What the new era of premium pay TV over IPTV means for integrators and viewers

Sky Pivots to IPTV With Sky Stream Puck

Sky Stream ushers in a new era of premium pay TV over IPTV. Steve May, freelance journalist, considers what it means for integrators and viewers. Does the advent of Sky Stream mean the writing is on the wall for traditional set top boxes and video distribution systems?

That certainly seems to be the direction of travel. The diminutive new IPTV box brings Sky’s latest content platform to a much wider audience and is already piquing the interest of the home technology community.

Long story short: Sky Stream delivers the entire Sky Glass experience over Wi-Fi to any TV or projector. The box offers all the key Sky linear channels, along with its huge on-demand library, and comes with a host of streaming apps, including Netflix, Apple TV+, Prime Video, Disney+, YouTube, Discovery+, Peacock, and Paramount+ .

It’s a major play by Sky and parent Comcast to dominate tomorrow’s premium pay TV landscape.

For UK consumers, Sky Stream is being touted as the most affordable way to get Sky TV and Netflix together. Combined packages start at £26 a month. There’s the option of a rolling 31-day contract, or an 18-month money-saver.

Sky Stream means that clients no longer need a satellite dish to receive Sky’s channel bouquet, or accept the limitations of the Sky Glass QLED TV. One HDMI and you’re good (although infuriatingly, it’s still too bulky to easily park behind wall-mounted screens).

Still, there’s much to like. Unlike Now TV, Sky’s other streaming product, the tech specs are solid. The box supports HLG, Dolby Vision, and Dolby Atmos audio.

The Glass platform has also been honed since its original launch. Sky has quietly been issuing firmware updates by the dozen that add features, rearrange the home screen, and fix niggles.

And yes, Sky Stream is the very same Sky Puck that was first mooted as a multiroom solution for Sky Glass owners.

Sky remains committed to Sky Q, its hugely successful dish/ IPTV set top box solution, so it’s not like the plug is going to be pulled anytime soon, but it’s clear that all R&D eyes are now focussed on IPTV. There are literally millions of potential viewers out there that don’t want, or can’t have a dish, or don’t need a new TV. Sky Stream is their answer.

For the broadcast industry, the arrival of Sky Stream is clearly an inflection point, but from an integrator point of view, there remain limitations. For one thing, you can only have six Sky Stream devices on a single account (coupled with a Whole Home pack subscription, a £12 a month supplement).

Sky has also confirmed that it has no plans to release the Sky Stream API. Like Sky Glass, Sky Stream runs Entertainment OS, a brand-new co-development of Sky and Comcast. Entertainment OS will form the basis of all IPTV devices from the group and its partners, going forward.

The big news is that a comparable streaming device will launch stateside in 2023. Everything you know about TV is about to change…again.

Watch this space (no subscription required).

LIGHT UP YOUR WORLD WITH LG OLED

LG OLED is the pinnacle of TV technology. All the screen’s pixels are self-lit, allowing for perfect contrast, 100% colour accuracy and volume, and the sharpest details. All in 4K Ultra HD / Real 8K definition and powered by the advanced alpha series Gen5 AI processors. These act as the brain of the LG OLED TV, automatically detecting and optimising your viewing content to deliver the ultimate picture and sound experience. The latest cutting-edge OLED evo technology – α9 Gen5 AI processor and Brightness Booster technology, found in the G2 and C2 models – brings increased brightness and sharpness for true brilliance and viewing clarity.

LG is the market leader and key developer of OLED TV technology. Perfected over the past 10 years, it offers cutting-edge advancements and now the widest array of screen sizes from 42” to 97”, suitable for any size and style of room and all user needs.

LG TVs are ideal for custom install, with incredible picture and sound quality, beautiful designs, and support for IP Control. Many major systems are supported – including URC, Control4, Crestron, Savant, and more. The class-leading gallery design of LG OLED’s G2 offers an ultra slim profile and built-in flush fit wall mount*. Its understated elegance merges seamlessly into any environment, yet makes a bold statement and powerful focal point wherever it is installed.

LG has been named Which? Home Entertainment brand of the year for three years running, with numerous awards and top reviews for key models including the G2 and C2. LG OLED has even been garlanded in Hollywood, as the 2021 Technology and Engineering Emmy Award Winner for Hollywood Reference Display.

More immersive movies

LG OLED brings a stunningly immersive cinema experience directly to your home. Exceptionally sharp pictures, crystal-clear sound, and perfect black levels deliver movies as the director intended. Filmmaker Mode, Dolby Vision IQ, and Dolby Atmos provide aweinspiring access to movie drama across every genre.

