NEW YORK—Xumo, the streaming joint venture between Comcast and Charter Communications, has announced that it is working with The Trade Desk to provide a new way for advertisers to access Xumo’s premium streaming inventory through The Trade Desk's OpenPath.

“Direct paths to supply matter more than ever as buyers seek efficiency, transparency and certainty,” said Jerrold Son, vice president, advertising revenue operations, Xumo. “By integrating OpenPath and UID2, we’re reducing the friction that can weigh down performance from the ad stack and giving advertisers a clearer, more efficient route to viewers across Xumo’s fast-growing ecosystem.”

The new access enables advertisers and their agencies to seamlessly connect with Xumo’s ecosystem, which reaches more than 60 million monthly active users across streaming devices, smart TVs, and ad-supported streaming channels. Further, OpenPath helps reduce layers in the ad tech stack and supports identity-aware buying across CTV.

The announcement also builds on Xumo’s recently introduced advanced identity solution, which incorporates Unified ID 2.0 (UID2). Initially developed by The Trade Desk, UID2 is an open-source framework using a hashed and salted identifier across devices and media ecosystems to help create a consistent advertising experience. Enabling this infrastructure allows Xumo’s advanced identity solution to establish even more deterministic targeting across CTV.

Together, these efforts reflect Xumo’s broader strategy to simplify supply routes and maximize the value of every dollar through more seamless connections to the buyside tools advertisers rely on to access premium streaming inventory.

“Connected TV represents some of the best digital media inventory available, yet the majority of the media buys remain locked in transactional and linear methods,” said Will Doherty, senior vice president of inventory partnerships, The Trade Desk. “Xumo’s use of OpenPath demonstrates that programmatic opportunity in CTV will continue to grow, and by connecting through FreeWheel, we expect the tide to rise for everyone in CTV – advertisers, publishers, and consumers.”

As the CTV marketplace evolves, Xumo is focused on providing advertisers simpler, more accountable ways to reach streaming audiences at scale. The inventory access through OpenPath represents another step toward a more efficient and transparent buying experience, designed to help advertisers maximize performance while supporting a healthy premium streaming ecosystem.

PHILADELPHIA and SUWANEE, Ga.—Hisense and Xumo, the streaming joint venture between Comcast and Charter Communications, have announced the launch of Hisense Channels, a new free ad-supported streaming TV (FAST) service featuring over 200 channels for Hisense Smart TVs.

For the offering, Hisense selected Xumo Enterprise, the business-to-business arm of Xumo, to power and monetize the initial set of channels in the new service.

The launch builds on the ongoing collaboration between Xumo and Hisense, which includes the development of Hisense Xumo TVs powered by Xumo’s operating system.

The two companies reported that Hisense Channels is beginning its rollout on August 14 on Hisense Google TVs, with more to come. When launched, the service will be easily discoverable right from the operating system’s homepage, offering viewers convenient access to content from Scripps, Radial Entertainment, Stingray, and other leading publishers.

“The launch of Hisense Channels underscores our shared commitment to delivering a seamless, high-quality entertainment experience that meets the evolving expectations of today’s TV audiences,” said Stefan Van Engen, vice president, content partnerships, acquisition, distribution and experience, Xumo. “Through strategic collaborations like this, Xumo is making it easier for consumers to find and enjoy all the premium FAST content that’s out there today, while also giving content owners and advertisers more ways to reach new audiences.”

“Hisense Channels represents a major step forward in our mission to deliver premium, accessible entertainment to every household in America,” said David Gold, president of Hisense USA. “By partnering with Xumo Enterprise, we’re not only expanding the content offerings on our smart TVs, but also reinforcing our commitment to innovation and value by unlocking a world of premium content that’s free, seamless, and built right into the TVs our customers already love.”

With the debut of Hisense Channels, Xumo's enterprise business now powers more than 2,000 FAST channels across 30+ entertainment platforms and streaming services worldwide.

In addition to Hisense, Xumo’s enterprise partnerships include other major OEMs, smart TV operating systems, pay-TV providers, and ad-supported streaming apps, powering FAST experiences that drive engagement and monetization across the connected TV landscape.

NEW YORK and STAMFORD, Conn.—Charter’s Spectrum, Xumo and EverPass Media have reached a deal that will see the launch of the EverPass app on the Xumo Stream Box for Spectrum Business TV customers. Xumo is the streaming joint venture between Charter and Comcast.

"Live sports have the power to transform any venue, and at EverPass, we’re making that transformation simpler than ever," said Alex Kaplan, CEO of EverPass Media. "Through our expanded partnership with Spectrum, we’re delivering a plug-and-play streaming solution via Xumo Stream Box for Business that puts premium sports content just a click away. It’s a faster, more flexible way for businesses to captivate fans, drive traffic and create unforgettable game-day experiences."

Launched initially as the exclusive distributor of NFL Sunday Ticket to commercial establishments in the U.S., EverPass was founded in 2023 in partnership with RedBird Capital Partners and 32 Equity, the strategic investment arm of the National Football League. TKO Group Holdings, parent company of UFC and WWE, joined as an investor in 2024.

Spectrum Business customers who subscribe to Spectrum Sports Fan TV, the Company’s sports video package for bars and restaurants, can use Xumo Stream Box for Business to stream a lineup of more than 45 sports networks and Amazon “Thursday Night Football” on the Spectrum TV App. With the addition of the EverPass app, they will now also have seamless access to NFL Sunday Ticket and Peacock Sports Pass subscriptions on the same device.

“Bars and restaurants need a fast and reliable way to access the sports content their patrons care most about,” said Keith Dardis, executive vice president of Spectrum Business. “By bringing EverPass to Xumo Stream Box for Business, and in addition to the Spectrum TV App, Spectrum Sports Fan TV offers a single solution that makes it easier than ever for businesses to find and stream the games their customers want to see, making Spectrum a go-to sports destination for businesses.”

The offering builds on EverPass’ existing partnership with Spectrum, which began providing its business customers in the restaurant and hospitality space access to NFL Sunday Ticket and Peacock Sports Pass through EverPass in 2024. It also represents the first commercial sports streaming app to launch on Xumo’s platform.

The deal further strengthens Spectrum Business’ sports offerings. Now, with the combination of the Spectrum TV App, Xumo Stream Box for Business and EverPass, Spectrum Business TV customers will have access to a comprehensive live sports streaming experience that includes NFL, college football, NBA, NHL and MLB games, Spectrum reported.

In addition, customers get access to EverPass’ marketing platform that engages patrons through promotions and interactive content.

The Xumo Stream Box for Business is now available to Spectrum Business customers for a $5-per-month fee that will cover all support needs for the customer.

“At Xumo, we're focused on delivering a flexible, premium streaming experience that adapts to the unique needs of every operator,” Michael Gatzke, senior vice president, affiliate development at Xumo, said. “With the EverPass app now available on the Xumo Stream Box, Spectrum can deliver its Business TV customers an unmatched live sports experience with the simplicity and reliability they expect.”

PHILADELPHIA—The Xumo streaming platform joint venture between Comcast and Charter has announced the nationwide launch of a new line of Xumo TVs from Westinghouse.

Westinghouse's Xumo TVs are now available in the U.S. on Amazon.com and Walmart.com, with plans to expand to additional retailers in the future.

Westinghouse Xumo TVs are available in 4K UHD (43-inch and 50-inch) and 2K HD (24-, 32-, 40- and 43-inch) models. Later this year, 55-, 58- and 65-inch 4K models will become available, Xumo reported.

“Westinghouse and Xumo are a natural fit because we each prioritize quality and simplicity in the products we build,” said Stephanie Cassi, senior vice president of sales and marketing, Xumo. “The Westinghouse Xumo TV delivers on both of those pillars, providing consumers an elevated viewing experience with an intuitive interface that makes discovering content effortless.”

“We chose Xumo for our next line of Westinghouse TVs because its user-friendly OS cuts through the complexity of today’s streaming landscape,” said Russ Johnston, president of Westinghouse Electronics USA. “We’re thrilled to launch these new models to Westinghouse dealers and distributors—giving consumers a chance to bring home a high-quality, affordable smart TV at a great value.”

