Sky Glass Gen 2 first look review: Chic new Sky TV is brighter, lighter and more colourful

We knew it was coming, but Sky still managed to surprise with the grand reveal of its second generation Sky Glass TV, the all-in-one Wi-Fi (no dish required) telly for its premium pay TV service.

The new set offers a raft of improvements over its predecessor, although perhaps not the one pundits expected, and then by way of a mic drop, Sky previewed yet another version of Sky Glass due for release later this year.

The eagerly anticipated launch event was held at 180 The Strand, and The Luxe Review was there, notepad in hand.

The new Sky Glass 2 set offers a raft of improvements over its predecessor…

Available in 43-, 55-, and 65-inch screen sizes, Sky Glass Gen 2 is brighter, lighter and more colourful than its forebear, but still recognisably Sky Glass. It’s built around a new Quantum Dot LED panel, has an advanced processor, and a reworked Dolby Atmos sound system, promising an even more immersive viewing experience. 

The screen maintains the core concept of its predecessor, which is to deliver Sky’s full viewing experience over Wi-Fi without the need for a satellite dish or external set-top box. It runs on the newly rebranded Sky OS (formerly Sky Entertainment OS), which provides seamless access to Sky’s extensive content library, as well as popular streaming apps, including Netflix, Prime Video, Disney+ and AppleTV+.

One of the biggest advancements in Sky Glass Gen 2 is its Full Array QD-LED panel, which delivers improved brightness and contrast through more generous LED deployment and increased local dimming zones. 

Fraser Stirling, sky’s Global Chief Product Officer, said that there had been heated debate over the panel choice, particularly when it came to 120Hz support for 4K 120FPS gaming. In the end, it was decided to stick with a 60Hz panel, and resist the allure of Mini LED and OLED.

Up close, the set delivered a convincing black level, in what was a high brightness environment, and contrast looked excellent. The screen also comes with a light sensor, and so can automatically adjust brightness and contrast based on ambient light in your viewing room.

The TV supports 4K HDR and Dolby Vision, and for those that love richer colours and more dynamic images, Sky has also expanded the picture preset selection, introducing an ‘Extra Vivid’ option. 

By way of demonstration, we were treated to a sequence from the Jason Momoa superhero adventure Aquaman, which positively glowed with vibrancy. I don’t think I’d opt for this mode with all content, but think it could look amazing with animation.

The design has also been refined, with three fresh colour options (Volcanic Grey, Arctic Silver, and Atlantic Blue) which should suit most modern interiors. The Blue seemed a clear favourite at the launch. The fabric speaker grille is now colour-matched to the set, enhancing the overall aesthetic. Additionally, Sky has improved the set’s viewing angles, ensuring that colour and contrast hold up even when viewed from the side.

Sky has also made some subtle tweaks to the built-in Dolby Atmos sound system, increasing the number of speakers from six to seven. The updated system now features dual subwoofers and up-firing height drivers, a demo of A Star is Born delivering deeper bass and clearer vocals.

What’s missing from the first Sky Glass are the angled side speakers.

Even so, buyers can be assured of an expansive audio experience without the need for an external soundbar.

The set also features a simplified stand with a two-prong slot-in design, eliminating the need for fiddly tools. The rear panel has been redesigned to be completely flat, making wall mounting a neater and more straightforward process; the TV is fully compatible with standard VESA mounts.

Introducing Sky Glass Air: A new affordable option

In a surprise announcement, Sky also unveiled the Sky Glass Air, set to launch later this year. This entry-level Quantum Dot LED TV lacks the built-in Dolby Atmos soundbar of its stablemate but still delivers the full Sky content experience. Sky Glass Air will be available in three colours – Carbon Grey, Cotton White, and Sea Green – and three sizes: 43-, 55-, and 65-inches. Pricing details will be revealed closer to launch.

Sky Glass Gen 2 TV: Pricing and availability

Sky Glass Gen 2 is available from today, with various pricing options. Customers can choose to pay upfront or opt for interest-free monthly payments, starting from £14 per month for the 43-inch model, £19 per month for the 55-inch, and £24 per month for the 65-inch.

Channel subscriptions vary according to bundle.

The TV can be purchased from Sky’s website, Sky stores, call centers, and Currys.