1 in 8 Smart TVs sold in US run Roku OS
January 4, 2017
Industry data shared by streaming device specialist Roku reveal incredible momentum for the Roku TV programme in just two years since its launch. As of December 2016, following launch into Mexico, there were 100 Roku TV models available in the North American market.
Roku TVs accounted for 13 per cent of all US smart TV sales, equating to one out of eight smart TV purchases in the US. HD and 4K Roku TV models from brands including Hisense, Hitachi, Insignia, Sharp and TCL offer consumers a simple Smart TV experience. TCL uses the Roku TV programme to build all its Smart TV models in the US and has climbed from the ninth largest brand in 2015 to the sixth in 2016, becoming the fastest growing TV brand in America.
“We’ve seen tremendous success with the Roku TV programme and we’re very eager to continue its momentum into 2017,” said Chris Larson, vice president of sales and marketing for North America at TCL. “Our TCL Roku TVs couple stylish design and leading technology with Roku’s wide selection of content which has proved to be an award-winning combination, yielding record-breaking sales in 2016 to maintain our position as the fastest-growing TV brand in America. Consumers can expect us to expand our TV offerings in 2017, delivering televisions that feature larger screens and premium picture quality, while remaining focused on delivering unmatched value.”
In 2017, Roku expects a 50 per cent increase in models with 150 models available to consumers in North America, featuring a wider range than ever of prices as well as picture and display capabilities. Consumers will be able to choose from very affordable HD and 4K UHD models to TVs with stunning picture quality boosted by 4K, Dolby Vision HDR, and local dimming. In addition, Element Electronics becomes a licensee with plans to launch its first HD Roku TV models at major retailers this year.
“The Roku TV platform enables Element to offer our customers the highly-recognised, amazing smart TV technology at an incredibly affordable price,” said Vlad Kazhdan, VP Merchandising at Element Electronics. “A wide variety of entertainment is easily accessible through Roku’s simple-to-use UI and customers can expect us to work together to deliver new channels and software updates over time so they have the latest and greatest.”
“Roku offers TV Partners an incredibly easy, efficient and cost-effective way to build Smart TVs that consumers love,” said Chas Smith, general manager Roku TV & Players. “This Spring, with the introduction of our new 4K HDR platform, we are looking forward to further expansion, giving us the ability to reach more partners and consumers.”