Back in March, Comcast announced that they are launching a $5 a month streaming device. Now Comcast says Xfinity Flex will be free to all Comcast Internet customers. This device will aggregate streaming apps, both paid and free, into a single place very similar to how Roku and other players work.
To use the Flex device you must also be a Comcast Xfinity, internet customer. Comcast will be giving a free device to their internet-only subscribers. Additional devices can be leased for $5 per month, with a limit of two boxes per customer.
Comcast says “Xfinity Flex comes with more than 10,000 free online movies and TV shows—including live streaming TV—from ESPN3, Xumo, Pluto, Tubi TV, Cheddar, YouTube, and more.” Customers can also buy and rent TV shows and movies from Comcast, using the box.
The Flex device aggregates subscription to online services like Netflix, Pandora, iHeartRadio, Showtime, and Amazon Prime Video as well as networks like HBO alongside free ad-supported content. The company says new content is being added daily. The device is a lot like Amazon Channels but also includes some free ad-supported content.
According to the FAQ section for Xfinity Flex, users will be able to use their existing Netflix subscription, but will need to cancel and repurchase other subscriptions through Comcast in order to us them with the device. The site specifically listed HBO, Cinemax, Showtime, and Epix as the services that will need to be repurchased.
With voice control, users can also control smart home features including accessing camera feeds, arming and disarming an alarm system, and even finding their Xfinity mobile phone, all with their TV.
Here is what the new device and user interface will look like:
Xfinity Flex subscribers will be able to add Xfinity X1 Cable TV packages right through Xfinity Flex. Comcast is also likely hoping to use Flex to push its new Peacock streaming service that is launching in April of 2020.
For more information visit www.xfinity.com/flex.
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