Faster gaming

LG OLED unleashes the full potential of next generation consoles and heightens gaming skills. Boost your competitive edge with HDMI 2.1 features including HFR (4K/120), VRR, ALLM, and an incredible 0.1ms response time plus low input lag. See every detail in stunning pixel-perfect 4K / Real 8K resolution, with HGiG, Dolby Vision, and Dolby Atmos. OLED TVs come loaded with FreeSync, G-Sync, Game Optimiser, eARC features, with easy access to Twitch on LG’s webOS smart platform.

More realistic sport

LG OLED delivers the realism and intensity of the sports stadium experience at home, with uncompromised picture quality at any viewing angle regardless of where you are sitting. Exceptional picture quality with immersive sound (AI sound) is enhanced by the smoothest motion (Smooth Motion) so no matter how fast and intense the action, OLED keeps every detail of the game in diamond-sharp focus. More stylish space

LG OLED TV’s world-leading technology has created an unimaginably thin, light design. Your low-profile OLED TV merges seamlessly and elegantly into any room of your home, enabling the brilliance of OLED wherever you desire.

Smart content & control

LG OLED features webOS, LG’s smart platform which hosts a huge variety of the best streaming services – including Freeview Play, NOW, Netflix, Prime Video, Disney+, and more – and makes browsing and searching for what to watch completely hassle-free, including through voice control. Your smart platform is controlled via the easy-to-use LG Magic Remote, plus allows smart home control with built-in Google Assistant and Alexa.

More comfortable viewing

Enjoy a safer, more comfortable viewing experience with OLED’s flicker-free technology and certified low blue light levels. Your eyes benefit from reduced fatigue during those boxset marathons, nail-biting championship games and intense gaming sessions.

Eco-friendly

LG OLED TVs are significantly more eco-friendly than LED equivalents. OLED is officially a Low Hazardous product and rated excellent in recycling efficiency, using less plastic and fewer hazardous materials. LG has also cut the amount of ink used on packaging, making it easier to recycle. Select OLED evo models use different materials internally, reducing weight when compared to previous models, which both makes them easier to wall-mount and helps decrease their carbon footprint when shipping.

*Wall-mount included. Table stand not included - available to purchase separately.

VISIT ISE 2023 TO BE INSPIRED, TO LEARN, AND TO DEVELOP SKILLS

Interview with Mike Blackman | Managing Director of ISE

How are plans progressing for ISE 2023?

Following an enthusiastic response last year, we’re returning with an even bigger show. Exhibitor space is just under 52,000 sqm, which is over 30% larger than in 2022. With more than 700 exhibitors already confirmed, leading residential AV names including, Basalte, FOCAL, KNX, Lutron, Rako, Savant, and Snap One will be joining CEDIA on the show floor.

The extensive show floor is complemented by a four-day professional development programme that is curated by the show’s co-owners, CEDIA and AVIXA. Expect plenty of exciting show features and enriching learning opportunities to create an unmissable event for the AV channel and end-users alike.

Our opening keynote speaker for ISE 2023 is BK Johannessen, Unreal Engine Business Director for Broadcast and Live Events at Epic Games. The keynote, titled “All Paths Lead to Real-Time”, takes place at 5:15 p.m. on Tuesday 31 January in the Conference Suite CC4.1.

What makes ISE the centre of innovation for the systems integration industry?

ISE is an essential part of the calendar for the AV and systems integrations industry - it is where globally important brands launch products, and where people come to see, hear, and experience the products, services, and solutions that are transforming how we live. This technology shapes our experiences in the home, at work, and in retail, hospitality, education, and live event environments…and so much more. It is a chance to meet people, do business, and make connections that deliver real business benefits. And of course, it is a place to come to be inspired, learn, and develop skills.

What show attractions have you got lined up for residential integrators?

There is an abundance of smart home technology on the show floor as well as a full programme of professional development sessions, covering a mixture of technology and business topics, and emerging trends within the smart home industry.

You’ll find plenty to inspire you in the Residential and Smart Building Zone in Hall 2, including the CEDIA stand and the CEDIA stage, which will be featuring content and events throughout the show. You can discover systems for designing and controlling lighting scenes in a room - and responding to changes in ambient light levels during the day. You can find out more about the various home technology platforms and connectivity standards, and you can see solutions for improving the visual impact of loudspeakers, control panels, and other elements of home technology.

