Cable is on its way out and streaming TV is up and rising. With Apple's Sept. 9 unveiling of its all-new and improved Apple TV, many are wondering which TV streaming device is worth the service and subscription cost.
Roku 3 and Hulu have been dominating the streaming TV box market thus far, but now that Apple TV is becoming a real game-changer, how do the three devices match up? Here's our take on these popular Internet streaming TV devices to help you tell what's what from what!
Apple TV
The talk of the town is the improved and updated Apple TV box device. After three years without any significant upgrades, the new streaming TV device was unveiled during Apple's big September event. The new box features redesigned software and hardware, a sharp new remote, and support for a dedicated App Store for third-party apps.
The integration of Siri into the improved Apple TV will also allow for more advanced voice searching capabilities on the Apple TV.
The new Apple TV will now also support multiplayer games, iTunes compatibility, and a plethora of third-party apps, which will enable you to shop while watching TV, view shows in split screen mode, and much more.
Roku 3
Roku 3 gives you access to more than 2,000 channels and even 90+ net streaming games to play. It is compatible with many existing streaming channel services, such as Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Instant Video and Prime, YouTube, and Vudu, and existing cable subscribers can even access Time Warner Cable through the device.
Roku 3 also boasts Voice Search capabilities, the ability to store dates to watch shows on your PC later on, motion-controlled gaming capability, and compatibility with both iOS and Android devices.
Android TV
Although dismissed by many to be a flop, the Android TV device is soon set to give other streaming TV devices a run for their money.
Admittedly, Android TV's UI leaves much to be desired with a bombardment of apps and features seemingly thrown at you in an endless sideways scroll. It does go to show, however, that this device will never run out of options for where it can push streaming TV.
Also, its integration with other Android and Google products will allow you to seamlessly take your viewing experience across devices and browsers without having to miss a second of your favorite movie or show.
Third-party apps are also supported by Android TV via Google Play.