Xumo described the key features of the Westinghouse Xumo TV as follows:

• The best in streaming. It comes with top apps like Apple TV+, Disney+, HBO Max, Netflix, Peacock and Prime Video, and free streaming services like Pluto TV, Tubi and Xumo Play, as well as hundreds of additional apps.
• Content-forward home screen: The Xumo TV home screen puts content front and center. Customers can quickly jump back into recently watched content, or they can browse personalized recommendations and curated collections featuring programming from across their favorite streaming services.
• Universal Voice Search: Rather than hopping between apps or guessing where to watch, Xumo TV’s voice search enables customers to find what they’re looking for by searching across multiple streaming apps—all at once. With the included voice remote, customers can search by saying a title, actor or genre into their remote, eliminating the need for manual text input.
• My List: With My List, customers can bookmark shows and movies across streaming services and create a personalized watchlist they can come back to when they’re ready to find something new.
• Next-level picture and audio quality: The 4K UHD Westinghouse Xumo TVs support Dolby Vision HDR10 technology, providing enhanced color and contrast for an ever-more immersive viewing experience, and Dolby Atmos pass-through, which enables a theater-like sound experience when connected to compatible audio devices.

NEW YORK—Hearst Media Production Group and Xumo, the streaming platform joint venture between Comcast and Charter Communications, have announced that the “Lucky Dog” Channel has launched exclusively on Xumo Play.

The partnership between Hearst and Xumo for the launch of the channel also includes original episodes of a new series and sponsorship opportunities. The FAST channel will offer advertisers a variety of tailored sponsorship options, including bold in-grid ads, branded tune-in promotion and custom ad overlays, the companies said.

Xumo Play is a free ad-supported streaming TV (FAST) service with hundreds of ad-supported linear channels and on-demand options that is available on Xumo devices and as an app on other major streaming platforms.

“Lucky Dog” Channel will feature a new, original series, “Lucky Dog: Best in Show.” Additional programming on the new channel includes the 12-season library of the Emmy-winning “Lucky Dog” franchise hosted by renowned animal trainer Brandon McMillan.

Since its inception, “Lucky Dog” has helped to rescue, rehabilitate, train and re-home more than 200 dogs. The show has received three Daytime Emmy Awards, 55 Telly Awards, seven Parents’ Choice Awards and five Cynopsis Kids Imagination Awards since its debut on CBS in 2013. For his work on the series, McMillan earned two Daytime Emmys for Outstanding Host in a Lifestyle/Travel/Children's or Family Viewing Program.

“As the FAST landscape evolves, our partnership with Xumo Play will offer brand partners and advertisers the opportunity to engage with audiences in more meaningful ways,” Andrew Tew, HMPG senior vice president, global licensing and distribution, said.

“ ‘Lucky Dog’ Channel offers more of the quality, award-winning programming our Xumo Play customers have come to expect while providing advertisers a more immersive brand experience," said Stefan Van Engen, vice president, content programming and partnerships, Xumo. "Through the unique high-value sponsorship opportunities we're getting ready to deliver with ‘Lucky Dog’ Channel, we are giving advertisers a new way to align with the trusted ‘Lucky Dog’ brand in ways that resonate with our engaged audience."

HMPG's current program portfolio comprises more than 30 original series and hundreds of hours of original content annually on broadcast networks and station groups and on connected TV and streaming platforms. It has a library of more than 5,000 hours of programming and its content can be found in 100 countries.

PHILADELPHIA—The Xumo streaming joint venture of Comcast and Charter Communications said Sharp will introduce a new line of QLED 4K UHD TVs featuring the Xumo TV operating system. The TVs will launch in the U.S. this spring.

Sharp is now the fourth manufacturer producing Xumo TVs, joining Element, Hisense and Pioneer.

The TVs will be available in 50-, 55-, 65-, 75- and 85-inch screen-class sizes and are designed to make it easier for consumers to find content.

“Xumo’s platform is all about making streaming easy for customers—getting them to the content they want to watch faster and spending less time searching across apps to find something new,” Stephanie Cassi, senior vice president, sales and marketing, Xumo, said. “We believe that combining our intuitive user interface with Sharp AQUOS QLED creates a best-in-class viewing experience.”

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“As we continue to expand our presence in the U.S. TV market, we're looking to pair Sharp AQUOS QLED with an operating system that delivers a streaming experience that meets the demanding needs of today's viewers," added Jim Sanduski, president of Sharp Home Electronics Company of America. “Xumo is the perfect partner because they help unlock the overall immersive experience we'd like our customers to enjoy when watching our AQUOS QLED TVs.”

The Xumo TV experience is built on the entertainment operating system that powers tens of millions of devices from Comcast and partners worldwide. Key features include seamless content discovery, voice search and personalization.

In addition to the Xumo operating system, the Sharp AQUOS QLED TVs will offer a frameless, 4K UHD screen with Quantum Dot Wide Color Gamut technology, which enhances Dolby Vision HDR and HDR10 content to look lifelike with near-perfect color reproduction.

The TV will also enable the pass-through of Dolby Atmos sound from supported content sources when connected to a compatible audio device.

PHILADELPHIA and ANCHORAGE, Alaska—GCI, Alaska’s largest telecommunications provider, and Xumo, the streaming joint venture of Comcast and Charter Communications, said GCI is launching Xumo Stream Box for its internet customers.

GCI is offering the 4K Xumo Stream Box for free to its internet customers or for a retail price of $59.99.

“We’re excited to bring the Xumo Stream Box to GCI customers as we head into the heart of the holiday season,” GCI chief marketing officer Kate Slyker said. “With this new device, customers can have access to hundreds of free channels, as well as a very easy-to-use remote, making it easier than ever to find and watch their favorite programming.”

GCI joins Charter, Comcast, Cox Communications and Mediacom Communications as the fifth U.S. cable operator to offer the Entertainment OS-powered Xumo Stream Box.

Entertainment OS is built upon the same global technology platform that delivers entertainment experiences to customers across Comcast, Sky, Xumo and its syndication partners, and processes 15 billion entertainment-related voice commands a day through its voice search technology.

Xumo describes the boxes’ key features as follows:

• Customers can search for a show or movie by saying its name into the included voice remote, and Xumo Stream Box will search across available apps and services to find it.
• Xumo Stream Box uses both AI-driven personalization and a team of editors to surface content recommendations within the experience, helping customers find something to watch without having to jump in and out of apps.
• Xumo Stream Box comes preloaded with hundreds of streaming apps, including live streaming services like YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, Sling TV, and Fubo, as well as top streaming apps like Netflix, Disney+, Prime Video, Max, Peacock and hundreds more.
• With “My List,” Xumo users can build personalized viewing lists for every member of the family. With just one click, customers can add any show or movie available on Xumo Stream Box to a specific list, giving them a quick way to find what to watch next.
• The built-in channel guide makes browsing through Xumo Play’s 350-plus free live channels, spanning live local and national news, movies, sports, reality shows, crime TV, kids programming and more, a seamless part of the experience.
• By saying “free” into the voice remote, customers will find thousands of on-demand movies and TV shows from apps like Tubi, Pluto TV and Xumo Play.

PHILADELPHIA and REDWOOD CITY, Calif.—Xumo, the streaming platform joint venture of Comcast and Charter Communications, has reached an agreement to make its premium ad inventory programmatically available to advertisers via PubMatic.

The two companies said that this agreement will allow advertisers to achieve “unprecedented reach and targeting capabilities across Xumo properties” and strengthen PubMatic’s “robust supply-path optimization (SPO) relationships with buyers.”

“At Xumo, we are focused on how we can make it as simple and transparent as possible for advertisers to access our diverse content library,” Ying Wang, general manager, Xumo Advertising, said. “By adding PubMatic to our host of premium programmatic partners, we are providing advertisers with another avenue to access the transparent insights they need to make the best use of their media dollars.”

The Xumo joint venture provides an entire entertainment ecosystem including a FAST app, streaming devices and FAST channels distributed on platforms worldwide. PubMatic joins the company’s roster of programmatic supply partners during a growth spurt for Xumo, which in September saw Xumo Play streaming hours grow 83% year-over-year. Viewers are now spending an average of 90 minutes a day on Xumo Play’s more than 350 channels, Xumo said.

