Overview
- Roku has increased list prices on multiple streaming devices with some models jumping as much as $50, for example the Roku Ultra from $100 to $150 and the Streaming Stick from $30 to $40.
- The company told reporters the hikes are a response to rising memory component costs, a shortage described in coverage as 'RAMageddon.'
- Retail pricing is uneven: some stores have not updated listings while Roku’s online store still shows prior prices as 'on sale' and has placed per-transaction purchase limits.
- Other sellers are also raising device prices, with Apple and some retailers like Walmart changing Apple TV and Google TV pricing, which points to broader component-cost pressure across the category.
- The price changes come after the announced $22 billion Fox acquisition of Roku but reporters say there is no confirmed link; consumers should expect more retail updates and possible higher costs for budget streaming devices.