GoPro is giving its channel app a big boost as it prepares to join Roku's streaming media platform. The new "GoPro for Roku" service will feature on-demand original content as well as featured and curated videos from GoPro users. This will allow Roku's millions of users to enjoy GoPro's action sports videos right in their living room.
The deal would make Roku a nice addition to GoPro's ever-expanding lineup of distribution partners such as Virgin America, LG smart TVs and Xbox. The decision to include Roku is most likely based on the latter's impressive record of selling millions of its boxes and HDMI streaming sticks, making it a market leader as far as streaming entertainment devices is concerned.
"We are excited to bring the world of GoPro to Roku customers as they are one of the most engaged customer bases when it comes to the amount of streaming content they view," said Adam Dornbusch, GoPro's Head of Programming.
The GoPro streaming channel will include three key components such as featured playlists, favorite videos and product discovery. The latter will allow customers to learn more about GoPro products by indicating the type of products used in getting the shot. This means that potential customers would be able to learn more about the camera model and accessories that were used to capture a certain video clip.
"Our business is telling meaningful stories of the world's most passionate camera users, and now you're going to be able to see it on big screens connected to Roku boxes," said Dornbusch. "The content will be engaging and presented in a lot of verticals. It's also going to be heavily customized for Roku."
GoPro's channel is set to arrive on Roku's media player in the coming spring season. The channel is expected to work across a number of Roku devices from multiple generations.
"I know that they're going to be captivated by the inspiring new content available to them with the launch of the GoPro channel this spring," said Ed Lee, Roku's vice president of content.
GoPro plans to extend its distribution even further this year and in 2016. The company is also preparing to deliver its financial report which will be its first time to do so since it went public in 2014.
