David Farnor | On 07, Oct 2017

Roku has launched its new range of streaming players, putting the smart box manufacturer into the 4k race.

The launch is hot on the heels of Apple TV’s 4K unveiling, although Roku has already overtaken Apple in the race to upgrade everyone’s living rooms, with not only its array of tiny black boxes and small purple USB sticks to upgrade non-Smart TVs, but also its own operating system, which is used to power Smart TVs. Combined with one of the widest app libraries (including both Netflix, Amazon Video and NOW) and affordable pricing, it’s a combination that has seen Roku race to success.

Indeed, its latest line-up is unveiled just as the company goes public, with its inital public offering of 18 million shares closing this week, at a price to the public of $14.00 per share. The new slate includes a range of player models that place the focus on better performance, improved wireless reception, new convenience features and greater value.

“Our new streaming player line up provides performance, price and features to meet our users needs so they can sit back, relax and enjoy their TV viewing experience even more,” says Chas Smith, general manager of Roku TVs and players. “Consumers will love our new sleek Roku Streaming Stick+ with an innovative advanced wireless receiver that gives up to four times the wireless range and a remote that controls TV volume and power. It makes 4K and HDR streaming simple.”

The second-generation Roku Express and Roku Express+ are five times more powerful than their predecessors. The Roku Express+ offers the same streaming experience, with options to connect via HDMI® or composite A/V ports (red/yellow/white jacks). They start at $29.99 MSRP.

Small, powerful and portable, the new Roku Stick features quad-core processor and 802.11 AC dual-band MIMO wireless and now comes with a voice remote that includes TV power and volume buttons that can control compatible TV models. The Roku Streaming Stick costs $49.99 MSRP.

The Roku Streaming Stick+ adds support for both 4K Ultra HD and HDR picture quality, starting from $69.99 MSRP. And the Roku Ultra is a box that also supports HD, 4K and 4K HDR with up to 60 fps. The Roku Ultra offers an ethernet port for wired connectivity and a micro SD slot to help speed up streaming channel load times. There’s also a headphone jack for private listening and a remote finder button that helps locate lost remotes. This is available at $99.99 MSRP.

There is no confirmation of a UK release date for these models yet.

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