Roku announced today that Roku OS 10.5 will begin rolling out to Roku devices in the coming weeks. The update will put live TV front and center, give users more options for voice controls, and offer new surround sound configurations for those with audio devices.
“The Roku OS is purpose-built for streaming TV and our laser focus enables us to deliver updates that have an impact and make streaming easier for our wide variety of customers,” said Ilya Asnis, senior vice president of Roku OS at Roku. “With Roku OS 10.5, consumers who want to use their voice can now access new features and ways to get to content quickly. Live TV lovers have fast access to a one-click guide on all Roku streaming devices. In the Roku mobile app we’ve made private listening even better and added a Save List, as well as other helpful features. Roku audio device users can build out complete 3.1 or 5.1 surround sound systems for a truly premium audio and streaming experience. We hope everyone enjoys the update and look forward to feedback.”
Here’s what’s new with Roku’s OS 10.5 update.
Updates to the TV and Mobile Interfaces
The updates start with The Roku Channel. Roku’s free streaming service has over 200 free live TV channels. Roku users will be able to search for “Live TV on The Roku Channel” and add the channel to their Roku home screen for instant access.
On the mobile app, users will find a new Home tab with easy access to entertainment, along with Zones with collections of available movies and shows. With a Save List feature, users can collect titles that they want to watch later when they’re back at their TV.
New Voice Features
Roku has been expanding the number of channels that support voice commands. Now, nearly every channel in Roku Search supports the feature, including Netflix and Spotify. Making things even more convenient, Roku users will now be able to use Roku Voice to complete device setup or login to supported apps by entering email, password, and PIN information by voice. A microphone icon will be included on keyboards when Roku Voice is supported.
Improvements to Sound Settings
Roku users will now be able to control their Roku audio device’s sound settings including night mode, automatic volume leveling and speech clarity, directly from the mobile app. Users won’t have to leave their content to adjust settings in the menu anymore – they can just use their phone.
And there’s more good news for those users who have a Roku Streambar, Roku Streambar Pro, or Roku Smart Soundbar. Those users now have access to additional speaker configurations with the introduction of 3.1 and 5.1 surround sound compatibility. Roku Wireless Speakers can now be used as front speakers with the Roku Streambar, Roku Streambar Pro, and Roku Smart Soundbar creating a 3.1 (Left/Center/Right) or full 5.1 surround sound system when used with rear speakers, offering more freedom to create a custom sound experience.