Sky has engaged the help of three designers in order to come up with new cover designs for the Sky+HD set top box in time for the 2010 World Cup which kicks off in South Africa this summer.
Fashion designer Wayne Hemingway, actor Phil Daniels and artist Gerald Scarfe have all contributed a unique design to adorn the top of the Sky+HD boxes and the first customers will be able to pick up the colourful devices from May 26th.
Observers have pointed out that Sky is not going to be broadcasting any of the World Cup matches on its sports channels, as terrestrial broadcasters have the rights to the tournament. However, it does have both BBC HD and ITV HD integrated into its schedules, so every game will be available in high definition.
The Sky+HD boxes that have had the World Cup makeover are the brand new 1TB models, which give users hundreds of gigabytes more space than the older versions of the device.
The simple red of Mr Hemingway’s design, which subtly includes the score line and date of England’s last World Cup win, is probably the most appealing of the three. However, the cheery cartoonish look of Mr Scarfe’s might also appeal to some.
When the special edition Sky+HD boxes launch, they will retail for about £250, so anyone looking to upgrade their storage space in time for the World Cup will be able to splash out. Hopefully the designs will act as a reminder of a successful tournament, as a poor performance could give them a lasting, bitter aftertaste.
