Comcast (NASDAQ: CMCSA) has introduced a high-end, rack-mountable version of its X1 set-top box targeted to home theater installers.
Installers can now special order the devices, which were introduced last week at the CEDIA trade show in Dallas.
For now, the special X1 set-tops' primarily differentiator is a chassis design that fits standard home theater racks. But Neal Roberts, senior manager, special operations in TV for Comcast, said several other new features will be integrated early next year.
IP control, for example, will allow installers to operate the X1 platform over both standard and customized universal remote controls.
Roberts also promised the integration Dolby Atmos, the same sound system used in high-end movie theaters.
The announcement is part of Comcast's Custom Xfinity Integration program (CXI), which was established by the MSO in 2012 in hopes that it would make X1 the pay-TV platform of choice for home theater installers.
"The program is focused on ensuring X1 and all Xfinity products are equipped with the most advanced technology available in the areas of video, audio and integration," Roberts said. "It also serves as a clearinghouse and central contact point for home integration companies to access tools and support that was previously not available to them. This allows the integrators to set up and adjust Comcast services and ensures a smooth installation experience on the behalf of our joint customer."
For more:
- read this Comcast blog post
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