The new Roku Ultra is faster, has better Wi-Fi, and comes with a backlit remote

One day after the Google TV Streamer hit stores, Roku is announcing its latest streaming player. And unlike Google’s big design overhaul, the new Roku Ultra is playing things very safe. I’d argue maybe too safe. It’s still $99.99, still delivers Dolby Vision and Atmos, and it looks exactly the same as before, though the company says there are notable improvements inside.

The 2024 Ultra is 30 percent faster than any of Roku’s other players, and it now features Wi-Fi 6. That upgrade puts it ahead of the Google TV Streamer, which stuck with Wi-Fi 5. Roku is now on par with the Apple TV but behind Amazon’s flagship Fire TV streamers, which include Wi-Fi 6E connectivity. And yes, there’s still a built-in ethernet jack for those of you who…

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