program guide launch queue for high-definition channels." In October of last year, the operator closed up its launch queue -- which is what channels use to secure a new slot on Sky's EPG -- after finding that many SD receivers had serious memory constraints. Now, however, Sky is pushing out a software update that "differentiates between those boxes and the HD ones," and it's hoping that these SD units will eventually cooperate while HD services are added. All fingers crossed for everything to pan out.[Image courtesy of MediaUK]
MTVNHD is live on Sky+ HD
You knew it was coming, but today's the day. MTV's international poster child -- MTVNHD -- has officially launched on slot 384 for Sky+ HD customers across the pond. Granted, you'll have to subscribe to the Music Pack in order to gain access, but that might be a bullet you simply have to swallow. And just think, it gives you one more reason to work out that sound system you just put together -- bonus score![Thanks, Martin]
Gorilla gets Sky+ HD service in its enclosure, wouldn't return to the wild if he could
There's spoiled, and then there's Nico. The 47-year old Silverback Western Lowland Gorilla, which is currently being held at Longleat Safari Park in Wiltshire, England, grew quite fond of television during a six-month UK quarantine period spent indoors. Now, officials have upgraded the animal's living quarters to include a Sky+ HD box and an HDTV. According to Nico's head keeper, "television has proved a great environmental enrichment tool for Nico over the years," and now, Nico can sit back [and] enjoy the greater picture detail of HD and the surround sound experience." Before you get too jealous, you should know that the creature's viewing hours are limited -- you know, so it doesn't morph into an "archetypal couch potato."