The two companies said that PubMatic integrates CTV buying across omnichannel campaigns, delivering significant sales lifts for advertisers that want to reach audiences across devices and platforms. Through this partnership, advertisers can target new audiences that aren’t available on streaming or traditional channels, PubMatic said.

“Partnering with Xumo is a perfect fit for our mission to deliver superior programmatic solutions on growing CTV platforms,” Nicole Scaglione, vice president of CTV/OTT and video at PubMatic, said. “Our advanced technology and strong buyer relationships will drive better outcomes for advertisers, enhancing their ability to connect with Xumo’s high-quality inventory.”

More information about PubMatic’s SSP is available here.

PHILADELPHIA—The Xumo streaming platform joint venture between Comcast and Charter Communications has announced that Target will offer Hisense Xumo TVs, a budget-friendly, 4K UHD smart TV.

Hisense Xumo TVs have launched in stores nationwide and on Target.com in 55-inch and 65-inch model, priced at $249.99 and $359.99, respectively.

“The growing fragmentation of content on streaming services can make content discovery difficult—the Xumo TV makes streaming easy,” Xumo Senior Vice President, Sales and Marketing Stephanie Cassi said. “Extending our reach with Hisense, a top global TV manufacturer, and Target, a premier retail destination and one of the country’s most-trafficked e-commerce sites, is a major win.”

The Hisense Xumo TV offers a voice remote and an immersive viewing experience by supporting Dolby Vision HDR and HDR10 technology.

“Launching Hisense Xumo TVs in Target marks an exciting chapter for Hisense USA, as we bring advanced, wallet-friendly technology to more households across the nation,” Hisense USA Head of TV Product Marketing Craig Gunther said. “This collaboration between us, Xumo and Target not only expands our reach but also reaffirms our commitment to delivering exceptional value and an enhanced viewing experience for all consumers."

The Target launch is the latest milestone in a year of growth for Xumo TV, the joint venture reported. With the support of its original equipment manufacturer partners, Element, Hisense and Pioneer, Xumo TVs will be available in nearly 8,000 locations across the U.S., spanning nine national and local retailers including Best Buy, BJs, Meijer, Target and Walmart. Combined, the retailers that sell Xumo TVs represent nearly 75% of all smart TV sales in the U.S., the partners said.

ATLANTA—Cox Communications has launched the Xumo Stream Box, a 4K streaming device that brings together live TV and streaming, and said it is making the device available nationwide to Cox internet customers in its footprint.

The launch makes Cox the fourth major U.S. cable operator to roll out the device.

“We designed Xumo Stream Box to take the complexity out of streaming and get customers to the programs they love faster, while also making it easier for them to discover something new to watch,” said Michael Gatzke, senior vice president, affiliate development, Xumo. “Cox joins Xfinity, Spectrum and Mediacom as the fourth U.S.-based operator to offer Xumo Stream Box to its customers, capping off a great year of growth and momentum for our streaming devices.”

Xumo Stream Box comes preloaded with hundreds of streaming apps, including live streaming services like YouTube TV, Hulu+Live TV, Sling TV, and Fubo, as well as top streaming apps like Netflix, Disney+, Prime Video, Max, Peacock and hundreds more.

The Xumo box also offers a “My List” feature that allows Cox customers to build personalized viewing lists for every member of the family. The built-in channel guide also simplifies browsing through Xumo Play’s 350-plus free live channels. In addition, customers will find thousands of on-demand movies and TV shows from apps like Tubi, Pluto TV, and Xumo Play, Cox said.

Xumo Enterprise has announced that Cox Communications is integrating 20 free ad-supported TV (FAST) channels from Xumo into its linear guide at no additional cost.

Xumo Enterprise is the business-to-business arm of the Xumo streaming and technology joint venture between Comcast and Charter Communications. 

Cox follows Xfinity as the latest MVPD to integrate Xumo-powered FAST channels into its linear guide, after the milestone integration on X1 and the Xfinity Stream app last year. The Xfinity and Cox launches represent an important evolution in the company’s efforts to make FAST more accessible to consumers on a growing range of connected devices, the companies said. 

Notably, Cox’s Contour TV customers can now find 20 Xumo-branded FAST channels integrated into their channel guide. The channels span a variety of genres from action, comedy and drama movies to game shows, kids and reality TV programs, plus much more.

Additionally, later this year, Sky will integrate its six new FAST channels into the TV guide on Sky Glass and Sky Stream devices. The channels, which just launched last month and feature a selection of previously aired, much-loved shows from Sky’s expansive catalog, are currently available within the Xumo Play app on Sky’s Entertainment OS-powered devices. By partnering with Xumo Enterprise to integrate the new channels into the guide experience, Sky can offer its customers a new way to discover and enjoy them alongside all their other favorite programming, the Xumo joint venture reported. 

These MVPD channel guide integrations are an example of Xumo’s ongoing effort to support consumers’ growing appetite for FAST. Earlier this year, Xumo found in a study that pay TV customers watch more FAST than cord-cutters or cord-nevers and that time-spent watching FAST during primetime hours rivals gaming, social media and cable TV.

LOS ANGELES—TV5MONDE has announced the launch of TV5MONDEplus on all Comcast Xfinity and Xumo streaming devices. 

The global French language entertainment network is available in 438 million homes with 64 million weekly viewers across 217 countries and territories worldwide. The new deal with Comcast and the Xumo joint venture between Comcast and Charter expands the reach of the streaming service to more than 13 million Xfinity video customers across the U.S., plus millions of additional streaming users, via the Xfinity X1, Xfinity Flex, Xumo Stream Box and Xumo TV devices.    

TV5MONDEplus launched in 2020 and is available in 217 countries and territories. The platform's content includes films, TV shows and series from the French-speaking world, including France, Canada, Belgium, Switzerland, African countries and more.

 TV5MONDEplus content is available in full HD quality and subtitled in six languages: French, English, Spanish, German, Arabic, and Romanian. In the U.S., TV5MONDEplus is available at no additional cost to TV5MONDE USA subscribers. 

This summer, viewers can enjoy premium programming showcasing Paris and sports.

“Our goal at TV5MONDE is to continue building and harvesting relationships that allow for the expansion of French-language programming in the U.S.” explained TV5MONDE executive vice president of global growth and business development and CEO of TV5MONDE USA, Patrice Courtaban. “This deal not  only expands our relationship with Comcast beyond cable, but also allows for the amplification of these great stories – across genres, from sports to lifestyle, documentaries, comedy and drama – to an even bigger audience.” 

STAMFORD, Conn.—Spectrum News has launched a streaming service Spectrum News+ on Xumo Play, the free ad-supported streaming television (FAST) service. 

The launch illustrates how streaming continues to transform pay TV channels. Previously available only to Spectrum customers, the national news network draws on more than 30 Spectrum local news networks and features a unique mix of objective localized reporting, national headlines, and weather forecasts. With the launch, network is now available beyond Spectrum’s service area and to non-Spectrum customers.

“This marks a significant milestone in Spectrum News’ mission to bring its trusted news and information to a broader audience, expanding access to quality, unbiased reporting,” said Alison Hellman, senior vice president & general manager, Spectrum News.  “Our Spectrum News reporters embedded throughout the communities we serve and in our nation’s capital deliver extensive coverage of the major issues and local stories that really matter to our viewers. And in any national election year, we have the unique ability to make the national conversation locally relevant.” 

This announcement follows the successful rollout of Spectrum’s Xumo Stream Box in the fall of 2023, which also features the Spectrum News App, further broadening access to Spectrum News’ trusted coverage. 

“The launch of Spectrum News+ on Xumo Play gives our viewers another great option for staying informed on the latest events and happenings, especially during a critical election year,” said Stefan Van Engen, vice president, programming and partnerships, Xumo. “News is one of the most-viewed genres on Xumo Play, and the addition of Spectrum News+ further enriches our lineup and demonstrates our commitment to delivering quality programming for viewers.” 

Spectrum News+ joins hundreds of other ad-supported linear channels available on Xumo Play. Xumo Play anchors the free content offering on Xumo devices and is available on all other major streaming platforms including Amazon, Android, Apple, Roku, Samsung, Sony, and more. Xumo is a joint venture between Comcast and Charter, which operates under the Spectrum brand. 

