Roku is set to roll out a host of tweaks to its popular streaming platform, including AI interactions on its Voice feature and Bluetooth support on the latest Sticks. The company says the updates will arrive "in the coming months."
Also read: Best Streaming Device for 2025: Top Picks Reviewed
The company says Roku Voice will now use a "combination of in-house and commercial generative AI and LLM technology," through an unnamed provider. This will enable contextual interactions -- e.g. "Is Barbie suitable for kids?" -- and search. Roku Voice will also understand context and you can ask follow-up questions, similar to demonstrations CNET has seen of Google Gemini on TV.
Don't miss any of our unbiased tech content and lab-based reviews. Add CNET as a preferred Google source.
When asked about privacy when using the AI, a Spotify spokesperson told CNET, "We follow Roku's published privacy policy and viewer settings."
Roku did not respond immediately to CNET's question about which company was providing the AI technology, or how Roku would protect its users' privacy.
Roku Voice now does AI Roku
The company also announced the Streaming Stick and Streaming Stick Plus will now allow Bluetooth headphone connections. This capability was previously only available to the larger set tops and Roku TVs.
The mobile app has also had a glow-up with more control functions available when you swipe upwards, and these include quick-access shortcuts such as Find My Remote and Closed Captions.
... continue reading