Comcast (NASDAQ:CMCSA) announced the launch of Xfinity Flex, a streaming service intended for the company's Internet-only customers. In addition to providing access to OTT video content, it's designed to let subscribers use their TV and voice control to manage all of the connected devices in their home.
Scheduled to be available to all Xfinity Internet customers starting next week, the Xfinity Flex service is packaged with an Internet-connected, 4K HDR streaming TV device that comes with Comcast's voice remote, one integrated guide for accessing streaming video and music choices, and Comcast's home WiFi, mobile, security, and automation services.
"Xfinity Flex will deepen our relationship with a certain segment of our Internet customers and provide them with real value," said Matt Strauss, executive vice president, Xfinity Services. "For just five dollars a month, we can offer these customers an affordable, flexible, and differentiated platform that includes thousands of free movies and shows for online streaming, an integrated guide for accessing their favorite apps and connected home devices, and the ease of navigating and managing all of it with our voice remote."
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 others. The Xfinity Flex box features an integrated guide and voice control, ability to rent and purchase movies and shows from the digital store, access digital lockers across platforms by pairing their account with Movies Anywhere, or listen to music from Pandora, iHeartRadio, and XITE. And soon, Xfinity Flex customers will be able to upgrade to the full Xfinity X1 cable service directly from the guide.
Charter Communications (NASDAQ:CHTR) announced a similar service last month, slated to launch in late March.