Roku and Walmart have announced the launch of Roku’s new suite of Internet of Things (IoT)-based smart-home products, including security cameras, video doorbells, lighting, plugs and more. This expansion of Roku’s product line, according to the companies, provides a range of simple and affordable smart-home devices, available exclusively at nearly 3,500 Walmart stores starting in October.
“As the #1 selling smart TV OS in the U.S., the Roku platform is used by tens of millions of households, and now we’re extending our ecosystem to include devices and services to power the modern smart home,” said Mustafa Ozgen, Roku’s president for devices, in a prepared statement. “Branching further into the smart-home category is a natural extension of our business, and we are proud to partner with Walmart to make the experience simple and affordable.”
At launch, Roku says its TV Operating System integration will allow users to see who is at their door with their Roku video doorbell while streaming their favorite shows. Users will be able to view live streams from their Roku cameras, use a Roku voice remote to bring up video feeds, and more. Roku Smart Home will be compatible with third-party voice integrations, as well as Roku Voice.
“At Walmart, we are dedicated to providing our customers with technology to simplify and enhance their lives at everyday low prices,” added Laura Rush, Walmart’s senior VP for electronics, toys and seasonal products, in the prepared statement. “Roku’s new line of Smart Home devices, available exclusively in-store at Walmart, allows our customers to easily enjoy the security and convenience afforded by these new products from Roku.”
“We’re expanding the Roku ecosystem for the tens of millions of households who already use Roku devices—or anyone looking for a new option to level-up their spaces with smart lighting, cameras and more,” said Mark Robins, the VP of Roku Smart Home, in the statement. “With our new line of Roku smart-home products, we are proud to offer the convenience and delight of the smart home, combined with the value, choice and ease of use that consumers love from the Roku brand.”
Developed in partnership with Wyze Labs, Roku smart devices are designed to let consumers connect their home and achieve a smart-home experience. The Roku Smart Home lineup offers two-factor authentication, user data encryption, secure boot and other security capabilities, the company reports. In addition, the smart devices are certified by the ioXt Alliance, which provides a global standard for Internet of Things (IoT) security.
The Roku Smart Home initial lineup includes a floodlight camera, indoor and outdoor cameras, a 360-degree indoor camera, a video doorbell and chime, smart bulbs (both white and color), smart light strips, and indoor and outdoor smart plugs. Roku Smart Home cameras are priced at below $27, the company reports. The launch includes a Roku Smart Home mobile app for iOS- and Android-based smartphones, as well as a camera subscription plan that includes cloud video recording history, smart alerts, package delivery notifications and more.