roku

Roku was founded by Anthony Wood in 2002; he had previously founded ReplayTV, a DVR company that competed with TiVo.{{cite web |last=Butler |first=Dave |title=History of Roku: Timeline and Facts |url=https://www.thestreet.com/technology/history-of-roku |website=TheStreet |date=March 13, 2020 |access-date=31 May 2020 |archive-date=August 6, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200806222723/https://www.thestreet.com/technology/history-of-roku |url-status=live }} After ReplayTV's failure, Wood worked for a while at Netflix. In 2007, Wood's company began working with Netflix on Project:Griffin, a set-top box to allow Netflix users to stream Netflix content to their TVs. Only a few weeks before the project's launch, Netflix's founder Reed Hastings decided it would hamper license arrangements with third parties, potentially keeping Netflix off other similar platforms, and killed the project.{{cite web |last= Carr |first= Austin |title= Inside Netflix's Project Griffin: The Forgotten History Of Roku Under Reed Hastings |url= https://www.fastcompany.com/3004709/inside-netflixs-project-griffin-forgotten-history-roku-under-reed-hastings |website=Fastcompany |date= January 23, 2013 |url-status= live |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20130123131157/https://www.fastcompany.com/3004709/inside-netflixs-project-griffin-forgotten-history-roku-under-reed-hastings | archive-date= 2013-01-23 |access-date= 21 June 2020 }} Fast Company magazine cited the decision to kill the project as "one of Netflix's riskiest moves".

Netflix then decided instead to spin off the company, and Roku released their first set-top box in 2008.{{cite web |last= Bouma |first= Luke |title= A Short History of The Roku Player |url= https://www.cordcuttersnews.com/a-short-history-of-roku-set-top-boxes/ |website= Cord Cutter News |date= December 16, 2015 |access-date= 31 May 2020 |archive-date= August 6, 2020 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20200806200618/https://www.cordcuttersnews.com/a-short-history-of-roku-set-top-boxes/ |url-status= live }} In 2010 they began offering models with various capabilities, which eventually became their standard business model. In 2014, Roku partnered with smart TV manufacturers to produce TVs with built-in Roku functionality. In 2015, Roku won the inaugural Emmy for Television Enhancement Devices.

In January 2018, CNET reported that Roku was debuting a new licensing program for smart audio devices such as smart speakers, sound bars and whole-home audio, while noting the "ease of use" and "superb streaming options" offered by Roku TVs.{{Cite web |last=Katzmaier |first=David |date=2018-01-08 |title=Roku to power smart speakers, sound bars and whole-home audio |url=https://www.cnet.com/tech/home-entertainment/roku-to-power-smart-speakers-soundbars-and-whole-home-audio/#google_vignette |access-date=2024-10-21 |website=CNET |language=en}}

According to CNBC in 2021, Roku was the U.S. market leader in streaming video distribution. Later in 2023, Variety called Roku "the top connected TV platform" in the U.S. In December 2023, a Popular Mechanics review cited Roku TVs to be affordable and easy to use, while also noting that the Roku-integrated TVs lacked "the premium brand badging of big players like Sony or Samsung".{{Cite web |last=Ng |first=Matt |date=2023-12-06 |title=The 6 Best Roku TVs for Seamless Streaming and a Vibrant Picture |url=https://www.popularmechanics.com/home/g46012696/best-roku-tvs/ |access-date=2024-10-21 |website=Popular Mechanics |language=en-US}}

According to The Verge in July 2024, a Roku OS update in June 2024 had "ruined" the Roku TV experience. This update added "motion smoothing", and was reportedly irreversible. This followed another identical issue reported in 2020 for Roku TVs made by TCL.{{Cite web |last=Joel |first=William |date=2024-07-04 |title=Dear Roku, you ruined my TV |url=https://www.theverge.com/24188282/roku-tv-update-motion-smoothing-turn-off |access-date=2024-10-21 |website=The Verge |language=en}}

In August 2024, a Wired review noted that ease of use was one of the main reasons to buy any Roku product.{{Cite magazine |last=So |first=Adrienne |date=2024-08-04 |title=The Roku Pro Series TV Is Great for Chaotic Gaming Families |url=https://www.wired.com/review/roku-pro-series-4k/ |access-date=2024-08-09 |magazine=WIRED |language=en-US}}

In February 2025, Roku said it reached more than 90 million streaming households. The Roku Channel reportedly reached households with nearly 145 million people.

The first Roku model, the Roku DVP N1000, was unveiled on May 20, 2008. It was developed in partnership with Netflix to serve as a standalone set-top box for its recently introduced "Watch Instantly" service. The goal was to produce a device with a small footprint that could be sold at low cost compared to larger digital video recorders and video game consoles. It features an NXP PNX8935 video decoder supporting both standard and high definition formats up to 720p; HDMI output; and automatic software updates, including the addition of new channels for other video services.{{Cite news |date= 2008-05-20 |last= Hansell |first= Saul |title= Netflix to Sell a Device for Instantly Watching Movies on TV Sets |url= https://www.nytimes.com/2008/05/20/technology/20netflix.html |work= The New York Times |url-access= registration |url-status= live |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20180105221143/https://www.nytimes.com/2008/05/20/technology/20netflix.html |archive-date= 2018-01-05 |access-date=2020-03-15 |issn=0362-4331}}{{Cite web|url=https://spectrum.ieee.org/the-consumer-electronics-hall-of-fame-roku-dvp-n1000|title=The Consumer Electronics Hall of Fame: Roku DVP N1000|website=IEEE Spectrum|date=December 6, 2018|access-date=2020-03-15|archive-date=July 26, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200726123858/https://spectrum.ieee.org/consumer-electronics/gadgets/the-consumer-electronics-hall-of-fame-roku-dvp-n1000|url-status=live}}{{Cite magazine|last=Dumas|first=Daniel|url=https://www.wired.com/2008/05/review-roku-net/|title=Review: Roku Netflix Set Top Box Is Just Shy of Totally Amazing|date=2008-05-20|magazine=Wired|access-date=2020-03-15|issn=1059-1028|archive-date=April 21, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200421100819/https://www.wired.com/2008/05/review-roku-net/|url-status=live}}

