Google has just announced the Nexus Player, bringing the extensive Play store content to the living room. But Google's new set-top box isn't the only device on the market. There is plenty of competition in the arena from Apple, Roku and Amazon, to name only three. Now it appears Google intends to compete with itself in this crowded space.
Roku, perhaps the leader in this area, is announcing that it will now include the Play store for video content. "Today, we're thrilled to announce that Google Play Movies & TV has been added to our expansive Channel Store in the US, UK, Ireland and Canada. With the addition of Google Play Movies & TV, you now have more options than ever to watch the entertainment you love on your Roku player", the company states.
The new app comes with immediate benefits, as users can take advantage of the "Gift from Google" section to grab a free copy of X-Men in HD, available for everyone who signs up.
Roku also touts other features of its new channel -- "Another cool feature to look out for when you’re watching a TV show or movie is Google Play’s Info Cards. Can’t remember that actor’s name? Press pause when he is on screen and voilà -- his name will pop-up on screen".
The channel is free, the content is mostly not, but it adds to the variety available on the little set-top box. While it appears Google is competing against itself, it is a smart move getting onto as many platforms as possible. You can find it by doing a search of the channel store on your Roku