Comcast Corp - CMCSA STOCK NEWS

Comcast Corporation (CMCSA) reported strong financial results for Q3 2021, with revenues of $30.3 billion, an 18.7% increase year-over-year. Net income surged 99.8% to $4.0 billion, while Adjusted EBITDA rose 18.1% to $9.0 billion. Key highlights include a 10.3% growth in cable communications EBITDA and significant gains in wireless customer additions. NBCUniversal also showed recovery in theme parks and media segments, while returning $2.7 billion to shareholders. However, some segments showed declining video and voice customers as competition intensifies.

Comcast has launched its XClass TV, now available direct to consumers in the U.S. without an Xfinity subscription. This collaboration with Hisense marks the introduction of affordable 4K UHD smart TVs that integrate Comcast’s award-winning entertainment and voice platform. Key features include voice control, access to hundreds of apps, and a year of Peacock Premium at no extra cost. The XClass TV is set to enhance content discovery through simple navigation and personalized playlists, reinforcing Comcast’s position in the competitive smart TV market.

Comcast Corporation announced that starting July 16, 2022, consumers can reach the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by dialing 988. To support this transition, 82 area codes across 36 states will shift to 10-digit dialing. Effective October 24, 2021, all local calls in these areas must use 10 digits, or they may not connect. This change may necessitate programming updates for safety and security equipment. Until July 16, 2022, the traditional number 1-800-273-8255 remains active.

Comcast has introduced a new Spam Blocker feature for Xfinity Voice, allowing customers to block unwanted spam, spoofing, and robocalls without additional costs. The feature categorizes calls as low, medium, or high risk, blocking high-risk calls by default. This initiative is part of Comcast's ongoing efforts to combat nuisance calls, following their Verified Caller ID rollout. According to a report, Americans receive an average of 31 spam calls monthly, highlighting the importance of this feature in protecting users.

FreeWheel, a Comcast company, has appointed Hong Cai as the general manager of its Beijing office and vice president of engineering. He is expected to enhance FreeWheel’s engineering team, driving innovation in TV advertising technology. Cai brings 23 years of experience, previously serving at Data Orient, Inc. and other major firms. His background in cloud computing and artificial intelligence aligns with FreeWheel's goals to connect buyers and sellers in the evolving media landscape. This leadership change aims to accelerate product delivery and technology innovation.

Comcast Business has successfully completed its acquisition of Masergy, a Texas-based leader in software-defined networking and cloud platforms. This strategic move aims to enhance Comcast's ability to serve large and mid-sized companies, particularly those with multi-site global operations. The acquisition is expected to strengthen Comcast's channel distribution strategy, allowing for improved international network management for Comcast customers. Financial terms of the deal remain undisclosed.

FreeWheel, a Comcast Company, has promoted Virginie Dremeaux to Vice President of Marketing and Communications. Based in Paris, Dremeaux will lead the international marketing team, focusing on enhancing awareness of FreeWheel’s advertising products in the U.K. and Europe. Her responsibilities include driving innovation in video advertising and overseeing international communications. Dremeaux has over 20 years of experience in TV and digital media, previously serving at Canal+ Group. The leadership change aims to accelerate growth in the advanced TV industry.