According to Protocol and The Financial Times, Comcast may be looking to offer TVs with its own software in at least two countries.
The TVs will be marketed in the US as XClass TVs. The original Hisense sets, measuring 43 inches and 50 inches, will be running Comcast's X1 operating systems. This system is also found on the Xfinity Flex streaming box and set-top boxes. Protocol found a FAQ that explains how they will combine your favorite apps, live channels, On Demand movies, and shows into one place. Protocol confirmed the Xfinity landing page.
All apps, live channels, and On Demand movies, shows, together in one location
Sky, a Comcast subsidiary in the UK is said to be planning to launch its own smart TVs. The FTs report does not mention the operating system that these TVs will run. Sky operates in India its Sky Q platform, which is currently on set-top boxes. It streams satellite broadcasts and also streams video from services like Netflix or Disney Plus.
Protocol asked Comcast not to comment on the report. Sky UK confirmed that it is always looking at new technologies but declined to comment about product rumors.
Protocol points out that the Comcast initiatives are Comcast's attempt to protect itself from customers who switch to streaming services over traditional cable and satellite plans. Comcast could maintain direct relationships with its customers by offering a platform comparable to Roku. The company could then combine content from other streaming platforms with its own Peacock or Xumo streaming services.
The FT reports that controlling the viewing platform gives Comcast and its affiliates the ability to negotiate better placement for streaming providers on its platforms. Protocol reports that the XClass TVs remotes will include shortcut buttons for Netflix, Amazon Prime, YouTube and Peacock. This is a well-known practice by Netflix.
Sky is also testing smart TVs in the UK, according to ISPreview. These plans were announced in 2017 and similar products have been launched in Europe, such as Germany, but no official launch has yet to be made in the UK.
It is not clear when the TVs will be available in each country, so it's unclear when they might arrive. Sky will host a launch event in the UK on October 7, when it teases that something magical is coming.
Disclosure: Comcast is an investment in Vox Media, The Verges parent firm.
