Roku Inks Licensing Deal with Hitachi America, Ltd. to Develop Smart TVs
First HD and 4K Ultra HD Hitachi Roku TV Models Expected This Fall
LOS GATOS, Calif. – June 27, 2016 – Roku, Inc. today announced that Hitachi America, Ltd., a subsidiary of Hitachi, Ltd., is the newest brand to join the Roku TV™ licensing program. Hitachi will take advantage of Roku’s low-cost TV reference design to build superior smart TVs that run the Roku® OS and give consumers the best streaming experience in the industry. Consumers will be able to purchase both HD and 4K Ultra HD Hitachi Roku TV models in a variety of screen sizes this fall.
“Roku offers us everything we need in a smart TV solution – a cost-effective way to produce great TVs that run a powerful operating system, access to a compelling streaming channel store and software features that make it easy for consumers to find and discover entertainment,” said Bill Whalen, Director for Hitachi. “We couldn’t be more excited for the launch of Hitachi Roku TV this fall.”
“Hitachi has an exceptional history of product innovation and quality and is committed to providing outstanding consumer experiences,” said Chas Smith, general manager for Roku TV. “We’re thrilled to be working with Hitachi on the launch of Hitachi Roku TV.”
Roku offers TV brands a licensing program with a cost-effective reference design that combines the benefits of the Roku streaming platform along with TV functionality to create a superior smart TV experience. This program allows TV brands to cost-effectively build and sell HD and 4K UHD smart TVs that are popular among retailers and consumers. In 2015, the first full year of the program, Roku TV experienced tremendous growth with more than 40 models available in the U.S and sales accounting for 8% of the U.S. smart TV market. In 2016 more than 60 models are expected to ship in the U.S. from six brands including Hitachi this fall. Roku TV models are offered in HD and 4K UHD resolution with screen sizes ranging from 24 to 65 inches.
A Simple Smart TV That Consumers Love to Use
Roku TV models feature vivid picture quality and smart and simple features that make watching TV fun. The home screen of the TV can be personalized with icons for users’ favorite entertainment choices, including devices such as game consoles, cable boxes and Blu-ray players, together with preferred streaming channels. Consumers can choose from 3,000 streaming channels including 350,000 movies and TV episodes here in the U.S. Roku TV offers powerful search and discovery features that can save time and money. Roku search provides an unbiased look across 50 streaming channels to find movies, TV shows, actors, and directors. Search results are ranked by price, showing where movies and TV shows are free or cheapest to watch. Consumers can search with the included remote control or by voice with the free Roku mobile app for iOS® and Android™ devices.