Streaming 411

Sounds like a great deal, right?  But perhaps you need to learn more about Roku before spending $50 - $100 on a streaming media device.

In the United States, Roku owners have access to over 300 channels, including top picks like Netflix, Hulu Plus and Amazon Instant Video.  Roku also just recently launched in Canada with over 100 channels, and they have stated that they plan to be just as aggressive in offering Canadians great channel options like their southern neigbors have. 

The Roku player handles standard and high definition streaming up to 1080p.  The top of the line model, Roku 2 XS, even throws in a free copy of Angry Birds, which my kids just love.  While there are other streaming devices available at similar price points, Roku is still considered to be the industry favorite for giving consumers more bang for their buck.

There is a lot of things to celebrate in the streaming world today, particularly how the Roku Player is changing the way people consume entertainment. And when you compare streaming media players, it really makes sense for the majority of people.

Big Changes in the United States

For starters, in the United States Roku is adding channels so quickly, it is topping out at over 300 so far, including NBC News programs such as NBC Nightly News with Brian Williams (America's #1 evening news program), Meet the Press, TODAY, and more.  Featured channels are big names like Netflix, Hulu Plus, Amazon Instant Video, HBO Go, Crackle and more.  Read the Roku Player Channel Review for more information.

Roku UK More Than Doubles Channels Since January Launch

Starting out with 40 available channels, Roku UK now has over 100 channels.  Clive Hudson, VP and General Manager for Roku Europe noted "In the US we are adding about one new channel per day and this gives us enormous appeal to a wide variety of audience segments.  We aim to follow this model in the UK with content for different communities and special interest groups in addition to mainstream channels like Netflix and BBC iPlayer."  Roku UK supports the Netflix UK platform.  Source:  http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/04/roku-100-channels-uk-ireland/

Roku Canada Launch "Imminent"

Two models are allegedly on tap for the Canadian market, including Roku 2 XD, and Roku 2 XS. (Source:  http://gigaom.com/video/roku-canada-xd-xs-amazon/)

Check out our comprehensive Roku Player Review for details on this unique, innovative device.

There are a variety of ways to facilitate streaming movies and TV shows to your television set. One of the most popular ways is through a gaming console.  Some of the best parental controls are integrated into gaming consoles, like Netflix's "Just for Kids" lets concerned parents feel a measure of safety that their kids are watching wholesome content.   However, if you are not planning on also playing games through PlayStation3, Wii, or Xbox 360, it is a very pricey option just for video streaming.

Another popular way to access streaming services subscriptions is through an internet-connected blu-ray player.  But again, unless you already have a vast blu-ray collection, it doesn't make sense to turn to this option because of price, as blu-ray & DVD technology will be slowly phasing out in the next decade.  Google TV is being integrated into a variety of blu-ray players and HD Television sets, so it may make sense to turn to that option if you are in the market right now for an upgrade.

Streaming media players are one of the best ways to get into streaming without breaking the bank.  There are several good options out in the market right now that should meet your needs.

Roku

One of the most popular choices today is the Roku player.  Starting at $50, and with a variety of price points that offer different functionality, Roku is simple tos et up, and offers hundreds of genre-specific Channels so that you can target your choices specifically to your preferences.  There are streaming players that support virtually any television set, including HD.  If you don't own an HD set right now, but are planning to get one in the future, you can purchase a Roku player that will easily transition when you are ready to make your HD purchase.

Apple TV

Apple TV is based on iOS, so it interacts well with devices like iPad, iPhone, or iPod touch.  Supporting1080p playback, this streaming player only supports High Definition TV sets,which limits people right there if they do not yet own an HD set.  Through Apple TV you can access the iTunes store to rent or purchase movies, as well as Netflix and YouTube.  So - in terms of streaming services selection options, there aren't a lot of choices.   But for the price ($99), it's a solid choice.

There are some cool features you can add, though.  For $25 a year, you can subscribe to iTunes Match, which lets you access music that you already own, whether digital files,or CD (including ripped CDs).  You can also utilize AirPlay to view any photos, video, or music that is stored on your iOS device to play directly on your TV set. Apple TV doesn't support apps, which makes it very limited in terms of being able to customize, other than what is mentioned above.

Google TV

Powered by Android, there is amazing functionality with any products based on Google TV technology. For starters, it supports virtually any app you can download from the Android Market.  It also comes with a full version of Google Chrome for web browsing capabilities, and utilizes a keyboard and touch pad to control it.  You can access information on the Internet Movie Database, or your music library through Google Music.

Google TV comes with products like the Logitech Revue set-top box ($99), certain Sony HD TV sets and blu-ray players, and other manufacturers are expected to integrate this smart TV technology later this year.   Price points are varied. What it excels at in functionality, it is known to have an interface that isn't as clean or polished as Roku or Apple TV.

