Roku 3 arrives with new Interface, faster processor, remote control with audio output

Posted by Jason Diaz Categories: Accessories, HDTV, Home Entertainment

Media streaming enthusiasts have a new toy to play with! The new Roku 3 has launched and is ready to wage war for its place in the living room against other streaming alternatives like the Apple TV. The Roku 3 has improved internals, new glossy hockey puck hardware look and a much needed revamped user interface to navigate those 700 channels. However, it still doesn't have YouTube!

As far as internal hardware specs go, the Roku 3 is now housing a dual-band Wi-Fi, assuming it now runs in the 5 Ghz frequency. Inside, it has a new faster processor which is said to be much faster than its other variant predecessors, like the Roku 2 XS. Additionally, it has a USB port, ethernet, HDMI, SD card slot, and digital in.

One of the most ingenues benefits of the new Roku is its new remote, which includes a built-in headphone jack for private listing. According to Roku, "it's perfect for the late-night action movie without waking up the spouse. Or kid. Or Dog." The new remote has a nifty added bonus which operates with Wi-Fi Direct, so there's no need for the remote to be physically directed at the Roku 3 as you mash out commands.

The Roku 3 is available at Roku's online store, as well as on Amazon, for $99 and will soon be available in big box stores in April. For those of you that have the past versions of Roku, the same UI update is headed your way in April. Check out a video demo above.

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