Roku begins adding AirPlay 2, HomeKit to streaming devices

The expansion of the Apple media ecosystem continues with news that Roku is now rolling out its promised update that gives AirPlay 2 and HomeKit support to its devices.

HomePlay and AirPlay 2 for Roku

Rollout has already begun with updates adding these features being made available to the Ultra Streambar, Smart Soundbar speakers, Premiere and Streaming Stick Plus. Other devices will receive the update in the next few days, the company said.

“With regular automatic software updates, the Roku OS enables consumers to easily get to the entertainment they want via the new features we add over time,” said Ilya Asnis, senior vice president of Roku OS at Roku in a press release.

“With Roku OS 9.4 now available on streaming players, we are adding all-new ways to navigate and control content-rich experiences on Roku devices as well as ensuring Roku devices provide a great entertainment experience for customers, regardless of what other technology products they prefer in their homes and particularly with the addition of Apple AirPlay and HomeKit.”

What devices are getting this?

The following Roku devices should benefit from this release as they support 4K, but do check before purchase:

• Roku Premiere
• Roku Streaming Stick+
• Roku Streambar
• Roku Ultra
• Roku TV

Roku intends making this available to all but its oldest models and the 2015 Roku Play, which also won’t receive the update. All other current systems should do so. A 4K Roku TV purchased in the last three years should receive the upgrade, unless its model number begins with 6.

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