Comcast on Tuesday launched a new cloud-based DVR service for some customers in the Philadelphia area that will let them access DVR'd content on their mobile devices.
The new cloud-based X1 box works like a regular DVR but lets you watch recordings on your smartphone, tablet, or computer while at home. You can also download specific DVR recordings directly to your mobile device to watch while you're out and about, as well as access a live stream of "practically" your entire TV channel lineup at home, the company said.
Today's launch makes the X1 DVR available to new Xfinity TV customers in the greater Philadelphia, New Jersey, and northern Delaware areas. Comcast first launched the X1 DVR with in Boston in February, and it will roll out to additional markets throughout the year.
"We want to provide customers with the best television experience on every device, when they want it and where they want it," LeAnn Talbot, regional senior vice president at Comcast, said in a statement. "The cloud-based infrastructure of the X1 platform allows us to deliver on that promise, and give customers a more personalized viewing experience."
To enable the new streaming and download features, Comcast has launched a new Xfinity TV app for iOS and Android tablets and smartphones as well as a dedicated portal for viewing on computers. Once you download the app and sign in with your Xfinity TV credentials, you'll be able to browse through your full channel lineup in the Guide or scan available recordings for download in the Saved menu.
The Xfinity TV app for the X1 platform is only available for iOS devices running 7.0 or later and Android devices running 4.4 (KitKat) or higher. For more, see Comcast's FAQ page.
Last year, Comcast launched the Xfinity TV Go app, which added on-the-go viewing for 35 live channels.