Roku Updates Streaming Device Line-Up With Five New Players

[Julio Urquidi]

Starting with the Roku Express and Roku Express+, these second generation players get added horsepower that Roku touts is five times more powerful than previous models. Both entry level items run up to Wireless N speeds and are powered by a quad core processor. The Express model is built to connect via HDMI, while the Express+ targets older televisions with its HDMI and composite connections.

The updated Roku Streaming Stick and Streaming Stick+ include a voice remote that can power on compatible televisions and control their volume level. The sticks also have Wireless AC, with the Streaming Stick+ model getting a newer wireless receiver that, per Roku, gets four times the range than the previous Streaming Stick. Both Sticks are also powered by quad core processors, and connect via HDMI - with the Streaming Stick+ getting geared up to handle 4K video via HDCP 2.2 HDMI.

Lastly, the new Roku Ultra also streams HD and 4K, as well as 4K for HDR. Additional features for the ULTRA include an Ethernet port for wired connections, voice commands, a headphone jack for private listening and a remote control “finder” button to help locate misplaced remotes.

All five Roku players can be pre-ordered now, and will be available in stores on October 8. The Roku Express+ is sold exclusively through Walmart, while all other Roku players can be bought from directly from Roku or retailers like Amazon, Best Buy and Walmart. Pricing is as follows: Roku Express - $29.99, Roku Express+ - $39.99, Roku Streaming Stick – $49.99, Roku Streaming Stick+ - $69.99, and Roku Ultra - $99.99.

 

[Internet Man]

Well that explains why Walmart has been clearing out the previous gen lately.

 

[Rooter]

The 2017 Roku Ultra, model 4660, appears to have removed optical audio output that was previously included with its 2016 counterpart, model 4640.