Comcast updating their Flex box interfaces

I've given Comcast credit for developing a streaming device that works a lot like their cable box. The idea is that it will help users transition from cable to streaming, and stay in the Xfinity world as they do that.

It's good marketing, and anything that makes the transition easier is a good thing for the customer.

The problem is that the interface isn't very good. Sure, for cable, it's okay, but it really doesn't work well for streaming.

Comcast is doing something about that, according to Cord Cutters News:

"Our products are in tens of millions of customers' homes and will soon be enjoyed around the world and in every major U.S. city through our recently announced joint venture with Charter," Comcast said in a letter to shareholders. "We are just beginning to realize the full potential of our proprietary global technology platform, and later this year we’ll launch a new user interface for Sky Glass, X1, Flex, Xumo, and our international partners."

This new user interface is part of a bigger push for Comcast to take on Roku, Fire TV, and Apple TV. Later this year, Comcast will launch a streaming player called Xumo Play, a rebranded version of the Flex player. This new streaming player from Comcast will be sold at Walmart and will target new cord cutters which are used to the X1 interface and want to cut the cord.

If they do it right, then that will be a huge benefit to those making the transition from cable to streaming. Anything that helps someone ease into their Streaming Life is a good thing. Even if it's from Comcast.