Roku has released Roku OS 10, the next major update to the operating system powering various media players and TVs. Rolling out now, the update adds several new features while solving one of the most annoying headaches associated with media streaming.
Roku OS 10 Adds an Instant Resume Feature
The update introduces new features that help you "get to content faster, improve network and input configurations, offer new ways to customize the experience, and enhance performance," according to a post on the Roku Blog.
A new Instant Resume feature attempts to solve one of the most annoying aspects of streaming---continuing right where you left off. With Roku OS 10, compatible video apps continue streaming from where you last exited them.
"Launch times will be much quicker and you’ll be taken back to the place where you left off for a faster, smoother experience," the company notes. However, apps must be updated to take advantage of Instant Resume functionality.
Instant Resume currently works in the Roku Channel and a handful of apps like AT&T TV, FOX News and Business Network, Fubo Sports Network, HappyKids.TV, Plex, and STARZ.
With that said, however, major video-streaming apps like Netflix, HBO Max, or Prime Video have yet to pick up support for this feature. For what it's worth, Roku ensures that additional apps will be updated with Instant Resume compatibility over time.
Automatic Wi-Fi Detection, HDR+, and More
With automatic Wi-Fi detection, your Roku will now recommend between 2.4Ghz and 5Ghz networks at setup provided you own a dual-band Wi-Fi router. And to ensure the smoothest streaming experience possible, Roku OS 10 will now prompt you to connect to a different network should your chosen one become too slow or congested.
The update also adds a handy voice entry option for certain on-screen keyboards:
Roku Voice can now be used with a variety of on-screen keyboards, giving you a more convenient way to enter information on your Roku device. Keyboards that support Roku Voice will display a microphone icon, so keep an eye out for this new feature.
On top of that, Roku OS 10 brings support for HDR10+ on the Roku Ultra and the new Roku Express 4K+ whilst adding virtual surround sound to the company's Smart Soundbar and the new Streambar Pro accessories.
Customizing the Live Channel TV Guide
You can now customize the live TV channel guide.
With Roku OS 10, you can now hide individual channels as well as add channels to a favorites list within the Live TV Channel Guide. Quickly switch between guide views to see your favorites, recently visited, or all channels.
Customizing the live TV channel guide requires an antenna plugged into your Roku TV.
Expanded AirPlay 2 and HomeKit Support
The update also expands support for the AirPlay 2 and HomeKit features to more devices. AirPlay is Apple's device-to-device media streaming feature while HomeKit is the company's software framework powering smart home devices.
With AirPlay support, Roku owners can stream media content directly from an iOS or macOS device to compatible Roku streamers. HomeKit support lets you control your Roku devices using Apple's Siri virtual assistant or the Home app on the iPhone, iPad, and Mac.
Roku OS 10 brings AirPlay 2 and HomeKit to the company's HD streaming players, such as the Roku Express, along with "select HD Roku TV models." Previously, AirPlay 2 and HomeKit were limited to Roku’s 4K-compatible players and 4K Roku TVs.
Roku OS 10 Auto-Configures Game Consoles
Roku OS 10 automatically recognizes your gaming console model, labeling it properly in the interface. It also automatically enters game mode and configures various settings for your particular console, including features like HDR gaming, auto low-latency mode, variable refresh rate, high frame rate, and THX-certified game mode.
Roku has said that the new Roku OS 10 software update will be making its way to all supported devices in the coming weeks.