Comcast said it is now making its Xfinity Flex streaming box and X1 Voice Remote free to customers who only take internet.
The 4K UHD streaming device, which supports a handful of major SVOD apps, while providing access to music and Comcast transactional services, was previously available to these broadband customers for $5 a month. Comcast, which notes that Flex leverages technology from its more robust X1 video platform, said it's also making its X1 Voice Remote free to these customers.
The Voice Remote can be used to navigate a newly updated grid guide-based user interface that integrates programming from multiple apps.
That programming includes access to more than 10,000 free movies and TV shows through live streaming feeds from ESPN3, Pluto TV, Tubi TV, Xumo, Cheddar, YouTube and Sky News. (Notably, Comcast doesn't seem to be offering up any virtual MVPD app access.)
Users can integrate subscription streaming apps including Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, HBO, Showtime, Epix, Sling International … and soon, Comcast/NBCUniversal’s Peacock streaming service.
Access to Comcast’s transactional platform can be used to rent movies and TV shows. And users can also access Amazon Music, Pandora, iHeartRadio and XITE.
Speaking at the Goldman Sachs Communicopia conference Wednesday, Comcast CEO Brian Roberts said Xfinity Flex offers broadband customers something they can’t get from other wireline internet suppliers.
“Streaming is more friend than foe for Comcast,” he said. And X1, he added, is “the best way to get video in the world.”
