Comcast launches eye-control for the television

Comcast has launched a feature for people with physical disabilities to control and navigate their television using their eyes.

Xfinity X1 eye control is a web-based remote for tablets and computers that pairs with an existing eye gaze system and allows viewers to change the channel, set a recording, search for a show with a glance.

“Changing the channel on a TV is something most of us take for granted but until now, it was a near-impossible task for millions of viewers,” said Tom Wlodkowski, vice president accessibility at Comcast. “When you make a product more inclusive you create a better experience for everyone and we’re hoping our new X1 feature makes a real difference in the lives of our customers.”

X1 eye control is free and uses a web page remote control that works with existing eye gaze hardware and software, Sip-and-Puff switches and other assistive technologies.

Xfinity customers can visit xfin.tv/access and use their credentials to pair the web-based remote with their set-top-box.

Tara Rudnicki, president North America Tobii Dynavox, a provider of touch and eye tracking assistive technology hardware and software, said: “We are pleased to see how Comcast continues to make their products and solutions accessible.

“As an assistive technology company, we want to empower our users to live independent lives. With the X1 eye control now enabled with eye gaze, it will come to great use for many of them.”