Although this time, Comcast will try this approach using a Web capable set-top box that appears to emulate features found in Google TV and the recently launched Boxee Box. The most obvious comparison between Google TV and Xcalibur is the robust search functions Comcast's set-top box would have. Google TV also lets users search across a variety of content sources including broadcast television listings, the Web, installed Google TV apps and even DVR recordings on select devices.
Despite Xcalibur's restrictions, I suppose it's a good sign that Comcast is showing signs of life by trying to redesign its business for the age of on demand Web content. But the big question is how NBC's stable of programming will play into all of this. Comcast's recent bid to take control of NBC from General Electric is under review by federal authorities. If Xcalibur survives the beta testing process and materializes into an actual product, Comcast could be forced to allow Google TV, and other similar competitors, to access NBC's online content. NBC in October blocked Google TV from accessing some of the network's Web content.
Xcalibur is just the latest move by Comcast to increase its online offerings. This year, Comcast unveiled the Xfinity Internet TV service for PCs and mobile devices such as the iPad and iPhone.
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This story, "Comcast Hopes to Slay Google TV with Xcalibur" was originally published by PCWorld.