Roku is developing a new voice assistant and will license its OS to smart speaker makers

The Verge --------- Streaming media company Roku is expanding its licensing program to include makers of soundbars and smart speakers, and also plans to launch a new “Roku Entertainment Assistant,” as part of a growing effort to take over the entertainment experience in people’s living rooms. The Los Gatos, California-based company announced these plans today, ahead of the annual CES, although it plans to show off more of its wares at the show next week. The first part of the news involves smart speakers: Roku will be putting out reference designs for both soundbars and WiFi-connected speakers, with the hopes that manufacturers will start making stuff that will connect directly to Roku TVs and allow for voice control of Roku TV applications. The company will also roll out something called Roku Connect software, which will have a hardware requirement and will enable other manufacturers to build products that connect with Roku’s TV-centric system. This is aimed at OEMs who want to create high-end performance speakers. To learn more click on the picture below to read the article.