New Roku Ultra Released Featuring Faster Speeds, Smarter Wi-Fi, and An Upgraded Backlit Remote
In a world of fast-paced technological upgrades, Roku is sticking to what it knows with its latest streaming device, the 2024 Roku Ultra. While other brands are taking bold steps, Roku’s Ultra keeps things familiar—yet, there’s more under the hood than meets the eye.
30% Faster and Wi-Fi 6, The Roku Ultra’s Core Upgrades
At first glance, the new Roku Ultra looks nearly identical to its predecessor. Priced at $99.99, it continues to deliver Dolby Vision and Atmos, so your high-definition content is still in safe hands. But don’t let the external similarities fool you—the 2024 Ultra boasts a 30% faster performance than any previous Roku device. This speed boost is designed to offer quicker load times, making your streaming experience smoother.
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Another standout feature is the integration of Wi-Fi 6. This puts Roku ahead of Google’s TV Streamer, which is still using Wi-Fi 5, and on par with the Apple TV 4K. However, Roku falls just short of Amazon’s Fire TV line, which now supports Wi-Fi 6E, a cutting-edge technology designed for even faster internet connections. For those who prefer a more traditional setup, the Roku Ultra also maintains an Ethernet port, ensuring a stable, wired connection.
HDMI 2.1 and Quick Media Switching with Smoother Transitions
One of the most exciting features of the new Roku Ultra is its support for HDMI 2.1. This allows for Quick Media Switching (QMS), which reduces the annoying “judder” effect when switching between different content refresh rates. However, it’s worth noting that your TV also needs to support QMS for you to enjoy this seamless experience. While it’s a fantastic feature, QMS is still in its early stages and may take time to become widespread.
A Smarter, Backlit Remote with Voice Control
Roku hasn’t just focused on the streaming box—it’s also updated its remote. The Voice Remote Pro is back, now with backlit buttons for those late-night streaming sessions. It also comes with USB-C charging and new quick launch buttons to make accessing your favorite apps and live TV even more convenient. The remote also offers personalized shortcuts, allowing you to switch between apps or toggle settings like captions, all with just a click.
Roku has even implemented advanced machine learning into the Ultra, enabling it to predict which app you’re likely to open next, making it the fastest app-loading device in Roku’s lineup.
Home Screen Upgrades – Simple, Yet Effective
Roku has long been known for its minimalist approach to the home screen, and that hasn’t changed in 2024. But the company has introduced subtle tweaks, such as adding the “Kids & Family” zone directly to the home screen for easier access to family-friendly content. Additionally, Roku now includes thumbs-up and thumbs-down icons on content pages, allowing users to personalize their recommendations more effectively.
Another small but useful addition is the enhanced mobile remote app. It now features an entertainment overlay that lets you browse content without disrupting whatever you’re watching, all while retaining the essential remote controls at your fingertips.
Is Roku Still King?
With the Roku Ultra’s modest yet meaningful updates, the real question is whether it can stay ahead of the competition in 2024. Google’s new streamer boasts a bold design overhaul, and Apple’s inevitable next iteration of the Apple TV 4K is on the horizon. Meanwhile, Amazon is pushing the envelope with Wi-Fi 6E.
Still, Roku’s no-frills, dependable performance continues to win fans. If you’re after an affordable, fast, and reliable streaming device with great Wi-Fi and Dolby Vision support, the new Roku Ultra is a solid choice. The added features, like a backlit remote and Quick Media Switching, only sweeten the deal.
Are you sticking with Roku Ultra, or do Google’s and Amazon’s offerings have your attention? Personally, I’m still holding out for a new Nvidia Shield update—but let’s hear your thoughts on what streaming setup is ruling your living room in 2024! Drop your comments below.