In a move that will further stir competition in streaming video market, Comcast Corporation (NASDAQ:CMCSA) is bringing its Xfinity TV app to Roku devices. With the app, Xfinity TV app subscribers can access all programming of the pay-TV service without having to lease a set-top-box from Comcast.
Adding Xfinity TV to Roku marks the first time that Comcast is bypassing the cable box in bringing the pay-TV service to television screens. Xfinity TV subscribers can already stream live broadcast and on-demand content on iOS and Android devices.
Wider rollout expected later in 2017
Comcast is still testing Xfinity TV app on Roku and plans to roll it out more broadly later this year.
“The Xfinity TV beta app gives customers the ability to use and explore the beta Roku channel while Comcast continues to test and improve performance, enhance it with additional features and functionality, and refine the experience to ensure that the app works smoothly,” Comcast and Roku wrote in a blog post.
Accessing Xfinity on Roku device will attract an extra fee.
Comcast charges $9.95 a month for Xfinity subscribers who have leased its cable box, but those using their own boxes enjoy a $2.50 discount, which means they only pay $7.45 a month for the service.
Xfinity TV app will be compatible with several Roku models such as Roku 2 and Roku 4.
Comcast’s move to make Xfinity available on Roku device comes at a time when traditional pay-TV providers are facing disruption from streaming video services such Netflix, Inc. (NYSE:NFLX).
Comcast could also struggle to hold on to its market share if AT&T Inc. (NYSE:T) succeeds in its efforts to take over Time Warner Inc (NYSE:TWX). AT&T and Time Warner have agreed to merge in a deal worth $85.4 billion. Regulators are reviewing the proposal.
Comcast beat expectations
Though Comcast is grappling with the threat of online video services, the company managed to beat consensus expectations for 4Q16. The company reported 4Q16 adjusted EPS of $0.89 on revenue of $21.03 billion. Consensus called for EPS of $0.87 on revenue of $20.68 billion.
Comcast shares are up more than 35% over the last 12 months. the stock rose 0.11% to $75.42 in the last session.