Roku launched two new models in October 2009: the Roku SD (a simplified version of the DVP, with only analog AV outputs); and the Roku HD-XR, an updated version with 802.11n Wi-Fi and a USB port for future functionality. The Roku DVP was retroactively renamed the Roku HD. By then, Roku had added support for other services. The next month, they introduced the Channel Store, where users could download third-party apps for other content services (including the possibility of private services for specific uses).{{Cite web |url=https://www.cnet.com/reviews/roku-player-review/ |title=Roku Player review: Roku Player |last=Falcone |first=John |publisher=CNET |access-date=2020-03-15 |archive-date=April 12, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200412085946/https://www.cnet.com/reviews/roku-player-review/ |url-status=live }}{{Cite web |url=https://www.macworld.com/article/1144032/rokusoftwareupdate.html |title=Hands on: Roku's updated Player software and new Channel Store |last=Frakes |first=Dan |date=2009-11-22 |website=Macworld |access-date=2020-03-15 |archive-date=August 7, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200807040453/https://www.macworld.com/article/1144032/rokusoftwareupdate.html |url-status=live }}

Netflix support was initially dependent on a PC, requiring users to add content to their "Instant Queue" from the service's web interface before it could be accessed via Roku. In May 2010, the channel was updated to allow users to search the Netflix library directly from the device.{{Cite web|url=https://www.computerworld.com/article/2469384/roku-makes-its-netflix-channel-better----a-lot-better.html|title=Roku makes its Netflix channel better -- a lot better|last=Krasnoff|first=Barbara|date=2010-05-27|website=Computerworld|access-date=2020-03-16|archive-date=August 6, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200806220046/https://www.computerworld.com/article/2469384/roku-makes-its-netflix-channel-better----a-lot-better.html|url-status=live}}File:Roku XDS with Remote.jpg

In August 2010, Roku announced plans to add 1080p video support to the HD-XR.{{Cite web|url=https://www.macworld.com/article/1153770/New_price_cuts_for_Roku_players.html|title=Roku cuts player prices, plans 1080p support for HD-XR model|last=Caldwell|first=Serenity|date=2010-08-30|website=Macworld|access-date=2020-03-15|archive-date=August 6, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200806180926/https://www.macworld.com/article/1153770/New_price_cuts_for_Roku_players.html|url-status=live}} The next month, they released an updated lineup with thinner form factors: a new HD; the XD, with 1080p support; and the XDS, with optical audio, dual-band Wi-Fi, and a USB port. The XD and XDS also included an updated remote.{{Cite web|url=https://www.engadget.com/2010/09/22/roku-launches-revamped-hd-xd-and-xds-players-starting-at-just/|title=Roku launches revamped HD, XD, and XDS players, starting at $59|website=Engadget|date=July 19, 2019 |access-date=2020-03-16|archive-date=March 10, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200310095314/https://www.engadget.com/2010/09/22/roku-launches-revamped-hd-xd-and-xds-players-starting-at-just/|url-status=live}}

Support for the first-generation Roku models ended in September 2015.{{Cite web|url=https://variety.com/2015/digital/news/roku-drops-support-older-boxes-1201583783/|title=Roku Drops Support for 'Classic' Streaming Boxes|last=Spangler|first=Todd|date=2015-09-02|website=Variety|access-date=2020-03-15|archive-date=August 6, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200806181856/https://variety.com/2015/digital/news/roku-drops-support-older-boxes-1201583783/|url-status=live}}

File:Roku 2 XS.jpg

In July 2011, Roku unveiled its second generation of players, branded as Roku 2 HD, XD, and XS. All three models include 802.11n, and also add microSD slots and Bluetooth. The XD and XS support 1080p, and only the XS model includes an Ethernet connector and USB port. They also support the "Roku Game Remote"—a Bluetooth remote with motion controller support for games, which was bundled with the XS and sold separately for other models.{{Cite web|url=https://www.cnet.com/news/roku-officially-unveils-new-game-enabled-video-players/|title=Roku officially unveils new game-enabled video players|last=Falcone|first=John|website=CNET|access-date=2020-03-15|archive-date=August 6, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200806080613/https://www.cnet.com/news/roku-officially-unveils-new-game-enabled-video-players/|url-status=live}} The Roku LT was unveiled in October, as an entry-level model with no Bluetooth or microSD support.{{Cite web|url=https://www.engadget.com/2011/10/11/roku-announces-50-lt-model-will-add-hbo-go-streaming-to-all-it/|title=Roku announces $50 LT model, will add HBO Go streaming to all of its boxes this month|website=Engadget|date=October 11, 2011 |access-date=2020-03-15|archive-date=July 6, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170706165734/https://www.engadget.com/2011/10/11/roku-announces-50-lt-model-will-add-hbo-go-streaming-to-all-it/|url-status=live}}

In January 2012, Roku unveiled the Streaming Stick - a new model condensed into a dongle form factor using Mobile High-Definition Link (MHL).{{Cite web|url=https://www.engadget.com/2012/01/04/roku-unveils-streaming-stick-squeezes-box-into-mhl-dongle/|title=Roku unveils Streaming Stick, squeezes box into MHL dongle|website=Engadget|date=July 19, 2019 |access-date=2020-03-15|archive-date=December 4, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191204204048/https://www.engadget.com/2012/01/04/roku-unveils-streaming-stick-squeezes-box-into-mhl-dongle/|url-status=live}}{{Cite magazine|last=Isaac|first=Mike|url=https://www.wired.com/2012/01/roku-streaming-stick-smart-tv/|title=New Roku Streaming Stick: Smart TV Sans Set-Top Box|date=2012-01-04|magazine=Wired|access-date=2020-03-15|issn=1059-1028|archive-date=August 6, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200806195041/https://www.wired.com/2012/01/roku-streaming-stick-smart-tv/|url-status=live}} Later in October, Roku introduced a new search feature to the second-generation models, aggregating content from services usable on the device.{{Cite web|url=https://www.theverge.com/2012/10/29/3569990/roku-universal-search-channel-movies-tv|title=Roku adds universal search channel for movies and TV|last=Bishop|first=Bryan|date=2012-10-29|website=The Verge|access-date=2020-03-15|archive-date=August 6, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200806182244/https://www.theverge.com/2012/10/29/3569990/roku-universal-search-channel-movies-tv|url-status=live}}

