Roku Ultra 2024: Enhanced Speed, Wi-Fi 6, and Backlit Remote

Roku Ultra 2024 Review: A Safe Update in the Streaming Market

Roku has unveiled its newest streaming player, the 2024 Roku Ultra, just a day after the launch of Google’s latest Google TV Streamer. Unlike Google’s significant design overhaul, Roku is taking a more conservative approach, reminiscent of its previous models. Priced at $99.99, the Roku Ultra retains its familiar look while offering some technical enhancements.

Performance Improvements

The 2024 Ultra is touted to be 30% faster than Roku's other streaming players, which significantly improves user experience. One of the most notable updates is the inclusion of Wi-Fi 6, placing it ahead of Google’s offering that continues to use Wi-Fi 5. While Roku matches Apple TV’s connectivity standards, it still trails behind Amazon’s Fire TV streamers, which feature Wi-Fi 6E. For those who prefer wired connections, a built-in Ethernet jack is still available.

Advanced Connectivity Features

As an HDMI 2.1 streaming player, the Roku Ultra supports Quick Media Switching (QMS). This feature allows for smooth transitions between different refresh rates or content sources on compatible premium TVs. Roku’s Paul Nangeroni elaborated that this advancement hinges on the user’s TV supporting QMS, noting that adoption is still in its infancy.

Enhanced Remote Control

The Ultra comes equipped with Roku’s best remote, the Voice Remote Pro. The revamped remote includes:

• Backlit buttons for easier navigation in dim lighting
• USB-C charging for quick and efficient charging
• New quick launch and live TV buttons for immediate access to favorite content

Additionally, the remote utilizes advanced machine learning to predict the next app a user may want to open, ensuring quicker app launches.

User Interface and Content Personalization

Roku continues to refine its user interface without making drastic changes. The “Kids & Family” zone will now be directly accessible from the home screen, catering to household viewing needs. Content pages will now feature thumbs-up and thumbs-down icons to enhance personalization according to user preferences. Moreover, the mobile remote app is receiving an update with an entertainment overlay, enabling users to browse content while using the app’s controls.

Conclusion

As Roku introduces the 2024 Ultra, questions arise about its standing among competitors. Is Roku’s dependable, straightforward streaming device still the preferred choice in 2024? Are users waiting for the next Apple TV 4K upgrade or drawn to the recently redesigned Google streamer? Furthermore, the anticipation for a potential new Nvidia Shield continues in the tech community.

Share your thoughts on home entertainment setups in the comments below. What are your streaming preferences for this year?