Roku recently added three new products to its range: Roku Express 4K +, Roku Voice Remote Pro and Roku Streambar Pro. The remote is currently available for purchase, while the Express 4K + and Streambar Pro are available for pre-order and are expected to be delivered in May.
Roku has also announced its latest free software update, Roku OS 10, which is available on devices such as streaming players, audio products and Roku TV models. Apple AirPlay 2 is already available on some Roku 4K devices, but the new software update equips additional Roku HD streaming devices – such as Roku Express and certain Roku HD TV models – with the ability to stream, control and share content from the iPhone , iPad and Macs. Compatible Roku devices also support HomeKit, which allows users to control Roku devices using Siri or the Home app on Apple devices.
Additional features of Roku OS 10 include automatic Wi-Fi network detection, which recommends the optimal wireless network bandwidth to use with your device during setup and while using it. The software update also provides Instant Resume devices, which allow users to return to where they left off when they relaunch certain streaming channels. Automatic game console configuration is included on Roku TVs with the new update – this feature detects certain game consoles when they are connected to the TV’s HDMI port and configures its settings to optimize video game performance.
New Roku products for 2021
Roku Voice Remote Pro
Voice Remote Pro has a rechargeable battery and allows you to control your TV with your voice. Voice control capability allows you to adjust the volume, pause and play and turn off the TV. Also built into the device is a lost remote search device. You may ask, “Hey Roku, where’s my remote?” and the device will play a sound to make it easier to recover. Another notable feature is the ability to privately listen to the remote control. You can connect wired headphones (not included) to the remote control and listen to the TV privately without disturbing family members or roommates. While you can pair the remote with Roku in-ear headphones, the remote also works with any wired headphones.
Roku Streambar Pro (pre-order)
Sound bars enhance the TV and movie experience and are an easy way to upgrade your TV’s built-in speakers, according to Shopping’s resident technical writer. The latest version of Roku re-enters the soundbar space with a device that has four internal speakers and Dolby Atmos technology. The device includes a “Virtual Surround” setting that enhances the audio experience, making the dialogue clearer and calming powerful ads. In addition, Streambar Pro also comes with Voice Remote Pro from Roku.
Roku Express 4K + (pre-order)
Replacing the two-year-old Roku Premiere, the new Roku player offers an affordable way to improve the image quality of your TV. Compatible with HDR10 and HDR10 + TVs, the device offers 4K HDR streaming to optimize image resolution and color. The device supports Amazon Alexa, Apple AirPlay 2, HomeKit and Google Assistant. Comes with Roku Voice remote control.
