Roku is shutting down its smart home business
What's the story
Roku has decided to discontinue its smart home business after just four years of operation. The decision was confirmed by a company spokesperson, who said that Roku will stop selling its smart home hardware and focus on being the leading streaming platform. Despite this shift, the company will continue to support existing products and their related services.
Product range
Initial lineup included rebranded Wyze devices
Roku entered the smart home market in 2022 with a range of products including the Roku Indoor Camera SE, which was developed in collaboration with Wyze.
The initial lineup also included a wireless doorbell, several indoor and outdoor cameras, smart bulbs and light strips, as well as smart plugs.
All these were rebranded versions of existing devices and none cost more than $100.
Strategic pivot
Impact of Fox's acquisition of Roku
The decision to exit the smart home business comes after Fox's acquisition of Roku.
The move leaves a gap in the budget device market, especially in the security camera segment where companies like Wyze and Blink operate.
While these alternatives are affordable, they come with their own set of privacy concerns and subscription costs.
Market exit
Roku devices already sold out
Roku's exit from the smart home market means you won't find new devices for sale anymore.
If you were considering a Roku camera or plug, most of them are already sold out on the company's website.
The products are also dwindling or disappearing in stores like Home Depot and Amazon.