Key facts
- Roku has launched Roku Labs, a new feature allowing U.S. customers to access experimental apps on their TVs.
- Initial apps available through Roku Labs include weather tracking, stock tracking, and a game called Roku Dash.
- Roku is making its personalized Home Screen available in Mexico and Brazil with region-specific features.
- Roku's Voice assistant can now answer weather-related questions.
- Roku will offer bundled streaming subscriptions in the U.S. and Mexico.
- Roku is open-sourcing the software that powers its Roku remote, Roku LT OS.
Roku is transforming its connected TVs into a testing ground with the introduction of Roku Labs, a new feature within its latest Roku OS update. This initiative allows U.S. customers to explore and access experimental applications developed by the company. These in-development apps will be accessible via a dedicated tile on the Roku Home Screen. Early offerings include tools for tracking weather and stocks, alongside a new game named Roku Dash, which features players navigating a UFO through the company's signature "Roku City" screensaver environment.
The move signals Roku's increased focus on developing first-party applications that could potentially be monetized and solidify its position within connected households. This strategy places Roku in competition with rivals like Google and Amazon, which offer advanced AI-powered connected TV experiences through their respective assistants, Gemini and Alexa+.
In parallel, Roku is expanding the availability of its personalized Home Screen to new international markets, including Mexico and Brazil, where it will feature localized content and tailored recommendations. The company's Voice assistant has also been enhanced to handle weather-related queries.
On the streaming service front, Roku is introducing bundled subscription options in the U.S. and Mexico. These bundles will allow users to combine plans from smaller services such as AMC+, Fox ONE, Hallmark+, Howdy, and Starz, typically at a more affordable price point than individual subscriptions.
Furthermore, Roku announced its intention to open-source the software underpinning its Roku remote, known as Roku LT OS. This move is expected to encourage external developers and manufacturers to create their own applications and devices.