Roku unveiled its third-generation models in March 2013, the Roku 3 and Roku 2. The Roku 3 contains an upgraded CPU over the 2 XS, and a Wi-Fi Direct remote with an integrated headphone jack. The Roku 2 features only the faster CPU.{{Cite web|url=https://www.techhive.com/article/2915232/roku-psa-heres-how-to-tell-the-new-roku-2-and-roku-3-from-the-old-versions.html|title=Roku PSA: Here's how to tell the new Roku 2 and Roku 3 from the old versions|date=2015-04-27|website=TechHive|access-date=2020-03-15|archive-date=April 20, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200420205122/https://www.techhive.com/article/2915232/roku-psa-heres-how-to-tell-the-new-roku-2-and-roku-3-from-the-old-versions.html|url-status=live}}{{cite news |url=http://www.latimes.com/business/technology/la-fi-tn-roku-3-available-for-purchase-online-20130305,0,2733700.story |title=Roku 3, a faster and more powerful media player, to go on sale |work=Los Angeles Times |date=March 5, 2013 |access-date=March 6, 2014 |archive-date=March 18, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130318145340/http://www.latimes.com/business/technology/la-fi-tn-roku-3-available-for-purchase-online-20130305,0,2733700.story |url-status=live }} A software update in October 2014 added support for peer-to-peer Miracast wireless.{{Cite web |date=2014-10-03 |title=Roku Adds Miracast Screen Mirroring to Recent Devices |url=https://www.itprotoday.com/windows-server/roku-adds-miracast-screen-mirroring-recent-devices |access-date=2023-09-21 |website=ITPro Today: IT News, How-Tos, Trends, Case Studies, Career Tips, More |language=en}}

In October 2015, Roku introduced the Roku 4; the device contains upgraded hardware with support for 4K resolution video, as well as 802.11ac wireless.{{Cite web|url=https://techcrunch.com/2015/10/06/roku-unveils-its-4k-streamer-the-roku-4-plus-new-software-discovery-features-and-upgraded-mobile-app/|title=Roku Unveils Its 4K Streamer, The Roku 4, Plus New Software, Discovery Features, And Upgraded Mobile App|website=TechCrunch|date=October 6, 2015|access-date=2020-03-15|archive-date=April 20, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230420211155/https://techcrunch.com/2015/10/06/roku-unveils-its-4k-streamer-the-roku-4-plus-new-software-discovery-features-and-upgraded-mobile-app/|url-status=live}}

In September 2016, Roku revamped their entire streaming player line-up with five new models (low end Roku Express, Roku Express+, high end Roku Premiere, Roku Premiere+, and top-of-the-line Roku Ultra), while the Streaming Stick (3600) was held over from the previous generation (having been released the previous April) as a sixth option.{{Cite web|url=http://newsroom.roku.com/press-release/roku-announces-all-new-streaming-player-line-starting-2999|title=Roku Announces All-New Streaming Player Line Up Starting at $29.99 {{!}} Roku Online Newsroom|website=Roku.com|access-date=2016-09-26|archive-date=September 26, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160926215747/http://newsroom.roku.com/press-release/roku-announces-all-new-streaming-player-line-starting-2999|url-status=live}} The Roku Premiere+ and Roku Ultra support HDR video using HDR10.{{cite news |title=Roku unveils five new streaming boxes with prices as low as $30 |author=Katzmaier, David |work=CNET |url=https://www.cnet.com/news/new-roku-boxes-start-streaming-at-a-dirt-cheap-30-dollars/ |date=2016-09-26 |access-date=2016-09-26 |archive-date=September 27, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160927133629/https://www.cnet.com/news/new-roku-boxes-start-streaming-at-a-dirt-cheap-30-dollars/ |url-status=live }}

In October 2017, Roku introduced its sixth generation of products. The Premiere and Premiere+ models were discontinued, the Streaming Stick+ (with an enhanced Wi-Fi antenna device) was introduced, as well as new processors for the Roku Streaming Stick, Roku Express, and Roku Express+.{{Cite news|url=https://www.theverge.com/2017/10/2/16394942/roku-2017-streaming-tv-box-stick-ultra-express-os-8-operating-system|title=Roku rolls out Roku OS 8, refreshes TV hardware with 4K and faster processors|work=The Verge|access-date=2018-07-16|archive-date=July 16, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180716194703/https://www.theverge.com/2017/10/2/16394942/roku-2017-streaming-tv-box-stick-ultra-express-os-8-operating-system|url-status=live}}

In September 2018, Roku introduced the seventh generation of products. Carrying over from the 2017 sixth-generation without any changes were the Express (3900), Express+ (3910), Streaming Stick (3800), and Streaming Stick+ (3810). The Ultra is the same hardware device from 2017, but it comes with JBL premium headphones and is repackaged with the new model number 4661. Roku has resurrected the Premiere and Premiere+ names, but these two new models bear little resemblance to the 2016 fifth-generation Premiere (4620) and Premiere+ (4630) models. The new Premiere (3920) and Premiere+ (3921) are essentially based on the Express (3900) model with 4K support added, it also includes Roku Streaming Stick+ Headphone Edition (3811) for improving Wifi signal strength and private listening.{{Cite web|title=Roku Express 7th Gen (2019) vs Roku Premiere 7th Gen (2018)|url=https://www.slant.co/ai/roku-premiere-7th-gen-2018-vs-roku-express-7th-gen-2019|access-date=November 12, 2021|archive-date=November 12, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211112171712/https://www.slant.co/ai/roku-premiere-7th-gen-2018-vs-roku-express-7th-gen-2019|url-status=live}}

