Andre Yoskowitz
31 Mar 2014 15:46
Roku has begun shipping the update to their Streaming Stick (2012), one that will directly compete with Google's Chromecast HDMI dongle.
The original model sold for $99 but the second-generation model will sell for $49.99. The Chromecast sells for $35 with a limited lineup of applications that is rapidly expanding. Just like the Chromecast, the Streaming Stick must be plugged into the TV's USB port for power aside from being placed in the HDMI port.
As part of the second-generation update, the Streaming Stick now supports 1080p and will come with an included remote familiar to Roku set-top owners. The remote has quick action buttons for Netflix, Amazon, and strangely, Blockbuster and M-Go.
Roku has a large lineup of channels, including all of the most popular streaming applications and almost 1,200 more. You can "cast" YouTube and Netflix, just like the Chromecast, and control the device from iOS and Android phones and tablets.
The device is now shipping from Roku, Amazon, Best Buy, Target and Walmart. The device will launch in Europe next month.