Roku has refreshed its line-up of set-top boxes today, where the Roku 3 and Roku 2 streaming devices have just been amped up with a new set of specs and features. This refresh has just put the Roku 3 right up there with the likes of the latest Amazon Fire TV with its voice search and controls. Head over the jump for further information on what has changed.
Roku has undeniably been one of the most successful set-top boxes out there today, and as the competition changed gears, Roku decided it was time to bring its A game to the market as well. Just a few days back, the new updated Roku 3 and Roku 2 devices were spotted at a few retailers, but back then the company had not officially launched the updated gadgets.
But now that everything is official, let’s see what the new devices bring to the table.
Roku 3
Roku 3 brings in a new remote which includes a dedicated voice search button. If you have used the Amazon Fire TV before, this button basically functions pretty much the same way, offering users a chance to simply speak out the name of their favorite movie, TV show, actor, director etc. and be presented with a set of relevant results.
The voice search results will obviously be shown according to the video services you’re currently subscribed to, telling you where you can watch the movie or show. While you can initiate a voice search from anywhere with the push of a button, you will be momentarily be taken out of the running app if you do so while playing a video.
Roku 3 comes in at the same $99 retail price.
Roku 2
Meanwhile, Roku 2 seems to have gotten the same hardware specs as the Roku 3, mirroring the exact same speedy performance as well. The mid-tier set-top box isn’t so ‘mid’ anymore with the ‘voice-search capable remote’ differentiating it from the Roku 3. However, Roku is also updating its smartphone app as well, which should be bringing the voice search function right to your smartphone, so Roku 2 at $69 does not sound like a compromise at all.
Roku 3 Vs Roku 2 Comparison Chart’
What are your thoughts on the updates? Leave your opinions in the comments section below. And oh, will you be buying a Roku over an Apple TV?
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