Roku to revamp entire lineup, higher-end models to support HDR video

[Jos]

Roku is expected to release an updated lineup before the end of the year, which could include as many as five streaming devices. The company will reportedly forgo its numerical naming scheme and instead switch to model names like ‘Express’, ‘Plus’ or Ultra to differentiate between each of the devices capabilities.

Correlating data from FCC filings and two Canadian channels, gadget blog ZatzNotFunny breaks down the expected models and features as follows:

On the low-end, the $50 Roku 1 will be replaced by the Roku Express and Express Plus. The difference between the two models remains unclear but the report suggests the Plus model could have a faster processor, additional ports or a headphone+voice control remote. These models will likely be the only ones to retain analog RCA ports for connecting to old TVs.

Moving up the ladder, the Roku Premiere and Roku Premiere Plus will replace the Roku 2 and Roku 3, but unlike those models the 2016 update will be capable of supporting 4K video -- previously only available in the current top-of-the-line model, the Roku 4. The Premiere Plus variant may also feature support for HDR video, Ethernet and microSD ports.

Lastly, the high-end model will be the Roku Ultra, replacing the latest Roku 4 and packing features like 4K and HDR support, a remote control finder, optical out, and it will be the only device in the 2016 lineup that will feature a USB 2.0 connector to access local media.

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https://www.techspot.com/news/66131-roku-revamp-entire-lineup-higher-end-models-support.html

 

[lripplinger]

I have the new Roku streaming stick, and it is all I need. It is really fast, although sometimes it does glitch, and I have to reboot it. I think the stick option is all most people probably need. I had looked at the Roku 4, but all the reviews complained about how noisy it is. I for one, will not put up with a crappy tiny fan screaming its head off.

 

[fastvince]

I have the new Roku streaming stick, and it is all I need. It is really fast, although sometimes it does glitch, and I have to reboot it. I think the stick option is all most people probably need. I had looked at the Roku 4, but all the reviews complained about how noisy it is. I for one, will not put up with a crappy tiny fan screaming its head off.

I have a Roku 4 and I don't hear any noise at all. Maybe I got lucky.

 

[lripplinger]

Yeah, I hope you don't have bad luck with it. I saw a lot of reviews and videos of people complaining about the noise from the device. The cooling left something to be desired apparently.