Roku Bows 4K Streaming Device

6 Oct, 2015 By: Erik Gruenwedel

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New device ups focus on retail video

Roku Oct. 6 unveiled a new streaming player that enables users to purchase and stream 4K Ultra HD content to compatible televisions.

With Netflix, M-Go, Vudu, YouTube, Vidity and Amazon Prime Instant Video offering select 4K content, the new Roku 4 player features a Quad-Core processor, up to 60 frame-rates-per-second (fps) 4K streaming, next-generation copy protection HDCP 2.2, optical audio output, 1080p home screen and user interface.

Notably, the Roku 4 features a curated 4K channel offering instant access to 4K movies and TV shows and more 4K UHD category within the Roku Channel Store.

In addition, the $129.99 device runs the new Roku OS 7 operating system as well as Roku Feed, a software feature that lets users know when selected video entertainment becomes available for streaming — and at what price. In March, Roku also unveiled “Movies Coming Soon,” which allows users to track box office movies and receive automatic updates when the movie becomes available for streaming, from what provider and pricing.

Roku is also releasing a major update to the Roku Mobile App for iOS and Android devices, making it easier to access Roku Search, Roku Feed, Remote Control and Play on Roku.

Now, with just the tap of the screen, users can access Voice Search, launch Play on Roku to display photos and videos on the TV screen. Similar to the Roku Home Screen, the Roku Mobile App displays notifications to make users aware of updates in the Roku Feed. Additionally, “pinch to zoom” capabilities let users view every detail of their personal photos. Consumers with 4K photos on their mobile device can cast their photos and even create new screen savers that play when Roku 4 is idle.

Finally, Roku launched “Hotel and Dorm Connect,” which enables users to connect their Roku player, Roku TV and Roku Streaming Stick to Wi-Fi networks that require sign-in through a Web browser like those found in hotel rooms, college dorms and other public locations.

Users connect their Roku device to the password-protected network, sign-in with their login credentials using the browser on their mobile phone, tablet or laptop.

“The Roku 4 is our best streaming player ever,” founder and CEO Anthony Wood, said in a statement.

Roku OS 7 will be rolled out to current-generation Roku players and Roku TVs through a software update beginning in mid-October, and is expected to be completed in November.

 

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