In September 2019, Roku introduced the eighth generation of products.{{Cite web|url=https://blog.roku.com/new-roku-player-lineup-2019|title=Introducing the new Roku player lineup|website=Roku Blog|access-date=2020-04-23|archive-date=January 28, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200128070307/https://blog.roku.com/new-roku-player-lineup-2019|url-status=live}}

The same year, Netflix announced that it would stop supporting older generations of Roku, including the Roku HD, HD-XR, SD, XD, and XDS, as well as the NetGear-branded XD and XDS beginning on December 1, 2019. Roku had warned in 2015 that it would stop updating players made in May 2011 or earlier, and these vintage boxes were among them.{{Cite web|url=https://www.engadget.com/2019/10/12/netflix-ends-support-for-older-roku-players/|title=Netflix ends support for some older Roku players on December 1st|website=Engadget|date=October 13, 2019 |access-date=2019-10-13|archive-date=October 13, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191013073142/https://www.engadget.com/2019/10/12/netflix-ends-support-for-older-roku-players/|url-status=live}}

On September 28, 2020, Roku introduced the ninth generation of products.{{Cite web|url=https://blog.roku.com/new-roku-player-lineup|title=Introducing the new Roku player lineup|website=Roku Blog|access-date=2020-10-24|archive-date=October 26, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201026180246/https://blog.roku.com/new-roku-player-lineup|url-status=live}} An updated Roku Ultra was released along with the addition of the Roku Streambar, a 2-in-1 Roku and Soundbar device. The microSD slot was removed from the new Ultra 4800, making it the first top-tier Roku device since the first generation to lack this feature. On April 14, 2021, Roku announced the Roku Express 4K+, replacing the 8th generation Roku Express devices, the Voice Remote Pro as an optional upgrade for existing Roku players, and Roku OS 10 for all modern Roku devices.{{Cite web|last=Dunn|first=Jeff|date=2021-04-13|title=Roku's latest streaming device gives 4K, HDR, and a voice remote for $40|url=https://arstechnica.com/gadgets/2021/04/new-roku-express-4k-plus-voice-remote-pro-announced/|access-date=2021-04-26|website=Ars Technica|language=en-us|archive-date=April 26, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210426164733/https://arstechnica.com/gadgets/2021/04/new-roku-express-4k-plus-voice-remote-pro-announced/|url-status=live}}

On September 20, 2021, Roku introduced the tenth generation of products.{{Cite web|url=https://www.roku.com/blog/introducing-roku-streaming-stick-4k|title=Introducing the all-new Roku Streaming Stick 4K and Roku Streaming Stick 4K+|website=Roku Blog|access-date=2021-09-20|archive-date=September 23, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210923121702/https://www.roku.com/blog/introducing-roku-streaming-stick-4k|url-status=live}} The Roku Streaming Stick 4K{{Cite web|url=https://www.roku.com/products/roku-streaming-stick-4k|title=Roku Streaming Stick 4K — Powerful & portable|website=Roku Website|access-date=2021-09-20|archive-date=November 18, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211118132345/https://www.roku.com/products/roku-streaming-stick-4k|url-status=live}} was announced along with the Roku Streaming Stick 4K+ which includes an upgraded rechargeable Roku Voice Remote Pro with lost remote finder.{{Cite web|url=https://www.roku.com/products/roku-streaming-stick-4k-plus|title=Roku Streaming Stick 4K+ — Powerful & portable|website=Roku Website|access-date=2021-09-20|archive-date=December 13, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211213105816/https://www.roku.com/products/roku-streaming-stick-4k-plus|url-status=live}} Roku announced an updated Roku Ultra LT with a faster processor, stronger Wi-Fi and Dolby Vision as well as Bluetooth audio streaming and built-in Ethernet support.{{Cite web|url=https://www.roku.com/products/roku-ultra-lt|title=Roku Ultra LT — Powerful 4K streaming|website=Roku Website|access-date=2021-09-20|archive-date=September 17, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210917171108/https://www.roku.com/products/roku-ultra-lt|url-status=live}} Roku also announced Roku OS 10.5 with several new and improved features.{{Cite web|url=https://www.roku.com/blog/roku-os-10-5|title=Roku OS 10.5 offers easy access to content, new mobile features, and expanded surround sound capabilities|website=Roku Blog|access-date=2021-09-20|archive-date=September 21, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210921194804/https://www.roku.com/blog/roku-os-10-5|url-status=live}}

On November 15, 2021, Roku announced a budget model Roku LE (3930S3) to be sold at Walmart, while supplies last.{{Cite web|url=https://newsroom.roku.com/news/2021/11/roku-le/b0zwbcpp-1637005128|title=Roku Announces $15 Roku LE Streaming Player Exclusively at Walmart for Black Friday|website=Roku Newsroom|access-date=2021-12-09|archive-date=December 9, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211209061357/https://newsroom.roku.com/news/2021/11/roku-le/b0zwbcpp-1637005128|url-status=live}} It lacks 4K and HDR10 support, making its features similar to those of the 2019 Roku Express (3930). It has the same form factor as the 2019 Roku Express, except the plastic shell is white rather than black.

