Yes, TiVo now streams. The Stream 4K uses Android TV, an older version of Google TV. Android TV sorts recommendations by streaming service, and TiVo also has its own menu, which sorts recommendations by genre rather than service. You can also search all services. When we tested it, both Sling and YouTube TV could integrate into the live TV guide, but now only the latter works. However, you can still use the Sling app directly.
There’s a Google Assistant button, but no voice-to-text for completing long emails and passwords. I like the remote, but my finger kept going to the TiVo button instead of the select button, so while I was trying to pause a movie, it would send me back to the main menu. Maybe it’s just me. If you really hate Roku, it’s not bad for the $25 price on Amazon.
If you need a new television
Roku
Roku Plus Series QLED
Does your TV also need an upgrade? Unsurprisingly, we love Roku’s Plus series. If you like the brand’s simple interface, you’ll like it too. You can find your favorite television shows or movies to streaming quickly and you’ll look good, thanks to the QLED panel that delivers excellent colors and solid blacks.
If you prefer a higher-end TV or plan to do some serious gaming, we have other options, but with a 60Hz refresh rate, it’s fine for most consoles. This price is for the 55-inch model, but if you’re happy with something smaller, you can spend around $200 on a solid TV.
If you don’t have a sound bar
Roku Streambar
A good soundbar will seriously improve your TV watching experience. A sound bar with built-in streaming capabilities is even better for those of us who don’t want an excess of devices. This Streambar is only 14 inches long, so it should work with smaller TVs and TV stands. It’s equipped with four 1.9-inch front drivers and Dolby audio, which will enhance the sound of anyone’s current TV. There’s also a night listening mode, which silences explosive sounds so you don’t disturb your family.
There’s another Roku soundbar that we haven’t tested yet, but is worth considering: the Streambar SE ($100) is just 10 inches long for the smallest configurations and has two 1.9-inch drivers.
Article originally published in WIRED. Adapted by Andrea Baranenko and Mauricio Serfatty.
#devices #streaming #Good
