Comcast Corporation (NASDAQ:CMCSA) will give internet-only subscribers with a free steaming box to enhance their watching experiences, and they will not pay for cable. The company introduced the streaming box called Xfinity Flex in March. It has been charging $5 per month, which was exorbitant considering Roku Inc. (NASDAQ: ROKU) offers a streaming box at a flat rate of $30.
Boosting internet business
The company is looking to boost the value of its internet business by getting aggressive to match the growing competition. The move to have the streaming box in homes of internet subscribers gives the company a chance to carve some to the subscriptions that are if it can enhance signups. Customers will be able to rent or buy TV shows and movies through Comcast and the Flex box.
Comcast has continued to witness strong growth in the broadband business as the traditional pay-TV segment continues to plunge. The cable operator acknowledges that it can’t minimize cord-cutting trend and it has shifted to the Xfinity Flex.
Comcast to launch streaming service next year
The streaming box gives the company control over what consumers don’t see. Unlike options such as DirecTV Now and PlayStation Vue, Flex doesn’t encompass cable packages. So with the box people can get back to the cable service if they get tired to the limited offerings. Also, it does not have major streaming options from rivals such as Disney plus and Apple TV Plus.
The company intends to launch a streaming service by next year, which seems to be connected to the box. The service called Peacock will launch in April next year and will have a massive back catalog with several series. Comcast has indicated that it will charge cord-cutters $10 per month. With the company having its streaming, this will nudge potential subscriber into signing up.
The strategy around the box is rather odd as it will cost $5 per month for an extra Flex. Since it will be limited to two of the paid units, it will be challenging for homes with several TVs.