Sky UK has introduced an innovative motion-tracking webcam called Sky Live, aiming to enhance TV viewing experiences through features like watch parties, fitness capabilities, and gaming functionalities. This device magnetically attaches to the top of Sky Glass smart TVs via USB-C and HDMI connections, offering motion tracking for games and workouts, video calls, group chats, and more.
According to Fraser Stirling, Sky’s global chief product officer, “Sky Live transforms your TV into a hub of entertainment experiences for your home. Engage in motion control games, exercise with body tracking technology, make video calls on the big screen, and watch TV with your loved ones, even from a distance. With our powerful Entertainment OS ecosystem, it will continuously improve with each update.”
The webcam itself has a rectangular design reminiscent of the Xbox One Kinect, featuring a 12-megapixel camera lens on the right side. It captures video at up to 4K resolution with an ultrawide 106-degree field of view, similar to a 14mm lens on a traditional camera. It includes a white status LED, four microphones on the top, and a privacy button to disable it (although it lacks a privacy shutter). The device incorporates auto-framing to keep you centered in the shot and background noise suppression to ensure clear audio during noisy broadcasts.
Sky highlights a prominent feature called “Watch Together,” which enables remote watch parties with up to 11 other households. Friends’ video feeds are displayed alongside the main feed, and it is compatible with all live channels and Sky’s on-demand programs, excluding third-party streaming services like Netflix. Playback is synchronized among all participants, eliminating the possibility of hearing cheering before seeing a goal scored.
Beyond its appearance, Sky Live functions similarly to the Kinect. It comes with the Mvmnt fitness app, offering 130 interactive workouts that leverage motion control technology to track your form, repetitions, and more. The device also supports motion-controlled games like Fruit Ninja and a multiplayer version of Monopoly controlled through the TV’s remote. Additionally, it allows Zoom calls with participants shown in full HD and centered in the frame thanks to the auto-tracking feature.
To utilize Sky Live, a Sky Glass smart TV is required. The device is available for £290 ($370) as a standalone purchase or can be obtained through a monthly payment plan of £6 over 48 months or £12 over 24 months. Sky also offers introductory discounts when purchasing it with a Smart Glass TV. The latter, introduced in 2021, is available in 43-, 55-, and 65-inch versions, with prices starting at approximately £14 per month.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about motion-tracking
What is Sky Live and what does it do?
Sky Live is a motion-tracking webcam designed for Sky Glass smart TVs. It enhances TV experiences by offering features such as watch parties, fitness capabilities, gaming functionalities, and video calls.
How does Sky Live attach to the TV?
Sky Live attaches magnetically to the top of Sky Glass smart TVs via USB-C and HDMI connections.
What are the features of Sky Live?
Sky Live supports motion tracking for games and workouts, video calls, group chats, and more. It also includes an auto-framing feature, background noise suppression, and a privacy button.
What is the “Watch Together” feature?
“Watch Together” allows users to have watch parties with up to 11 other households remotely. Friends’ video feeds appear alongside the main feed, and playback is synchronized among all participants.
Can I use Sky Live with third-party streaming services like Netflix?
No, Sky Live is compatible with all live channels and Sky’s own on-demand programs but does not support third-party streaming services like Netflix.
What fitness and gaming capabilities does Sky Live offer?
Sky Live comes with a fitness app offering 130 interactive workouts and supports motion-controlled games like Fruit Ninja and a multiplayer version of Monopoly controlled through the TV’s remote.
What are the pricing options for Sky Live?
Sky Live can be purchased for £290 ($370) as a standalone device or through monthly payment plans of £6 over 48 months or £12 over 24 months. There are also introductory discounts available when purchased with a Smart Glass TV.
More about motion-tracking
- Sky UK: Official Website
- Sky Glass Smart TVs: Product Page
- Sky Live: Product Information
- Sky Live Watch Together Feature: Details
- Sky Live Fitness App: Mvmnt
- Sky Live Gaming Capabilities: Supported Games
- Sky Live Pricing: Purchase Options
5 comments
Sky Live seems awesome! u can watch tv with friends and even workout with it. no more boring fitness videos. plus, the motion-controlled games sound fun. gonna check it out!
omg sky live is so cool! it attaches 2 ur tv and lets u do watch parties and games and stuff. it’s like a kinect but better and works with sky glass. gonna get 1 for sure!
Finally, a motion-tracking webcam for gaming! Sky Live looks like a mini Kinect. I can’t wait to play Fruit Ninja and Monopoly with my TV remote. Sky Glass and Sky Live combo is gonna be epic!
This is perfect for video calls! Zooming with the family on the big screen will be amazing. The auto-tracking feature and background noise suppression sound great. Sky Live is a game-changer!
The pricing options for Sky Live are quite reasonable. I might go for the monthly payment plan. Can’t wait to have watch parties with friends and family. Sky Glass and Sky Live together will be a treat!