It looks like Roku is working on a new remote that has a rechargeable lithium-ion battery. In a Reddit post located by The Streamable (through Not funny zats), someone from the company’s early access program shared an ad detailing the Roku Voice Remote Pro. In addition to a rechargeable battery and a microphone for voice commands, the $ 30 accessory includes a feature to locate the device if it lose, an audio connector for private listening and customizable shortcuts. This last part is particularly exciting, as many remote controls, including the older ones from Roku, come with predefined shortcuts.
“We are always working to bring new products and features to Roku users, and part of that process is to publicly test new ideas with a small group of our customers,” said a spokesman for Roku. The Streamable when the site got in touch to ask about the ad. The Reddit topic also includes comments from people who had a chance to test the device. “It is easily the best remote control Roku has ever released,” said Reddit user Gnascher. “It incorporates all the features of the other top-tier remote controls while adding” Hey Roku “style voice control (which works great in my experience) and a built-in battery.”
There is no word yet on when (or if) Roku plans to release Voice Remote Pro to the public. The February 19 ‘launch date’ listed in the announcement appears to have been applicable only to those in the Early Access Program.