First introduced in 2015 as the Roku 4K and currently sold as the Roku Ultra, the new Roku Ultra 2024 streaming video player arrives with a faster processor, faster Wi-Fi and HDMI 2.1 while continuing to support Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos.
Roku Ultra 2024: What’s New?
Most of the features and specifications of the Roku Ultra 2024 and the previous Ultra are identical with the following added features.
- New quad-core processor delivering 30% faster performance and seamless navigation
- Quicker streaming app launches
- Upgraded Wi-Fi 6 radio architecture
- Packaged with Voice Remote Pro (2nd edition)
- HDMI 2.1 support
Let’s take a closer look.
Quad Core Processor
The new Roku Ultra incorporates a quad-core processor for enhanced support for cinematic streaming. The processing chip supports 4K UHD resolution, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, and Dolby Atmos for quality immersive theater-quality picture and audio when connected to a compatible TV or video projector.
The Need For Speed
With a more powerful CPU, content loads quicker, navigation is more fluid, and streaming feels snappier, which could offer a big upgrade from a smart TV that’s starting to feel sluggish. Roku claims Ultra 2024 is at least 30% faster than any previous Roku device.
HDMI 2.1
With the incorporation of HDMI 2.1, Roku Ultra provides Quick Media Switching (QMS) which delivers smooth judder-free transitions between different refresh rates or content sources.
Machine Learning
Roku has added Machine Learning to the Ultra which is designed to anticipate which app you are going to open next and tee it up for our snappiest app loading to date.
Wi-Fi 6
Roku Ultra comes with Wi-Fi 6 built-in. This supports faster, access in crowded environments and improved efficiency access to internet signal. If you live in a home with multiple devices connected, Wi-Fi 6 will help reduce lag and keep everything running smoothly.
Pro Tip: If you prefer a wired connection to your internet router the Roku Ultra provides an Ethernet port.
Watch TV Without Distraction
With fast processing and improved Wi-Fi, users should have a no-worry streaming experience from the Roku Ultra, although your internet service provider is also a factor.
Roku incorporates a user-friendly fast interface designed to optimize your viewing experience.
Click on genres, such as Live TV, sports, home, food, and more, where you can browse and discover new content. You can also continue watching a show you paused, with features like Continue Watching, and save entertainment for later with the Save List. You can also customize the home screen, based on your interests.
Continuing Features
Previously introduced features such as a remote finder, headphone mode, and customizable buttons are all available on the Roku Ultra 2024.
Remote Finder: Activate the remote finder by pressing the button on Roku Ultra or just use your voice “Hey Roku, where’s the remote?”
Headphone Mode Goes Wireless: Pair and listen to your content with Bluetooth headphones.
Customizable Quick Launch: With the new Voice Remote Pro, open the shortcuts display on your TV where you can set two presets such as your favorite apps, shows, and even commands like enabling captions.
Voice Remote Pro (2nd Edition)
The Roku Ultra 2024 is bundled with Roku’s Vice Remote Pro (2nd Edition). This remote includes power and volume controls, hands-free voice commands, rechargeability, and a lost remote finder. It also introduces new features such as backlit buttons, USB-C charging, and two new buttons:
- Quick Launch Button: This allows users to view personalized shortcuts—your go-to apps, your favorite voice command, switching the captions on and off—right on your TV screen.
- Guide Button: This provides instant access to the Live TV Channel Guide, with more than 400 free live television channels,.
Pro Tip: The Roku Ultra 2024 also integrates with Roku’s smart home devices, such as the Roku Doorbell Camera, in-home camera feeds, and Roku Light.
Initial Impression
The Roku Ultra 2024 builds on the previous Ultra with some new and welcome editions, such as faster processing, WiFi 6, and the inclusion of the Voice Remote Pro 2nd Edition which includes backlit buttons for easier use in darkened rooms (especially nice if you have a video projector).
Even though the entertainment is saturated with Smart TVs (including those made by Roku), they don’t all have the same apps and easy-to-use interfaces. As a result, Roku is still seeing success with its HDMI plug-in streaming sticks and players, and the Roku Ultra 2024 appears to be the latest example.
Also, all Roku devices are in the process of being upgraded to Roku OS 14. This means that even users with an older Roku device get new features for an enhanced streaming experience.
Two things that we noticed are missing feel like a lost opportunity — there is still no support for IMAX Enhanced or even DTS:X.
Price & Availability
Roku Ultra 2024 is available now for $99 at Amazon.
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