Starting August 3rd, users of Sky’s popular contract-free streaming service, NOW, will find that a selection of older devices will no longer be compatible. This change affects specific Roku models and certain older Apple devices, requiring users to upgrade their hardware or software to continue accessing the service.
NOW Service Discontinuing Support for Legacy Roku Devices
The upcoming discontinuation of support primarily impacts users who stream NOW content through older hardware manufactured by Roku. This decision stems from Roku’s own initiative to end support for its aging device models. Consequently, the NOW TV Smart Box (model 4500SK), which was developed in partnership with Roku, will also lose compatibility.
Affected Roku Devices Include:
- NOW TV Smart Box (4500SK)
- Roku Streaming Stick (3500X)
- Roku Box (2700X)
- Roku Box (2710X)
- Roku Box (2720X)
For individuals relying on these specific gadgets to access NOW, the only recourse to continue streaming will be to acquire new hardware. This move by Roku to phase out support for older products is a common practice in the technology sector as manufacturers focus on newer, more capable devices and software platforms.
Older Apple Devices Also Impacted by Software Requirements
In addition to the Roku hardware changes, NOW will also cease to function on several older Apple devices. This is due to a new minimum software requirement for the NOW application. The service will henceforth only support devices capable of running iOS 16 or a later version of Apple’s mobile operating system.
Specific Apple Devices Losing Access:
- iPhone 7 and earlier models
- iPad Air 2
- iPad mini 4
These particular iPhone and iPad models cannot be updated to iOS 16 or beyond. As a result, users who have been streaming NOW on these devices will be unable to access the service after the update. This necessitates an upgrade to a newer Apple device that meets the minimum iOS requirement if continued access to NOW is desired.
Understanding the NOW Streaming Service
NOW, formerly known as NOW TV, is Sky’s flexible streaming service designed to offer access to a wide range of Sky’s content without the need for a long-term contract or a satellite dish. It provides viewers with a way to watch entertainment, movies, live sports, and premium TV channels on a flexible, monthly basis. Memberships can be canceled at any time, offering a contract-free alternative to traditional Sky packages.
Key Features of NOW:
- Contract-Free: No long-term commitments required.
- Flexible Memberships: Monthly subscriptions that can be canceled anytime.
- Content Variety: Access to Sky’s entertainment, movies, sports, and kids’ channels.
- Wide Device Compatibility: Available on numerous modern smart TVs, smartphones, tablets, games consoles, and current streaming sticks.
- No Satellite Dish Needed: Streams content over the internet.
The service is accessible through a dedicated app that has been integrated into a vast array of modern smart devices. This includes popular smart TVs from various manufacturers, current-generation streaming sticks like Amazon Fire TV and Google Chromecast, gaming consoles such as PlayStation and Xbox, and a wide range of smartphones and tablets. The platform allows subscribers to enjoy content ranging from Sky Originals and blockbuster films to live Premier League football and Formula 1 races.
Looking Ahead: Modern Alternatives for NOW Viewers
While the discontinuation of support for older devices may inconvenience some users, it reflects the broader industry trend towards requiring more up-to-date hardware and software for optimal streaming performance and security. NOW continues to support a vast majority of modern smart TVs, current Roku devices, and newer smartphones and tablets.
For those affected by the upcoming changes, several options are available. Upgrading to a newer Roku device, a more recent Apple iPhone or iPad capable of running iOS 16+, or investing in a universally compatible streaming stick such as a Fire TV Stick or Google Chromecast will ensure continued access to the NOW service. This transition allows users to benefit from the latest features and performance enhancements available on current technology platforms.
The move ensures that the NOW streaming service can continue to deliver a high-quality viewing experience, leveraging the capabilities of contemporary devices and operating systems. Users are encouraged to check the compatibility of their current device with the latest NOW app requirements to avoid any disruption to their viewing.
