In recent years, there have been launched several TV streaming apps trying to emulate the success of Netflix. However, it seems that a large number of apps have only made it harder for new and interesting apps to stand out against more established services. Now, Comcast is trying its luck having begun its beta test for the Xfinity TV app on Roku.
Comcast has announced that anyone with a Roku set-top box released in the last two years or those who own a Roku TV, can now install the Xfinity TV app and try out its content and features in a beta test. The official version of the app will make its way to all interested consumers later this year.
The recent news comes after almost a year since Comcast announced that it’s developing the Xfinity TV app for Roku devices and Samsung TVs. This level of integration will allow consumers to watch their favorite live channels without having to pay the cost of cable or even that of a cable box.
The announcement was made by Andrew Ferrone, Roku’s Vice-president of Pay TV, who stated that Roku owners will be able to watch both live and on-demand programming from a variety of sources such as local broadcast or even their cloud DVR recordings. The content will be delivered over Comcast’s privately managed network.
If you’re interested in the Xfinity app, you can install from Roku’s channel store. The participants in the beta test will have access to the full extent of live and on-demand content. However, they won’t be able to either rent or purchase content or even be able to play previously purchased content through the app.
Furthermore, the Roku device will need to be connected to your local Wi-Fi Network in order for the Xfinity TV app to function. The app won’t work if the streaming device is connected to a different network.
Comcast has revealed that the content delivered through the app is not internet-based so you will not rack up your internet bill if you have a limited plan. Instead, the app uses Title VI cable service provided by Comcast, and therefore it won’t count to the data usage plan.
Image source: Roku