Copyright walesonline
Sky is set to discontinue a major product less than three years after its launch, which promised to "transform the way you use your TV". Customers affected by this change will be eligible for a refund once the service completely ceases next month. Sky Live, launched in June 2023 as a camera accessory for Sky Glass, allowed users to play games by moving around, watch football matches on Sky Sports with friends virtually, and send video cards to others. The additional device wasn't cheap, costing £290 outright or £6 per month on a 24-month plan with a Sky Glass subscription. Sky hasn't provided a specific reason for discontinuing the product so soon. "Innovation has always been at the heart of Sky," a Sky spokesperson said. “Innovation has always been at the heart of Sky. This year we’ve expanded our Sky Glass range to offer more choice, launched the UK’s fastest broadband speeds from any major provider, and continued to invest in making the TV experience even better. “Sky Live was part of that journey, and we’re proud of the ambition behind it. It’s given us valuable learnings that are helping to shape the future of our products. The most popular feature was gaming, which is why we’ve continued to bring even more games to Sky Glass and Sky Stream, with something for everyone in the family, including Who Wants To Be A Millionaire. “We’re focusing our investment where it matters most to customers — faster, simpler products, unbeatable content and brilliant service. Customers who purchased Sky Live will be refunded.” The decision comes just weeks after the broadcasting giant announced a reduction of around 600 jobs. Sky Live is set to cease functioning on December 4. All customers who purchased Sky Live will be refunded the amount they've paid for the device. Sky is planning to cut approximately 600 tech jobs as consultations involving 900 people commence. Employees at the Leeds, Livingston and Osterley sites are expected to be impacted. The job cuts are part of a reorganisation of Sky's technology team as it transitions from developing new platforms, such as Sky Glass and Sky Stream television, to focusing on existing services. As the company shifts away from product development, it's understood that teams need to be simpler, more focused and flexible. More tech functions are also being carried out across Sky's international operations.When the job cuts were announced last month a Sky spokesperson said: "Over the past few years, Sky has launched a set of market-leading products including Sky Glass, Sky Stream and our full fibre broadband service. These products are now firmly established and used by millions of customers, strengthening Sky's reputation for innovation and great service. As we look ahead, we are shifting our approach to bring customers the next generation of experience by investing in digital-first service, unbeatable content, and even better performance from our products, powered by the best of global innovation. ".
