Sky introduces programme voice search

Sky has introduced a new function on its top-end set-top boxes allowing viewers to search for programmes using their voices.

The voice search will be available to Sky customers with the Sky Q service, which was launched in late 2015 as a premium option for subs.

TV tech firm TiVo is delivering the voice search solution, which uses language recognition to allow users to search for films and series across Sky’s linear and on-demand offerings.

Users press and hold a voice button on the Sky Q remote and then saying the programme or sporting event they are looking for.

Sky claims the search will also work if users say the star, or iconic movie quotes – such as “Say hello to my little friend” – out loud.

“We want to make it even faster and easier for [customers] to search, discover and watch TV,” said Luke Bradley-Jones, Sky’s brand director of TV and content products.

Referring to Tom Cruise film Jerry Maguire, he added: “Just ask Sky Q to ‘show me the money’ by pressing the side of the touch remote, making it even easier and faster to find, discover and watch the TV you love.”

The voice search was rolled out alongside other new features including the integration of Facebook videos within the current Sky Q photo app.

Sky Q is Sky’s most advanced, and expensive, offering. As well as allowing seamless viewing across different sets and devices, it has ultra HD sport, movies, docs and drama content.