Roku brings Google Assistant, Alexa support to Canada

It's been well over a year since Roku brought Google Assistant and Alexa integration to its devices. Finally, Canadian Roku owners get the same privilege with version 9.3 update. The company says the update will be coming to select players in April, with all portable Roku players getting the update in the coming weeks. Meanwhile, Roku TV owners have to wait for the update to roll out in the coming months. 

Roku devices do have a built-in voice search option, but the company just started out rolling out more natural command language here. So, you can say things like "I want to watch movies with Ryan Reynolds" and have the device understand what you're saying. Version 9.3 will bring voice control to other parts of the platform, allowing you to control media playback. And when you do get the update, you can link your TV to your smart speaker and ask it to turn your television on and off, control media playback, and swap inputs.

Source: MobileSyrup

Roku's remote control app adds Apple Watch support

Roku's remote control app gets a new update that will let you navigate and control what you want to watch on the Apple TV app right from your Apple Watch. The feature works similarly with Apple's Remote app that controls the Apple TV. The options are the same as what you'd find on the mobile app, but it's "sized for your wrist." You can also launch channels right from the Watch's screen, with channels appear in the order of most recently launched. Voice search is also available. You can issue commands such as "Launch Netflix" or "Search for Comedies." And if you're the type who loses the remote of your Roku device, the app has a "Remote finder" that will make it play an audible chime. This update, as well as the remote finder feature, will work for select Roku devices and Roku TV models.

Source: 9to5Mac

Apple TV app shows up on Roku devices ahead of Apple TV+ streaming service launch

We're weeks away from the launch of Apple's streaming service, and, just in time for that, Roku devices are getting the Apple TV app. This launch will be the first time the app will be introduced to third-party products. Right now, it only lets you access things like their iTunes video library as well as subscribe to Apple TV channels directly from Roku devices. But starting November 1st, this app will also be the home to the Apple TV+ streaming service, which features the company's original programming.

The new app will require you to authenticate your identity by singing in with your Apple ID. Once you've done so, this will give you access to things like purchased content, personalized recommendations, the ability to buy and rent from iTunes, as well as subscribe to paid channels (like HBO, Showtime, etc.). The Apple TV app will come to most Roku streaming devices. You can check out the full list here. 

Source: TechCrunch

Roku is reportedly testing a Wi-Fi extender to improve its streaming reliability

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Roku hasn’t really released products outside of its core offering of streaming media players. But it seems the company might release something to expand its hardware offerings—and improve its streaming capabilities. The company is reportedly testing a Wi-Fi extender called the Roku Relay. It’s designed to improve wireless connections inside a home as well as reliability while streaming. This product hasn’t been announced yet, but The Verge reports it’s being tested by users outside the company. It’s a small white gadget that plugs into a power outlet and rests alongside the wall. It’s supposed to be used with Roku devices to improve their Wi-Fi connection. It isn’t known if it can be used with other devices, too.

The Relay is being marketed as an extension of Roku players. According to the manual, it’s directing people to install the Relay halfway between the router and the TV. The launch doesn’t seem to be imminent, though. It has yet to pass the US’s Federal Communications Commission’s clearance process, which it would need before it can start selling the product.