Test May Lead to TV Delivered Via Laptop or Game Console

26.05.2011
Comcast is testing a system that would let users replace their set-top box with any Internet-ready device, like a laptop or video game console.

This isn't the same tech that lets you watch live TV on your laptop, or use your iPad as a program guide. Instead, it uses the Comcast broadband network to deliver a signal to your television via VoIP.

This adds flexibility and, potentially, mobility to cable, which has been hamstrung to date by its need for co-axial cable and a set-top box.

Comcast will use MIT as a testbed for the VoIP delivery system, starting this fall, reported today.

The move is significant for a couple of reasons.