Roku launches its line of high-end TVs with Mini LED backlighting

Roku launched a line of TVs series” rel=”nofollow noopener” target=”_blank” data-ylk=”slk:called the Pro series;cpos:1;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas” class=”link “> after first. These TVs are packed with technology, the most notable feature being the Mini LED backlighting for better brightness and contrast. The 4K TVs also feature QLED panels, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, and a responsive 120Hz refresh rate. The company calls them the “ultimate TVs” for streaming.

To that end, the quad-core processor should enable faster menu navigation and quick app launches, so you can spend less time waiting on a loading screen and more time using Hulu. Shogun while wolfing down a large bowl of popcorn. They’re also Wi-Fi 6 compatible, which comes in handy when streaming 4K content.

On the audio side, Pro series models include side-mounted Dolby Atmos speakers for “wide, cinematic sound.” The TVs integrate seamlessly with wireless soundbars, speakers and subwoofers, in addition to wired variants. Each model also has Bluetooth to connect wireless headphones, to prevent spoilers from creeping into every corner of the house. They come with an updated remote that includes motion-activated backlit buttons, USB-C charging, and new shortcut options.

The Pro series TVs feature a new Neural Processing Unit (NPU) that enables some cool features of the operating system. Smart Picture Max uses AI to automatically adjust the best picture mode for a particular piece of content, refining color, sharpness and motion as needed. This is reflected in the brightness, which also automatically adjusts depending on the lighting in the room.

Although Smart Picture Max may be related to the Pro series TV line, due to the updated NPU, more operating system features are available on all Roku panels. The company’s TVs will soon get something called Backdrops, which are basically just fancy screensavers pulled from a large catalog of popular artwork or via uploaded images. This won’t exactly turn a Roku into one, but it’s a start.

Roku TVs are also getting deep integration with IMDB in an upcoming operating system update. This will provide data from the site as you scroll through potential shows and movies to watch. Finally, the mobile app is getting a complete upgrade, with a simplified design, better search and new content categories.

The Pro series line is available now at Best Buy, Amazon and Walmart. Prices start at $900 for the 55-inch model and go up to $1,700 for the bulky 75-inch version. There is also a wall mounting kit available for $100.