Roku has announced that select 4K Roku devices will gain support for Apple AirPlay 2 and HomeKit with the release of Roku OS 9.4. Devices that are set to get the features are the Roku Ultra, Roku Streambar, Roku Smart Soundbar, Roku Streaming Stick+ and the Roku Premiere.
With AirPlay 2, the firm said that Roku customers can stream, control and share their content directly from their iPhone, iPad or Mac to their Roku device. With HomeKit, users can securely control their Roku device using their voice on the Home app and on Siri on iPhone, Mac, Apple Watch, and HomePod.
Commenting on the new features, Ilya Asnis, senior vice president of Roku OS at Roku said:
“With regular automatic software updates, the Roku OS enables consumers to easily get to the entertainment they want via the new features we develop and add over time. 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.”
Aside from AirPlay 2 and HomeKit support, Roku said that Roku OS 9.4 also features the Live TV Channel Guide on Roku TVs, helpful hints for Roku Voice, Surround Level Control for Multi-Channel Audio, updated Theme Packs, and performance enhancements. The update will be released to devices in phases in the coming months.