Roku has grown from a tiny box capable of streaming only Netflix to powering more than 750 different channels in only a few years, and this week, those channels are being powered by an all-new box.
Roku has announced the immediate availability of Roku 3, the company's latest generation of media streaming box which promises to be five times faster than previous models thanks to its more powerful processor inside.
But raw speed isn't everything -- Roku 3 also arrives with a completely new user interface for quicker access and greater visibility. The slick design was inspired by user requests as the content available on Roku has grown over the years, now featuring a more grid-like design instead of the single row of icons.
While Roku 3 owners can enjoy the new UI today, the good news is that all existing Roku 2, Roku HD (model 2500), Roku LT and Roku Streaming Stick owners will also receive a free software update for their hardware, which is promised for April.
Last but not least, Roku 3 offers a somewhat curious addition to its remote, which now includes a built-in headphone jack for private listening. The company is even including a pair of earbuds in the package: Plug 'em in and the audio output from the Roku 3 is muted so you can enjoy music or even audio from movies and TV shows without running wires across the room or disturbing others.
Roku 3 is available now for $99.99 for U.S. customers direct from Roku.com, Amazon.com and other leading online retailers; it will roll out at major retail chains starting next month.
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