HDMI-In Port on Contour. What would I use it for?

I don't think it has one. What model cable box do you have? AFAIK no Cox cable box has any input except coaxial.

I just joined the cox family with the 89.99 combo deal and they gave me unit model GX-cx801ck

Cox uses the term "newer" loosely.  It was designed as an HDMI switch for TV sets with only 1 HDMI port.  Since the cable box would connect to the one HDMI port on the TV, you could connect another device...such as a Blu-ray player...to the TV via the cable box.  You'd then use the remote for the cable box to switch from TV to Blu-ray.

It would be convenient in some set-ups, but Cox probably disabled it to avoid troubleshooting boxes set on the wrong input.

This is exactly what i was hoping to hear. My goal is to add my mac mini as a media player and surf the web via tv, but like u said, cox might have disabled it. But i will try tomorrow. Thanks

What other connectors are available on your TV?  What's the make and model?

Yeah, I know I can go that route, but the way my apartment complex has the tv area setup, i want to accomplish a clean setup look.  My apartment complex has  "one" built in hdmi out and in on the wall, so wires aren't a mess.  With only 1 hdmi in & out, it is utilized by the Contour.  

With this built-in hdmi-in port on the Contour, my mac mini can be placed next to the Contour without wires being ran above my fireplace mantel.

I understand the clean setup.  When I purchase a new component, it seems 80 percent of my time is spent concealing cables.

If you're limited to one HDMI connection to your TV, you should use a multi-port device, such as an A/V receiver or HDMI switcher box.

Good review for switcher boxes at https://www.lifewire.com/best-hdmi-switchers-1846200

When purchasing a switcher, consider a powered or non-powered device...4K compatibility...number of input sources...another remote control on your coffee table...etc.

If you've ever considered an A/V receiver, now is a good time to buy with the 2017 models coming soon.

This is an awesome suggestion.  Totally forgot switch boxes are an option for me.  I'll definitely look into this. Thank you thank you!

After you select a make/model...research the user reviews on Amazon, BestBuy, Crutchfield, etc because the cheaper ones are known to be finicky with a cable box.  Although you shouldn't go cheap with an HDMI switcher.