File:Gaming Computers in the Teen Space (37866519755).jpg

Roku announced its first branded smart TV and it was released in late 2014. These TVs are manufactured by companies like TCL, LG, Westinghouse, Philips, and Hisense, and use the Roku user interface as the "brain" of the TV. Roku TVs are updated just like the streaming devices.[https://www.wired.com/2014/01/roku-tv Roku TV is the first Smart TV worth using] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201025031200/https://www.wired.com/2014/01/roku-tv/ |date=October 25, 2020 }} Wired, January 6, 2014 More recent{{vague|date=June 2020}} models also integrate a set of features for use with over-the-air TV signals, including a program guide that provides information for shows and movies available on local antenna broadcast TV, as well as where that content is available to stream, and the ability to pause live TV (although the feature requires a USB hard drive with at least 16GB storage).

On November 14, 2019, Walmart and Roku announced that they would be selling Roku TVs under the Onn brand exclusively at Walmart stores, starting November 29.{{cite news |last1=Norvell |first1=Seana |title=Roku Announces Limited Edition onn.™ • Roku TV and Limited Edition $18 Roku SE Player Exclusively at Walmart for Black |url=https://www.bloomberg.com/press-releases/2019-11-14/roku-announces-limited-edition-onn-roku-tv-and-limited-edition-18-roku-se-player-exclusively-at-walmart-for-black |access-date=21 October 2021 |work=Bloomberg.com |date=14 November 2019 |language=en |archive-date=October 21, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211021175341/https://www.bloomberg.com/press-releases/2019-11-14/roku-announces-limited-edition-onn-roku-tv-and-limited-edition-18-roku-se-player-exclusively-at-walmart-for-black |url-status=live }}

In January 2020, Roku created a badge to certify devices as working with a Roku TV model. The first certified brands were TCL North America, Sound United, Polk Audio, Marantz, Definitive Technology, and Classé.{{Cite web |title=Announcing the Roku TV Ready program |url=https://www.roku.com/blog/roku-tv-ready |access-date=2022-07-25 |website=Roku |language=en |archive-date=July 25, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220725035102/https://www.roku.com/blog/roku-tv-ready |url-status=live }}

In January 2021, a Roku executive said one out of three smart TVs sold in the United States and Canada came with Roku's operating system built-in.{{cite news|url=https://thedesk.matthewkeys.net/2021/01/roku-tv-operating-system-dominant-us-canada/|title=Roku says it tops other manufacturers in smart TVs sold|date=January 9, 2021|last=Keys|first=Matthews|work=The Desk|access-date=January 9, 2021|archive-date=April 20, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230420211156/https://thedesk.net/2021/01/roku-tv-operating-system-dominant-us-canada/|url-status=live}}

In May 2022, Roku and Element Electronics announced the first ever outdoor Roku TV, sold in 55 inch size. The television offers minimal reflection, an anti-glare display, 4K streaming, and can be used in bright outdoor environments.{{cite news |last=Winslow |first=George |url=https://www.tvtechnology.com/news/roku-element-electronics-take-streaming-outdoors-with-new-outdoor-tv |title=Roku, Element Electronics Take Streaming Outdoors With New Outdoor TV |work=TV Tech |date=2022-05-19 |accessdate=2022-05-19 |archive-date=May 19, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220519190656/https://www.tvtechnology.com/news/roku-element-electronics-take-streaming-outdoors-with-new-outdoor-tv |url-status=live }}

In March 2023, Roku announced a partnership with Best Buy in which the retailer will exclusively sell the Roku Select and Plus Series TVs manufactured by Roku.{{Cite news |last=Satin |first=David |date=March 10, 2023 |title=Roku Tabs Best Buy to Become Exclusive Retail Partner of Smart TV Line |language=en |work=The Streamable |url=https://thestreamable.com/news/roku-tabs-best-buy-to-become-exclusive-retail-partner-of-smart-tv-line |access-date=2023-04-07 |archive-date=April 7, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230407185633/https://thestreamable.com/news/roku-tabs-best-buy-to-become-exclusive-retail-partner-of-smart-tv-line |url-status=live }}

{{Main articles|Roku OS}}

Roku provides video services from a number of Internet-based video on demand providers.

Content on Roku devices is provided by Roku partners and is identified using the term channel. Users can add or remove different channels using the Roku Channel Store or the search feature. Roku's website does not specify which channels are free to its users.

The Roku is an open-platform device with a freely available software development kit that enables anyone to create new channels.{{cite web|url=http://connection.ebscohost.com/c/articles/45544001/roku-bows-online-content-store |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150611091941/http://connection.ebscohost.com/c/articles/45544001/roku-bows-online-content-store |url-status=dead |archive-date=June 11, 2015 |title=Roku Bows Online Store |work=Home Media Magazine |date=November 23, 2009 |access-date=June 14, 2011}} The channels are written in a Roku-specific language called BrightScript, a scripting language the company describes as 'unique', but "similar to Visual Basic" and "similar to JavaScript".{{cite web |url=http://www.roku.com/developer |title=Developers |publisher=Roku |access-date=July 26, 2013 |archive-date=July 22, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130722130547/http://www.roku.com/developer |url-status=live }}

Developers who wish to test their channels before a general release, or who wish to limit viewership, can create "private" channels that require a code be entered by the user in the account page of the Roku website. These private channels, which are not part of the official Roku Channel Store, are not reviewed or certified by Roku.{{cite web|url=https://support.roku.com/article/208756738-how-to-add-a-non-certified-channel-to-your-roku-streaming-device |title=How to add a non-certified channel to your Roku streaming device |publisher=Roku.com |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200815141951/https://support.roku.com/article/208756738 |archive-date=August 15, 2020 |date=January 15, 2020}}

There is an NDK (Native Developer Kit) available, though it has added restrictions.

