Sky Q’s Dolby Atmos support arrives for new Premier League season
Sky hopes Ultra HD and intelligent surround sound will beat going to see a live game.
When Sky surprised subscribers with the launch of its new Devialet-made surround sound speaker late last month, it also dropped in news that Sky Q customers would soon enjoy enhanced sound courtesy of Dolby Atmos. At the time, the company remained coy, teasing a "summer" launch, but with the new Premier League season imminent, Sky today confirmed that Dolby's surround sound standard will now be ready for when Arsenal host Leicester tomorrow night.
Of course, the news will only be welcome to Sky Sports subscribers with Dolby Atmos-compatible speakers. Via the new Premier League channel, viewers will enjoy high-quality Ultra HD broadcasts of 124 live matches that now come with immersive 3D audio. It's a significant announcement, but Sky does come late to the party. BT Sport was first to introduce both Ultra HD and Dolby Atmos broadcasts, although its share of Premier League matches is significantly lower than its rival (currently standing at 42).
If fans happen to miss the start of a game, Sky has also announced that its Watch From Start option will be available on the red button, offering the chance to watch from kick-off and skip to the key moments highlighted in the progress bar. Great news for football nuts, but not for those who might share a house with them.
