Comcast is reportedly readying its own streaming set-top box for its broadband-only customers. Although the box will support apps and streaming services and will offer a voice-activated remote, it doesn’t sound as if it’s as advanced as the Apple TV and its competitors.
CNBC:
The product, which will first be a set-top box and is meant to be an operating platform similar to X1, will launch next year, said the people, who asked not to be named because the internal discussions are private. Comcast hasn’t decided how much it will charge per month for the device, said the people.
Comcast declined to comment on the plans.
The box is said to offer apps and streaming services such as Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, YouTube, and others. Although the Apple TV, Roku, and other streaming devices offer advanced apps as well as access to streaming services, Comcast is expected to be keeping things simple and is sticking to basic functionality.
However, the box will allow Comcast customers to rent TV shows and movies from the company, and upgrade to a Comcast video package. The firm is also said to be planning to market the box as the “hub to the connected home.” The device will allow customers to control smart home accessories, including thermostats and smart-locks.
The streaming TV box will be available as a monthly add-on for subscribers, but a price hasn’t as yet been announced.