Cable operator Mediacom has partnered with streamer Xumo to offer the Xumo Stream Box to its Xtream internet customers. Xumo Stream Box will give Xtream customers access to a swath of free ad-supported channels along with access to several popular streaming platforms like Apple TV+ and Max, according to a release from Comcast.
Xumo was launched through a joint venture between Comcast and Spectrum, and Xumo Stream Box is powered by Comcast’s EntertainmentOS.
The new partnership is another example of how the lines between streaming and broadcast are beginning to blur. Cable companies are looking for ways to retain customers while the popularity of streaming services continues to climb. We’re beginning to see more deals between cable providers and streamers that appear to be beneficial to both parties, the agreement between Disney and Spectrum being a prime example.
Streamers are also reaching out to pay-TV services to stay afloat during uncertain economic times. Paramount plans to continue to license content beyond its own channels. The company recently unveiled a multi-year deal with Greek pay-TV service Cosmote TV and has secured the upcoming Frasier reboot to air on CBS.
In addition, free ad-supported channels have grown in popularity over the last year as customers explore more budget-friendly streaming methods.
“Mediacom’s decision to partner with Xumo further validates the unique value proposition we can offer to operators looking to maintain an entertainment-centric relationship with customers as they migrate to streaming video,” Michael Gatzke, Xumo’s senior vice president of affiliate development said in a statement.
Through the partnership, Xtream customers will gain access to live video and over 300 channels from Xumo Play, AI-powered personalized browsing, voice search, and favorites lists for household members.
“Through our partnership with Xumo, we will be able to significantly enhance the value of our broadband services by combining our market leading-speeds with a new world-class streaming experience,” Tapan Dandnaik, Mediacom’s senior vice president of operations, product strategy and consumer experience said in a statement.