Advanced Television

New Sky online guide

May 2, 2008

Sky is to launch a new online electronic programme guide to offer UK viewers what it calls the most comprehensive TV listings service available anywhere online. Sky Guide will enable viewers to browse and search thousands of TV programmes from more than 600 channels up to 7 days in advance; whether they are on a PC at work or on the move using a handheld device. Online Sky Guide has advanced search and navigation features giving intuitive 'drag and zoom' access to listings, as well as a host of personalisation benefits to cater for individual tastes and preferences.

The first truly interactive online EPG, Online Sky Guide means people can search for programmes available on all digital television platforms and channels – including regional variations – on a self-contained web site through a simple drag, zoom and click interface. Once programmes are located on the guide, content boxes pop up with show synopses, recommendations, links to associated programmes, ratings, and, for Sky customers, personalisation options and a link for people to remote record to Sky+ boxes.

For the visually impaired, Sky has also developed a version of the Sky Guide which is more accessible in its layout and formatting. This site also identifies all programming which offers subtitles, enhanced audio and sign language.

The guide was developed in conjunction with technology partners Sapient and ioko.

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