Spectrum News+ initially launched in 2023 and, along with all local Spectrum News networks, is available to Spectrum customers via the Spectrum News App on mobile, Xumo Stream Box, and Roku and Apple TV streaming devices. 

Spectrum News has consistently outperformed the major cable and broadcast news networks among Spectrum customers, averaging 1.8 million daily viewing households in 2024 across its linear and digital platforms spanning California, Florida, Hawaii, Kentucky, Maine, Massachusetts, Missouri, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Texas and Wisconsin, the company reported. 

Comcast and the vMVPD Fubo have announced that Xfinity Internet customers with a Flex or Xumo Stream Box have another option for a live TV service with the launch of Fubo, a sports-first live streaming service that brings together more than 400 sports, news and entertainment networks.

The app is also available on Xumo TVs, currently sold across the U.S.

"Live sports is best enjoyed on the big screen - in fact, 95% of Fubo viewers are watching their favorite content on connected and smart televisions," said Isaac Josephson, senior vice president of product management, Fubo. "We're thrilled to add Comcast's Xfinity Flex, Xumo TV and Xumo Stream Box streaming platforms to Fubo's suite of TV devices. A big shout out to the many teams across Fubo and Comcast for their hard work in bringing our premium user experience to Comcast streaming customers."

“For many consumers, one of the first things they look for in a streaming service is whether it provides access to their favorite sports,” said John Dixon, senior vice president, entertainment, Comcast. “With a huge collection of sports-focused channels ranging from local broadcast to national networks covering the biggest and smallest of sports, Fubo is a great addition to the growing catalog of streaming options available on our platforms.”

Fubo joins a growing list of both subscription-based and ad-supported live streaming services now available on Flex, Xumo Stream Box and Xumo TV, including Xfinity Stream, YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, Sling TV, Xumo Play, Tubi, Pluto, and more.

Xfinity Internet customers looking to learn more about Xumo Stream Box, which is available at no additional cost with their broadband service, can visit https://www.xfinity.com/learn/xumostreambox. More information on Xumo TV can be found here: https://www.xumo.com/products/xumo-tv.

A new report from Xumo shows that FAST channels continue to gain traction in the video landscape with data showing that 33% of viewers now watch free ad supported streaming services in the evening and that the average FAST viewer is spending one hour and 40 minutes watching FAST channels in the evening. 

The new report, which was produced by Xumo and FASTMaster Consulting, also reported that percentages of viewers watching FAST channels (33%) was close to the levels of broadcast (34%) and cable TV (35%) and AVOD (32%), but below SVOD (58%) and gaming (41%). 

The study also found that FAST viewers were younger than other media, more diverse and generally happy with the viewing options they found on FAST channels. 

“The findings of this report underscore the increasingly important role FAST plays in today’s entertainment landscape, dispelling myths and highlighting the diverse, engaged, and growing audience that finds value in our free and easy streaming,” said Stefan Van Engen, vice president, content programming and partnerships, Xumo, which is a joint venture from Charter and Comcast. “As engagement levels during primetime rival other major forms of entertainment, it’s clear that FAST is becoming a part of people’s everyday lives.”

Despite being a relative newcomer to the entertainment landscape, the findings reveal FAST is becoming a primary means of entertainment for today’s consumers and that time spent watching FAST channels is on par with other forms of entertainment. Specifically, the average FAST viewer spends one hour and 40 minutes watching FAST channels in the evening, whereas a gamer typically spends one hour and 42 minutes playing video or mobile games during this same timeframe. Consumers also said they scroll social media for one hour and 53 minutes, while cable TV customers spend one hour and 58 minutes watching cable network programming.

“There are many myths about FAST which are often bandied about by external onlookers, such as FAST viewers watch because they have no alternatives or they are a less desirable consumer for advertisers,” said Gavin Bridge, chief analyst, FASTMaster Consulting. “I am very happy that Xumo has sought to address this via research into who watches FAST, dispelling false narratives with facts and illustrating why FAST continues to grow and needs to be part of any marketer’s toolkit to maximize reach.”

The study also found that Pay TV customers watch more FAST than cord-cutters or cord-nevers. Nearly half (47%) of consumers that subscribe to a pay-TV service say they also regularly watch FAST. In comparison, 46% of cord-cutters report being regular viewers of FAST, while only 35% of cord-nevers say they do.

FAST viewers also trend younger and more diverse. While 46% of the U.S. adult population is between the ages of 18 and 44 according to the U.S. census, 58% of FAST viewers fall within that range. Additionally, Black viewers represent 20% of FAST’s audience, compared to 14% of the U.S. population. Similarly, 23% of FAST viewers have Latino origins, compared to 19% nationally.

The study also found that FAST viewers over-index on news, movies and crime TV. Together, these genres represent 58% of total viewing hours on Xumo Play, but only account for 11% of total channels.

Viewers had generally positive views of the medium. Nearly 70% of FAST users say they can always find something to watch on free streaming channels and more than half of FAST users say it is one of their favorite forms of entertainment.

The data in this report is from a market research project Xumo commissioned with FASTMaster Consulting, which collected responses from 4,000 U.S. adults among varied age, gender and ethnicity groups between the third quarter of 2023 to the first quarter of 2024.

The full report is available here.  

NEW YORK—Just over half of U.S. viewers are frustrated over their ability to be able to find content to watch on TV according to Comcast. 

In its report titled, “Content Discovery in a Multiscreen TV World: Surfing and Scrolling in a Sea of Content,” Comcast analyzed trends of how consumers navigate and discover TV content across traditional and streaming in the U.S. and Europe. Based on a survey of 2,500 consumers 18 and over in the U.S., U.K., and Europe, only 25% of respondents said they could access all of their content in one place. 

Nearly two-thirds of the viewers said they spend more than 6 minutes searching for  something to watch, with 51% stating that the difficulty in finding new content can get frustrating.

“In today’s unbundled world of TV, consumers face a lot of challenges when it comes to discovering content. The goal of TV, whether traditional or streaming, has always been to make audiences feel entertained, not frustrated or overwhelmed,” said Travis Flood, Executive Director of Insights, Comcast Advertising. “This research provides actionable insights into the process so that content owners and streaming platforms can improve their offerings to enhance the content discovery experience and provide more value to their viewers.”

The results are of particular importance to Comcast, which partnered with Charter to launched its Xumo streaming platform in 2022, including a “What to Watch” channel.  

“With so much great TV dispersed across an unprecedented number of connected platforms and services, watching TV has become burdensome for consumers,” said Marcien Jenckes, President, Xumo and Managing Director, Comcast Advertising. “Xumo’s goal is to remove this burden and make TV simple again. Our devices run on Comcast’s Entertainment OS, which makes watching TV easy through features like AI and human-driven show recommendations, FAST channel integration in our grid guide experience, and an unparalleled voice search capability.”

The report also indicated that social media is an important component to helping viewers choose, with 55% of U.S. viewers saying they receive recommendations from friends, family, and colleagues. The vast majority—94%—of U.S. viewers said they choose programming based on genre. 

The survey also showed promise for linear TV, perhaps invigorated by the popularity of FAST channels, with 62% of Americans saying they channel surf or scroll through a program guide or app to find what they want to watch.

With Amazon Prime and Roku now launching show previews when viewers fire up their Fire TV or Roku devices, individual platforms are increasing their importance in how viewers choose content. According to Comcast's survey, 51% of U.S. viewers have found and watched content recommended on their home screen and 85% of U.S. viewers are likely to be influenced by ads or show trailers. 

To read the full report, Content Discovery in a Multiscreen TV World, click here.

LOS ANGELES—Cineverse Corp. has launched its AsianCrush and RetroCrush streaming services on Comcast's Xfinity and Xumo streaming devices, expanding the reach of the services to millions of new households across the US. 

AsianCrush which is dedicated to bringing viewers the best of pan-Asian entertainment, and RetroCrush, which offers classic anime titles, are both available as subscription video on demand (SVOD) add-ons for an additional monthly fee.

With today's launch, AsianCrush and RetroCrush are now available on Xfinity X1, Xfinity Flex, Xumo Stream Box and Xumo TV. 

