Roku rolls out AI-powered voice assistant and improved search

Roku is rolling out a broad software update for its streaming platform in the coming months that adds an AI-powered voice assistant, new sports and discovery features, expanded mobile controls, global Bluetooth headphone support for select sticks, and a Roku-powered portable projector hitting retail stores this week. The changes are designed to surface information and playable content more quickly on Roku devices and through the Roku mobile app.

At the center of the update is an overhaul of Roku Voice. The company says the assistant will use an AI interface to answer natural language questions about movies, shows and actors directly on the television screen and offer quick-launch options for relevant content. The system is designed to handle follow-up questions so conversations can continue beyond a single command, allowing users to ask things like What is Barbie about? or How scary is The Shining? and get concise summaries without leaving the TV.

Roku is also expanding search and playback pathways to reduce the need for manual app switching. A new Ways to Watch button on trailer playbacks will provide instant links to available streaming sources so viewers can jump directly...