Sky customers can finally cast to their TVs in mega upgrade with seven new features at no extra cost

SKY has finally added a much-requested feature to TVs as part of a major upgrade available today.

Viewers can cast content to their telly from an iPhone, including Netflix shows or photos they want to share with family.

For now, it's just Apple AirPlay which works with iPhone, iPad, Mac and HomePod speakers.

So those with Android can't use Google's alternative Cast feature.

For apps that do support AirPlay it means playing shows even faster without needing to use your remote or voice.

When using apps like Netflix from your phone, you can tap the casting icon at the top of the screen and select your Sky TV device.

Then, whatever you choose to watch will automatically beam onto your TV.

AirPlay also allows users to show friends and family photos and videos on the big screen too.

The feature comes as part of a bumper upgrade for Sky Glass and Sky Stream ahead of Christmas Day.

Earlier this week, we reported on a new button for Ad Skipping subscribers.

It will appear for on-demand content, allowing viewers to instantly jump ahead of adverts instead of having to manually fast forward through them.

Sky has also added a new next episode button for its on-demand shows too.

Elsewhere, customers can add their favourite actors to their personal playlist, so they can see all the movies and TV shows they've appeared in instantly.

All you have to do is press the + button on your remote whilst browsing.

When an actor has been added, it'll appear on the "People" rail in your playlist.

Netflix and Disney Plus-style avatars have been added to playlists too for a bit of personalisation.

They feature some Sky's biggest stars and characters, such as those from Brassic, A League of Their Own, Paw Patrol and Peppa Pig.

You can now add your favourite channels to your home screen as well.

And for those who subscribe to Amazon Music you can access HD audio on Sky Glass and Sky Stream for the first time.

How to use Apple AirPlay on Sky

Firstly, your iPhone or other Apple device and Sky TV kit will need to be connected to the same Wi-Fi network for AirPlay to work.

If you're using an app like Netflix, you need to look for a casting icon which looks like a small TV with signals coming off it.

Tap this and select your TV from the list.

When using Apple AirPlay on your Sky TV for the first time, you'll need to enter a code that appears on your screen to confirm it's you using it.

If you want to show photos or videos on your Sky Glass or Sky Stream device follow the instructions below:

• Go to the Photos app
• Select the photo or video you want to cast
• Tap the share icon in the bottom left of your screen (the box with an arrow pointing upward)
• Select AirPlay from the options
• Tap your Sky TV from the list
• Close the app on your phone at anytime to stop casting