{{Main|The Roku Channel}}

Roku launched its own streaming channel on its devices in October 2017. It is ad-supported, but free. Its licensed content includes movies and TV shows from studios such as Lionsgate, MGM, Paramount, Sony Pictures Entertainment, Warner Bros., Disney, and Universal as well as Roku channel content publishers American Classics, FilmRise, Nosey, OVGuide, Popcornflix, Vidmark, and YuYu. It is implementing an ad revenue sharing model with content providers. On August 8, 2018, the Roku Channel became available on the web as well.{{Cite news|url=https://techcrunch.com/2018/08/08/rokus-free-ad-supported-streaming-channel-is-now-live-on-the-web/|title=Roku's free, ad-supported streaming channel is now live on the web|work=TechCrunch|access-date=2018-08-09|archive-date=August 9, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180809034220/https://techcrunch.com/2018/08/08/rokus-free-ad-supported-streaming-channel-is-now-live-on-the-web/|url-status=live}} Roku also added the "Featured Free" section as the top section of its main menu from which users can get access to direct streaming of shows and movies from its partners.{{Cite news|url=https://www.theverge.com/2018/8/8/17666306/rokus-channel-free-streaming-service-web|title=Roku's free streaming service is now available on the web|work=The Verge|access-date=2018-08-09|archive-date=August 9, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180809014141/https://www.theverge.com/2018/8/8/17666306/rokus-channel-free-streaming-service-web|url-status=live}}

In January 2019, premium subscription options from select content providers were added to the Roku Channel.{{citation needed|date=January 2021}} Originally only available in the U.S.,{{Cite web|url=https://techcrunch.com/2017/10/11/rokus-new-channel-with-free-movies-and-tv-goes-live-for-all/|title=Roku's new channel with free movies and TV goes live for all|last=Perez|first=Sarah|date=October 11, 2017|work=TechCrunch|access-date=January 17, 2022|archive-date=April 20, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230420211155/https://techcrunch.com/2017/10/11/rokus-new-channel-with-free-movies-and-tv-goes-live-for-all/|url-status=live}} it launched in the UK on April 7, 2020, with a different selection of movies and TV shows, and without premium subscription add-ons.{{Cite web|last=Goren|first=Or|date=2020-04-07|title="The Roku Channel" Goes Live In The UK: Free Movies And TV|url=https://www.cordbusters.co.uk/the-roku-channel-goes-live-uk/|access-date=2020-06-03|website=Cord Busters|archive-date=June 3, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200603065003/https://www.cordbusters.co.uk/the-roku-channel-goes-live-uk/|url-status=live}}

On January 8, 2021, Roku announced that it had acquired the original content library of the defunct mobile video service Quibi for an undisclosed amount, reported to be around $100 million.{{Cite web|last=Porter|first=Jon|date=2021-01-08|title=Quibi's library will live on through the Roku Channel|url=https://www.theverge.com/2021/1/8/22220426/quibi-roku-channel-acquisition-content|access-date=2021-01-10|website=The Verge|language=en|archive-date=September 11, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220911203642/https://www.theverge.com/2021/1/8/22220426/quibi-roku-channel-acquisition-content|url-status=live}}{{Cite news|last=Flint|first=Benjamin Mullin and Joe|date=2021-01-08|title=Roku Acquires Rights to Quibi's Content|language=en-US|work=The Wall Street Journal|url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/roku-acquires-rights-to-quibi-s-content-11610116056|access-date=2021-01-10|issn=0099-9660|archive-date=August 21, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220821005500/https://www.wsj.com/articles/roku-acquires-rights-to-quibi-s-content-11610116056|url-status=live}} The content is being rebranded as Roku Originals.{{cite web|last=Keck|first=Catie|date=April 21, 2021|title=Roku Wisely Rebrands Its Soon-to-Debut Quibi Content as 'Roku Originals'|url=https://gizmodo.com/roku-wisely-rebrands-its-soon-to-debut-quibi-content-as-1846733852|access-date=April 30, 2021|website=Gizmodo|archive-date=July 16, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220716080635/https://gizmodo.com/roku-wisely-rebrands-its-soon-to-debut-quibi-content-as-1846733852|url-status=live}}

The Daily Beast alleged that non-certified channels on Roku eased access to materials promoting conspiracy theories and terrorism content.{{Cite news|last=Hitt|first=Tarpley|date=2020-08-22|title=From Terrorists to Bill O'Reilly: Inside the Deep, Dark Roku Underworld|language=en|work=The Daily Beast|url=https://www.thedailybeast.com/inside-the-deep-dark-roku-underworld-featuring-terrorists-conspiracy-nuts-and-bill-oreilly|access-date=2020-09-18|archive-date=September 20, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200920025148/https://www.thedailybeast.com/inside-the-deep-dark-roku-underworld-featuring-terrorists-conspiracy-nuts-and-bill-oreilly|url-status=live}}

In June 2017, a Mexico City court banned the sale of Roku products in Mexico, following claims by Televisa (via its Izzi cable subsidiary) that the devices were being used for subscription-based streaming services that illegally stream television content without permission from copyright holders. The devices used Roku's private channels feature to install the services, which were all against the terms of service Roku applies for official channels available in its store. Roku defended itself against the allegations as such, stating that these channels were not officially certified and that the company takes active measures to stop illegal streaming services.{{Cite news|url=https://variety.com/2017/digital/news/roku-sales-banned-mexico-piracy-1202484188/|title=Roku Device Sales Banned in Mexico Over Piracy|last=Spangler|first=Todd|date=2017-06-30|work=Variety|access-date=2017-07-03|archive-date=December 23, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171223142559/http://variety.com/2017/digital/news/roku-sales-banned-mexico-piracy-1202484188/|url-status=live}} The 11th Collegiate Court in Mexico City overturned the decision in October 2018, with Roku returning to the Mexican market soon after; Televisa's streaming service Blim TV (now Vix) would also launch on the platform.{{Cite news|url=https://www.theverge.com/circuitbreaker/2018/10/17/17989598/roku-devices-mexico-sales-back-piracy-concerns-court-ruling-streaming|title=Roku devices are coming back to Mexico after court ruling|work=The Verge|access-date=2018-10-18|archive-date=October 18, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181018122323/https://www.theverge.com/circuitbreaker/2018/10/17/17989598/roku-devices-mexico-sales-back-piracy-concerns-court-ruling-streaming|url-status=live}}

