Xfinity Mobile users will soon lose the ability to stream video in 720p. According to a post on Reddit, Xfinity Mobile will move users down to 480p but “allow” them to pay extra should they want to stream in 720p. If you’re an Unlimited user, you will still be able to stream in 720p but will be throttled after 20GB plus your mobile hotspot will be limited to 600kbps.
UPDATED (7/02/2018 012:30 p.m. ET):
We have a few updates and clarifications concerning this story. A Comcast spokesperson contacted us to let us know that Xfinity Mobile is setting its default video resolution to 480p for all users, so users will now have to call in for the ability to stream in 720p. In other words, users with Unlimited plans can still stream at 720p but will have to call in order to activate that service. While you can stream at 720p after calling in, you will still be throttled at 20GB.
A Comcast spokesperson also supplied us with the following statement:
“We’re making two changes to our service to help us maintain the low price point of Xfinity Mobile. First, we’re establishing 480p as the default resolution for streaming video over cellular data on Xfinity Mobile, which is consistent with standard unlimited plans across carriers. It’s important to note that this change won’t impact video resolution when using Wi-Fi, where customers will continue to be able to stream in HD. Second, we’re setting personal hotspotting at 3G speeds for all Unlimited customers, which will allow customers to continue to do many of the things they enjoy doing online. Our By the Gig data option will continue to deliver 4G speeds for all data traffic.”
ORIGINAL STORY:
Reddit user u/perezidentt posted an email about the new terms from the company.
Update on cellular video resolution and personal hotspots We wanted to let you know about two changes to your Xfinity Mobile service that’ll go into effect in the coming weeks.
Video resolution
To help you conserve data, we’ve established 480p as the standard resolution for streaming video through cellular data. This can help you save money if you pay By the Gig and take longer to reach the 20 GB threshold if you have the Unlimited data option.
Later this year, 720p video over cellular data will be available as a fee-based option with your service. In the meantime, you can request it on an interim basis at no charge.
This update only affects video streaming over cellular data. You can continue to stream HD-quality video over WiFi, including at millions of Xfinity WiFi hotspots.
Personal hotspots
If you have the Unlimited data option, your speeds on any device connected to a personal hotspot will not exceed 600 Kbps. At this speed, you’ll conserve data so that it takes longer to reach the 20 GB threshold but you’ll still be able to do many of the online activities you enjoy.
What do you think of Xfinity Mobile throttling streaming resolution to 480p and hotspot speeds to 600kbps? Let us know in the comments below or on Google+, Twitter, or Facebook.
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