Boston -- Though no formal deal is yet in place, Comcast is demonstrating its Xfinity TV app running on the Nvidia Shield, a 4K-capable gaming console that runs the Android TV platform.
Here at INTX, Comcast is also showing its streaming TV app running on a Roku 4 as well as a Samsung smart TV, which allows for partners to offer a customized experience and the ability to search across multiple apps and tell viewers if a given program is offered by Comcast through its app, a programmer’s TV Everywhere app, an SVOD service like Netflix or Hulu, or for purchase or rental from sources such as Amazon.
Samsung is the first announced TV maker to join the Xfinity TV Partner Program, an initiative launched last month that has emerged as the FCC looks to create new rules aimed at “unlocking” the set-top box. Comcast has also announced a deal with Roku that will bring its authenticated Xfinity TV partner app to Roku streaming players and integrated TVs.
Last month, Comcast Cable president and CEO Neil Smit said more than 40 companies had called the MSO to sign up for the program since it was introduced.
Though Comcast’s work on the Nvidia Shield was for demo purposes only, it does offer an example of the scope of platforms that could support the Xfinity TV app, an in-home app that uses the MSO’s managed IP network and isn’t delivered “over-the-top” via a public Internet connection.
Nvidia launched the Shield in mid-2015, offering an Android TV-based platform for gaming and apps such as HBO Go and WatchESPN.
