Year announcement an upgrade to the Roku Channel on Google TV, improving the user experience for more than 270 million monthly active devices. This integration allows users to search for Roku content directly from the Google TV home screen. The update will be rolled out in the coming weeks.
Roku improves Google TV integration for 270 million users
The Roku Channel is already established on Google TV, but the new features aim to streamline access to its vast library. Users can now search for programs without switching between apps, making it easier to find over 80,000 movies and TV shows. The update also introduces direct access to more than 500 of Roku’s free ad-supported streaming TV (FAST) channels, which will appear in the “Live” tab of Google TV. This addition makes navigation easier for users looking for content in various genres, including news, sports, cooking, and music.
With this expansion, Roku aims to strengthen its presence in the growing FAST market, competing with platforms like Tubi and Pluto. The Roku Channel’s offerings include a mix of licensed content, originals and live streams, such as select Major League Baseball games. The move reflects the broader trend toward integrating ad-supported content into user interfaces, with consumers increasingly favoring subscription-free options.
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New features will allow users to resume watching where they left off, and Google TV will highlight recommendations for Roku Channel shows and movies. Such innovations reflect the continued evolution of content delivery systems, meeting viewers’ demands for seamless access to diverse programming.
According to Horowitz Research’s latest annual report, 66% of U.S. TV content viewers used FAST platforms each month. This poses challenges for traditional cable operators, prompting them to adapt to an evolving market where integrated streaming services are becoming essential to audience retention.
Featured image credit: Year
