Ever since Roku and Apple TV were the first two platforms on the market people have been talking about Apple’s AirPlay and wishing that Roku did the same thing. There have been all sorts of workarounds to let IOS users connect via Roku and share their screens but nothing official. Now, with Roku’s latest OS update IOS users can finally mirror their device screens and even use proper AirPlay when applicable. This is a really big deal for Roku owners and IOS users. Because it means that AirPlay is no longer locked in to Apple’s streaming boxes. But more than that it provides some transformative new abilities for Roku users. As long as a user has an IOS device capable of AirPlay 2 they can take advantage. Look to apple for guidance on this.
Take a look at what this update does for Roku Users.
Use Browsers On TV
Having Airplay does not build a browser into the Roku but being able to view what is seen on an iPad is a major win for Roku owners. Why? Because there are a lot of websites with video content that do not have apps. Now users will be able to access nearly any sort of streaming service and website without having to wait until an app/channel is built for Roku.
Added Apps
There are a number of apps for IOS that are not on Roku. While most major mainstays like Netflix are already available on both platforms there will always be notable exceptions. For instance, at the moment Roku users can not access HBO Max. We tested the HBO Max app on an iPad and beamed it right to the Roku using AirPlay and it plays as though it is seamlessly integrated. The controls must be handled via an IOS device but once you are streaming it can just be put aside. It will be easier to use this with an iPad or Computer since you do not have to make phone calls on them, but either way it is a big get for Roku users.
Expands Sharing options
Roku now supports screen sharing with IOS, Windows and Android devices natively. While I have always found Windows sharing a little difficult because of complication on the “digital handshake” the option makes Roku both a streaming device and presentation device. This means a Roku powered TV for instance automatically becomes a meeting tool with no need to add any extra hardware. The only thing missing now is Chromecast built in, which is more the domain of Android TV devices. But Chromecast integration has been built in to other platforms over the past few years. If Roku get this it will make it the ultimate presentation hardware.
