Sky NZ launches new sports service for mobile devices

Pay-television broadcaster Sky New Zealand has launched a new sports service for mobile devices that will provide cut-price access to its Fan Pass streaming service.

Fan Pass Mobile will allow customers to purchase access to stream Sky Sport channels 1-4 on select iPhone or Android phones for NZ$15.99 (€9/$11) per month.

Sky chief executive John Fellet first hinted the platform was in development last year, as the broadcaster seeks to respond to a loss of traditional pay-television customers.

Sky’s director of strategy, George Macfarlane, said: “We know that there’s a segment of sport fans who are happy to watch on a mobile screen, and we’re pleased to be able to meet their needs at a lower price point to reflect the mobile-only experience.”

Macfarlane added that the new Pass has been specifically developed for mobile, and can’t be cast to bigger screens.  

The latest development comes after telco Spark last week forged a sports partnership with Sky amid speculation concerning a wider tie-up between the two companies.

Spark customers with an unlimited home broadband plan are now able to purchase Sky’s Fan Pass service at a special rate. Eligible Spark customers can buy a 12-month subscription to Fan Pass for NZ$30 a month, which compares to the usual cost of NZ$55.99 per month.

The deal is set to give Spark customers access to Sky’s coverage of New Zealand international rugby, football’s forthcoming Fifa World Cup and the domestic ANZ Premiership netball competition.