For many years, the Smart Building Conference has been an essential part of ISE’s conference programme and returns for 2023. Taking place on 31 January, SBC is Europe’s most important high-level conference on smart buildings. It’s a platform for all building automation and in-building technologies, and the must-attend conference for professionals working in the smart building industry, covering residential as well as commercial opportunities.

www.iseurope.org

ISE Round UpProduct

Artcoustic

BOOTH 2E120

The Artcoustic Spitfire Series loudspeakers are the most powerful, dynamic, and scalable products Artcoustic has ever created. Designed to deliver reference SPL within a controlled dispersion pattern for any high-performance cinema room, the Spitfire Series is capable of Dolby Atmos reference 105db output at up to 12m distance. Output and dispersion change depending on the configuration, allowing the correct design to be installed for multiple rows. With sensitivity above 100db, the Spitfire loudspeakers act fast and play loud. www.artcoustic.com

Artnovion

BOOTH 5E820

The Artnovion Cinema Series is a flexible range tailored into beautiful, timeless, multifunctional designs. It’s a modular system combining inspiring patterns, colour palettes, and remarkable acoustic performance that can be arranged to create distinct designs. These products are made using four acoustic cores, each providing distinct functionality and finished with a range of premium wood and fabric covers. The latest addition is the Starlight panel, seamlessly integrating the realistic effect of twinkling stars with RGB LED technology via remote control. www.artnovion.com

Aruba Instant On

BOOTH 2Q225

Aruba Instant On is built for small and home businesses with up to 250 employees that have little or no IT support. Set up in minutes, it will manage the network from a smartphone. Experience speedy, secure, and reliable Wi-Fi 6, Smart Mesh coverage, and connectivity for up to 50 devices with 90 days post-purchase support. Set appointments, accept mobile orders, and manage POS systems seamlessly. All with no hidden fees and energy-saving features to prevent energy bill shock. www.arubainstanton.com

Basalte

BOOTH 2H200

Basalte unites high-quality design and intuitive smart home technology. In a Basalte Home, everything is exactly the way you want. From lighting, music, and entertainment to climate and security, the home can be personalised down to the finest details and can all be controlled with a gentle touch of the Basalte app, keypads, and design remote. All products are meticulously designed and handmade with love in Belgium. www.basalte.us

Crestron Electronics, Inc.

BOOTH 3H100 & 3H200

With major upgrades including hundreds of Crestron products and thousands of third-party devices, Creston Home is here to impress. Crestron Home controls wellness aspects such as lighting, energy management, and air purification to create the perfect oasis. It supports modern living, delivering speed, and simplicity for commanding home entertainment devices, thermostats, shades, lighting, and security from a single app. Come see how Crestron Home can fit into your home. www.crestron.com

Digital Projection

BOOTH 3K800

The Satellite Modular Laser System separates the projector head from the light source. This means noise and heat can be up to 100m away from the head, making for a completely unobtrusive theatre install. The RGB laser light sources offer near REC2020 colour, meaning you can experience the movies with the most vibrant, lifelike colour reproduction available. The projector ‘head’ is fundamentally compact, quiet, lightweight, and consumes very little power, so integrators can install in more locations previously unavailable. www.digitalprojection.com/emea

D-Tools

BOOTH 2K500

D-Tools will demonstrate System Integrator (SI) version 19, which provides AV integrators with a powerful new sales, project, and field service software tool to improve operating efficiency. SI v19 supports better job costing and time management through an integration with QuickBooks Time. There’s also a new PoE (Power over Ethernet) tool and enhancements to purchasing and field service management. D-Tools Cloud is a powerful and easy-to-implement web-based SaaS solution accessible from any web-enabled device. Visit our booth to learn what it can do for your business. www.d-tools.com

Faradite

BOOTH 2D275

Faradite will feature its complete range of impossibly small motion sensors, including the new Motion Sensor 360 Pinhole, a rear mounted, ultra-tiny motion sensor. Faradite will show the gorgeous solid metal mounting plate solution for the Pinhole sensor, which is a collaboration with Focus SB. The company is also launching new products around ISE 2023 , so visitors to the stand will be among the first to get hands on with these sublime pieces of Faradite technology. www.faradite.com

FS Cables

BOOTH 2F590

Tru is a range of high-performance cables for home automation and building control. The range covers the most popular applications when integrating electronic systems into the home and commercial environments, from AV, entertainment, and building control to lighting and security. TruAccessories is the latest addition, which covers cable accessories and tools to help you identify, connect, secure, and protect your cables. Tru cables use only the best materials and manufacturing processes to ensure top performance, making sure you get the most out of your equipment. www.fscables.com

