Which Roku is the Newest Model?

It has become a daunting task – to keep up with all the latest innovations and updates. You can lament that nothing is built to last anymore. And, that may be true in certain ways, but there is another reason why everything keeps getting upgraded.

When it comes to these gadgets, both software and hardware evolve rather rapidly, and our smartphones need updates often. Inevitably, the string of updates will eventually require a new device.

Similarly, Roku introduces and offers new devices and updated software all the time. So, which is the newest Roku out there? Let’s investigate.

Software

Software updates are kind of a necessary nuisance. You’d rather not deal with it right now, but it probably won’t take long, and postponing it can lead to performance issues. What they do is fix detected vulnerabilities in the existing versions. They provide better performance, and better user interactions. Oftentimes, you also get new features with updates.

It is the same with software Roku uses on its platform. The latest Roku update includes is the new Roku Tips & Tricks channel. There is also an update for the 4K Spotlight channel and one for Roku Zones.

You can also connect your smart speakers and control the Roku with your voice. And, there is also a new shortcut section for your Home screen to help you get to where you want to be faster.

Hardware

In case you are wondering which Roku device is the newest, there is a way you can check that out.

1. First, go to Roku’s official website. At the bottom of the home page, and to the right, you’ll see an option named “Developers.”
   
2. You’ll be directed to another page, where at the top you’ll see a drop-down menu that says “Docs.” From there, click on “Specifications.”
   
3. From there you’ll go to the page that offers different kinds of specifications that you might need. Choose “Hardware Specifications.”
   
4. Scroll down a bit, and you’ll see a table with all the Roku players available, and which of those are current models.

On the same page, you’ll also be able to see which of the Roku players have the hardware that can run on the newest Roku OS. There will also be a table of the models that cannot, which are referred to as the legacy models. However, introduction dates are not included.

Roku Ultra

This is the flagship Roku device and it’s noticeably faster than its predecessor. The Roku Ultra comes with a faster processor which allows for a faster channel launch. Plus, it can store more Roku channels. This device supports Full HD, 4K, UHD, and HDR streaming. This is the only Roku player that has an Ethernet option. The Roku remote is also intuitive and well made; you can personalize your shortcut buttons, enable the remote finder, and opt for private listening.

Roku Streaming Stick +

It’s a 4K HDR streaming player in the form of a stick that has an improved Wi-Fi experience. The new version also has the headphones jack on the remote. It’s some people’s favorite type of Roku player because it’s ultra-portable.

Roku Express

The latest version comes in a smaller size and with a more rounded shape; it also uses less power than the previous version. It’s the most basic of Roku players and it has the full HD streaming option. There’s also an adhesive strip you can use if you want to attach your Roku Express to your TV.

What Else Is New?

One of the best things about Roku is all the free channels you can use. Some of them are consistently rated among the top 10 in the free section. The usual winner is YouTube, followed by Roku’s own – The Roku Channel. There’s also a slew of news networks as well as movie streaming channels; the CW channel ranks fifth on the list of the most popular free channels.

Nothing Stays New Forever

Most of us are getting accustomed to checking for new releases and upgrades all the time. It’s all a part of modern high-tech living. All of our gadgets need to be looked after. This includes software updates, but it also means understanding when the device we have can no longer be updated.

The newest Roku players don’t stay new for very long, either. This doesn’t mean that you always have to have the newest version of everything. But, it helps to keep yourself updated on the development. Who knows, maybe the next Roku device will have a feature you didn’t know you needed.

Let us know what you think about the newest Rokus in the comments section below.