Roku And TiVo Transform TV Streaming In 2026

For anyone feeling underwhelmed by their current TV experience, 2026 is already shaping up to be a game-changer. Two of the most recognizable names in home entertainment—Roku and TiVo—are rolling out major updates and deals that promise to transform the way people watch television, whether they’re streaming the latest blockbuster or catching up on live sports. With new features, sleeker interfaces, and more content than ever before, both companies are making a bold play for the living room, and consumers are reaping the rewards.

On January 19, 2026, Amazon set the tone for the weekend with a limited-time offer: the Roku Streaming Stick 4K, usually priced at $50, was slashed by 30%, bringing it down to just $35. According to Amazon’s listing, this deal is aimed at anyone ready to breathe new life into an outdated TV—whether it lacks smart features altogether or just doesn’t have the streaming apps and user-friendly interface people have come to expect.

Roku’s Streaming Stick 4K has long been a favorite for its simplicity and power. Once plugged in, users can access a world of content—think Netflix, Hulu, HBO Max, and more—all through a single, intuitive interface. There’s even a library of Roku Originals, including shows like Dinner Budget Showdown, Celebrity Family Food Battle, Martha Cooks, and Emeril Cooks. And while food might be top of mind for some, Roku’s selection goes far beyond the kitchen, offering something for everyone.

The device’s technical specs are no slouch, either. Supporting both 4K and HDR streaming, the Roku Streaming Stick 4K ensures that picture quality is never sacrificed for convenience. Vibrant colors and crisp clarity are the norm, not the exception. The stick itself is compact, powered via USB-A, and designed to stay hidden behind the TV, so it doesn’t block HDMI ports or clutter up the entertainment center—a small touch, but one that’s appreciated by anyone who values a neat setup.

Roku also makes life easier with a single remote that controls everything, including the TV’s power. The remote features a voice search button—just hold it down and say the title of your favorite movie, and Roku will do the rest. As the product description puts it, before you know it, you’ll be watching Marisa Tomei’s iconic performance in “My Cousin Vinny” or whatever else strikes your fancy.

This limited-time deal is more than just a discount—it’s an invitation for viewers to upgrade their entertainment experience without breaking the bank. As many households look to cut costs or simplify their tech setups, the Roku Streaming Stick 4K stands out as a practical, affordable solution.

But while Roku is making waves with its hardware and user-friendly interface, TiVo is taking a different approach. On the same day as Roku’s big sale, TiVo rolled out a significant update to its Smart TV platform, targeting a wide range of supported TVs in the UK, including models from Sharp, Bush, and Mitchell & Brown. According to T3, this update is already available for select TVs, with additional Sharp and Bush models to follow in the coming weeks. Panasonic TiVo TVs, such as the W61A series, are on track to receive the firmware in February 2026.

TiVo’s history in the TV business is nothing short of legendary. The company is often credited with pioneering digital video recording in the late 1990s, and in recent years has shifted focus to supplying smart TV platforms to manufacturers around the globe. In the UK, TiVo’s interface powers the smart features on popular models from Sharp, Bush, and Panasonic, controlling both apps and live TV services—plus offering access to Freely, a service that brings together live and on-demand content.

So what’s new in this 2026 update? For starters, the homescreen has been redesigned. App icons, once horizontal rectangles, are now squares with rounded corners. It might sound like a minor change, but it allows more streaming services and apps to appear on screen at once, making it easier for users to find what they’re looking for. The homescreen also now auto-plays trailers to preview content, giving viewers a taste of what’s available before they commit to watching. And with the new “Partner Picks” row, recommendations from content partners are front and center, helping users discover new shows and films with less scrolling and more serendipity.

Perhaps the most significant improvement, though, is in voice recognition. TiVo claims its technology is now more intuitive, making it easier than ever to search for content with just a few spoken words. For Sharp TV owners, there’s another bonus: built-in Google Cast support, which allows users to cast content directly from their smartphones or tablets to the TV screen. That’s a feature that’s likely to be a hit with families and anyone who likes to share photos, videos, or music from their devices.

The update isn’t just about looks and usability, either. TiVo has added a host of new apps to its platform, including global and local services. Crunchyroll, the official NBA app, and Premier Sports are now available, offering live and on-demand coverage for sports fans and anime enthusiasts alike. It’s a move that positions TiVo as a true all-in-one entertainment hub, capable of meeting the diverse needs of modern viewers.

UK customers with TiVo-powered TVs will receive an on-screen notification when the update is ready to install—a gentle nudge to take advantage of the new features. And for those with Panasonic TiVo TVs, the wait won’t be long, with the firmware scheduled to roll out in February.

As Rik Henderson, T3’s news editor, points out, TiVo’s update is part of a larger trend in the TV industry. With more than 35 years of experience in tech and entertainment journalism, Henderson notes that companies are increasingly focused on making content discovery seamless and enjoyable. The days of endless scrolling and clunky interfaces are fading, replaced by smarter, more personalized experiences.

It’s clear that both Roku and TiVo are raising the bar for what viewers can expect from their TVs in 2026. Whether it’s through a plug-and-play streaming stick or a sweeping software update, the end goal is the same: to put the best content front and center and make it easier than ever to watch what you love. For consumers, that’s a win worth celebrating.

With competition heating up and new features arriving almost weekly, there’s never been a better time to revisit your TV setup. Whether you’re tempted by Roku’s unbeatable deal or excited by TiVo’s fresh interface and expanded app lineup, one thing’s for sure—your next binge-watch is about to get a whole lot better.