GUDE Systems

BOOTH 3A500

GUDE Systems is a manufacturer of top-quality power solutions for AV experts. The reliable PDUs of this family-owned company allow the empowerment of AV installations found in smart homes and media racks. At ISE, GUDE will introduce its latest power solution Expert Power Control 87. The IP power strip disposes of 30 IEC ports with smart switching and remote control features. For smart home integrators, this smart PDU means faster managed service, less downtimes, and happier customers. www.gude-systems.com

HDANYWHERE

BOOTH 3Q200

HDANYWHERE™ will be showing the brand new Remote uControl, a remote control that is the perfect companion interface for any MHUB system. Everything users previously controlled via the uControl app can now be done with a handheld button remote. ISE is the first public outing for the new remote control, where visitors will be able to get hands-on, have a hold, and have a play at HDANYWHERE™ booth in the Multi-Technology hall. www.HDANYWHERE.com

K-Array

BOOTH 7F350

K-Array’s most iconic loudspeaker for installed solutions has been redesigned with an even sleeker miniaturised premium aluminium body. For discreet use in a variety of intimate environments, the remarkable mid-high micro-loudspeakers are designed for the best sound experience with the lowest visual-impact. Available in two sizes, these speakers can be installed flush mounted or recessed. www.k-array.com

Krix

BOOTH 2D150

Krix is proudly exhibiting alongside Trinnov Audio and Officina Acustica. Demonstration sessions will be available in the high-channel count home cinema, with a focus on dynamic movie playback. There’s also an innovative and unique approach to low frequency reproduction. Team members will be on hand at booth 2D150 to provide an immersive home cinema demonstration to visitors. www.krix.com

Leon Speakers

BOOTH 2K500

Leon Speakers produces a broad range of functional and beautiful concealment solutions that blend seamlessly into outdoor and indoor settings. Leon AV products provide innovative ways to integrate AV equipment into homes and businesses and elevate the aesthetic attributes of integration projects. www.leonspeakers.com

LILIN UK

BOOTH 2L200

LILIN UK will showcase its portfolio of NDAA-compliant security solutions. From the economic E series to the EdgeAI range, LILIN UK will be highlighting its deep integration opportunities alongside partners GJD and HDANYWHERE. 2023 marks 10 years since LILIN developed its first Home Automation driver, and it remains at the forefront of security in CI, thanks to its longstanding close relationships with the leading home automation platforms. www.meritlilin.com

Lithe Audio

BOOTH 2E150

The Lithe Audio iO1 all-in-one wireless indoor and outdoor speaker features a high-efficiency amplifier, wired and wireless connectivity options, and highquality components in one weather-resistant, IP66-rated speaker. The aluminium grille only requires a power source for installation. Designed for areas that require high-end audio quality but can’t accommodate a traditional ceiling speaker, the iO1 can be installed in six mounting configurations. Featuring dual full-range woofers, titanium tweeters, and 2 x 60W RMS Class D amplifiers, it delivers high-resolution audio at 192 kHz, 24 bits in these spaces. www.litheaudio.com

Meridian Audio

BOOTH 2H150

Meridian will show its DSP3200 loudspeakers in a striking Volcanic orange colour. These compact speakers provide a powerful performance and are designed for intimate listening spaces or as part of a larger installation. The DSP3200 pairs well with the Meridian 218 Zone Controller. The speakers employ Meridian’s awardwinning DSP technologies with two integrated amplifiers, on-board digital signal processing, and two drivers. www.meridian-audio.com

MSE Audio Group

BOOTH 7A400

SoundTube, an MSE Audio Group brand, is featuring two new Mighty Mite pendant speakers. The sleek and contemporary speakers produce louder, cleaner sound from one point of origin. Mighty Mites have a built-in subwoofer and full coverage over large areas, as well as generate exceptional sound for music and voice applications. They also have a built-in 30-Watt transformer for standard 70/100-volt applications. www.mseaudio-int.mseaudio.com

NETGEAR AV

BOOTH 5D800

NETGEAR AV has spent the last 26 years creating advanced networking products. The company understands the difficulties in setting up a great home network. That’s why it offers easy-to-setup yet powerful switches and access points along with free Pro AV and Pro Wi-Fi design services to help you get the network of your client’s dreams. Stop by to see the latest Wi-Fi 6 access points with greater coverage and blazing-fast speed at channel-only pricing. www.netgear.com/residential

