Xfiniy, the Apple Remote?

Comcast has just released its new Xfinity app for the Apple iPhone, iTouch and iPad. This app allows the devices to function in the place of the standard Comcast remote control, something many cable subscribers will find useful when theirs is missing between the seat cushions. However, its functions go far beyond that of your average remote.

Some Interesting Features:

The app is free from the iTunes store, and allows for the control of not just one, but multiple cable boxes. Each box can be selected from the app and controlled individually, a nice feature if you find yourself going from room to room. It allows also for the (in no way unique) ability to program your Comcast DVR from anywhere with a data connection.

The app also does far more than just simply browsing channels. Select a TV show or movie that you want to watch, and it will not only tune your TV to it, but also display (on your device) when it is playing currently or next, and if it is available for on demand (an easy way to skip those pesky commercials).

Another seemingly overlooked advantage of the app is that it allows you to search for channels while keeping your TV screen clear and visible. Normally, to search through the hundreds to thousands of stations most digital-cable customers receive required pulling up a full page TV guide and possibly missing portions of your favorite show. However, this app allows your viewing to be completely uninterrupted as you browse for a new program.

Possibly the app's biggest advantage is its ability to surf on-demand channels. Any current Comcast customer will agree with me when I say this is no fun. On demand completely separates you from your current programming (audio and all), as you search through their menus to find a suitable movie or show. In addition, you are forced to navigate at a snails pace, with categories and listings taking twice as long as they should to load. However, those days seems to be gone now if you own a compatible Apple product. On-demand browsing is now lightning fast.

Mobile TV:

The best feature of the Xfinity app, in my opinion, is its ability to turn any device which it is installed on into a television. Log into your Comcast account and hit the "Play Now," button to browse a selection of movies and programming which you can view instantly.

And It's Not Just Apple...

Comcast claims that this amazing app will not just be confined to the iTunes store or Apple users, and that an Android compatible release isavailablenow.

"The XFINITY TV App," Comcast.net.