I’m a big Apple TV fan but notice that it currently has one huge flaw – you cannot access iPlayer. iPlayer from the BBC is one of the best sources of streaming media funded by UK TV license payers (not free). It appears on most set top boxes in the guise of an app but not on Apple TV.
iPlayer for Roku
This is where Roku steps in and saves the day. For just £35 Roku comes with an app and remote control that enables almost any screen to be a bit smarter and access iPlayer. Whether you are connecting it to an old CRT (through the component connection) or a newer HDMI enabled LCD the experience is much the same. You may need to budget for a HDMI cable as this doesn’t ship with the Roku LT but this adds around a further £4 to the overall package.
Setup
When you are setting up Roku for the first time, it is worth noting that you will need access to a computer to enable it. And make sure that you got through the setup process on the UK site – not the American one like I did. Fortunately if you make this mistake the online support from Roku are excellent and will get you going in no time.
HD
Roku LT has a maximum supported resolution of 720p. This is great for displays up to 37″. If you have a display larger than that then you should seriously consider its bigger brother which will set you back £65.
Menus
One thing I did note about the Roku is the amount of time the menu bars from the iPlayer stay on after you have selected a show to watch. A minor annoyance but there doesn’t appear to be any way of changing this time out. Something you just have to live with.
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