Roku 3 launches with $99.99 price tag

Roku has released its latest streaming media box, called the Roku 3. It replaces the Roku 2 XS and is available now for $99.99 USD. The remote has a WiFi-enabled audio out jack for a “private listening” mode.

Roku 3 launches
Roku’s media boxes and the Apple TV have captured 90 percent of the US market for streaming boxes, Roku says. The latest box from Roku is the Roku 3 (model name 4200X) with improved features and Roku hopes to go head-on-head with the Apple TV box; hence the similar price point.


The new Roku 3

Roku 3 has a faster CPU (5X compared to Roku 2) that still supports 1080p. The faster processor will also enable Roku to add support for Miracast; the Android pendant to Airplay. It is not available from the start, however. Roku 3 naturally also has built-in WiFi.

The new remote looks largely unchanged but adds a new cool feature with the WiFi-enabled headphone jack. When headphones are connected the Roku box can stream audio wirelessly to the remote and output it via the audio jack.


With Roku 3 you can wirelessly stream audio to the remote and headphones

Roku is also introducing a revamped interface with access to the same impressive range of streaming services, including Netflix, Amazon Instant Video, Hulu Plus, VUDU, HBO GO, Pandora and more. The new interface will also come to current Roku owners this April.

Roku 3 is available now for $99.99 USD.