Boxee

At a price of $200, this streaming media set-top box is pricier than Apple TV and Roku, but it has greater functionality, similar to Google TV.  There are lots of services offered, including the ability to stream HD content from Vudu, and live television programming via Boxee Live TV USB tuner.  Boxee has less functionality than Google TV, but a bit of a cleaner interface.

Source:  http://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2817,2402133,00.asp

Maybe you want to enjoy some YouTube or other online video, or perhaps you want to watch your home movies or view your pictures in a more comfortable place than having the whole family crowd around your computer screen.  Or if you've just signed up for Netflix and don't wish to purchase a Roku player at this time.  It's easy to connect your laptop computer to your TV set and enjoy anything that your computer's digital media capabilities can handle right on your TV screen.  We'll show you how via a wired connection.

1. Wired Connection Details - Start by checking which cable you will need to connect your computer to your TV set.  If you have a High Definition TV set, in general you will either need a High Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI) connection, or a Digital Video Interface (DVI).  However, some HDTVs use Video Graphics Array (VGA).  You will also have to check what connection your computer uses.  If your TV uses one type of connection, and your laptop uses another, you will also need an adapter for whatever cable you are using.  Most standard-definition TV sets support S-Video connections.
2. Turn Off Your Computer - Once you have a way to connect your TV set and laptop together, it's important to turn off your computer before connecting the TV and the computer via your cable.  Sometimes if you have the computer on first, it might not recognize the TV set as a viable external display.
3. Select the Input on Your TV Set - Think of your laptop as just like another one of the devices you connect to your TV set.  For example, if you watch a DVD, you need to select a DVD input on your TV in order to display the media from there.  If you don't like the picture quality, you can change the display settings through your Control Panel on your laptop.  It's possible you may also need to update your video card driver.  You'll need to check the TV manufacturer's website to obtain any driver updates for TV compatibility.
   
4. Start Surfing - you can either log into whatever streaming services account you have, or launch your photograph viewer or media player for your home videos.

There are also ways to connect wirelessly - that's for a different article!  Stay tuned.

On March 16, 2012 the official Roku blog reported that they have a new software update for the Roku player, specifically Roku 2 and Roku LT.  The improvements mainly centered around a more positive Netflix experience, as well as improved apps.  There's nothing that Roku owners need to do - the software will be pushed automatically to your players as long as they are currently connected and in use.  But if you want to make sure, you can check the Settings option on your interface, and then select Software update, and then  "check now from your Roku player."

Improvemets and fixes include:

• Netflix video startup performance
• Screen navigation
• A/V sync issues with Dolby Digital Plus
• Audio and Subtitle settings
• HLS streaming format support
• Better support when utilizing multiple gaming remotes during play
• When connecting Roku players on home networks, there is improved ability to find SSDP device discover support through mobile apps, which includes Roku's iPhone app as well as the Android app

The beauty of Roku, of course, is the ability to select Channels that appeal to you.  In other words, you only pay for what you actually want to watch, unlike cable TV subscriptions for which you pay for myriads of channels that you never view.  More control over your content that comes into your home means less cost and more satisfaction.  Roku is regularly listening to its customers and making software impovements in their technology.

More and more people are finding out that they don't have to access streamed content through their computer any longer, and a big reason for this is Roku.  This post will provide an in-depth, comprehensive Roku Player Review so that consumers can get a helpful snapshot to determine if it's a good choice for them. 

1. What is Roku?  It is a streaming meda player similar to the software that you can download on your computer when you wish to watch video online.  The difference is that this software is not housed on your PC, but is instead resides in a little box that is attached to your television set, and is also connected to your internet service to communicate with the provider you stream from.
2. Is Roku expensive?  Besides the PC you already own, Roku is probably the least expensive way of viewing content on your television set.  Your Roku player also enables you to access more than 300 channels, making it an extremely useful resource for viewing games, movies, tv shows, news, and even workout videos.  There are different streaming players available at different price points, depending on the features you are interested in.  The Roku boxes start at $49.99 with free shipping.
3. What kinds of apps are available?  As far as Roku apps, one that made a big splash recently was that you can download an app to iPhone and other iOS devces (an app for android in the works) turning your iOS devices into an extremey powerful Roku remote with exceptional functionability.
4. What is the Roku Streaming Stick?   The size of a USB flash drive, this device plugs into the HDMI port on MHL enabled television sets.  It comes bundled with certain TV sets.
5. Is the Roku software ever updated with new releases?  Yes.  
6. What kind of services can I access with Roku?  As mentioned above, the Channel store has over 300 options available, including the big names like Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Instant Video, and Disney.  But besides movies & tv shows, some of the most popular channels available is the Fitness & Outdoor Channels.
7. Is Roku easy to install?  Yes, it is one of the easier options to install.  To set up a Roku player, you will need a broadband connection, all of the items that come with your Roku player, and any additional specified cables if you wish to stream in HD.  The offical Roku.com site even has a video to watch if you need a visual to guide you.
   

