Roku is reportedly prepping a new streaming stick that can port through 4K HDR content at a cheap price.
Apple TV 4K may be grabbing all the headlines, but don’t sleep on Roku. The AV accessory company is apparently prepping a new streaming stick capable of porting through 4K High Dynamic Range (HDR) content, and at a likely cheaper price than Apple.
The new 4K HDR Roku Streaming Stick+ was uncovered by Zatz Not Funny thanks to « a trusted source, » though we don’t have official word from Roku yet.
ZNF reports the stick will be here this autumn, or sometime between the end of September and mid-December (almost certainly well before Christmas).
This is said to be a mid-range device that includes Roku’s universal remote. While it is more capable than the older HD streaming-only model, the new stick will keep its thumb-drive profile.
As for the 4K HDR Roku Streaming Stick+ price, we’re lacking specifics, but the current Roku Streaming Stick costs $39.99 / £69.99 on Amazon. The Apple TV 4K starts at $179 / £179 / AU$249.
Another Roku rival, the Google Chromecast Ultra, already streams 4K HDR. Google’s disk-shaped dongle costs $69 (£69 / about AU$90). Google could unveil an updated Chromecast during its October 4 event, when we’ll no doubt meet the Google Pixel 2 smartphone, in addition to other devices.
Roku’s new 4K HDR streaming stick isn’t all that’s planned this year, however.
The company also reportedly has a 2017 Roku Express planned to sit on the lower end. This streaming device offers up to 1080p streaming for around $30 (about £25 / AU$40).
The Roku remote is also said to be getting a revision, including the addition of greater TV control.
No word on when Roku’s new devices will become official, but it’s likely not long now.
