Sky introduces new Sky+ box

Sky has started introducing a new version of the standard box used for its Sky+ DVR service. The box, which permits 40 hours of recording time, will replace the current Sky+ version 2 boxes, which are capable of holding 20 hours of recordings, as they disappear from the supply chain. DS forum members are referring to the box as Sky+ V3.

"Sky is introducing a new Sky+ box with an increased recording capacity," confirmed a Sky spokesperson. "The new boxes will double the current level of personal storage from an average of 20 hours to 40 hours. The box is being introduced as the standard Sky+ box, replacing the current version as the existing stocks of Sky+ boxes are used up."

The 40 hours of recording time is roughly equivalent to an 80GB hard drive. However, forum members who have examined the internal components of the box report that the box is actually equipped with a 160GB drive, indicating that 80GB has been reserved for a future use. A Sky spokesperson said that "the new design will also contain extra storage capacity which may be used in the future to provide new services such as enhanced interactive services, games or on-demand content."

The new boxes, which are being manufactured by Pace, Amstrad and Thomson have a USB port on both the rear and the front and looks similar to the Sky+ 160 in terms of design and layout.

Below are some pictures of the new Sky+ box provided by DS forum members simon1966, TZone, and RocketRonnie.