Earlier this year, we were wondering when and how all of this 4K content would be coming into our homes. While we still wait for 4K Blu-ray, Roku is packing a wealth of 4K content into the new Roku 4.
The Roku 4 is the 4K set-top you've been waiting for. This tiny media streamer can deliver access to over 300,000 movies and TV episodes to 4K Ultra HD (UHD) and HD TVs.
Of course, all 300,000 of those selections won't be available in 4K, but the box does have one of the largest 4K selections we've seen to date. Users can find 4K content streaming through Netflix, M-Go, Amazon Instant Video, ToonGoogles, VUDU and YouTube. If you can't decide where to look for content first, Roku has created a 4K Spotlight channel and a 4K UHD category within the Roku Channel Store to make your surfing a little easier.
According to HD Guru's Greg Tarr, the Roku 4 does not support high dynamic range (HDR). However, he does say that the "Roku 4 is one of the best options for accessing and viewing cutting-edge over-the-top 4K streaming entertainment available in the market today." You can read his full review over at HD Guru.
In order to deliver that kind of content, the Roku 4 has a quad-core processor, which can do 4K streaming up to 60 frames per second. It also features the new Roku OS 7, which adds in updates to the Roku Feed so you can follow movies, TV shows, actors and directors. Other features include HDCP 2.2 support, 802.11ac Mimo WiFi, a new Hotel and Dorm Connect feature, an optical audio out, and a headphone jack in the remote for late-night binge-watching.
Speaking of that remote, it includes universal voice search and something called Remote Finder. So next time that small remote gets wedged in between the couch cushions, just press the button on top of the Roku 4. The remote will then emit a tone so you can easily find it.
If you prefer to use your smartphone, there's also a newly redesigned Roku mobile app for Android and iOS devices. Besides delivering a better user experience, the app will soon add an on-the-go mode so users can access things like the Roku Feed while out of the house.
"The Roku 4 is our best streaming player ever," said Anthony Wood, Roku's founder and CEO. "It provides an amazing 4K experience with powerful performance and brilliant picture, at up to 60 frames per second on 4K TVs, and access to the most streaming channels with 4K entertainment, plus innovative features like Remote Finder. Powered by the new Roku OS 7, the Roku 4 gives consumers a new era of streaming performance and control over their entertainment."
The Roku 4 is available now, with an MSRP of $129.99. Roku also started rolling out that OS 7 upgrade to older Roku players and Roku TVs through a software update, which will be completed in November.
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