In August 2017 Roku began to display a prominent disclaimer when non-certified channels are added, warning that channels enabling piracy may be removed "without prior notice".{{Cite web|title=Roku Gets Tough on Pirate Channels, Warns Users * TorrentFreak|url=https://torrentfreak.com/roku-gets-tough-on-pirate-channels-warns-users-170815/|access-date=2020-09-18|language=en|archive-date=November 12, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201112045723/https://torrentfreak.com/roku-gets-tough-on-pirate-channels-warns-users-170815/|url-status=live}}{{cite news |last=Bouma |first=Luke |date=August 12, 2017 |title=Roku Is Cracking Down on Piracy |url=http://www.cordcuttersnews.com/roku-cracking-piracy/ |work=Cord Cutters News |access-date=November 3, 2017 |archive-date=November 1, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171101010507/http://www.cordcuttersnews.com/roku-cracking-piracy/ |url-status=live }}{{cite news |last=Perez |first=Sarah |date=August 16, 2017 |title=Roku cracks down on private channels |url=https://www.techcrunch.com/2017/08/16/roku-cracks-down-on-private-channels/ |work=TechCrunch |access-date=November 3, 2017 |archive-date=November 2, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171102012409/https://techcrunch.com/2017/08/16/roku-cracks-down-on-private-channels/ |url-status=live }} In mid-May 2018, a software glitch caused some users to see copyright takedown notices on legitimate services such as Netflix and YouTube. Roku acknowledged and patched the glitch.{{cite news |last=Janko |first=Roettgers |date=May 15, 2018 |title=Roku Displayed FBI Warnings Instead of Netflix, YouTube Apps in Multi-Hour Outage |url=https://variety.com/2018/digital/news/roku-outage-fbi-warnings-1202811988/ |work=Variety |access-date=July 14, 2018 |archive-date=July 14, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180714164645/https://variety.com/2018/digital/news/roku-outage-fbi-warnings-1202811988/ |url-status=live }}{{cite news |author=Staff writer |date=May 17, 2018 |title=Did Roku Outage Reveal FBI Trouble With The Platform? |url=https://www.econotimes.com/Did-Roku-Outage-Reveal-FBI-Trouble-With-The-Platform-1314686 |work=EconoTimes |access-date=July 14, 2018 |archive-date=July 14, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180714164418/https://www.econotimes.com/Did-Roku-Outage-Reveal-FBI-Trouble-With-The-Platform-1314686 |url-status=live }}

In March 2022, the private channel system was deprecated due to abuse and replaced with a more limited and strict beta channels platform which only allows twenty users to test a channel for up to four months.{{cite news|url=https://www.businessinsider.com/guides/streaming/roku-private-channels|title=How to add beta channels to a Roku streaming device in place of the discontinued 'private' channels|last=Johnson|first=Dave|date=8 March 2022|work=Insider|access-date=5 November 2022|archive-date=November 5, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221105234611/https://www.businessinsider.com/guides/streaming/roku-private-channels|url-status=live}}

Pay television-styled carriage disputes emerged on the Roku platform in 2020, as the company requires providers to agree to revenue sharing for subscription services that are billed through the platform, and to hold 30% of advertising inventory.{{Cite web|last=Hayes|first=Dade|date=2020-09-18|title=Roku And Peacock Clash Over Carriage; NBCUniversal TV Everywhere Apps Set To Go Dark|url=https://deadline.com/2020/09/roku-and-peacock-clash-over-carriage-nbcuniversal-tv-everywhere-apps-set-to-go-dark-1234579486/|access-date=2020-09-18|website=Deadline|language=en-US|archive-date=October 29, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201029104439/https://deadline.com/2020/09/roku-and-peacock-clash-over-carriage-nbcuniversal-tv-everywhere-apps-set-to-go-dark-1234579486/|url-status=live}} On September 18 of that same year, Roku announced that NBCUniversal TV Everywhere services would be removed from its devices "as early as this weekend", due to its refusal to carry the company's streaming service Peacock (which had been unavailable on Roku since its launch in July 2020) under terms it deemed "unreasonable". It reached an agreement with NBCUniversal later that day, which allowed Peacock to become available on Roku.{{Cite web|last=Hayes|first=Dade|date=2020-09-18|title=Peacock Will Stream On Roku As Deal Ends Distribution Squawk|url=https://deadline.com/2020/09/peacock-will-stream-on-roku-as-deal-ends-distribution-squawk-1234579804/|access-date=2020-09-20|website=Deadline|language=en-US|archive-date=September 20, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200920012051/https://deadline.com/2020/09/peacock-will-stream-on-roku-as-deal-ends-distribution-squawk-1234579804/|url-status=live}} HBO Max, which launched in May 2020, was unavailable on Roku until December 2020 due to similar disputes over revenue sharing, particularly in regards to an upcoming ad-supported tier.{{Cite news|last1=Flint|first1=Joe|last2=Rizzo|first2=Lillian|date=2020-05-27|title=HBO Max Is Left Out of Amazon's, Roku's Platforms at Launch|language=en-US|work=The Wall Street Journal|url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/hbo-max-leaves-at-t-at-odds-with-amazon-and-roku-11590597190|access-date=2020-09-18|issn=0099-9660|archive-date=May 27, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200527170058/https://www.wsj.com/articles/hbo-max-leaves-at-t-at-odds-with-amazon-and-roku-11590597190|url-status=live}}{{Cite web|last=Hersko|first=Tyler|date=2020-08-15|title=Here's Why HBO Max and Peacock Still Aren't on Roku, Fire TV — Analysis|url=https://www.indiewire.com/2020/08/heres-why-hbo-max-peacock-arent-on-roku-fire-tv-1234580129/|access-date=2020-09-18|website=IndieWire|language=en|archive-date=September 24, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200924171125/https://www.indiewire.com/2020/08/heres-why-hbo-max-peacock-arent-on-roku-fire-tv-1234580129/|url-status=live}} On December 17, 2020, HBO Max began streaming on Roku, after WarnerMedia and Roku reached a deal the previous day (and also after media speculation that WarnerMedia moving Wonder Woman 1984 and Warner Bros' 2021 theatrical slate to a hybrid theatrical/HBO Max release model were an attempt to get Roku to agree to their terms).{{Cite news|last=Spangler|first=Todd|date=December 16, 2020|title=HBO Max Is Launching on Roku, After Device Maker and WarnerMedia Finally Bury the Hatchet|work=Variety|url=https://variety.com/2020/digital/news/hbo-max-launch-roku-warnermedia-1234864416/|access-date=December 16, 2020|archive-date=December 16, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201216213131/https://variety.com/2020/digital/news/hbo-max-launch-roku-warnermedia-1234864416/|url-status=live}}

