You can use Xfinity X1 hidden features to access the best content and guarantee yourself an immersive entertainment experience.
These features allow you to seamlessly navigate apps, perform advanced searches, query your bill, contact support and customize your plan.
However, new Xfinity X1 users may struggle to utilize the functions this entertainment unit offers.
After all, this wireless set-top TV box comes loaded with numerous, sometimes hidden features that require time to learn.
The top hidden features of the Xfinity X1 include voice commands revolving around fitness, pick-me-ups, recipe shows, and many more. You can also press a combination of buttons on your remote to unravel more secret features.
This post explains all you need to know about the hidden features of the Xfinity X1 wireless TV box.
Read on to discover more.
Xfinity Secret Voice Commands
Learning Xfinity voice remote secret commands guarantees an exhilarating viewing experience.
You don’t have to press several buttons to change channels or navigate apps. You only need to speak into your remote to control your TV box.
Here is a list of Xfinity secret voice commands and their meanings:
1. “80 stuff” or “90s stuff” – Instruct Xfinity to find a collection of the best content from that decade, from music to movies.
2. “Pizza stuff” – Xfinity will show content with pizza episodes, including recipe shows and movies where pizza plays a critical role.
3. “Puppies on YouTube” – Instructs Xfinity to bring up popular dog and pet shows available on YouTube.
4. “Xfinity Mobile find my cellphone” – Xfinity will call your phone to help you locate it.
5. “Surprise Me” – Xfinity will show a random movie or TV show
6. “Happy Stuff” – Your Xfinity X1 will suggest random TV shows and programs to help inspire and lift your mood.
Note - You require an Xfinity voice remote to explore your favorite shows using these secret commands.
Top Xfinity X1 Hidden Features
Feature #1. DVR Auto Extend
DVR Auto Extend is an upgraded feature that allows you to adjust your recordings’ START and STOP times.
With DVR Auto Extend, you’ll never miss a thing. It extends game recordings by 15 minutes and video recordings by 90 minutes when the game or program is over
Here are the steps to activate DVR Auto Extend:
- Grab your Xfinity remote control
- Press the Xfinity button on the remote control
- Use the arrow buttons to go to Saved
- Press the OK button
- Go to Scheduled
- Press the OK button
- Go to the program you want to modify the recording times
- Press the OK button
- Go to Record Options and press the OK button
- Go to Modify
- Select the Episode you want to modify
- Use the left or right arrow buttons to adjust the start time
- Go to the Stop time and adjust using the arrow buttons
- Select Confirm and press OK
Feature #2. Xfinity X1 Eye Control
The Xfinity X1 Eye Control allows viewers with visual impairments to control their TV with their eyes.
With this feature, viewers can:
- Change channels
- Navigate apps
- Surf the internet
- Set up recordings
- Search for shows
- Set their DVR
This web-based remote pairs with a pre-installed eye gaze system on your phone, allowing you to control your Xfinity DVR.
Here are the steps to launch Xfinity X1 Eye Control:
- Launch a browser on your PC, phone, or tablet
- Visit xfin.tv/access
- Enter your Xfinity login credentials
- Choose your TV box
- The Xfinity Web Remote interface will pop up on your browser
- Use your eye-tracking device to pair the web-based remote with your Xfinity TV box
Feature #3. Xfinity Assistant
If you are familiar with Google Assistant, this next hidden feature shouldn’t surprise you.
The Xfinity Assistant is a feature that works similarly.
Whether you want to pay your bill or contact an agent, you can count on Xfinity Assistant for help.
It lets you resolve issues around your Xfinity box and account without the need to call a support agent.
The assistant is always on, providing guided and personalized help whenever you need it.
You can access Xfinity Assistant via a web browser, App SMS, the Xfinity Voice Remote, or the Xfinity X1 TV box.
Accessing Xfinity Assistant via Web Browser/App
- Launch your preferred web browser
- Go to Xfinity.com
- Click the Support page
- Click Chat with Xfinity
On your smartphone or tablet:
- Launch the Xfinity app
- Click the chat bubble in the upper-right corner
- Xfinity Assistant will appear on your screen
Accessing Xfinity Assistant via SMS
On your mobile phone, send a text message with your questions to 266278
Accessing Xfinity Assistant via Voice Remote
- Use your Voice Remote to request help with troubleshooting and billing issues.
- Ask any question on your Voice Remote, such as “Pay my bill” or “Why is my TV not working?” and the Xfinity Assistant will appear at the bottom of your screen
Accessing Xfinity Assistant via Xfinity X1
- Turn on your TV
- Use the arrow keys on your remote to go to the Tools menu
- Select Xfinity Assistant
Feature #4. Audio Description
Audio Description is another innovative Xfinity setting worth checking out.
Even though the feature is not hidden as such, not many people know about it.
The feature narrates key visual elements of a program, such as facial expressions, scene changes, and actions.
This function allows people with low vision or visual impairments to explore hundreds of thrilling TV shows and movies.
However, not all programs, movies, or TV shows support Audio Description since they air live.
You can enjoy this feature on video recordings and select On Demand programs.
Here are the steps to activate Audio Description on Xfinity:
Option 1
- Tune in to your favorite program or TV show
- Grab your Voice Remote Control
- Press/hold the Voice Control button
- Say “Audio Description” to turn it ON
- If the program supports Audio Description, it will start playing immediately
Pro Tip - If you don’t have a Voice Remote, you can convert your smartphone into one using the Xfinity TV remote app
Option 2
- Tune in to a supported program (full-screen video)
- Grab your Xfinity remote
- Press the down arrow button to launch the transport bar
- Press the left arrow button twice to access Audio Description
- Press the OK button to turn Audio Description ON
Option 3
- Grab your Xfinity remote control
- Press the Xfinity button on the remote
- Use the up/down arrow buttons to navigate to the Settings menu
- Press the OK button
- Use the arrows keys on the remote to go to Accessibility Settings
- Press OK
- Use the arrow buttons to access Audio Description and press OK to turn it ON
Feature #5. Voice Guidance
Voice Guidance is a new innovative feature for Xfinity X1 end-users with visual impairments.
It allows subscribers to explore the platform’s numerous TV shows and movies.
It speaks what is on your screen, including describing the various programs and shows.
Voice Guidance is distinct and differs from Audio Description and Voice Control.
Audio Description narrates key visual elements of a program, such as facial expressions, scene changes, and actions.
Conversely, Voice Control uses voice commands to help navigate various apps and channels.
Here’s how to access the Voice Guidance feature on Xfinity X1:
- Grab your Voice Remote Control
- Press/hold the Voice Control button
- Say “Accessibility” or press the B button twice
- Follow the spoken instructions to turn Voice Guidance on
- Press the OK button
Tip - You can assign an accessibility shortcut by pressing the asterix (*) button on your Xfinity remote
Bottom Line
Xfinity X1 hidden features were unavailable with previous Xfinity versions, meaning not many viewers know about them.
Learning how to operate these additional functions can help you make the most of your wireless TV box.
From cryptic commands to hidden features, use this detailed guide to unearth the secrets of your set-top box.
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Kevin has over five years of experience working in various Tech startups and providing Technical solutions. He has contributed to many Tech publications and websites.