Comcast’s Internet TV Service To Feature HBO, Take On Sling TV

Comcast has a new offering to help it reach those elusive “cord-nevers” who have no interest in cable. The communications giant announced plans for a internet-only TV service called Xfinity Stream, which will include access to HBO and major broadcast networks.

Xfinity Stream will boast live and on-demand content, as well as DVR capabilities. Stream will cost an extra $15 a month for Comcast subscribers who pay for standalone Xfinity broadband internet. At this price, Comcast’s over-the-top service is $5 cheaper per month than Dish’s Sling TV service.

Unlike Sling TV, though, Xfinity Stream won’t provide access to popular cable networks like Disney Channel or ESPN. But the inclusion of HBO will likely boost Stream’s appeal, especially considering the cable network just launched its own subscription service separately for $15 a month (and of course, HBO’s service doesn’t include any non-HBO content).

Variety notes

this isn’t the first time Comcast has released an over-the-top service. Back in 2013, the cable company released Internet Plus, which included internet and a limited selection of channels, including HBO again. However, Comcast’s Internet Plus requires a set-top box to watch available programming; Stream customers, on the other hand, will be able to watch live TV, on-demand, and DVR content on mobile devices.

“We want to make ordering Stream as easy as buying a song online,” said Matt Strauss, Executive Vice President and General Manager of Video Services at Comcast, in a company blog post. “And make tuning in to a show as simple as opening an email.”

Comcast plans to launch Xfinity Stream to broadband customers in Boston by the end of summer 2015. Chicago and Seattle are next in line for Stream’s launch, with all Comcast cities covered by 2016.