Katarzyna Petru
Roku has just released a major update to its mobile and TV applications. The biggest change? A new way to control the TV, which works much more like LG's Magic Remote, meaning... simply convenient. On top of that, there are 12 new, free channels, including even two from BBC.
App of the Year with a new touchpad – no more tapping like on a calculator
Until now, controlling through the app was, to put it mildly, clunky. You had to click arrows and move the cursor slowly like in the menu of an old DVD. Now, finally, a virtual touchpad is here, allowing you to swipe your finger across the screen, and the cursor glides smoothly on the TV. It sounds trivial, but it changes everything.
Testers from Cord Cutters confirm: instead of “tap-tap-tap,” you just swipe and it's done. Roku also adds haptics, so when you swipe, your finger feels a slight vibration, a bit like in good iPhone apps. Don’t want the touchpad? No problem — you can go back to the old button system in the settings.
New look for the app, new channels, and faster pairing
Roku has slightly refreshed the interface. The main screen is now simpler, and shortcuts to recently watched channels are more readable. The Wi-Fi pairing has also been improved—it is supposed to be faster and less temperamental. The update is rolling out globally for Android and iOS—everyone should receive it within a week.
At the same time, Roku is adding 12 new free channels (FAST—meaning ad-supported). They will be available on all Roku devices. All will be added to the Live TV section, joining the 40 channels offered in the UK in October.
Does Roku have a chance to become an even bigger player?
Roku is doing something that should have been standard a long time ago: easy navigation + more free content. The app update finally makes controlling the TV with your phone sensible, and the new FAST channels are an extra bonus for those who like something "in the background" or don't want to pay for additional subscriptions.
