Comcast and Charter Announce Xumo as the Brand Name for Their Streaming Platform Joint Venture

Rhea-AI Summary

Charter Communications (NASDAQ: CHTR) and Comcast (NASDAQ: CMCSA) have rebranded their streaming platform joint venture to Xumo. This change marks a shift from a free ad-supported streaming service to a comprehensive entertainment ecosystem, combining streaming devices and content delivery. The Xumo brand has been recognized for its innovative approach since 2011. The Flex streaming device will now be known as Xumo Stream Box, and the XClass TV will become Xumo TV. The Xumo Play service will continue to offer a variety of linear channels and on-demand options.

Positive

• Rebranding to Xumo enhances brand recognition and positions the joint venture competitively in the streaming market.
• The new Xumo platform will integrate advanced streaming and aggregation technologies, potentially attracting more users.
• Comcast and Charter's extensive distribution network through Walmart and other partners aims to increase product accessibility.

Negative

• Transitioning existing services to the new brand may confuse some customers.
• Dependence on Comcast's technology could limit the joint venture's operational independence.

Products and Services Offered or Licensed Through the Joint Venture’s National Distribution Partners, including Charter, Comcast and Walmart, Will be Branded Xumo

STAMFORD, Conn. & PHILADELPHIA--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Charter Communications, Inc. (NASDAQ: CHTR) and Comcast Corporation (NASDAQ: CMCSA) today announced their streaming platform joint venture will now operate and conduct business as Xumo, evolving the brand from a free ad-supported streaming TV (FAST) service to an entire entertainment ecosystem inclusive of streaming devices, content, and a platform for partners to reach audiences at scale.

Comcast and Charter Announce Xumo as the Brand Name for Their Streaming Platform Joint Venture (Photo: Business Wire)

“Since 2011, the Xumo brand has connected with millions of customers across the country, establishing itself as a leader in the free ad-supported TV industry for the innovative ways it delivers content to its users,” said Marcien Jenckes, President, Xumo. “The new Xumo will bring industry leading streaming and aggregation technology nationwide through its expanding content, product line up, and retailer relationships.”

Along with the naming of the joint venture, Charter and Comcast also announced that Flex, the 4K streaming device Comcast licensed to the joint venture will become Xumo Stream Box and XClass TV will become Xumo TV. Both devices will remain powered by Comcast’s global technology platform and feature an entertainment experience designed to make it easy for consumers to find and enjoy their favorite streaming content through a world-class user interface and voice search. Xumo will go-to-market with its first branded devices in late 2023, distributed by Comcast, Charter and Walmart, with additional distributors to be announced in the future.

Xumo’s FAST service, which consists of hundreds of linear channels and on demand options from a growing collection of networks and content creators, will be rebranded Xumo Play. Xumo Play will anchor the free content offering on Xumo devices and continue to be available as an app on other streaming platforms.

About Charter

Charter Communications, Inc. (NASDAQ:CHTR) is a leading broadband connectivity company and cable operator serving more than 32 million customers in 41 states through its Spectrum brand. Over an advanced communications network, the Company offers a full range of state-of-the-art residential and business services including Spectrum Internet®, TV, Mobile and Voice.

For small and medium-sized companies, Spectrum Business® delivers the same suite of broadband products and services coupled with special features and applications to enhance productivity, while for larger businesses and government entities, Spectrum Enterprise provides highly customized, fiber-based solutions. Spectrum Reach® delivers tailored advertising and production for the modern media landscape. The Company also distributes award-winning news coverage and sports programming to its customers through Spectrum Networks. More information about Charter can be found at corporate.charter.com.

About Comcast Corporation

Comcast Corporation (Nasdaq: CMCSA) is a global media and technology company that connects people to moments that matter. We are principally focused on connectivity, aggregation, and streaming with 57 million customer relationships across the United States and Europe. We deliver broadband, wireless, and video through our Xfinity, Comcast Business, and Sky brands; create, distribute, and stream leading entertainment, sports, and news through Universal Filmed Entertainment Group, Universal Studio Group, Sky Studios, the NBC and Telemundo broadcast networks, multiple cable networks, Peacock, NBCUniversal News Group, NBC Sports, Sky News, and Sky Sports; and provide memorable experiences at Universal Parks and Resorts in the United States and Asia. Visit www.comcastcorporation.com for more information.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20221101006270/en/

Debbie Frey

Comcast Corporation

debbie_frey@comcast.com

215.983.0563

Source: Comcast Corporation

FAQ

What is the new name for the Charter and Comcast joint venture?

The joint venture will now operate under the name Xumo.

What devices will be rebranded as Xumo products?

The Flex streaming device will become Xumo Stream Box, and XClass TV will be rebranded as Xumo TV.

When will the first Xumo-branded devices be available?

The first Xumo-branded devices are set to launch in late 2023.

What is Xumo Play?

Xumo Play is the rebranded FAST service offering hundreds of linear channels and on-demand options.

How does the Xumo brand enhance streaming services?

Xumo aims to offer an entire entertainment ecosystem, integrating devices, content, and a platform for partners.