Roku’s latest free upgrade is set to revolutionize the user experience, aligning its AI capabilities with Google TV’s Gemini technology. The enhanced voice control will allow for more nuanced queries, like inquiring about the scare factor of a movie or the species of a character. This advancement mirrors the sophisticated features found on Google TV devices, bringing Roku users a more interactive and engaging interface.
According to reports from The Verge, Roku Voice will not only respond verbally but also display relevant information on the screen. Users can expect detailed text responses with links to related content, enabling seamless exploration of TV shows and movies. Additionally, the system will support follow-up questions, enriching the conversational aspect of interactions with the device.
Moreover, Roku is introducing a Bluetooth headphone mode on its latest devices, such as the Roku Streaming Stick and Streaming Stick Plus. This feature allows users to enjoy content privately using wireless headphones, without disturbing others in the vicinity. It enhances the flexibility and convenience of watching TV, catering to individual preferences for audio output.
For those who prefer using the Roku mobile app, upcoming free features include practical additions like ‘find my remote,’ shortcuts to closed captions, a sleep timer, and daily trivia. The app will also offer Netflix-style rating buttons for personalized content curation, allowing users to like, dislike, and mark titles as watched. Furthermore, users can organize the For You page into distinct categories like shows, movies, and sports for easier navigation.
Roku’s update extends to enhancing the viewing experience by introducing a ‘Ways to watch’ button during trailers, streamlining access to advertised content. The search bar will be expanded across various platform sections, including What to Watch, the Live TV Zone, and eventually, the Live TV Channel Guide. Moreover, real-time sports scores will be displayed alongside games on Roku TV, with the option to toggle off spoilers and receive notifications for upcoming matches.
These forthcoming upgrades promise to elevate the functionality and user satisfaction of Roku devices. While the timeline for rollout spans the coming months, the global availability of these features, particularly in regions like the UK, remains uncertain. As we await further details from Roku, users can anticipate a more immersive and personalized entertainment experience with these exciting developments.