Here is a full list of everything new.
(Note: Roku has a history of hiding some new features in updates, so keep your eyes open for something not listed here.)
Updates for All Roku Devices
- Several updates and fixes were made to improve overall streaming performance and reliability across Roku devices.
- Mobile private listening: Multiple mobile device support (US, Canada, Mexico, Latin America, UK, Ireland) – Roku OS 8.1 turns private listening into a group activity with added support for multiple mobile devices. Now, up to four mobile devices can connect to a Roku device to enjoy private listening when the feature is activated within the free Roku mobile app for iOS® or Android.™ Enjoy a movie as a couple without waking the kids, or let the kids use headphones to watch their cartoons while you read a book in peace and quiet. With this update to mobile private listening, it’s easy for multiple people to turn up the volume without disturbing others.
Roku TV-Specific Updates
- Improves support on Roku TV for DTS passthrough from HDMI inputs to AV receivers and soundbars.
- Simplifies the audio settings options for Roku TV models. Audio format settings are now fully controlled in the “S/PDIF and ARC” menu item within the Settings > Audio menu.
- Roku TV customers can enter their ZIP code to ensure information displayed in the on-screen electronic program guide is specific to their location when an HDTV antenna is connected to their Roku TV. To enter a ZIP code, go to Settings > System > ZIP Code.
- Resolves screen jitter from intermittently occurring when some Blu-Ray players were connected to a 4K Roku TV.
UK-Specific Update
- Updates to voice search in the UK: Customers who own the Roku Streaming Stickâ+ in the UK can search for their favorite entertainment using their voice by pressing and holding the search button on their remote. Just speak a command to search for movies, shows, actors, or directors, or even launch streaming channels. For example, you can say things like “show me comedies,” “find The Grand Tour,” and “Launch Netflix.”
One change not noted on the list was a slight update to on-screen controls. For example, the volume controls have a slightly different look on Roku TVs now. Now not all Roku TVs have it but Roku has started to roll the 8.1 update out to Roku TVs.
Have you noticed any other changes? Leave us a comment and let us know.
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