Another dispute, starting mid-December 2020, caused Spectrum customers to be unable to download the Spectrum TV streaming app to their Roku devices; existing customers could retain the app, but would lose it upon deletion, even to fix software bugs. This dispute was resolved on August 17, 2021.{{Cite web|last=May 2021|first=Daniel Frankel 19|title=Spectrum TV App Blackout on Roku: What's Happening and Why?|url=https://www.nexttv.com/news/charters-spectrum-tv-app-blackout-on-roku-edges-toward-the-two-month-mark|access-date=2021-05-25|website=NextTV|language=en|archive-date=May 25, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210525191403/https://www.nexttv.com/news/charters-spectrum-tv-app-blackout-on-roku-edges-toward-the-two-month-mark|url-status=live}}{{cite news|url=https://www.fiercevideo.com/video/charter-roku-reach-new-carriage-deal-for-spectrum-tv-app|title=Video Charter, Roku reach new carriage deal for Spectrum TV app|last=Munson|first=Ben|date=17 August 2021|work=FierceVideo|access-date=27 August 2021|archive-date=August 27, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210827032725/https://www.fiercevideo.com/video/charter-roku-reach-new-carriage-deal-for-spectrum-tv-app|url-status=live}}

On April 30, 2021, Roku removed the over-the-top television service YouTube TV from its Channels Store, preventing it from being downloaded. The company accused operator Google LLC of making demands regarding its YouTube app that it considered "predatory, anti-competitive and discriminatory", including enhanced access to customer data, giving YouTube greater prominence in Roku's search interface, and requiring that Roku implement specific hardware standards that could increase the cost of its devices. Roku accused Google of "leveraging its YouTube monopoly to force an independent company into an agreement that is both bad for consumers and bad for fair competition."{{Cite web|last=Welch|first=Chris|date=2021-04-30|title=Roku and YouTube TV are now in an all-out public showdown|url=https://www.theverge.com/22412430/roku-youtube-tv-google-feud-explainer-timeline|access-date=2021-05-08|website=The Verge|language=en|archive-date=May 8, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210508163736/https://www.theverge.com/22412430/roku-youtube-tv-google-feud-explainer-timeline|url-status=live}}{{Cite web|last=Kelly|first=Makena|date=2021-04-26|title=Roku could lose YouTube TV in standoff with Google|url=https://www.theverge.com/2021/4/26/22403740/roku-youtube-tv-google-standoff-competition-negotiations-contract|access-date=2021-05-08|website=The Verge|language=en|archive-date=May 8, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210508163735/https://www.theverge.com/2021/4/26/22403740/roku-youtube-tv-google-standoff-competition-negotiations-contract|url-status=live}}

Google claimed that Roku had "terminated our deal in bad faith amidst our negotiation", stating that it wanted to renew the "existing reasonable terms" under which Roku offered YouTube TV. Google denied Roku's claims regarding customer data and prominence of the YouTube app, and stated that its carriage of a YouTube app was under a separate agreement, and unnecessarily brought into negotiations.{{Cite web|last=Welch|first=Chris|date=2021-04-30|title=Roku and YouTube TV are now in an all-out public showdown|url=https://www.theverge.com/22412430/roku-youtube-tv-google-feud-explainer-timeline|access-date=2021-08-08|website=The Verge|language=en|archive-date=May 8, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210508163736/https://www.theverge.com/22412430/roku-youtube-tv-google-feud-explainer-timeline|url-status=live}} As a partial workaround, YouTube began to deploy an update to its main app on Roku and other platforms, which integrates the YouTube TV service.{{Cite web|date=2021-05-07|title=As dispute continues, YouTube TV channels integrated into YouTube app on Roku|url=https://thedesk.net/2021/05/roku-youtube-tv-native-youtube-app/|access-date=2021-08-08|website=The Desk|language=en-US|archive-date=August 8, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210808073247/https://thedesk.net/2021/05/roku-youtube-tv-native-youtube-app/|url-status=live}} On December 8, 2021 (a day before the agreement for the main YouTube app expired), Roku and Google announced that they had settled their dispute and reached a multi-year agreement to keep the YouTube app on Roku and to restore the YouTube TV app on Roku.{{cite web |last1=Kastrenakes |first1=Jacob |title=Roku settles YouTube dispute and locks down apps in 'multi-year' deal |url=https://www.theverge.com/2021/12/8/22823949/roku-google-youtube-tv-deal-multiyear-extension |website=The Verge |access-date=2022-07-04 |language=en |date=2021-12-08 |archive-date=July 5, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220705192541/https://www.theverge.com/2021/12/8/22823949/roku-google-youtube-tv-deal-multiyear-extension |url-status=live }}

• Comparison of digital media players
• SoundBridge, another Roku product
• Smart TV
• Roku City

{{Reflist|2|group="note"}}

{{Reflist}}

• {{Official website|https://www.roku.com/}}

{{Linux devices}}

{{Home theater PC (application software)}}

{{CATV USA|state=collapsed}}

{{authority control}}

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