Sky+ app to turn iPad into touchscreen remote control

Sky has unveiled plans to turn the iPad into a touchscreen remote control via its Sky+ app.

The satellite broadcaster already allows customers to use the iPad - and several smartphones - to remotely record shows on their Sky+ set-top box.

It is now set to transform the iPad into a remote for when subscribers are sat at home watching TV, allowing them to browse the electronic programme guide, manage their Sky+ planner, and select shows to view, pause, rewind and fast forward.

Updating the iPad application is just one of the ways in which Sky plans to improve its service over the coming 12 months.

"In the year ahead, we have a strong pipeline of innovative new products and services planned for release," the company explained in its latest financial results publication.

Other innovations include the extension of multiscreen service Sky Go, which will be available to more devices and benefit from additional features such as pause and rewind, search and personal recommendations.

During the three months to June 30th 2012, some 2.7 million unique users accessed Sky Go, representing a five per cent increase on the previous quarter.