Walmart could come to market with its own streaming device based on Android TV, which will charge its own device. branding.
Janko Roettgers in the protocol saw an FCC filing for a potential product called onn. 2K streaming stick. The small streaming device is illustrated with a remote control that includes Google Assistant voice control and branded buttons for YouTube, Netflix, Disney + and HBO Max.
RELATED: Comcast and Walmart could start a smart TV partnership
It is unclear when or if the new Walmart device will become available, but if it is to be widely launched, it will have to compete with Amazon and Roku in the streaming stick market. According to Strategy Analytics, Amazon and Roku together accounted for more than 60% of the connected streaming TV market in the fourth quarter.
Walmart is onn. The brand currently offers several Roku TV models along with the soundbar that includes a built-in Roku streaming media player. The companies expanded their partnership in 2019.
“Roku and Walmart have worked together for years to enhance the entertainment experience for millions of people who have purchased Roku TV models and Roku streaming players. Now, we look forward to getting these new audio products on the shelves to give consumers a better sound for their TV experience at a great price, ”said Mark Ely, vice president of gamers and management of the entire Roku home product. a statement. .
But now it looks like Walmart could build its own streaming device. The retailer has also been linked to Comcast as a potential smart TV production partner for Comcast’s X1 platform.
According to the Wall Street Journal, the companies are discussing an agreement in which Walmart would promote smart TVs running the Comcast platform in exchange for part of the recurring revenue they bring. A third-party manufacturer could end up producing the TVs, which could carry Walmart is onn. branding.