Those who follow me on Twitter already knew something was in the works… and, today, Roku comes clean with their new streaming Stick (3600). As you’d might expect, it’s more powerful — featuring a quad-core processor and dual-band MIMO wireles packed in an even smaller HDMI dongle. Also along for the ride is the new 7.1 OS, which enables “private listening” from Roku’s mobile app. Instead of routing audio through your television, it’s streamed to your smartphone and can be listened to over wireless or Bluetooth headphones, so as to not disturb others and as previously seen via the Roku 3 remote control. While currently a Roku Stick exclusive, I’m hopeful the 2015 Roku 2 will be treated to Roku’s most unique feature in the not-so-distant future.
As to other software goodies to look forward to, Roku’s updated API now allows app developers to ingest content via digital tuner — think Roku TV. So that creates all sorts of interesting possibilities. And I’m still holding out for a USB-connected tuner for full-on boxes like the Roku 4…
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Roku is still my preferred streamer. But barely. Historically, I haven't been sold on the stick form factor (including Amazo's), given limited power and wireless receptivity. This new model looks promising, assuming it can get enough power over only USB (and dissipates heat better than the Roku 4).
Roku is my go to streamer. Two Roku 3s and one stick in the house. They work so much better (faster) than trying to use TiVo to stream Netflix and other services. The new stick could be a replacement for any of my existing units if they fail, but I'm not going to upgrade my stick just because.
"Roku is my go to streamer. Two Roku 3s and one stick in the house. They work so much better (faster) than trying to use TiVo to stream Netflix and other services."
That used to be quite true! I used to never use my TiVo for OTT, always using my Roku instead.
But, BREAKING! There's this whole new "OnePass" thing that happened that actually made it faster, easier, and more coherent to use your TiVo for OTT stuff...
(My Roku is still hooked up to the teevee, but the remote gets pretty dusty these days.)