- Roku has announced the Stream Bar.
- It’s effectively a soundbar with video streaming smarts.
- Roku also announced that standalone mobile apps for its Roku Channel are also in the works.
Roku has a wide range of streaming products available at a fairly low price point, but the firm occasionally launches devices for those craving more adept streaming solutions. Now, the company has announced something a little more premium in the form of the Roku Stream Bar.
Although it’s playing in the same niche as Roku’s range-topping Smart Soundbar, the Stream Bar comes in ~$50 cheaper, at $130. For an all-in-one audio and video streaming solution that doesn’t seem too steep a premium, although its sticker price is ~$40 larger than the Roku Ultra.
Like its Smart Soundbar cousin, the Stream Bar is effectively a soundbar with built-in video streaming smarts. It’s compatible with any TV that has an HDMI port too, and a Roku remote is also included in the box.
For audio lovers, the Stream Bar is Dolby Audio-ready and also includes Bluetooth support and Spotify Connect support for streaming music from third-party devices. For video streaming enthusiasts, 4K streaming is also supported, while Crisp Clear Dialogue can drop the audio of annoyingly loud commercials.
This little trick may come in handy alongside Roku Channel, too. The offering – which melds free and premium TV services – currently features over 115 live and linear streaming partners. It’s also set to receive a dedicated mobile app for Android and iOS, which will allow Roku customers to stream from your phone or tablet.
Notably, Apple AirPlay and Homekit support will also be rolling out to Roku devices soon, too.
There’s no word on when the Stream Bar will be available, but the Roku Channel’s apps will be rolling out to the app stores “soon”.
Next: The best Roku streaming players: What are your options?
