Sky-High Aspirations: Pay TV Firm Launches Sky Q To Head Off Challenge from Netflix

ITS place as the dominant force in TV viewing has been put under threat from the likes of Netflix and Roku.

But Sky hopes to hit back with an overhaul to its ow ground-breaking system.

It is to undergo a revamp that will offer customers more streaming options and larger storage, the company has announced.

The Sky Q system, which will launch early next year, will include a new set top box called the Sky Q Silver as well as the Sky Q Mini – a smaller box that works as a streaming service, allowing users to watch Sky in another room.

A new remote with a touch control was also unveiled at the announcement in London, as well as new Sky Q app which will let users watch live channels and recordings on their tablet.

Before the launch, the firm had hinted at the revamp with the tagline; ‘It’s time to set your TV free’.

The broadcaster confirmed the main Q Silver box will come with five times the storage space of current boxes.

Sky chief executive Jeremy Darroch said: 'Sky Q is a brilliant new way for customers to experience TV on their terms.

'We wanted to re-imagine TV so that it’s flexible and seamless across different screens and to put a huge choice of entertainment at their fingertips.

'We think customers are going to love Sky Q and the great news is that it will get even better with much more to come in the future.’

The television company also announced a new WiFi hub, which Sky says can send WiFi signal through the existing electrical wiring in your home to increase signal, as well as turn Sky Q boxes into WiFi hotspots to also improve signal strength.

Up to two Minis can be placed in an system with a Q Silver box, and Sky confirmed the new box will be able to record up to four programmes at once.

The on-screen menu is also being revamped and made more intuitive as part of the launch.

The announcement comes as streaming boxes and services including Amazon’s Fire TV continue to grow in popularity.

Sky is yet to confirm pricing for the new line-up of products, but did confirm that ultra high definition programmes will begin to be on the service next year.