The Xfinity Remote, a new free iPad app introduced by Comcast today at the , allows cable subscribers to browse listings, perform text-based searches, record programs on a digital video recorder, and change channels using their iPad. It also allows users to make live recommendations of programs to other users on the network.

Here's a by Comcast.

Although the initial version of the app is for the iPad, an Android version will be released next month. Also during that time frame, senior vice president and general manager for Comcast Interactive Media , a feature will be added to the iPad app that will allow the viewing of video content at home or on the road.

"The app also will soon integrate access to social media sites so you can share what you're watching with others in real time," he added.

Verizon introduced a similar iPad app for its FIOS service in June. Verizon's app also allows subscribers to browse listings, schedule recordings, and perform text searches--but actual channel switching can't be performed from the iPad. Verizon is the ability sometime next year.