Agilis, I share some of your frustrations. However, Comcast doesn't decide which programs' fast-forward functions are disabled and which aren't. You'll notice that some ad-supported networks still allow you to fast-forward through commercials (or elsewhere in the programs if you so desire). If Comcast was pulling some sort of flimflam, surely all ad-supported networks would have their on demand fast-forward functions disabled, and not just some or most. You'll also notice that premium channels and other non-ad-supported networks enable fast-forwarding. Supporting the above claim is the fact that Directv, Dish, U-Verse and FiOS customers have the same issues with the same on demand networks, as do other cable providers and even Hulu Plus (which I know from personal experience). A simple Google search confirms this; these companies have unhappy customers posting on forums, as well. The best way to combat disabled fast-forwarding, unfortunately, is to shell out some extra cash and subscribe to DVR service. You are still free to fast-forward through recorded programs to your heart's content. For now, anyway. Comcast probably could technically enable fast-forwarding on these shows, as you claim, but in doing so they'd be in breach of contract with the networks. EDIT: I forgot to add that the new cable boxes (X1) give you full functionality during on demand programming. You can check out the guide, set recordings, view sports scores or weather; anything you can do during live programming. I, too, hated not being able to access anything else on the box while playing something. It took them way too long to fix it. Best of all, the X1 no longer makes you watch that E! garbage while browsing the on demand menu. Instead you sort through programs while whatever you're watching (whether it's live television, a recording or on demand) continues to play. It might be worth looking into. Last I heard, it's not available in all areas yet. Also, it was really buggy when I first got it, but in my experience the glitches seem to mostly have been fixed.
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