● Covered by 3 sources · 3 reportsMedium impact2 neutral
Roku Launches Experimental App Program, Expands Home Screen Redesign, and Open-Sources Remote OS
Key points
- Roku Labs allows users to access experimental apps like Weather, Stocks, and Roku Dash.
- The redesigned home screen is rolling out to Mexico and Brazil with regional tweaks.
- Roku is open-sourcing LT OS, the operating system for its remotes.
- New subscription bundling options for streaming services are available.
- Voice commands and search experience are being updated with more features.
Roku Labs Introduces Experimental Apps
Roku has launched Roku Labs, a new program that provides users with access to experimental applications directly from their home screen. This initiative allows any Roku owner to engage with in-development apps through a dedicated Roku Labs tile.
The initial set of experimental apps includes Backdrops Studio for customizing backgrounds, Roku Immerse for custom screensavers, Roku Weather for forecasts, Roku Stocks for tracking, and a game called Roku City Dash. Users can provide feedback on these apps, influencing their future development.
Expanded Home Screen and Search Improvements
Roku is expanding the rollout of its updated home screen layout to users in Mexico and Brazil, following its initial release in the US. These new markets will receive region-specific features and localized content.
The platform's search experience is also being updated to include explanations for content ordering and more personalized recommendations. Additionally, voice commands will gain new capabilities, such as requesting weather forecasts.
Open-Sourcing LT OS
Roku is open-sourcing LT OS, the operating system that powers its remotes and smart home products. This move allows developers to tinker with the underlying software of Roku's remote controls.
New Subscription Bundling Options
A significant new addition is the ability to purchase streaming service subscription bundles directly from Roku. These bundles offer over 30 combinations, including services such as AMC+, Fox One, and Starz, providing users with potential cost savings.
Platform Enhancements and Future Direction
These updates suggest Roku is increasing its investment in first-party applications and enhancing its platform to compete with other connected TV products. The changes aim to provide a more integrated and customizable experience for users, potentially increasing Roku's role in connected households.
✨ This summary was generated by AI from the outlets' reporting listed below. It is not independently verified and may contain errors — check the original sources. How BrevFeed works →
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How outlets covered it
Roku updated its OS to include Roku Labs, allowing U.S. customers to access experimental first-party apps like weather, stocks, and a game. This update also expands the personalized Home Screen to Mexico and Brazil, adds bundled subscriptions, and open-sources the Roku remote software. The changes aim to enhance Roku's platform and potentially increase its role in connected households.
Roku introduced Roku Labs, a program allowing users to access experimental apps directly from their home screen, and open-sourced Roku LT OS, the operating system for its remotes and smart home products. This provides users with early access to new features and offers developers the ability to tinker with the remote's underlying software.
Roku is introducing new features including subscription bundles for streaming services, an expanded homescreen redesign, and "Labs" for experimental apps. These updates provide users with more content options and potential cost savings on subscriptions.