- Roku has announced the Streambar.
- It’s effectively a soundbar with video streaming smarts.
- Roku also announced that standalone mobile apps for its Roku Channel are also in the works.
Roku has a wide range of streaming products available at a fairly low price point. However, the firm occasionally launches devices for those craving more adept streaming solutions. Now, the company has announced something a little more premium in the form of the Roku Streambar.
Although it’s playing in the same niche as Roku’s range-topping Smart Soundbar, the Streambar comes in at about $50 cheaper, starting at $130. For an all-in-one audio and video streaming solution that doesn’t seem too steep a premium, although its sticker price is about $40 higher than the Roku Ultra.
Related: The best Roku streaming players: What are your options?
Like its Smart Soundbar cousin, the Streambar is effectively a soundbar with built-in video streaming smarts. It’s compatible with any TV that has an HDMI port and a Roku remote is also included in the box.
Roku Streambar for audio lovers
For audio lovers, the Streambar is Dolby Audio-ready. It also includes Bluetooth and Spotify Connect support for streaming music from third-party devices. For video, 4K streaming is also supported, while Crisp Clear Dialogue can drop the audio of annoyingly loud commercials.
This little trick may come in handy alongside the Roku Channel, too. The offering – which melds free and premium TV services – currently features over 115 live and linear streaming partners. It’s also set to receive a dedicated mobile app for Android and iOS, which will allow Roku customers to stream from phones and tablets.
Notably, Apple AirPlay and HomeKit support will also be rolling out to Roku devices soon, too.
The Roku Streambar will be available in “mid-October” from popular retail partners. The Roku Channel’s apps will be rolling out to the app stores “soon”.
