Announced earlier this year, Roku revealed today that it is Pro Series TVsline of high-end TVs, are now available for purchase in the US
Starting today, Roku Pro Series TVs are sold at Best Buy stores and online. There are three sizes to choose from — 55, 65 and 75 inches — with prices ranging from $899 to $1,699.
Compared to the first Roku-branded smart TVs — the Select and Plus series — the Pro series has a slimmer, wall-mountable design. (Roku also sells wall-mount kits for $100.) Sound is also improved thanks to new side-firing speakers that deliver improved sound clarity, spatial effects, and deeper bass. Like the Roku Plus TVs, the Pro series features HDR10+ and Dolby Vision for a cinematic viewing experience, as well as 4K QLED displays and local dimming.
Image Credits: Roku
In addition to the launch of the Pro series, Roku announced new software updates coming to all Roku TVs aimed at improving the viewing experience.
The most notable feature is ‘Smart Picture’, which uses artificial intelligence and machine learning to automatically adjust picture quality based on content. For example, when you’re watching a basketball game, the Roku TV recognizes it as sports content and selects Sports mode, adjusting the brightness and colors to provide the best experience.
“Think of Roku as your Smart TV assistant that automatically selects the best picture mode for you,” explained Lei Yu, chief product officer at Roku, during a press briefing demonstration last week.
Image Credits: Roku
The Smart Picture feature is enabled by default, however, you can adjust the preferences in the settings. For example, you can tell it to automatically adjust contrast when watching movies.
Roku also introduced “Backdrops,” a decorative background that replaces the boring blank screen on your TV when you’re not using it. You can choose from a variety of artwork as well as upload a collection of your favorite family photos.
In the coming months, Smart Picture and Backdrops will roll out to all Roku TV models in the US
Other upgrades to the Roku TV experience include making IMDb ratings and trailers available on a TV show or movie’s detail page. Plus, there’s a smarter save-list feature, with new badges in the top-right corner of titles that indicate price drops or new episodes or seasons.
Image Credits: Roku
Finally, Roku revealed details about the second version of the Voice Remote Pro, including a larger battery and USB-C charging. It’s the first Roku remote to feature motion-activated backlit buttons.
There are also two new buttons: a Live TV Guide button to quickly jump to more than 400 free live, linear channels, local news and live sports, and a programmable shortcut button that you can program to access search, connect a Bluetooth headset or turn on the your favorite channel.
The new remote control is included in the Pro series, which has a dedicated remote control button on the side of the TV. Also available as a standalone accessory for $30. The remote control will be available at other major retailers in the coming months.
