Does Xfinity require the use of their hardware for 2000 Mbps?

I am in an area that has Comast/Xfinity and no other options (10+ years).  I have always run my own hardware for many reasons.  I currently have the approved Netgear Nighthawk CM2000 that is rated to support 2330 Mbps.

XFinity's new 2000 Mbps service says it requires their xFi gateway.  This is also an additional cost between $15 - $20 month. 

• Is this a new rigid requirement?  (I remember having the exact same conversations about hardware when 1000 Mbps service was rolled out in my area.)
• What about customers with privacy concerns (and privacy rights)?
• Are their any options?

I am fully aware of the hardware/gateway WiFi sharing and it ability to be disabled.  Not having the hardware in the first place for me is the better option.