Roku launches first HDR set-top box for operator partner

Roku has announced the availability of its first 4K and HDR-capable TV and streaming player for one of its ‘Roku Powered’ partners.

Telstra in Australia will be the first Roku Powered licensee to deploy the new 4K, high dynamic range (HDR) over-the-air and streaming player later this month.

The hybrid box combines a terrestrial tuner with a 4K HDR streaming player, allowing Telstra to offer customers live TV, catch-up and on demand entertainment.

“Our new 4K HDR hybrid streaming player is ideal for countries where over-the-air TV is available,” said Roku’s vice-president of pay TV, Andrew Ferrone.

“It really brings together entertainment sources in a clever way, so consumers can watch live and on demand entertainment with one single remote control.”

The Roku Powered programme lets operators use the Roku streaming platform, including the Roku OS, Roku Channel Store, and Roku streaming players to deliver services to their customers.

Earlier this month Roku unveiled five new streaming players for the US market, including the new Roku Ultra, which supports 4K and HDR streaming at up to 60 fps and was described by Roku as its “most powerful and feature-packed player”.