Engadget noticed new 3 new Roku Player models going through the FCC approval process, so now we have a pretty good idea idea as to what's coming.
First off, the new models are more rounded and much smaller than their predecessors. Judging by the label affixed to the underside -- which we know is 44.65mm x 44.65mm (about 1.7 inches) -- the latest Rokus are about the size of an Apple TV, and perhaps a bit smaller. Inside that tiny case is a new Broadcom 2835 SOC, an 802.11n radio, a MicroSD slot, Bluetooth, and (most exciting) a reset button -- no more unplugging when Hulu freezes up. Oddly, only the XS retains the Ethernet jack, though the top of the line model ditches support for dual-band WiFi. The primary difference between the HD and XD models still appears to be the latter's ability to push out 1080p video, while the XS adds a USB port and gets a spiffy new RF remote, which we're hoping takes a cue from the Boxee clicker.
The following chart summarizes features, but we're still not sure about model names, pricing or availability:
via ZatzNotFunny.
That's too bad that the cheaper models are ditching Ethernet. I have my DSL modem right next to my entertainment system so that my Xbox, Roku and Blu Ray player can all be hooked up via Ethernet.
It is much more reliable (and faster) than wireless.
Posted by: pwrof3 | July 03, 2011 at 12:00 AM
I am giving up on Roku products and buying the WD Live Plus and recommending it to my friends.
It now supports 5.1 and subtitles.
I am tired of waiting for Netflix and Roku to get off their corporate butts and implement this.
Netflix has been saying "it's coming" for 2 years and several calls to Roku customer service showed them to be completely clueless about this.
Posted by: repdetect | July 03, 2011 at 10:49 AM