Roku sticks it to Google...

[Midpack]

I almost bought a Chromecast, but I was waiting for the next gen Apple TV. Maybe I'll get this instead of either...

Roku's new Streaming Stick takes on Chromecast: $50, HDMI-compatible, 1,200 apps (hands-on). What do you get for the additional $15 (over Chromecast)?

Includes a traditional remote and an onscreen interface. It's a pretty standard Roku remote, and it works via Wi-Fi Direct, so it can still control the Streaming Stick when it's hidden behind your TV.

The other major perk over the Chromecast is you get access to all 1,200 of Roku's apps, or "channels" in Roku's parlance. This includes nearly every major service -- such as Netflix, YouTube, HBO Go, Amazon Instant, MLB.TV, Showtime Anytime, and PBS -- as well as a huge number of niche content sources. While the Chromecast has added some crucial apps since its launch (including HBO Go, Hulu Plus, and Pandora), it still can't compare to Roku's sprawling and frequently updated library.

Additionally, free Roku iOS and Android apps can be used to stream Roku content, and the company will also let mobile device users cast content from smartphones and tablets, including Netflix, YouTube and personal media. A future update will also bring support for beaming content from a computer to the TV.

Roku Streaming Stick (HDMI Version)

Roku Streaming Stick release date set for April, as pre-orders begin | BGR

Roku Streaming Stick - Digital Media Receivers - CNET Reviews

 

[aja8888]

Roku Streaming Stick (HDMI Version)

Roku Streaming Stick release date set for April, as pre-orders begin | BGR

Roku Streaming Stick - Digital Media Receivers - CNET Reviews

Thanks, and this is all good, but we have three Roku boxes between two households and all we can do is watch old Netflix or Amazon movies, old TV re-runs, old news practically no sports (unless old) and have a bunch of channels (I'll call them that) attempt to suck us into paying for their old content.

So with this thing we can stream old stuff to our TV? Why?

The original remote works just fine, or I can make the Roku work right from my android tablet.

I think the Roku has worn out its welcome with my family.

 

[timo2]

Thanks, and this is all good, but we have three Roku boxes between two households and all we can do is watch old Netflix or Amazon movies, old TV re-runs, old news practically no sports (unless old) and have a bunch of channels (I'll call them that) attempt to suck us into paying for their old content.

So with this thing we can stream old stuff to our TV? Why?

The original remote works just fine, or I can make the Roku work right from my android tablet.

I think the Roku has worn out its welcome with my family.

You pretty much describe the entire category, including apple tv and chromecast. We have 2 rokus, and apparently use them for more than you do, like Amazon movies. Red box also has an app on roku but we have not tried that yet. If I were a cord cutter, I would pick up Hulu. we also watch some You tube on roku, plus some of the new shows. my wife likes the old 48 hours shows from CBS. Plus some of the cooking shows. The Roku 3 is head and shoulders above the other models of Roku.