Roku Facts for Kids

Quick facts for kids
Roku

Developer	Roku, Inc.
Type	Digital media player
Release date	May 20, 2008;12 years ago
Operating system	Roku OS

Roku (pronounced ROH-koo) is a brand of digital media players made by an American company called Roku, Inc.. These devices let you stream videos, movies, and TV shows from the internet directly to your television. Roku also has its own channel, called The Roku Channel, which offers lots of free content.

On August 8, 2018, The Roku Channel became available on the internet, so you could watch it on computers too. Roku also added a special "Featured Free" section. This section helps users find shows and movies they can watch for free from Roku and its partners.

What is Roku?
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What is Roku?

Roku is a popular device that helps you watch online videos on your TV. Think of it like a special mini-computer for your television. It connects to your TV and your home internet. This allows you to access many different streaming services, often called "channels" on Roku.

These channels offer a huge variety of content. You can watch movies, TV shows, live sports, news, and even listen to music. Roku makes it easy to find and watch your favorite entertainment.

How Does Roku Work?

A Roku device connects to your TV using an HDMI cable. This cable sends the picture and sound to your screen. To get content from the internet, your Roku needs to connect to your home's Wi-Fi network. Once connected, it uses a special operating system called Roku OS.

The Roku OS is like the brain of the device. It lets you download and open different apps, which Roku calls "channels." You use a simple remote control to navigate through menus and choose what you want to watch. When you pick a show, Roku streams it from the internet to your TV.

What Can You Watch?

Roku offers a wide range of entertainment options. You can find almost anything you want to watch. Many popular streaming services are available as channels on Roku.

Roku Channels and Apps

Roku has thousands of channels you can add to your device. These include popular streaming services like Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, and YouTube. Some channels require a paid subscription to watch their content. Others are completely free to use. You can easily browse and add new channels from the Roku Channel Store.

Free Movies and Shows

One great feature of Roku is its free content. The Roku Channel offers a large library of movies and TV shows that you can watch without paying. This channel is supported by advertisements, just like regular TV. Roku also has a "Featured Free" section. This section highlights free movies and shows available on The Roku Channel and other free apps. It's a great way to discover new things to watch without spending money.

Types of Roku Devices

Roku makes different kinds of devices to fit various needs. Each type helps you stream content to your TV.

Roku Streaming Players

These are small devices that plug into your TV. They come in different models, from basic ones to more powerful ones. Some models offer 4K picture quality for super clear images. These players are a good choice if you already have a TV and want to make it "smart." They are easy to set up and use.

Roku TVs

Many TV brands now make televisions with Roku built right in. These are called Roku TVs. With a Roku TV, you don't need a separate streaming player. The Roku operating system is already part of the TV. This means you can access all the Roku channels and features directly from your TV's menu. It makes watching streaming content very simple and convenient.