Does Roku work with Xfinity?

Pundits and tech titans agree that apps are the future of TV – not the traditional media. Roku and Comcast are now taking steps to ensure they benefit from this future.

Both platforms have some issues in this area. However, Comcast is implementing improvements to its system to provide users with more convenience by creating the Xfinity TV app to cater to Roku TV sets and devices is among those efforts.

They aim to eliminate the need for users to rent a set-top box, reducing overall operating costs. However, they still charge an added fee for each Roku device every month through the app, although the exception is when you use the Roku app as your ‘primary outlet’.

So does Roku work with Xfinity? Yes, it does. However, note that the app only works on Roku devices within your home setup, and you will need a device that you can use to access the Xfinity Internet service.

Some points of note

• The Xfinity app will offer all the content you would usually access through your cable box. This includes on-demand content, any cloud DVR recordings, and live channels. However, if you use the beta version of the app, you cannot buy or rent programming or playing back programs you previously bought.
• The app interface is interactive and contains rich graphics to enhance your user experience. It also includes detailed information and personalized recommendations for your convenience.
• As long as you are a Comcast subscriber, you can access the app. It is compatible with most Roku streaming devices released between 2015 and 2016, as well as all Roku TVs. The compatible devices include the Roku 2 (model 4210), Roku Premiere+, Roku Premiere, Roku 4 (model 4400), Roku Express+, Roku Express, Roku Ultra, Roku 3 (both 4200 and 4300 models), and the Roku Streaming Stick (model 3600).
• The Xfinity TV app has similar functionality as Android and Apple tablets and smartphones.

 Steps to activate the Xfinity Stream app on Roku

Before implementing these steps, note that you cannot use the Xfinity Stream app on Roku before you install the Xfinity TV and Xfinity Internet Services.

Once you activate the Xfinity TV and Internet services, you can access the app on the following Roku models:

For all devices, these requirements apply:

• The device must have a firmware version of at least 8.1 b1
• If you have more than one linked Xfinity account, you will need to know how to switch, unlink, and link between multiple accounts.
• The Xfinity stream beta channel will only show in the Roku channel store for an eligible device
• You must re-accept activation terms when updates occur

Steps

1. Sign in to the Xfinity Channel app.
2. On your Roku-connected device or Roku, you will see the Activation code screen. Use another device to go to the Xfinity authorization web page.
3. On the web browser, enter the six-digit code the Roku device provides.
4. Enter your Xfinity credentials on the browser and sign in.
5. The screen should update to a ‘Success!’ message, which will mirror on the Roku device.
6. Accept the Terms of Activation on the Roku TV or device.
7. Name the device and click on ‘Confirm’.

Pros of using Roku with Xfinity

• Cheaper in the long term – you will not need to pay a monthly rental fee to use an Xfinity box once you buy a Roku streaming device
• Easy to set up
• It allows you to watch TV on demand, stream live TV, edit and set up recordings, and watch the content you save on your DVR
• You can create a playlist of your favorite channels for more convenience
• Roku remote controls have all the navigation buttons you need

Cons of using Roku with Xfinity

• You will need a solid internet connection to use the app
• Changing channels is hard
• Some features like muting are unavailable

Conclusion

Using Roku with Xfinity is an easy process, and will work as long as you have compatible devices and activate the Xfinity service. It will provide convenience during your streaming and is affordable in the long term.

FAQs

How can I connect the Xfinity router to my Roku?

You can go to the Roku Channel Store on your phone and open the Xfinity Channel App. Sign in to the service and you will see the Activation Code screen on the Roku-connected device or your Roku.

Why does the Xfinity app fail to work on my Roku?

This can be due to many reasons. To solve them, you can power cycle the Roku and check again to see whether the channel is experiencing streaming issues. If the problem persists, you can talk to the XOC support team.