Roku 2 and 3 get a refresh and better search as well

Roku has been busy of late, with new channels, updates and the not too distantly passed release of the streaming stick. So that begs the question, what is next? Apparently quite a bit if the new announcement is of interest to you -- and it should be if you possess one of the set-top boxes.

First of all the company announced improved search. You've always been able to search the multitude of streaming  TV shows and movies, but now it has become even easier to narrow things down -- search within the channel store, which is a welcome addition. Given the number of available options this should make things simpler to find.

There is also a new "Roku Feed" that lets users more easily locate content. Roku states "We're launching it with a focus on 'Movies Coming Soon'. ending the guessing game around when a box office hit is available for streaming, which services offer the movie or how much it costs at a given time. The new 'My Feed' shortcut can be found on the Roku home screen".

For those who haven't yet taken the plunge, the Roku 2 and 3 are both available now in updated versions. The new Roku 3 now comes with voice search, which has been added via a new button on the remote control, so don't expect this on an existing model. Several other keys, including Amazon, have also been added. The Roku 2 update brings along improved speed and performance, though you'll lack the voice search capability.

The prices remain the same with the Roku 2 denting your wallet by $69.99 and version 3 setting you back $99.99. The voice search brings the device on level with the new competition from Amazon. The update with new features is promised by the end of April.