Roku has officially announced its first TVs, made in collaboration with TCL and Hisense, and the two devices look set to challenge Google's Android TV to the core.
The company's Roku Ready TVs have already bundled the MHL version of the Roku Streaming Stick with MHL-equipped displays such as the Sanyo FVF5044 and the JVC EM55FTR, but the latest devices will launch as the very first HTDVs that come with Roku built-in. TCL and Hisense will start shipping their Roku TVs to stores this fall.
"Roku TV puts your entertainment favorites all in one place. We've simplified the smart TV so you can enjoy instantly endless entertainment," touts Roku. "Your personalized Roku TV Home screen puts your favorite broadcast TV, streaming channels, gaming console, and other devices front-and-center. No more flipping through inputs or wading through complicated menus."
Both the TCL and the Hisense Roku TVs will run Roku OS, the operating system that powers Roku media hubs. Roku OS is used to control access to Roku's content channels, as well as the HDTV's own settings, sporting a modular, two-pane interface that makes it easy and convenient to navigate menus. Users will be able to control their Roku TVs and stream media using their smartphones and tablets through the free Android and iOS apps.
Roku further boasts that it currently offers more than 1,500 different content channels, with more added on a daily basis. Roku already supports most major content providers, including YouTube, Netflix, Hulu Plus, Amazon Instant Video, and HBO GO. Moreover, Roku OS also integrates content search across many of those services, further making it easier for users to see when a title is available through multiple channels.
Both TCL and Hisense will deliver their Roku TVs with their own versions of Roku remotes, which will also serve as direct HTDV controllers due to some special modifications. While they sport the same design as Roku's remotes, TCL and Hisense's versions further come with dedicated buttons for four content providers: Netflix, Amazon, Rdio, and Vudu. The remotes also include volume controls for the HDTVs, but lack the headphone jacks found on the Roku 2 and 3. The location of some buttons may also vary slightly.
Roku TVs from TCL include four models that make up the FS4610R series. The devices range between 32 and 55 inches in size, and sport 120Hz panels. The 32-inch model comes with a 720p display and a $229 price tag, while the other models feature 1080p screens and cost $329, $499, and $649, respectively. All four TCL Roku TVs are already available for pre-order and are set to start shipping next month.
Hisense also has four Roku TV models in its H4 series, ranging in size from 40 to 55 inches. The 40- and 48-inch models come with 60Hz panels, while the larger 50- and 55-inch versions have 120Hz panels. Hisense will leave pricing to retailers, and no details are available at this point. All four Hisense H4 Roku TVs are expected to start shipping next month.
