Comcast and Netflix jointly announced that the long-awaited integration of the leading SVOD service into the X1 video platform of the top cable company will launch next week.
“The Netflix integration into the X1 platform means our mutual customers will no longer need to change inputs or juggle remotes,” said Reed Hastings, Netflix co-founder and CEO, in a statement. “Now they can seamlessly move between the Netflix app and their cable service, enjoying all the TV shows and movies they love without hassle.”
Users of the X1 voice remote will be able to launch the SVOD service by merely saying the word “Netflix.” The service’s on-demand catalog will also appear alongside VOD movies and TV shows in X1’s program guide. So, if a user says the name “Kevin Spacey” in the voice remote or punches it in, they’ll be able to surface the actor’s films across platforms.
Comcast subscribers will also be able to sign up for Netflix within X1, with the SVOD service’s monthly charge showing up on their cable bill
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The integration culminates a long journey between the two video companies from bitter rivals to intrepid partners.
The relationship bottomed out in early 2015, when Comcast was in the midst of making its ultimately failed regulatory bid for Time Warner Cable. Netflix and Comcast frequently traded barbs in regulatory filings, mostly centering around net neutrality issues.
“Netflix has been a terrific partner, and our incredible teams of engineers and designers have come together to create an experience that is not only seamless and intuitive, but also lets viewers search and watch tens of thousands of movies, shows, specials and documentaries with the sound of their voice,” added Comcast Cable CEO Neil Smit.