"We have thoroughly enjoyed being part of Comcast's innovative mission to deliver the world's best content with ease to their customers," said John Stack, Senior Director of Business Development at Cineverse. "And in that spirit, we're so excited to offer AsianCrush and RetroCrush to a new enthusiast audience on Xfinity."

AsianCrush and RetroCrush join existing Cineverse SVOD channels already available on these devices including Docurama (super-serving fans of documentaries), Dove Channel (family programming), Fandor (indie film), Midnight Pulp (cult movies and TV shows), and Screambox (horror).

MEDIACOM PARK, N.Y.—Mediacom Communications is now making the Xumo Stream Box available to its Xtream Internet customers at no additional monthly cost.

Mediacom announced last fall that it would be deploying the Xumo Stream Box, which was developed as part of the Xumo joint venture between Comcast and Charter. The 4K streaming device powered by Comcast’s newest entertainment experience, Entertainment OS. 

Mediacom joins Charter and Comcast as the third U.S.-based cable operator to offer Xumo Stream Box to its customers.

The deployments illustrate how cable operators are embracing streaming technologies and working to strengthen the value of their very profitable broadband offerings with streaming services at a time when traditional pay TV packages continue to decline in popularity and their broadband services face increased competition from fixed, 5G wireless services. 

“Xumo Stream Box is an incredibly versatile and consumer-friendly technology that seamlessly integrates our market leading broadband speeds with a world class streaming experience,” said Tapan Dandnaik, Mediacom’s senior vice president of operations, product strategy and consumer experience. “We are thrilled to be among the first companies to bring this cutting-edge device to market.”

With Xumo Stream Box, Mediacom’s Xtream Internet Customers can search for a show or movie by saying its name into the included voice remote, and Xumo Stream Box will search across available apps and services to find it. The Xumo Stream Box also uses both AI-driven personalization and a team of editors to surface content recommendations within the experience, helping customers find something to watch without having to jump in and out of apps.

The built-in channel guide allows users to brows through Xumo Play’s 300+ channels spanning live local and national news, movies, sports, reality shows, crime TV, kids programming and more. It also comes preloaded with hundreds of streaming apps, no need for customers to download before they watch. They can simply say the name of the streaming service into the voice remote, and Xumo Stream Box will find and launch it.

With “My List,” Xtream customers can also build personalized viewing lists for every member of the family. 

More information is available at mediacomcable.com/products/xumo/. 

PHILADELPHIA—Comcast has announced that it is launching the Xumo Stream box for its Xfinity Internet customers at no extra cost. 

The launch of the Xumo streaming box on Comcast’s systems is a notable example of how pay TV operators are making streaming a central part of their video strategies.  Xumo is a joint venture between the country’s two largest cable operators, Comcast and Charter.

Built on Comcast’s EntertainmentOS, Xumo’s new 4K streaming box brings together live TV and streaming in one simple, intuitive experience.  

“Finding something to watch across streaming apps can be frustrating and time consuming for customers,” said John Dixon, senior vice president, Entertainment. “Xumo Stream Box helps simplify streaming so customers can spend less time searching and more time watching with key features like live TV at start-up, leading voice search, an integrated guide, and all the most popular apps preloaded and ready to watch.” 

In announcing the launch Comcast said that the Xumo Stream Box from Xfinity will allow customers to spend more time watching and less time searching. The box and its remote allows customers to search for a show or movie by saying its name into the included voice remote; the Xumo Stream Box will then search across available apps and services to find it. 

The Xumo Stream Box also uses both AI-driven personalization and an in-house editorial team to surface content recommendations within the experience, helping customers find something to watch without having to jump in and out of apps.

The integration of streaming content and live linear TV also means that customers can quickly and easily access Xfinity Stream channels. Broadband customers can find something to watch among the app’s 20+ FAST channels, and NOW TV customers to quickly access and enjoy their 40+ streaming channels from A&E, AMC, Hallmark, Warner Bros. Discovery, and more, Comcast reported. 

Other new features include a “currently playing” tile that shows what’s airing on the last Xfinity Stream channel the customer watched. It also includes a built-in channel guide for browsing Xfinity Stream channels.

The Xumo Stream Box comes preloaded with hundreds of streaming apps, Comcast said. Customers can simply say the name of the streaming service into the voice remote, and Xumo Stream Box will find and launch it. 

For the first time, Xfinity customers will also be able to build personalized viewing lists for every member of the family with “My List.” With just one click, customers can add any show or movie available on Xumo Stream Box to a specific list, giving them a quick way to find what to watch next, comcast said. 

ATLANTA—Cox Media Group (CMG) has announced that its newly launched local streaming channel Neighborhood TV will be available on Xumo Play beginning December 1. 

Neighborhood TV (NTV), which formally launched in August 2023, is a free ad-supported streaming TV (FAST) local news channel generating more than 100 million impressions monthly. The FAST channel is an extension of CMG’s linear TV business that currently covers 70 neighborhoods in Atlanta and 30 in Charlotte, with plans to launch in hundreds more neighborhoods across the country.

Xumo is a joint venture between Comcast and Charter, that was formed to develop and offer a next-generation streaming platform for the entire entertainment industry. 

To market the service, CMG said that a marketing program is planned, beginning in Atlanta, using a cross-platform ad campaign that includes Neighborhood TV tune-in commercials across CMG’s local broadcast channels. 

“We are pleased to bring these two trailblazers together, making it seamless for viewers to access the programming they want, and for advertisers to maximize their local reach,” said Cox Media Group executive chairman Steve Pruett in announcing the launch. “Through cross-company marketing efforts, we are leveraging our core CMG brands so that our linear airtime commercials for Neighborhood TV will support the further adoption of the new FAST channel on Xumo Play.” 

“Live news, whether national or local, has always been a top performing genre of programming on Xumo Play,” said Stefan Van Engen, vice president, content acquisition, Xumo Play. “Neighborhood TV’s hyper-local community coverage will be a great complement to our growing lineup of local and national channels, offering our customers more ways to get the news they care about most.”  

DALLAS—New data from Parks Associates is providing additional evidence that the usage of ad-supported streaming services is skyrocketing as streaming companies hike prices and revamp their businesses strategies to push users into ad-supported services. 

Parks Associates' latest research shows a dramatic increase in the use of ad-based video services, as the number of U.S. internet households that recently used an AVOD/FAST video streaming service increased from 31% in Q1 2023 to 41% in Q3 2023. 

 "The use of ad-supported services such as AVOD and FAST grew to 41% this quarter, confirming past predictions that more consumers will find these cost-effective options appealing," said Sarah Lee, research analyst, Parks Associates. "Streaming providers are raising prices and cracking down on account sharing in search of profitability, but consumers are struggling to make ends meet. Ad-supported business models are a win-win for both parties."

The research firm's Video Service Consumer Insights Dashboard highlights the key metrics in streaming and video services, with trending data based on Parks Associates' ongoing consumer survey work of US internet households.

The data is the second major report this week showing “fast growth in FAST” services in both advertising and usage. 

Earlier this week, a new report from  Xumo and Comcast Advertising, “The 2023 State of FAST,” found that advertisers are increasingly including FAST in their strategies in response to viewer habits, with 84% of buyers responding that they plan to increase their FAST investments even more in 2024. With advertisers increasing their spend year over year, consumer interest and awareness in the free service also continues to grow; in fact, the study reveals, 94% of FAST impressions are delivered on the TV screen.

A new report from  Xumo and Comcast Advertising released this week shows that the FAST (free ad supported TV) trend is showing strong growth among both advertisers and viewers. 

According to the joint report, “The 2023 State of FAST,” from Xumo—the streaming joint venture between Comcast and Cox—advertisers are increasingly including FAST in their strategies in response to viewer habits, with 84% of buyers responding that they plan to increase their FAST investments even more in 2024. With advertisers increasing their spend year over year, consumer interest and awareness in the free service also continues to grow; in fact, the study reveals, 94% of FAST impressions are delivered on the TV screen.

“Every month, FAST channels are attracting tens of millions of viewers due to the plethora of high-quality programming including content like local news, niche sports, themed movies, enthusiast TV shows, and more,” said Marcien Jenckes, President, Xumo and Managing Director, Comcast Advertising. “The results of this research highlight how the advertising industry is responding to FAST, and their increasing interest in its monetization potential.”

