Sky cuts a deal with Disney for exclusive access, launches Sky Movies Disney

Sky cuts a deal with Disney for exclusive access, launches Sky Movies Disney

In Sky’s latest bid (after getting Sony and Warner on the hook) to corner premium viewing content in the UK before rivals including Lovefilm and Netflix get traction, it has announced an extension to its 24-year agreement with Disney. Beyond guaranteeing Disney — which means Lucasfilm, of course — Pixar and Marvel flicks will be on Sky (plus Sky Go, and 3D movies on Sky 3D) a year before any other service, it’s also creating a new Sky Movies Disney Channel in its lineup that launches March 28th. In order to reach those not with the typical TV package, the deal also brings Disney’s movies to Sky’s Now TV internet video service for users with a monthly movie pass. We’re sure 24 years ago, such deals didn’t cover so many devices or avenues of access but snagging exclusives to gain a market advantage has stayed exactly the same.

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Source: Sky

Sky will broadcast final preseason F1 tests in 3D to UK viewers

In a move it’s calling a world’s first, Sky Sports has announced that parts of Formula 1’s final preseason tests from Circuit de Catalunya will be broadcast on its 3D network. While F1 has tested the use of 3D before, it’s never been broadcast and chief Bernie Ecclestone — who you’ll remember fiddled for years as F1 stuck with widescreen standard definition video presentations before it made the jump in 2011 — has previously said 3D will never be used. Sky Sports referred to the event as a one-off, while commentator Martin Brundle is quoted in the press release calling it a “special moment for F1 fans…a new immersive experience for viewers.

While Ecclestone may not be willing to push the envelope in broadcast tech, having Sky as a broadcast partner could force the issue as it justifies its exclusive access and dedicated broadcast channel. Last season the network upgraded the audio to Dolby 5.1 and added features like the Race Control view in its iPad app. Sky has previously featured sporting events on its 3D channel like Ryder Cup golf, Premier League and of course the 2012 Olympics. It says F1 will be the 14th sport it’s delivered in 3D, although we’ll have to wait until after this maiden test from February 28th to March 3rd — it will also be available in 2D HD on the regular F1 channel — to see if it becomes a regular fixture. Now, about those HD on-board cameras….

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Source: Sky Sports

David Attenborough’s Galapagos 3D begins airing New Year’s Day in the UK on Sky 3D

David Attenborough's Galapagos 3D begins airing New Year's Day in the UK on Sky 3D

The long nights, relentless Christmas adverts and brisk chill in the air are all signs the year is coming to an end, and what better way to see in the next than with British documentary legend Sir David Attenborough? The first episode of his new three-part natural history series Galapagos 3D, written and presented by the man himself, will be airing New Year’s Day on Sky 3D in the UK. Like most of his projects, it’s sure to be a stunning visual treat that’ll make you forget about even the worst of New Year hangovers. So, don’t forget to stoke the fire, switch on your 3D TV, and enjoy an educational tour of the Galapagos Islands to start off your 2013.

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Source: BSkyB