iPhone, iPad and Mac should soon easily stream video to Roku boxes if an unconfirmed report is correct. Roku is reportedly talking with Apple about adding AirPlay 2 to its products.
Apple has recently been working to significantly broaden the availability of its proprietary video and audio protocol.
Roku + Apple = savings for you
Apple is negotiating with Roku about enabling its already-available devices to wirelessly receive TV shows and songs streamed from iOS and macOS computers, according to MacRumors. This includes smart TVs that use this company’s software.
The main benefit to consumers is cheaper hardware. Roku players start at $29.99, and even the top-of-the-line model is just $99.99. The most affordable Apple TV is $149.
The origin for this report is only described as “a source familiar with the matter.” And MacRumors warns “The plans are not finalized and are subject to change.”
AirPlay 2 for (almost) everyone
Not too long ago, only Apple TV could receive streaming video over AirPlay 2. But last month’s CES tradeshow included multiple companies revealing that they had reached agreements with Apple about adding this protocol to their products. So far, LG, Samsung, Sony and Vizio are all bringing AirPlay 2 to their TV sets.
Some of these are older models, a further sign that people who already have a Roku might not have to get new hardware to benefit from the agreement between Apple and Roku.
Broadening AirPlay’s availability is being taken by industry analysts as part of Apple getting ready to launch its as-yet-unannounced streaming video service. Customers will want to watch the TV programs and movies Apple has created on larger screens, which requires wirelessly sending them to a TV from an iPhone, iPad, or Mac.