Nearly half of advertisers surveyed said they are currently using FAST in their media buying and planning, noting that FAST helps them reach their audiences incrementally and more accurately; in fact, three in five FAST buyers use it to target a specific audience, and over half of advertisers use FAST because it extends the reach of their audience, according to the report.

The report also found that almost half of consumers regularly watch at least one channel on a FAST service, with FAST viewers using an average of 1.5 FAST services. The report also noted that in  a survey, 56% of viewers said FAST channels are as good as cable channels.

The most popular genre on FAST is news at 39% share, followed by crime TV with 17%, movies 10%, action and drama 5%, sports 5% and games shows 3%. Others accounted for 21%.

The report concludes with several predictions around the future of FAST, including the blurring between FAST and linear, the personalization of the user experience, and increased advertiser education as FAST continues to mature, according to Megan Halscheid, VP, PMX Marketplace Intelligence, Publicis Media.

“I expect demand for FAST to grow in the coming years as pricing pressure on consumers from subscription streaming services mounts,” she said. “More and more of the viewing audience will look to FAST to add to their viewing experience, making the format increasingly valuable to ad buyers.”

"The 2023 State of FAST" report combines data insights from across Comcast Advertising and Xumo Play alongside custom research with advertisers and agency executives undertaken by Gavin Bridge, vice president, Media Research at CRG Global and known in the industry as “FASTMaster.”

PHILADELPHIA, Penn.—The Xumo joint venture between Comcast and Charter has announced that Mediacom Communications, the nation’s fifth largest cable operator, will begin offering Xumo Stream Box to its Xtream Internet customers in the coming months. 

In addition to Charter’s Spectrum and Comcast’s Xfinity, Mediacom will be the third U.S.-based operator to offer Xumo Stream Box to its customers.

"Mediacom’s decision to partner with Xumo further validates the unique value proposition we can offer to operators looking to maintain an entertainment-centric relationship with customers as they migrate to streaming video,” said Michael Gatzke, senior vice president, affiliate development, Xumo. “By partnering with Xumo, Mediacom can offer its broadband customers a great 4K streaming device with award-winning voice navigation so they can stream more, easily finding what they want to watch.”

Mediacom said it will offer Xumo Stream Box to Xtream Internet customers interested in accessing a wide array of free ad supported television (FAST) programming combined with easy access to popular streaming platforms. 

“Through our partnership with Xumo, we will be able to significantly enhance the value of our broadband services by combining our market leading-speeds with a new world-class streaming experience,” said Tapan Dandnaik, Mediacom’s senior vice president of operations, product strategy and consumer experience. “Xumo Stream Box is incredibly versatile and consumer-friendly, and we are excited to be among the first companies to bring this cutting-edge device to market.” 

Xumo Stream Box will make it simple for Mediacom Xtream Internet customers to quickly jump into their favorite live or on-demand streaming content. It also offers an easy way to discover new programming through an integrated, content-forward interface and voice remote.

Xumo Stream Box is the latest device powered by Comcast’s EntertainmentOS. Entertainment OS is the culmination of decades of content aggregation experience across Comcast, combining the innovative UI technology of Sky Glass and the search and discovery features inherent to platforms like Xfinity X1 and Xfinity Flex.

PHILADELPHIA—Charter and Comcast’s streaming platform joint venture Xumo has announced it is partnering with Best Buy to bring Pioneer Xumo TVs to customers. The first Pioneer Xumo TVs will launch in Best Buy stores and on BestBuy.com in November in time for the holidays. 

“Our partnership with Best Buy represents a great step forward for consumer choice. Soon, consumers looking for an affordable and innovative smart TV will have a compelling new option in Pioneer Xumo TVs,” said Stephanie Cassi, senior vice president, sales and marketing, Xumo. “We’re focused on removing the complexity that’s come with the rise of streaming, enabling consumers to get back to enjoying their TV experience.”

 Pioneer joins Hisense as the latest manufacturer of Xumo TVs now available at Best Buy. 

Xumo reported that the new Pioneer Xumo TVs feature a user interface designed to make finding and watching programming simple and easy. The TVs feature universal voice search through the included remote, and an intuitive user interface that enables consumers to browse content from across all their streaming apps at once.

Pioneer Xumo TVs will be available in 43”, 50”, 55” and 65” 4K models. Alongside the simple and intuitive user experience, Pioneer Xumo TVs support Dolby Vision® HDR and HDR10 technology, providing enhanced color and contrast for an ever more immersive viewing experience.

Key features of Pioneer Xumo TVs include:

• Simple, Fast and Smart Discovery. Emmy-award winning voice technology allows consumers to discover content quickly from across available apps and services with a simple voice command into the remote.
• With My List, consumers can create a personalized playlist to save and quickly access shows or movies from across apps and services right from the home screen.
• Convenient and seamless access to recently viewed apps, services, content, HDMI inputs, and over-the-air channels on the first row of the home screen helps consumers get back to their favorite entertainment faster.
• A curated interface that combines automated suggestions with editorial recommendations to help consumers discover programming from across streaming apps and services.
• Hundreds of Built-In Apps
• Hundreds of streaming apps and services including Apple TV+, Disney+, Max, Hulu, Netflix, Peacock, Prime Video, YouTube and more.
• Immediate access to tens of thousands of free movies and TV shows from ad-supported services like Xumo Play, Pluto, Tubi and more – all seamlessly blended alongside consumers’ subscription content to help them discover something new.

LONDON—British broadcaster Channel 4 has launched its first ever international channels after striking deals with U.S. streaming platforms Tubi, Plex and Xumo Play.

As part of those deals, two channels – 4 Adventure and 4 Emergency – will be available as free ad-supported (FAST) streaming channels in the U.S., offering hundreds of hours of Channel 4 content, alongside other UK programming. 

The broadcaster said it plans to announce deals with other platforms later this year and said that the launches will help diversify its revenue streams. 

Channel 4 said it has partnered with Amagi, Broadcast Intelligence and Gracenote to support the technical delivery of its content on the FAST channels.

“Launching our first ever international channels is a pivotal moment for Channel 4 and opens up a huge range of exciting possibilities,” Channel 4’s head of streaming editorial, UK & International, Alex Wall said. “These channels will introduce U.S. audiences to popular shows that embody our core brand values, bringing Channel 4’s unique tone of voice and our rich British culture to the U.S. FAST market. It also provides a great opportunity to further diversify our revenue streams, and with more deals in the pipeline, we’re really excited about this new chapter for Channel 4.”

4 Adventure will feature a range of reality and documentary programs centered around survival challenges and endurance such as Shipwrecked and The Island With Bear Grylls.

4 Emergency will give U.S. viewers a unique insight into the frontline of British health and emergency response systems featuring programs such as 24 Hours In A&E, Emergency Helicopter Medics, Emergency Rescue: Air, Land & Sea and Paramedics: On The Frontline (999: On The Frontline in the UK).

“Thanks to Channel 4’s agile operating model, we’re able to explore the potential returns and other opportunities in this fast-growing market,” Wall added. 

“With nearly 250 channels, our FAST offering provides our viewers with a lean-back, drop-in experience, allowing them to dive deep into their obsessions - from reality, to documentaries, to action and beyond," said Sam Harowitz, vice president of content acquisitions, Tubi. "We're thrilled to partner with Channel 4 to bring their beloved British programming to our platform, which we're certain will entertain and captivate our audiences."

“We’re excited for the Channel 4 partnership as they launch their first ever international channels on Plex,” adds Shawn Eldridge, vice president of business development and content at Plex. “With the addition of the Channel 4 depth and breadth of premium content like 4 Adventure and 4 Emergency, we’re continuing to fill out the most diverse and entertaining selection of FAST channels anywhere.”

“The launch of Channel 4 on Xumo Play enhances our international offerings, and brings uniquely British content to millions of viewers on our industry leading FAST service,” said Anthony Layser, executive director, content acquisition and programming strategy at Xumo.  “Channel 4 offers a highly entertaining cultural twist with lifestyle content from reality shows and documentaries to action and drama that is certain to resonate with U.S. audiences.”

