Comcast Corp - CMCSA STOCK NEWS

A recent survey by Comcast Business reveals that 46% of American consumers are inclined to support local businesses during this holiday season, up from previous years. Key motivations include a desire to give back to communities (53%) and a focus on quality (48%) and customer service (45%). Notably, 84% of respondents are mindful of business types they patronize, with many planning to support local restaurants and groceries. Additionally, 75% prioritize retailers offering online shopping, highlighting the importance of technology in consumer decision-making.

Comcast announced plans to establish WiFi-connected 'Lift Zones' at 10 locations in Fresno County, aiding low-income students in accessing educational resources. The initiative includes a $100,000 donation to local organizations for digital literacy and internet access support. Additionally, 225 students will receive laptops and 12 months of free internet at home. This program aims to bridge the digital divide exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, ensuring equitable educational opportunities for vulnerable communities.

WarnerMedia and Comcast have launched the HBO Max app on Xfinity X1 and Flex platforms, enhancing access for millions of Xfinity customers. Users can access HBO Max content through voice commands, integrating the library within the X1 and Flex experiences. The rollout coincides with the Christmas Day premiere of Wonder Woman 1984, available in high-definition formats. The partnership aims to provide seamless entertainment options, leveraging Xfinity's robust offerings, including live TV and popular streaming apps.

Comcast, in partnership with local officials, announced plans to establish over 20 WiFi-connected "Lift Zones" in the Denver Metro Area to aid low-income families in accessing the Internet. This initiative aims to support students' online learning during the pandemic by providing reliable WiFi in safe community spaces such as parks and recreation centers. Comcast's Internet Essentials program has connected over 8 million low-income individuals to the Internet, including 300,000 in Colorado. Additionally, Comcast has allocated $150,000 in grants to enhance internet safety and digital literacy programs statewide.

Comcast has launched its 'Lift Zones' initiative in partnership with the Boys and Girls Clubs of Salem, Marion, and Polk Counties, aiming to provide free WiFi access for low-income families in Oregon and SW Washington. This program supports students' distance learning and homework needs, with the first three locations expected to open soon. In response to the COVID-19 crisis, Comcast has also extended its offer of 60 days of free internet access to low-income customers. The company aims to establish a total of 10 Lift Zones by early 2021, enhancing digital equity and internet access for underserved communities.

FreeWheel, a Comcast Company (Nasdaq: CMCSA), has appointed Mark McKee as U.S. chief revenue officer, effective immediately. McKee, who has been serving in an acting capacity since January 2020, has successfully led the sales revenue team, exceeding annual goals across Software, Marketplace, and Media revenue. His experience includes launching key products that boosted client acquisitions and revenue growth. FreeWheel emphasizes its commitment to evolving advertising solutions under McKee's leadership, highlighting his 20 years of expertise in the media industry.

Comcast and Disney have finalized an agreement allowing Comcast to distribute Disney+ and ESPN+ on its Xfinity X1 and Flex platforms. This service will enhance content accessibility for customers, with a launch expected in Q1 2021. Existing Disney+ and ESPN+ subscribers can easily log in, while new customers will have various signup options through Xfinity. This partnership aims to unify entertainment options and improve the overall customer experience. Financial terms of the agreement are not disclosed.

Comcast (NASDAQ: CMCSA) has announced an extension of its commitments to provide Internet access during the COVID-19 pandemic. New Internet Essentials customers will receive 60 days of complimentary service, with access to over 1.5 million public Xfinity WiFi hotspots available until June 30, 2021. Comcast has invested over $12 billion in network enhancements since 2017 and has been working with public schools to provide internet access to low-income students. Additionally, Comcast aims to launch over 1,000 WiFi-connected community centers known as Lift Zones.

Comcast NBCUniversal LIFT Labs Accelerator, in partnership with Techstars, concluded its third annual event, showcasing 11 startups during a virtual Demo Day. Over 13 weeks, these startups collaborated with Comcast NBCUniversal executives to enhance their business models. Notably, eight of the companies achieved pilots or deals with Comcast partners. The program has seen 32 companies participate since 2018, with 75% securing partnerships, highlighting Comcast's commitment to innovation and technology in various sectors.