Roku has introduced a new feature called Roku Labs within its latest OS update, providing users in the United States access to experimental applications. These early-stage tools are accessible via a dedicated tile on the device home screen.
The initial lineup includes apps for weather tracking, stock market monitoring, and a game titled Roku Dash. In this game, users navigate a UFO through the company's signature Roku City screensaver environment, which features various pop culture references.
The company is expanding its personalized home screen interface to Mexico and Brazil, incorporating region-specific content and recommendations. Additionally, the Roku voice assistant now supports queries related to weather information.
Roku is launching bundled subscription packages in the U.S. and Mexico, allowing users to combine plans from services such as AMC+, Fox ONE, Hallmark+, Howdy, and Starz at a lower cost than individual subscriptions.
The company has also decided to open-source its Roku LT OS, the software platform used for its remote controls. This move aims to encourage external developers and hardware manufacturers to create their own custom applications and devices.