If you think your Roku Player is just for Netflix and Hulu, think again!  Here's a short list of what's available in the extensive Roku Player Channel Store:

• Amazon Instant Video - rent or purchase and stream on your Roku Player from over 100,000 titles, including the latest releases on DVD
• Crackle - full-length, uncut FREE movies & TV shows
• HBO Go - if you already pay for HBO through your satellite or cable TV provider, you can stream your the best of HBO shows and movies for free
• Pandora Internet Radio - Custom radio stations based upon artists & genres that you can browse through, or even build your own by providing Pandora with information about your likes & preferences
• NHL Gamecenter Live - Catch live games out of your market every week, plus enjoy unlimited access to condensed & full-length replays of classic games
• Angry Birds - Enjoy this popular game; requires Roku Game Remote which comes standard with the oku 2 XS model
• Disney - Catch your favorite music videos and enjoy clips from your fave Disney stars

These are the highlights, but there is so much more to Roku.  Are you a fitness buff?  There are tons of available channels where you can work out, hone your skills, and soak in your favorite sport.  Check out The Gym Box for kickboxing, yoga, step aerobics, strength training and more.  Live Exercise has live & on demand workout shows with no dumbells required.  Pilates Anytime enables you to follow hundreds of quality pilates classes, with a new class added everyday. 

Can't do without a trusted news source?  You might be interested in WSJ Live to enjoy live & on-demand footage from thousands of Wall Street Journal reporters across the globe. You can select news sources that favor either side of the aisle, or even gain access to an eclectic collection of podcasts with extremely diverse topics.  Other featured categories include kids, sports, music, games, tech, lifestyle, internetational, and spiritual.

In case you missed last month's announcement via the official Roku blog, Roku has released a software update (version 3.1) for their 1st generation Roku player.  Several improvements (as well as minor bug fixes) were included:  The Amazon Instant Video channel was updated with a new design, and in order to run the channel you will need the update.  3.1 also interacts with the Roku iPhone app (available through the iTunes app store).  The update also promises improved MP4 playback streamed over the internet, as well as over the USB Media Player channel.  Some seriously cool enhancements include being able to purchase accessories in the Roku Channel Store.  Need another player for the home, or some cool toys for it?  Let's go shopping!  Finally, the update includes improved grid performance, eliminating the issues encountered when navigating channels displayed on a grid screen.

Saratoga, CA - January 4, 2012 (Business Wire) - Today Roku announced a stunning new way to stream content on High Def television sets without the standard set-top Roku player.   The Roku Streaming Stick is a wireless device that is the size of a standard USB flash drive that plugs into the HDMI port on a mobile high-definition link (MHL) enabled  television set to transform it into an internet-connected "Smart TV".  Utilizing your home Wifi system, you will be able to access Roku's entire collection of nearly 200 streaming entertainment channels in a fully-integrated high-definition experience. 

Director of Exclusive Brands at Best Buy, Scott Jacobi, also indicated that Insignia television sets will be bundled with a Roku Streaming Stick.  "The Roku Streaming Stick provides an elegant and easy over-the-top streaming solution for customers who want the full experience of a Smart TV without adding an external set box, HDMI cable and power adapter to their TV.  Insignia looks forward to rolling out our first MHL-enabled TVs compatible with the Roku Streaming Stick in 2012 at Best Buy." 

Greg Peters, Vice President at Netflix, applauded Roku for taking streaming innovation to the next level.  "The Roku Streaming Stick is a great solution for Netflix because it allows us to deliver the Netflix experience found on the Roku platform to potentially any TV."

Kurt Scherf, Vice President and Principal Analyst at Parks Associates says "Smart TV manufacturers have struggled to find an application platform that sticks with consumers especially since software is not their area of expertise.  The Roku Streaming Stick is a game changer for the Smart TV market.  It takes the leading streaming platform and integrates into the TV in a way that no one has been able to do before."

Roku announced on it's official blog a few days ago that it is now making available to iPhone and other iOS devices a free app that provides enhanced functionality and convenience of your Roku player experience.  An app for Android is in the works, according to the popular streaming media player provider.  The Roku iPhone app  turns your iOS device into "the most powerful Roku remote ever!"  The app allows you to browse the channel store, select, rate, add or remove a channel to your Roku player with easy touch-and-swipe functionality.  The app displays three tabs; Home lists all of the channels that you have access to on your Roku home screen, where you can easily launch, or view details about the channel, and even rate it.  Remote launches the app so that you can use your phone as a remote control, including the selection of shows, instant replay, skip, play/pause and skip back or forward.  Finally, Store allows you to subscribe to and add new channels to your Roku home screen.  You can organize channels in categories, including "free" and 'paid" subscriptions.