Cox cable customers should soon notice that watching TV shows or movies on demand looks a bit different. It’s “easier to navigate and control,” says the company.

The Rancho Santa Margarita cable provider began rolling out a software upgrade called “ShowRunner” this week. The upgrade updates only Cox’s video-on-demand offering.

The noticeable feature updates to the On Demand service include:

• Instant replay button to rewind 10 seconds.
• Movies and shows now organized by categories and accessed using the remote control’s arrow keys.
• An “Info” button to see more details about free previews or the show itself.

ShowRunner  is part of the existing “Passport” software used by Cox to power the on-screen TV guide. It was developed by Rovi Corp., previously known as Macrovision. Interestingly, the company has also revamped its guide technology with “Liquid,” which comes out next year. It looks really cool offering a 3D-ish look at what’s on TV.

But  Cox has “no plans right now to roll out the (Liquid) Rovi guide,” according to spokeswoman Lana Ong.

Cox, however, is bracing itself right now in case customers have trouble with the new ShowRunner system. I haven’t received any complaints about it, unlike when Time Warner Cable introduced new software in July. Cox says that if any customer is having issues to please call 949-240-1212.

Cox offers a ShowRunner video tutorial online at this link. More tutorials on the new system are available on Cox Oklahoma site, at this link.

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