This week, we learned all about Roku’s spring 2021 plans, including new hardware and updated software. Elsewhere, Netflix is trying out a new Kids profile look; Plex has big plans for content aggregation, and Google Play Movies & TV is shutting down on several major smart TV platforms.
Here’s what happened in the world of cord cutting and streaming.
Breaking News
Here are some of the top streaming stories from the past week.
Roku is Rolling Out an OS 10 Update with Virtual Surround Sound, Customized Live Channel Guide & More
This week, Roku unveiled its newest software revision. It’s called Roku OS 10, and it’s bringing some interesting features to a number of devices within the company’s lineup. You can check out the post below for more information, of course. The company says Roku OS 10 is starting to roll out this week, and more devices should see the update in the near future.
Learn more about Roku’s newest software update here.
Netflix Kids Profiles Get a Character-Focused Redesign
Netflix is trying out a new user interface for its Kids Profiles that aims to make content selection easier. It’s rolling out to certain connected TVs so far, and users should see more title-specific characters and artwork to help kids find their favorite shows and movies. The new look could be coming to other devices soon as well.
Check out Netflix’s updated Kids Profile menus here.
Netflix Renews ‘Bridgerton’ for Seasons 3 & 4
Good news for Bridgerton fans! The hit Netflix show has officially been renewed for a third and fourth season. The announcement comes not longer after a second season received a green light earlier this year. It looks like fans of the show and/or the book series on which it’s based have plenty more stories to look forward to.
Find out the latest on Bridgerton here.
Google To Shut Down Play Movies & TV App on Major Smart TVs in June, Redirecting Users to YouTube
The Google Play Movies & TV app is set to shut down on Roku devices and several major smart TV platforms. Google is starting to push users toward the YouTube app to continue accessing purchased content. The app itself will still be available elsewhere, but the company aims to wind the app down on those specific platforms in June.
Learn more about Google’s plans for Google Play Movies & TV here.
Hardware Spotlight
A look at the latest streaming and cord-cutting gear
Roku’s Spring 2021 Hardware Lineup Includes Express 4K+, Voice Remote Pro, Streambar Pro
This week’s big Roku news also included some major new hardware updates as well. In addition to a new, top-end Voice Remote Pro, the company is also revamping the Smart Soundbar as the Streambar Pro, which packs in a more advanced remote control. Elsewhere, the company also announced a 4K-capable Roku Express 4K+.
Check out Roku’s hardware announcements here.
Industry Report
What’s the latest on the industry?
Plex Raises $50 Million to Become ‘One Stop Shop’ for Streaming
Plex announced additional funding this week, along with ambitious plans to aggregate your entertainment under one roof. The company’s 2022 plans include a central menu where you’ll find your favorite entertainment from a variety of sources.
See what Plex has planned here.
Latest Rumors Suggest Apple’s Working on a Smart Speaker-Apple TV Combo Device
It’s just a rumor at this point, but there are murmurs that Apple could be making a combo device that pairs its HomePod speaker tech with Apple TV’s streaming capabilities. The rumors point to a couple of possible devices that could also include FaceTime support for video calls on a connected TV.