Roku tests a remote with a rechargeable battery, customizable buttons

Source: Kingtut206/Reddit

Roku was spotted testing out a new remote through its Early Access Program that brings some noteworthy additions. The Roku Voice Remote Pro has features like a rechargeable battery, lost remote control finder, hands-free voice, private listening via an audio jack, and, most importantly, customizable shortcuts. The last one is especially attractive to us.

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Roku is reportedly in talks to buy Quibi's content catalogue

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Short-form streaming site Quibi met its quick demise in 2020. But it doesn't mean its content might be lost forever. The Wall Street Journal reports that Roku is in discussions with Quibi to buy its content library. Roku is known for its streaming devices that stream content from your library or third-party services like Netflix. But it doesn't make its own media. If this acquisition pushes through, Roku will acquire a slate of original programming that it can offer to consumers looking to buy its hardware. There are no details on Quibi's potential selling price.

Quibi launched earlier in 2020 and was shut down just after six months. It was founded by former Disney chairman Jeffrey Katzenberg and headed by HP's ex-CEO Meg Whitman. The company managed to raise US$2 billion before it launched. 

Source: Engadget

Peloton's Roku app is now live

Photo courtesy of Peloton

Roku is the next platform to offer the Peloton channel, allowing you to access the streaming fitness service. Anyone who wants to sign up for the service can do so from their Roku devices by registering using Roku Pay. You can do the Peloton bike and treadmill sessions through the app. But even if you don't have a Peloton bike or treadmill, you can use the floor-based workouts on the app. These include strength training, HIIT, yoga, meditation, and dance. Of course, you have to be a member, which starts at $12.99 a month for those who don't own Peloton bikes. New subscribers get the first 30 days for free.

Source: The Verge

Roku brings Google Assistant, Alexa support to Canada

It's been well over a year since Roku brought Google Assistant and Alexa integration to its devices. Finally, Canadian Roku owners get the same privilege with version 9.3 update. The company says the update will be coming to select players in April, with all portable Roku players getting the update in the coming weeks. Meanwhile, Roku TV owners have to wait for the update to roll out in the coming months. 

Roku devices do have a built-in voice search option, but the company just started out rolling out more natural command language here. So, you can say things like "I want to watch movies with Ryan Reynolds" and have the device understand what you're saying. Version 9.3 will bring voice control to other parts of the platform, allowing you to control media playback. And when you do get the update, you can link your TV to your smart speaker and ask it to turn your television on and off, control media playback, and swap inputs.

Source: MobileSyrup