Comcast will begin deploying Microsoft TV Foundation Edition software in Washington state this month, marking the first major U.S. deployment of the software.
Comcast's deployment of Microsoft TV Foundation Edition software, which includes an interactive program guide (IPG), is capable of supporting DVRs and includes further enhancements for video-on-demand (VOD) usage. For example, the software enables integrated VOD titles in the IPG listings so viewers can access on-demand programming without navigating through VOD menus.
Microsoft TV Foundation Edition software will be available immediately on new advanced digital set-top boxes with dual-tuner DVR technology. The software will be automatically downloaded in phases to all other set-top boxes in Washington state over Comcast's digital network in the next few months. Comcast customers who sign up for the DVR service will receive a new digital cable set-top box. Customers who already lease a digital cable set-top box capable of delivering HDTV will pay an additional US$4.95 per month for the new DVR service, while all other customers will pay an additional $9.95 per month.
"This deployment represents a key milestone in our long-term relationship with Comcast," said Moshe Lichtman, corporate vice president of the Microsoft TV Division. http://www.microsoft.com/tv/default.mspx
- Comcast serves more than 1 million cable customers in Washington state.
