We recently learned that streaming company Roku is looking to branch out from TVs, and transition to smart assistants and systems. At CES 2018 today, the company unveiled the first fruit of its efforts to the public. The firm announced that it is collaborating with TCL to build the "TCL Roku Smart Soundbar", coming in late 2018.
TCL is the largest distributor of Roku TVs in the United States and the largest TV manufacturer in China. Its licensing deal with Roku will see the deliverance of a "premium experience" for those interested in home theater systems.
The TCL Roku Soundbar will be the first of the firm's Alto lineup of audio products. It will feature integration with Roku Connect and Roku Entertainment System, allowing your TV to be controlled by voice commands. The Soundbar will also be able to connect with other audio and video devices, and while TCL says that the peripheral will be compatible with any TV, it will work best with TCL Roku TVs.
Roku CEO Anthony Wood had the following to say regarding the upcoming product:
TCL is an exceptional Roku TV partner and a natural fit to be the first partner to plan to build a smart soundbar under our new licensing program. The TCL Roku Smart Soundbar will offer a great value and make TV watching even more enjoyable by offering premium sound and more entertainment control through Roku Connect and the Roku Entertainment Assistant.
That said, the Soundbar is still under development and the images released may or may not reflect the final product. There is no firm release date as of yet and pricing is unknown as well.
Neowin is at CES to bring you all the coverage from the show floor, be sure to check out our articles here!
1 Comment
Load the comments and join the conversation!
Read the comments, ask the editors questions, show respect and join the conversation.