Oray

BOOTH 3N700

French manufacturer since 1947, Oray designs and sells projection screens and home cinema seats. Its mission is to support its partners in their most ambitious projects. ISE visitors will discover the recessed motorised screens, customisable frame screens, and large venues motorised screens. Visitors will also have the chance to experience D-BOX sensations in the top-of-the-range home cinema seats. www.oray.fr

Polar Bear Design

BOOTH CS540

The Zentium Pro Thermostat is a dual room, heating and cooling thermostat that can be integrated with AV and Building Management System controls. It can be physically paired with light switches with exclusive styling options, controlling towel radiators and hot water, too. The design blends modern technology with a traditional tactile control. Polar Bear Design has a range of luxury finishes and custom digital crowns to match interior needs. www.polarbeardesign.co.uk

Rako

BOOTH 2K450

Rako provides lighting controls that offer luxury, comfort, and convenience in the hospitality, commercial, and smart home residential sectors. The company will be demonstrating its refreshed app, which allows users to control colour temperature and light intensity with a touch slider. Clients can now adjust the lighting for tasks or set scenes to link the lighting with their individual circadian rhythms. www.rakocontrols.com

Russound

BOOTH 2K500

Since 1967, innovation, quality, and reliability have been the pillars of Russound® products. Russound designs and manufactures audio products that sound great, are easy to install, simple to use, and offer exceptional value. They deliver a complete range of multiroom audio systems, streaming audio solutions, volume controls, amplifiers, loudspeakers, and more. At ISE 2023, Russound will debut a wide array of innovative products, including an all-new line of digital amplifiers. www.russound.com

Screen Innovations

BOOTH 2K500

Screen Innovations has risen above supply chain challenges by continuing to shorten lead times for residential and commercial projection screen projects. Integrators can rely on SI to deliver the products they need to complete projects and build new business. One of the newest products to hit the market is Solo 3, a re-envisioned line of design-centred motorised projection screen cassettes. Solo 3 discreetly blends into surrounding indoor and outdoor entertainment environments. www.screeninnovations.com

Snap One

BOOTH 2D400

Snap One is debuting its new line of Control4 hand-held interfaces, the Halo Family of Remotes. Halo and Halo Touch include enhanced features like a colour screen, new graphical interface, dual-band Wi-Fi support, backlit buttons, and pushto-talk voice control. The Halo model features a 2.8-inch screen that is navigable with hard buttons and access to connected devices. The Halo Touch model makes every function available through an intuitive 3.2-inch customisable touchscreen. www.snapone.com

Stealth Acoustics

BOOTH 2K300

Experience the powerful, performance-driven 7th generation LineaResponseX completely invisible speakers at ISE 2023. The installation features a pair of LRX-83 speakers and a B30g subwoofer system installed in a stud-framed wall with standard texture and paint finish for a representative demonstration. StingRay83 outdoor speakers will also be demonstrated. www.stealthacoustics.com

BOOTH 6M300

CYP Europe 4K matrix is LITE in name but is packed with technology. The CYP PUV-44XPL-4K22-KIT delivers 4K, HDCP 2.2, 4 x 4 #HDMI / HDBaseT LITE matrix with two local HDMI outputs (with HDR support) and audio breakout. In addition to 4K and 3D video content, the matrix supports high resolution digital audio formats. Combined with the audio breakout functionality, which provides de-embedded analogue L/R audio outputs for each of the HDBaseT zones, it is a truly multi-faceted matrix. www.syscomtec.com

URC

BOOTH 2F400

URC will display the latest updates to its URC Total Control® home automation platform. This includes the launch of Nest and Ring integration as well as Apple TV voice and IP integration, now native within the Total Control® system. Visitors can also see the full Complete Control product line-up including two new handheld remotes, the MX-490, and MX-1400. www.urc-automation.com

Vanco

BOOTH CS500

The PulseAudio by Vanco PA-CVB1 Collaboration Video Bar is an affordable, all-in-one solution for transforming any home office or small meeting space into a video collaboration room. The PACVB1’s camera is equipped with smart framing, auto-tracking, and a 120-degree field-of-view, ensuring everyone can fit on the screen. This intelligent camera can respond to motion and sound to focus on the correct speaker so even remote participants have a good experience. www.vanco1.com

WALL-SMART

BOOTH 2F500

Blending technology into solid, thick, uneven wall surfaces can be complicated. The new patent-pending WALL-SMART Frameless Flush Mount enables a seamless fit between rugged walls and keypads, switches, touch panels, and tablets without sacrificing architectural integrity. Once the device is securely mounted and the seams covered with matching material, it looks like a natural part of the home without compromising performance. www.wall-smart.com