Roku has announced that it will add support for Apple's HomeKit and AirPlay 2 platforms later this year. This is one of the biggest additions to HomeKit and AirPlay 2 functionality that we've seen in the set-top box market in particular.
Roku said the AirPlay 2 and HomeKit features will be available "later this year" for 4K Roku device selections. Details are currently unclear, but the features will be made available as part of the Roku OS 9.4 update. Roku devices that only support 1080p playback will not get AirPlay 2 or HomeKit support.
Features like AirPlay 2 and HomeKit have been rolled out on a variety of smart TVs from companies like LG, Samsung, and Vizio over the past two years. Roku's announcement is particularly noteworthy as the company offers a range of set-top boxes that do not require smart TV functionality.
The Roku platform also powers smart TVs from companies like TCL and Sharp. This means that Roku's introduction of HomeKit and AirPlay 2 support will bring the capabilities of a wide range of users, including those with only Roku streaming boxes as well as those who happen to own a Roku-powered smart TV.
With AirPlay 2 support, you can easily share or mirror content from your iPhone, iPad or Mac on your TV. With HomeKit support, your TV can be integrated with the Home app on your device, manage playback with Siri, add scenes and automations to your TV, and much more.
Later this year, we're expecting Apple AirPlay 2 and HomeKit functionality for select 4K Roku devices. AirPlay 2 lets you stream, control, and share your favorite content straight from your iPhone, iPad or Mac to your Roku device, and bring the experience to the big screen. With HomeKit, you can easily and securely control your Roku device with the Home app and Siri on iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple Watch or HomePod.
Roku OS 9.4 is rolling out to select Roku players starting this month, the company said. Roku TV models are expected to receive the update gradually over the coming months. Roku added support for Apple TV + and the Apple TV app last year.
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