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Comcast has unveiled a new Internet service characterized by exceptionally low latency, specifically optimized for gaming and video conferencing. Users of Xfinity Internet will notice significant reductions in lag during FaceTime conversations and while using VR headsets, along with improved performance across a range of Steam games.
The initial rollout of this service will be limited, but Comcast anticipates that more content providers will begin supporting this technology, allowing for a broader availability in the future. Emily Waldorf, Senior Vice President of Consumer Products at Comcast, expressed, “Today’s applications are designed for real-time interactions and demand more than just high speeds. The reduced latency of Xfinity Internet will set Comcast apart from its competitors.”
This innovation could significantly benefit competitive gamers, as lag is a well-known disadvantage in online gaming. In genres that rely on rapid responses, like fighting games or first-person shooters, players with lower latency can gain a substantial edge over their opponents.
When competing on the same device, lag is virtually nonexistent, which is why many fighting game competitions are held in person. Game developers have also implemented techniques like rollback netcode to enhance online play accuracy.
If Xfinity’s new service meets expectations, it could enable more precise maneuvers, such as frame-perfect blocks, for players who have honed their skills.
This technology has been in testing for the past year and is launching in select cities, including Atlanta, Chicago, Philadelphia, and San Francisco, with plans for expansion to additional locations. To utilize the service, customers will need an XB6, XB7, or XB8 model of the Xfinity Gateway; however, support for more modem models will be added over time.
This advancement holds great promise for addressing one of the most significant challenges in online gaming.
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