Some UK homes could soon find their broadband speeds get a massive boost. Sky has just confirmed the launch of a new service that will be capable of beaming the web into homes at speeds of up to 5 Gbps. At that rapid rate, customers would be able to download a full HD movie in a matter of seconds.
As a quick guide, a standard copper cable is only able to reach speeds of 70Mbps – Sky’s new service will be around 20 times faster.
There will be two new plans available – Full Fibre 2.5 Gigafast+ and Full Fibre 5 Gigafast+ – with Sky boasting that they will beat its rivals by offering “the UK’s fastest broadband speeds from any major provider”.
Along with the speed boost, the Internet Service Provider (ISP) will also offer a new Gigafast+ router which will feature WiFi 7 technology for improved connectivity.
Now, before you get too excited, there are some things to be aware of.
Firstly, Sky is delivering this boost via CityFibre cables, which are only available in 4.5 million homes.
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Next, it’s worth checking that you really need these speeds, as only very heavy users will see the benefit. For example, a home with 2 people who watch the odd Netflix boxset can easily survive on standard 70Mbps speeds.
Finally, there’s the price as this update won’t be cheap.
Sky says prices start at £70 a month for Full Fibre 2.5 Gigafast+ and £80 a month for Full Fibre 5 Gigafast+.
Speaking about the launch Sophia Ahmad, Chief Consumer Officer at Sky, said: “We’re proud to be setting a new standard in UK broadband. With speeds up to 5 Gbps, our new Full Fibre Gigafast+ packages make Sky the UK’s fastest major broadband provider. Combined with our existing full fibre range, we’re offering more choice than ever before.
“Powered by cutting-edge WiFi 7 technology, these plans deliver smarter, faster, and more reliable connectivity to homes across the country.”
And Greg Mesch, CEO of CityFibre, added: “Sky is making the most of CityFibre’s full fibre network to offer its customers fast and reliable Multi-Gig speeds and an outstanding online experience.
“This partnership is bringing more choice and better broadband to millions of homes on CityFibre’s nationwide, growing network – vital for how people live today and helping to deliver a healthy, competitive market for the long-term.”
If it sounds enticing, this upgrade should be available soon.