Roku Launches 'Live TV Zone' on Homescreen

Roku Enhances Live TV Experience with New Zone

Roku is expanding its commitment to its Live TV platform through the introduction of a dedicated “Live TV Zone.” This new feature will be integrated into the primary, left-side navigation of Roku devices.

The addition is strategically designed to promote and showcase Roku’s livestreaming capabilities. These include a rapidly expanding live TV channel guide, currently providing complimentary access to over 200 live channels.

Expanding Livestreaming Options

The channel lineup encompasses a diverse range of content, including news, weather updates, programming for children, sporting events, films, television series, and Spanish-language broadcasts.

Roku initially launched its live TV channel guide in 2020 as an integral component of The Roku Channel, its broader free streaming service. Here, users can also access ad-supported movies and TV shows.

Evolution of the Live TV Guide

Initially, the guide offered access to over 100 channels via a distinctive purple tile within The Roku Channel. Users were able to browse 12 hours of scheduled programming information.

This experience mirrors the functionality of traditional pay-TV guides, easing the transition for cord-cutters accustomed to accessing live content directly on their televisions.

Furthermore, it provides an avenue for streaming shows, movies, and news without requiring a paid subscription – a compelling option for those seeking cost savings through cord-cutting.

Competition in the Free Streaming Market

With this live TV service, Roku has positioned itself as a significant competitor to other free streaming platforms, such as Pluto TV (owned by ViacomCBS) and XUMO (owned by Comcast).

Pluto TV’s achievement of $1 billion in annual revenue, reached ahead of projections, demonstrates the substantial revenue potential within this market.

The growth of livestreaming has also facilitated the expansion of media software company Plex, enabling it to further its goal of becoming a comprehensive media solution for consumers.

Roku’s Revenue Model

Roku’s primary revenue source is its platform, rather than device sales. This revenue is largely generated through advertising within its free content and content distribution services.

Currently, this segment of the business is experiencing substantial growth.

Recent Financial Performance

In the latest quarter, Roku’s platform revenue increased by 82% year-over-year, reaching $582.5 million. Conversely, player revenue decreased by 26%, totaling $97.4 million.

Streaming hours also rose by 21% to 18 billion, with 56.4 million active accounts streaming an average of 3.5 hours daily.

Demand for Live News

Roku’s recent user surveys indicate that 61% of individuals without traditional pay TV still consume live news multiple times per week. This update aims to cater to this demand by simplifying access to live news content.

Accessing the Live TV Zone

The new Live TV Zone can be accessed by scrolling down the left-hand navigation menu to the “Live TV” option. Alternatively, users can search for “Live TV Zone” directly from their Roku device.

The feature is being rolled out starting today.