The new, updated Roku Streaming Stick has a quad-core processor and has 8x more processing power than its predecessor, says Roku. It will turn any TV with a HDMI port into a connected TV for $50 dollars.
A faster Roku Stick
Roku has updated its Streaming Stick. The new version is faster and has some new features but it is largely a continuation of the previous version. It still offers an external remote control. You just need to connect it to your TV to start watching Netflix, Hulu, Amazon, and much more.
Roku says that its Streaming Stick now employs a quad-core processor to make browsing and app loading faster. The processor is 8x more powerful than its predecessor and also more powerful than both Amazon Fire TV and Google Chromecast, according to Roku.
Roku explains that it has upgraded WiFi to “dual-band MIMO” for better connectivity on your home network. It does not appear to support the “ac” WiFi standard and the maximum resolution is still 1080p. It also lacks the voice search features of the more expensive boxes. It consumes less than 3W when streaming HD video.
Roku OS 7.1
With the release of the new Streaming Stick, Roku will also release Roku OS 7.1, the latest version of its operating system for the TV screen.
The company says that; “OS 7.1 enhances the search and discovery experience by adding new categories within Roku Feed that enable you to view popular TV Shows and Movies in one place. Similar to the existing Movies Coming Soon feature, you can now easily view these new categories to discover popular movies and TV shows across a variety of streaming channels on our Roku platform. You can then choose to watch a popular movie or TV show immediately, or ‘Follow’ it in the Roku Feed to receive automatic updates when the price changes or the movie or TV show becomes available to watch for free.”
Another new feature of OS 7.1, which is exclusive to the new Roku Streaming Stick, is a “Private Listening” mobile app. From your iOS or Android phone you can open the Roku app, connect headphones, and listen to your streaming entertainment within disturbing the rest of your family. You can use the same app to control playback and more.
OS 7.1 will be available on all Roku players and Roku TV through a software update over the next several week.
The new Roku Streaming Stick (model 3600) is available for pre-order now from bestbuy.com for $50. It will be available from other retailers later this month.
Roku Streaming Stick highlights
| Only pocket-sized streamer with a quad-core processor; more processing power than Amazon Fire TV stick and Google Chromecast |
| Private listening via a mobile phone or tablet using the Roku Mobile App for iOS and Android devices |
| Dual-band MIMO wireless for great connectivity |
| Included remote for easy navigation and control |
| Small, sleek design makes it simple to move between TVs in the home or use while traveling |
| Cast video from Netflix and YouTube mobile apps directly to the TV |
| Control with Roku Mobile App for iOS and Android - play personal video, photos and music on TV using the Play On Roku feature |
| Hotel and Dorm Connect for easy connection to wireless networks away from home |