NEW YORK—Four new free ad-supported streaming TV (FAST) linear content offerings featuring programming from Telemundo Enterprises and the NBCUniversal Global Distribution library have launched on Google TV and Android TV devices in the US.

The four additional channels launching August 23 are: Murder, She Wrote; Universal Crime; Lo Mejor de Telemundo and Historias de Amor.

These channels join NBCUniversal’s lineup of previously announced FAST channels on Google TV including NBC News Now, Today All Day, Dateline 24/7, NBC Local Stations, Telemundo al Día, and Sky News International.

NBCU reported that all of its new FAST channels on third party services like Google TV are powered by Xumo Enterprise, the business-to-business arm of Xumo that provides content owners, distributors and advertisers with tools and services to succeed in FAST. Xumo is a joint venture between NBCU’s parent company Comcast and Charter. 

STAMFORD, Conn.—While Charter has done much better than other major pay TV operators in retaining video subs, the company has announced a major shift in its video strategy that it hopes will help it thrive in a streaming, cord-cutting landscape. 

Building on the announcement last year of a joint venture with Comcast to create the Xumo streaming platform, Charter is now planning to use Xumo as “our go-to-market platform for new video sales,” according to Chris Winfrey, president and CEO, Charter Communications. 

Winfrey made the remarks in a conference call with analysts announcing Charters Q2 2023 results, which included the loss of 189,000 subs, a much better result than the 543,000 subs lost by Comcast. 

The Comcast and Charter joint venture began offering Xumo-branded TVs this summer. 

“We're excited for the upcoming release of the Xumo product, which I believe will be an industry-leading platform for customers to access all of their linear and DTC video content with unified search and discovery,” Winfrey said. “Together with our Spectrum TV app, the most viewed linear MVPD streaming service in the US, Xumo will be our go-to-market platform for new video sales. We're currently conducting field trials in the product, and we remain on track for deployment later this year.”

The move is clearly related to shifts in the video business towards streaming platforms like Roku and Apple TV. Like many operators, Charter has already begun offering video packages via streaming app rather than settop boxes and the move towards Xumo would accelerate that trend. 

“Xumo…really is an extension of what we've been doing already,” Winfrey told analysts. “Two-thirds of our video sales today are without a set-top box, meaning they're going on to Roku, Apple TV, Samsung TV or other platforms.”

“The concept around Xumo was to, through a joint venture with Comcast, have an ownership in an independent entity, which is Xumo that provides better functionality and exist for customers today where they can integrate all of their DTC SVOD and linear services in a single place with unified search and discovery with a voice remote,” he added later in the call. “And so that will be our platform of choice to deliver to our video subscriptions going forward. And ultimately, I expect us to provide that to some broadband customers over time as well.”

“That will be good for Xumo as an independent platform, but I also think it provides functionality to our connectivity customers and we can provide the level of video services to our customers through our connectivity packages,” he said. 

Comcast has added more than 20 free ad-supported streaming TV (FAST) channels from Xumo Play, NBC and Sky into its Xfinity Stream app. The channels are available free to any Xfinity customer, regardless of whether they subscribe to Xfinity Video.

Upon signing into Stream, customers will see free TV shows and movies seamlessly integrated within the channel guide and elsewhere throughout the experience. This approach makes it easy for Xfinity customers to surf between any subscribed channels and FAST channels to find something to watch without having to toggle between apps.

These new channels include NBC News NOW, Sky News, and 19 Xumo-branded channels, offering customers a wide variety of news, movies and TV shows spanning genres such as comedy, crime TV, black cinema, lifestyle, reality TV, game shows, kids and more.  Comcast plans to bring more FAST channels to the Stream app in the future.

“The launch marks the latest evolution of the Xfinity Stream app, which is increasing content choices for video and non-video customers alike, including weekly samplings of premium programming as part of ‘Free This Week,’ the ability to rent and buy shows and movies, and the ability to watch movies included in Xfinity Rewards,” said Vito Forlenza, Vice President, Entertainment Apps, Comcast Cable.

The new FAST channels are currently available in the Xfinity Stream app on iOS, Android and Fire TV devices, through web browsers on xfinity.com/stream, and via casting to supported AirPlay and Chromecast devices. Additional platforms, including Xfinity Flex and Xumo TV, are coming soon.

IRVINE, Calif.—Comcast’s and Charter’s free streaming service Xumo Play has launched the Xumo Free Nature and Wildlife TV channel, which will feature over 150 hours of content. 

Channel highlights include two docuseries from Off the Fence: “Butterflies: Superheroes of Nature” and “Nature’s Ultimate Survivors”, both of which are premiering in the U.S. for the first time, exclusively on Xumo Play. The channel will be curated by Xumo Plays’s programming team into themed blocks such as Big Cats, Safari, Wildest Places, Baby Animals, and more.

“Our new Nature and Wildlife TV channel will offer Xumo Play viewers a wide array of engaging and high-quality nature programming, including two new exclusive documentaries from the Academy award-winning production house, Off the Fence,” said Anthony Layser, executive director, content acquisition and programming strategy, Xumo, which is a joint venture between Comcast and Charter, 

Rounding out Xumo Play’s entire genre of nature and wildlife content are an additional eight themed channels, including Stingray Naturescape; Love Nature; PBS Nature; WildEarth; eScapes; Xplore; and NatureVision TV.

“FAST channels offer significant opportunities for platforms to carve out new niches and provide long term revenue, but the key to success as ever, is quality content,” said Oliver Taprogge, director of digital sales at Off The Fence. “We are proud that Xumo has chosen to partner with Off The Fence for the launch of its Nature and Wildlife channel, which includes a great line up from our content catalog and territory premieres for two of our key shows. It makes for the perfect Earth Day launch and FAST channel partnership.”

PHILADELPHIA, Pa.—Xumo Enterprise, the business-to-business arm of the streaming platform joint venture between Comcast and Charter, has announced an expanded suite of tools and services to simplify the creation, management and monetization of free ad-supported streaming TV (FAST).

The launch of the expanded FAST channel tools from Xumo come at a time when more streamers are looking to supplement their subscription services with free programming and the launch of FAST services is becoming becoming an increasingly popular way for content owners and advertisers to reach new viewers.

“Since 2016 we have powered many of the leading FAST channels and services globally, and today’s announcement provides the growing industry with even more tools to maximize an existing FAST offering or create a new one,” said Stefan Van Engen, vice president of content acquisition and programming, Xumo.

As part of the new solution suite, Xumo Enterprise is now offering content owners the ability to manage their own FAST channels within its reimagined content management system (CMS) designed to make channel management for the emerging FAST business simple and intuitive. 

Xumo announced that the PGA Tour is the first content partner to utilize Xumo Enterprise’s CMS to manage its FAST channel across available platforms. Capabilities of the CMS include building a programming schedule, managing ad loads, and gaining viewing and engagement insights.

“Our FAST channel has seen rapid growth over the past year – we’ve added more programming from our archives, expanded to new platforms and increased overall engagement,” said Tom Jeffs, vice president of media business development, PGA Tour. “Xumo Enterprise’s CMS solution has been a great asset for us, giving us a simple way to nimbly program and manage our FAST channel as an extension of our broader storytelling efforts.”

Xumo Enterprise’s CMS offering enhances and extends the company’s existing enterprise solutions, which saw unprecedented growth in 2022 as FAST adoption within the industry soared. Xumo reported that the company delivered 65% more streaming hours to its enterprise customers in 2022 than it did the year prior.  

Xumo Enterprise’s existing suite of software and technology solutions include:

• FAST channel syndication. Global ad-supported and subscription-based streaming services can partner with Xumo Enterprise to distribute FAST channels within their experience, choosing from Xumo’s library of 250+ premium, quality content partnerships.
• Linear channel creation and distribution. Xumo Enterprise’s CMS enables content owners to create, program and distribute their own branded FAST channels. Its best-in-class linear play out technology reaches 30+ countries.
• Monetization and optimized ad insertion. The proprietary ads management system (AMS) and server-side ad insertion (SSAI) solutions offered by Xumo Enterprise ensures content owners and streaming platforms can successfully reach new and larger audiences while building their respective businesses.
• Yield management and data insights. A new solution from Xumo Enterprise, content partners can now directly control and manage the ad load and frequency alongside engagement for their linear channel.
• White-labeled streaming service. Xumo is the only FAST solution provider that has the tech stack to develop white-labeled streaming services for OEMs and distributors customized to individual audiences and business needs.

