Xfinity introduces WiFi-pausing Holiday Mode feature, with help from John C. Reilly

Xfinity is rolling out a new Holiday Mode feature in its mobile application, with a nod to actor John C. Reilly. The Ghost of Very-Recent Christmas Past from a recent ad lends his voice to the initiative. Holiday Mode allows users to pause WiFi for all devices connected to their home network with a single tap on their smartphone.

The objective is to encourage family members to disconnect and engage in real-life activities during the holiday season. The feature will be accessible starting November 9 for eligible Xfinity Internet subscribers through the Xfinity app. The company also released a new Christmas advertisement starring Reilly's character. Reilly's ghost explains how missed holiday moments often stem from being too absorbed in one's phone.

The 90-second and 60-second versions of the ad will go live on YouTube and TV starting November 9. Julie Scelzo, Xfinity's Chief Creative Director, explained that while the company's mission is to keep people connected, it also believes that genuine connections often happen in person. During the holidays, she said, putting away screens can create space for cherished time together.

The ad features a 90-second and 60-second version, premiering on November 9 on YouTube and TV. For Xfinity Internet customers interested in activating Holiday Mode, the process is straightforward: open the Xfinity app, select Holiday Mode, choose the desired devices or individuals, and tap once to pause WiFi. Reconnecting is as simple as tapping the screen again.

While the company isn't suggesting parents secretly disable WiFi for teenagers on Thanksgiving, it's not ruling that out either. To learn more about maximizing tech usage, subscribers can sign up for Mashable's Top Stories and Deals newsletters or receive push alerts.