Sky+ Service To Be Accessible On Mobiles And Online

Sky subscribers in Britain will soon be able to set their Sky+ programme recorder remotely via their mobile phone or the internet.

Users of the BSkyB service will have to register for the remote access, which is free apart from mobile network and internet charges. The Sky by mobile service is available to subscribers of Sky sports or movie packages.

The application offers a version of the Sky electronic programme guide on compatible 3G or GPRS mobile phones. Non-compatible handsets will have a text message alternative to the one-button service for compatible handsets. This involves sending a text message with the programme name, channel, date and time in a particular format to a short code number.

The remote recording requests are sent to the set-top box over the air as part of the satellite signal. Sky says requests should be made at least 30 minutes before the start of the programme.

The remote record facility will also be available on the web through the ‘My Sky’ portal, which will be free to use.

The ability to remotely set a recording has been promised by a number of operators as a benefit of converged communications services, and Sky is planning to provide this before others, such as the forthcoming BT Vision service (see BT Unveils Next Generation TV Service).

It also offers a benefit over other digital video recorders that are sold retail rather than as part of a subscription package.

Sky has not yet set an official launch date for the remote recording service, but it is understood to be imminent.

Sky: 08702 40 40 40 www.sky.com