GCI Communications, the largest provider of broadband service within Alaska, has become the latest telecommunications firm to offer its subscribers access to the Xumo Stream Box.
The device allows Internet users to watch free linear streaming TV channels and access free and premium on-demand services like Netflix, Amazon’s Prime Video, Comcast’s Peacock, YouTube, Paramount Plus with Showtime, Freevee, Fox’s Tubi and Starz, among others.
“We’re excited to bring the Xumo Stream Box to GCI customers as we head into the heart of the holiday season,” said GCI Chief Marketing Officer Kate Slyker. “With this new device, customers can have access to hundreds of free channels, as well as a very easy-to-use remote, making it easier than ever to find and watch their favorite programming.”
GCI joins several of its peers in offering the Xumo Stream Box to customers, including Comcast (Xfinity) and Charter (Spectrum), which operate the Xumo business and develop its technology as part of a joint venture. Mediacom and Cox Cable also offer the device to their home Internet subscribers.
The Xumo Stream box includes a voice-powered remote control, which allows users to search for channels, apps, TV shows and movies using natural speech. The remote also functions as a conventional clicker, with buttons for navigating menus, controlling the volume of a TV or soundbar, switching inputs and powering devices on and off.
“Xumo Stream Box makes streaming easy with an intuitive, content-forward experience,” said Michael Gatzke, the Senior Vice President of Affiliate Development at Xumo. “By partnering with GCI to offer Xumo Stream Box to its customers, we can introduce our innovative platform, and all the unique ways it simplifies streaming, to more consumers across the country.”
The launch of the Xumo Stream Box comes at a time when GCI is phasing out its traditional cable TV service, called Yukon TV, with plans to push customers toward streaming video options like YouTube TV, Hulu with Live TV and Sling TV as an alternative. All three services are supported on the Xumo Stream Box.
