Key facts
- Comcast has introduced a new feature called Wi-Fi Motion for its newer Xfinity gateways (XB7 and above).
- The feature uses Wi-Fi signal interruptions to detect motion within a home.
- Users can opt-in to receive motion detection notifications through the Xfinity app.
- Comcast's terms state that data from Wi-Fi Motion may be disclosed to third parties without further notice, including for law enforcement investigations or court orders.
Comcast has launched a new feature called Wi-Fi Motion, which transforms its advanced Xfinity gateways (models XB7 and newer) into motion sensors. This free, opt-in feature allows homeowners to receive notifications via the Xfinity app when activity is detected inside their house while they are away. The technology works by identifying interruptions in the Wi-Fi signal. However, enabling Wi-Fi Motion comes with a significant privacy trade-off. According to an Xfinity support page, Comcast may disclose information generated by the feature to outside parties under various circumstances, including in connection with law enforcement investigations, proceedings, disputes to which Comcast is a party, or pursuant to a court order or subpoena, without providing further notice to the customer. This disclosure policy is a key consideration for privacy-conscious users before activating the service.