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Sky admits it’s “fallen short” on Sky Go for Android, but promises that bringing the app to 10-inch Android tablets is “the highest priority remaining issue to address.”
“In response to the high level of interest shown by a number of forums customers regarding our Sky Go development on Android to date and our future plans, I wanted to update you all personally,” says Alun Webber, Sky’s Managing Director for Product Design & Development.
“Firstly, I acknowledge that Sky Go on Android has fallen short of the expectations of some of our customers,” says Webber.
Customers have been frustrated that new developments hit Apple devices first. To address that, as of January new features arrive in the Android app and iOS app at the same time.
But the biggest problem is that many Ice Cream Sandwich, Jelly Bean and 10-inch tablets can’t use Sky Go at all, leaving paying customers unable to watch their Sky channels while they’re away from their telly and dish — while smug iPad owners swan about doing exactly that.
So what’s the problem?
Webber blames Gingerbread, the version of Android for which the Sky Go app was originally developed. Gingerbread could not adapt to different screen sizes as well as Ice Cream Sandwich and Jelly Bean, he says, so rather than spend time rewriting the code Sky decided to prioritise adding downloads to the app instead — leaving certain tablets out in the cold.
Gingerbread also doesn’t support the change in frame resolution that occurs when using the higher bit stream required for a larger screen. Without access to higher bandwidth than that required by a smaller screen, sport or TV shows viewed on a 10-inch or 7-inch tablet wouldn’t look good enough to enjoy.
Sky is working on both these issues. Webber promises Sky will be more prepared for the next Android update — thought to be Android 4.3 — later this year. Sky will also confirm within two weeks when the most popular Android tablets will be brought up to speed.
Adding to customer ire, Sky has just hiked prices — adding up to £30 to your bill, if you purchase the full subscription.
Are you pleased Sky has finally responded to the Android tablet issue, or is this too little, too late? Tell me your thoughts or on our Facebook page.
