Comcast Updates Cloud-Based X1 Set-Top

2 May, 2017 By: Erik Gruenwedel

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Comcast May 2 announced enhancements to its cloud-based X1 set-top, including a so-called “smart” keyboard, simplified transactional VOD folder, personalized screensaver, power saver and DVR.

X1 is an interactive platform that combines universal search results from live TV, on-demand programming and DVR recordings, in addition to personalized recommendations, apps such as Netflix and YouTube.

X1, which is designed to keep pay-TV users tethered to a set-top, is in use among about 60% of Comcast Cable subscribers.

Subs searching for a movie or TV show can do so more intuitively through upgraded software that only displays relevant letters as a user spells out a name of show or actor using the remote.

Purchased movies, TV shows and children’s content from the Xfinity Store can now be organized by genre, while TV show episodes are grouped by series.

Users can personalize their screensaver with their own photos, in addition to rotating through pictures from a connected Facebook, Instagram and/or Flickr social media account.

Finally, the cloud-based DVR function records programming through its entirety — regardless if it starts early or ends late.

Last winter, Comcast hooked up with rival Dish Network incorporating the satellite TV operator’s online Sling TV service to the X1.

“Sling TV on Comcast is another step forward in our promise to consumers to be available on their favorite platforms,” Ben Weinberger, chief product officer at Sling TV, said in a press release. “For the first time, millions of Comcast customers will have access to new multicultural programming options as well as the full suite of Sling TV programming.”

 

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