Comcast has announced a beta test of a new streaming cable service that is “unlike anything we’ve ever offered: no extra device or additional equipment required…or even a TV.” Called Stream, the cord-cutting alternative is slated to arrive in Seattle before year-end.
With Stream, Xfinity Internet customers can watch live TV from about a dozen networks – including all the major broadcast nets and HBO – on laptops, tablets and phones in their home. It includes thousands of on demand movies and shows to watch home or away and even comes with access to TV Everywhere and a cloud DVR so you can record all your favorites and watch them later.
Stream will be available to Xfinity Internet customers for only $15 per month and will first launch in Boston at the end of the summer with Chicago and Seattle the next test markets.
Getting started is easy, Comcast says. No phone call or technician visit is necessary. Xfinity Internet customers can just sign-up online, download the Xfinity TV app and start watching.
Skeptics points out that the streaming HBO Now subscription costs the same $15 on its own. And there may be other limitations. Since the service is “IP-managed,” you can only take advantage of it in your own home. Simultaneous streams are limited to two devices, which may be less than ideal for large households. The service also won’t be compatible with Roku, Amazon’s Fire TV, or any other HDMI-connected set-top box. In other words, barring HDMI cable contortions, the service may be limited to smalls screens only. Unless, that is, features like Apple’s AirPlay can send the signal from tablet or iPhone to large screens via AppleTV. [24×7]
