Roku has announced that its range of media players are now available in the UK, with two different versions available: the Roku 2 XS and the Roku LT, with prices starting at £49.99 for the Roku LT and £99.99 for the Roku 2 XS.
Both of the two streaming devices come with up to forty different channels of streaming content, and Roku has just signed a deal with the BBC to bring their BBC iPlayer to Roku devices here in the UK.
“Roku recognizes the importance of region-specific programmes so today we are excited to announce the addition of BBC iPlayer to our platform,” said Clive Hudson, vice president and general manager for Europe at Roku. “This is among the first of many significant content partnerships for Roku in Europe and we look forward to making additional announcements in the coming weeks.”
Features and Specifications
The Roku LT is the more affordable option, priced at £49.99. It offers a solid range of features for budget-conscious consumers. The device supports up to 720p HD streaming, which is sufficient for most users who do not require full HD or 4K resolution. It also comes with built-in Wi-Fi, making it easy to connect to your home network and start streaming content right away.
On the other hand, the Roku 2 XS, priced at £99.99, offers a more premium experience. This model supports up to 1080p HD streaming, providing a crisper and more detailed picture quality. Additionally, the Roku 2 XS includes an Ethernet port for those who prefer a wired internet connection, ensuring a more stable and faster streaming experience. It also comes with a motion-sensing remote control, which can be used for gaming, adding an extra layer of entertainment.
Content and Partnerships
Roku’s partnership with the BBC to bring BBC iPlayer to its devices is a significant milestone. BBC iPlayer is one of the most popular streaming services in the UK, offering a wide range of content from BBC’s extensive library, including TV shows, movies, documentaries, and live broadcasts. This addition makes Roku an even more attractive option for UK consumers.
In addition to BBC iPlayer, Roku is expected to add other popular UK streaming services such as the iTV player and Channel 4’s 4OD service. These services will provide users with access to a diverse range of content, from news and current affairs to entertainment and drama series. The inclusion of these services will make Roku a comprehensive streaming solution for UK households.
Roku’s platform also supports global streaming giants like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and YouTube, ensuring that users have access to a vast array of international content. With the ability to stream content in HD and the potential for future 4K support, Roku is positioning itself as a versatile and future-proof media player.
Moreover, Roku’s user-friendly interface and easy setup process make it accessible to users of all ages and technical abilities. The devices come with a simple remote control, and the Roku mobile app can be used as an alternative remote, offering additional features such as voice search and private listening.
“Roku recognizes the importance of region-specific programmes so today we are excited to announce the addition of BBC iPlayer to our platform,” said Clive Hudson, vice president and general manager for Europe at Roku. “This is among the first of many significant content partnerships for Roku in Europe and we look forward to making additional announcements in the coming weeks.”
We can probably expect Roku to add some of the other popular streaming services in the UK like the iTV player, and Channel 4’s 4OD service.
Source Tech Radar
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