Comcast (NASDAQ: CMCSA) has apparently found yet another use for its advanced cloud-based X1 system: streaming Electronic Arts (EA) video games to subscriber televisions.
Five sources briefed on the plan told Reuters that Comcast--in the throes of a $45.2 billion acquisition bid for Time Warner Cable (NYSE: TWC)--and EA have been testing the idea for two years, using video games such as FIFA and Madden and are now close to make a deal to put EA's games on Comcast subscriber TVs. The move, if it happens as sources claim it will, would be a direct competitive slap to the likes of Microsoft (NASDAQ: MSFT) and Sony, which have been pushing TV content through their Xbox and PlayStation gaming devices.
Neither Comcast nor EA would comment on the report, which marks yet another rumored collaboration between the nation's largest cable operator and an industry outsider-wannabe. Several weeks ago word leaked that Comcast was working with Apple (NASDAQ: AAPL) on a streaming deal.
The X1 system mimics a cloud-based computer for the TV by providing apps and an interface to make the television viewing experience more interactive. The deal with EA would allow Comcast to offer popular sports and casual titles from EA's portfolio as applications. Customers could then use their tablets as controllers to play the games.
For more:
- Reuters has this story
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