David Farnor | On 29, Mar 2016

Vimeo has upgraded its Roku app to allow the purchasing of videos.

The streaming site launched its “Vimeo On Demand” platform a long time ago and it has since become home to its own original-branded content, as well a host of independent movies and TV series being sold by their creators – at the time of writing it hosts over 30,000 videos to buy. Not unlike YouTube, Vimeo offers those selling their videos the chance to reach a global audience with maximum device compatibility and accessibility. It was impossible, though, for Roku users to purchase something to watch in the living room – until now,

Hot on the heels of Vimeo’s improved iOS and Android apps, the company has rolled out the same update to Roku’s boxes and Streaming Stick.

Users can now purchase and rent films and series directly from the Vimeo channel on their TV – and pay them back on any device they choose. New activation code support means customers can unlock their accounts without entering their email and password with that pesky on-screen keyboard, while the app now also supports adaptive streaming (HLS), so watching videos adjusts to fit their Internet speed. Staff Picks, featured channels and other existing features are all still present and correct.

The move is a significant one for Vimeo, as more and more people boost the old-school telly in their living room with a streaming media device to hook up with Netflix, iTunes and other VOD services. Planning to up your set top box game? Check out our streaming media device comparison guide.

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