Foxtel’s $99 Hubbl streaming puck is set for a major upgrade, thanks to a new collaboration with Comcast, one of the world’s largest media companies. The deal aims to bring enhanced capabilities to the DAZN-owned Foxtel Group’s popular device by delivering a new level of viewing experience.

Foxtel management confirmed that the technology boost follows the signing of a new agreement with Comcast, the creators of Hubbl’s underlying software.

The new agreement extends Hubbl’s collaboration with Comcast, leveraging its Entertainment OS to power a “one-of-a-kind viewing experience” for Australian audiences.

The platform allows users to seamlessly access a wide range of entertainment and sports content, including detailed updates on their favourite teams as well as the latest in entertainment content from the biggest movie and TV show creators.

The upgraded Hubbl software expands on the free-to-air TV with streaming content from the likes of Apple TV, Netflix, Amazon Prime, and the likes of HBO Max within a single interface while also being able to access all of Australia’s free to air networks with every program from Nine, ABC, SBS, Ten and Seven networks available via the Hubbl interface.

The improvements also include better content integration on-screen, making the viewing experience smoother and more intuitive.

Hilary Perchard, CEO of Foxtel, Kayo, and BINGE, told ChannelNews: “This software upgrade allows us to provide the technology our app-savvy users expect from their TV experience, focusing on the features they value most about Hubbl.”

Under the new agreement, Foxtel can further leverage Hubbl’s EntertainmentOS platform to deliver a viewing experience unmatched by other set-top boxes, including Fetch, Amazon Fire Stick, and Apple TV.

Last week we revealed  that the Telstra controlled Fetch TV recently laid off 27 staff, highlighting the competitive nature of the market.

Perchard added: “We are committed to Hubbl. Our loyal and highly engaged customer base loves the product, and we’re pleased to have extended our relationship with Comcast.”

Hubbl sales are reportedly at an all-time high, with many customers taking the device on the go.

Its portability allows users to plug it into hotel or apartment TVs and pick up exactly where they left off at home (we do recommend that you take a HDMI cable with you).

Comcast’s EntertainmentOS, considered among the best globally, powers Hubbl.

The upgraded Hubbl now enables customers to access, purchase, and manage streaming apps and channels in one place, fully integrated into the expanded EntertainmentOS.

Since its launch in February 2024, Hubbl has built a strong following, particularly among sports fans. Kayo provides exclusive coverage of NRL, AFL, and Formula One, making the device especially appealing to sports enthusiasts.

The new Hubbl features universal search, voice control, single watch lists across apps, free-to-air channels, and 19 local and global apps, including Kayo Sports, Binge, Netflix, Disney+, Prime Video, Apple TV, HBO Max, Stan, Paramount+, YouTube, and BVOD services.

In December, Foxtel will simplify Hubbl further by discontinuing the ‘Stack and Save’ billing feature, this allows users to also shop around for content and then activate their new streaming service on Hubble. ”

This allows Foxtel to expand the viewing experience by concentrating on the technology and content sourcing  which research shows users value most.”