14 DAY TRIAL // Although Google TV didn't manage to become the success story everybody expected it to be, smart TV solutions are certainly gaining momentum, so Comcast Spectrum decided to build its very own Internet TV platform, codenamed “Xcalibur,” that is currently undergoing testing in Augusta, Georgia.
As most other platforms that are available out there, Comcast's service is blending on-demand video, live and recorded cable programing with Internet video and social networks access (Facebook and Twitter presumably), on paper this looking very similar to Google TV.
However, when taking a closer look, one sees that Comcast's solution isn't as versatile as the search giant's alternative, the Xcalibur taking a much lighter approach.
As a result, users don't get a fully-fledged browser, as the Logitech Revue or Sony's Google TV enabled solutions do, all the content being delivered through apps.
This means that Xcalibur can only offer limited access to video and social networking sites, although, theoretically, this could be expanded once new apps are made available and installed.
“We are testing many technological approaches to understand how best to meet consumer interests, and this small trial is one of those experiments” said a Comcast spokesperson, SlashGear suggesting the cable operator is also looking at tailored advertising options that should send out adverts according to the users’ TV preferences.
At this time, it is still unclear if Comcast plans to launch this service nationwide or how is this going to be priced, such decisions depending on the trial's feedback.
However, if Comcast decides to go ahead with Xcalibur, this could prove to be a huge obstacle for Google TV or other media streamers, such as the Boxee Box, Roku or Apple TV, to overcome, especially if Comcast prices it right and manages to offer more apps (including Netflix or Hulu access).