PHILADELPHIA, Pa. & WINSBORO, S.C.—Xumo and the Chinese manufacturer Element Electronics announced plans at CES 2023 to launch a new line of 4K Ultra HD smart TVs across the U.S. in 2023. 

Xumo is a streaming platform joint venture between Comcast and Charter and the new deal to create Element Xumo TVs is part of their plans to develop and offer a next-generation streaming platform on a variety of branded 4K streaming devices and smart TVs. 

“Element is proud to partner with Xumo to bring an advanced streaming platform to market and offer another smart TV solution to our customers and consumers,” said Vlad Kazhdan, president, Element Electronics. “We look forward to building our brand partnership and providing consumers access to amazing technology and content at an incredible value.”

“Element and Xumo share a common vision of delivering consumers premium, innovative entertainment experiences at a tremendous value,” said Marcien Jenckes, president, Xumo. "With the addition of Element to the lineup of Xumo-powered streaming devices and smart TVs later this year, we will provide consumers across the country another great, affordable way to enjoy all their favorite entertainment within our award-winning experience."

The companies said that Element Xumo TVs will be built on Comcast’s flexible and scalable global technology platform, which currently powers tens of millions of entertainment devices. The smart TVs will join a growing portfolio of products soon to be made available under the new Xumo brand, including XClass TV and Flex, a 4K streaming device Xfinity offers to its broadband customers, the companies said. 

Element Xumo TVs will launch in select U.S. retail locations in a range of sizes and price points later in 2023.

IRVINE, Calif.—Comcast’s free streaming service Xumo has launched a Holiday Hub of 18 channels, featuring hundreds of hours of themed entertainment, including seasonal movies, several Xumo original titles as well as a dedicated movie marathon from Hallmark Movies & More, home of Hallmark’s holiday classics. 

“Our Holiday Hub is the ideal destination for viewers to indulge in the widest array of holiday movies and themed content ever provided on Xumo,” said Fern Feistel, vice president of marketing and content operations at Comcast. “From popular movie titles and family favorites to Xumo originals, we’re kicking off the season with curated programming that will keep our audiences entertained through the holiday season and well into the New Year.” 

Channels within Xumo’s Holiday Hub include Xumo Holiday Classics, Hallmark Movies & More, Holiday Movie Channel, North Pole Radio, Stingray Fireplace, iHeart Christmas, and a dozen others with such featured movies as "Christmas Wedding Runaway", "The Miracle Worker", "A Very Corgi Christmas", "Saving Christmas", and others. 

Also streaming are four Xumo originals: “My Favorite Christmas Tree” and “A Royal Christmas Match” from Reel One Entertainment, as well as year-round thrillers “Andromeda” and “Submerged: The Hunley” from ITN Studios.

Xumo will also stream a dedicated movie marathon on Nov. 18-20 featuring the best of Hallmark movies and other titles. 

STAMFORD, Conn. & PHILADELPHIA, Pa.—Charter Communications, Inc. and Comcast have announced that they will use Xumo as the brand and operating name for their streaming platform joint venture.

“Since 2011, the Xumo brand has connected with millions of customers across the country, establishing itself as a leader in the free ad-supported TV industry for the innovative ways it delivers content to its users,” said Marcien Jenckes, president, Xumo.

Along with the naming of the joint venture, Charter and Comcast also announced that Flex, the 4K streaming device Comcast licensed to the joint venture will become Xumo Stream Box and XClass TV will become Xumo TV. 

Both devices will remain powered by Comcast’s global technology platform.

Xumo will go-to-market with its first branded devices in late 2023, distributed by Comcast, Charter and Walmart, with additional distributors to be announced in the future. 

Xumo’s existing FAST service, which consists of hundreds of linear channels and on demand options from a growing collection of networks and content creators, will be rebranded Xumo Play. Xumo Play will anchor the free content offering on Xumo devices and continue to be available as an app on other streaming platforms.

IRVINE, Calif.—The streaming platform Xumo has launched two seasonal channels, Halloween Horrors and Monsters & Nightmares, featuring premium thriller and horror-themed movies.  

Halloween Horrors features a range of predominantly AVOD-exclusive movies, available only on Xumo through fall 2022 and beyond, while Monsters & Nightmares brings dozens of select titles from Magnolia Pictures’ SVOD service through the end of the month.

“As we continue to bring AVOD-exclusive programming as well as best-in-class, licensed content to viewers, these channels fortify our line-up of premium, themed movies for the season,” said Fern Feistel, VP of marketing and content operations at Xumo. “Thriller and horror-themed movies have always been a popular genre on Xumo and adding to that library with two Halloween-specific channels this month is an important focal point that will draw in an enormous audience with ideally timed content.”

Highlights from the Halloween Horrors channel include AVOD-exclusives such as: "The Gravedigger", "Those Who Walk Away", "Hideout", "While We Sleep", and "Homebound." 

The Monsters & Nightmares channel brings select titles from Magnolia’s SVOD service, Monsters & Nightmares, to AVOD/FAST.  Available through October, the channel features dozens of Halloween themed titles, including "All Good Things" and "The Oxford Murders".

IRVINE, Calif.—In a move designed to boost consumption of content on free streaming channels, Comcast’s Xumo has launched the Xfinity What to Watch channel on the Xumo app.

The new channel, which Xumo is billing as an industry-first for free ad-supported streaming TV (FAST) services, is a 24/7 linear channel featuring entertainment recommendations from Xfinity’s team of movie and TV editors.

In announcing the launch, Xumo unveiled new data underscoring the importance of editorial in driving consumption of programming available on today’s FAST services by reporting that programming included in Xumo’s editorial stunts and promotions in 2021 saw a 5X increase in viewing compared to the pre-editorial average.

“With tens of thousands of hours of free programming available, we’re always looking for ways to create a more engaging experience and help our users find shows and movies of interest,” said Fern Feistel, senior vice president, marketing and content operations, Xumo. “With the launch of the Xfinity What to Watch channel, we are taking our editorial strategy and programming to the next level by partnering with the Xfinity team, who has been curating and creating content collections across its platforms for more than 10 years, to create dynamic programming that will help our viewers discover something new across our growing catalog of choices.”

The Xfinity What to Watch channel will feature Xumo movies and TV shows selected by Xfinity’s team of editors, curated into thematic and timely programming blocks to offer a lean-back viewing experience akin to a traditional television channel. 

In addition, Xfinity’s own editorial series, including Xfinity Hangouts and What to Watch Live will be interspersed within the live channel to give viewers more ways to find something to watch. 

Launched in 2019, Xfinity Hangouts features the Xfinity editors sitting down and having candid conversations with stars from the latest shows and movies.

What to Watch Live, which launched in 2021, features the editors discussing the latest in entertainment to help viewers find their next favorite show.

PONTE VERDA BEACH, FLA.—The PGA Tour has added a new club to its bag for delivering content to its fans, as the organization has announced it is launching a live and video-on-demand OTT service through a partnership with Xumo.

The PGA Tour says that this is its first ad-supported OTT channel available on smart TVs and will provide both live and VOD programming. Content will include highlights/recaps, player interviews, tournament previews and live featured hole coverage from PGA Tour Live.

The channel is now available on LG’s Channel Plus service, powered by Xumo on channel IP-750, and across the Xumo distribution network, which includes Hisense, Sharp, Vizio and Panasonic connected devices.

IRVINE, CALIF.—The Vizio SmartCast app has added a new tool to its make-up, the Xumo live and video-on-demand OTT system. The Xumo system joins other apps as part of the SmartCast experience, including Vudu, Crackle, Hulu, Pluto TV, iHeartRadio, FandangoNOW and Google Play Movies & TV.

With Xumo, SmartCast users have access to more than 70 OTT channels, including Time Inc.’s People/Entertainment Weekly Network, Sports Illustrated, Refinery29, Funny or Die, and Outside TV Shorts. Consumers can browse the Xumo content alongside content catalogs from other apps available on SmartCast.

The Vizio SmartCast app is available on mobile and tablet devices, and smart TVs.