The Comcast/NBC Universal deal has broad implications in both company's ongoing initiatives in the areas of authentication, addressable advertising and interactive television. Acquiring a 51% stake in NBC Universal, now gives Comcast a 27% stake in Hulu. During a conference call with reporters, Comcast CEO/Chairman Brian Roberts said he does not expect to make any changes anytime soon, noting that Comcast will still be a minority owner (with Disney, News Corp. and Providence Equity Partners all having a stake) and that Hulu is very well regarded by consumers. Roberts also says that it is not an "either-or" choice between Hulu or the authentication idea referred to informally as TV Everywhere, which Comcast is jumping into using the moniker Xfinity. "I actually think Hulu and TV Everywhere are very complementary, there is a place for both," he said.
