Roku is introducing a new version of their line of streaming video boxes. The updated device, called the Roku 3, comes with a collection of new features, as well as support for higher definition video.
The company is calling this latest model the most "powerful" box it has created so far. It is now one of only two Roku devices that support full 1080p video streaming. The Roku 3 also features a faster processor, an ethernet port, USB support, a new remote with a headphone jack, and dual-band Wi-Fi, a company first.
The new remote also doubles as a motion sensing controller, and the Roku 3 comes included with a copy of Angry Birds Space for you to test the feature out on. In addition, the new Roku box also has a completely redesigned interface that's meant to be more streamlined, accessible, and allow users to find programs quicker.
For example, searching for a movie title now scans all of Roku's services for the availability of that program. In older instances of the device, you would need to search for it app by app until you found it. "This makes it more seamless," says Roku's director of user experience Ali Vassigh.
The Store and Search functions are also now integrated into the home screen.
The Roku 3 is now available directly from Roku, as well as Amazon, for $99. It will go on sale at select brick and mortar retailers in April. It comes built in with 750 total channels including Netflix, Amazon, and Hulu.