Roku

Pros

• Remote offers swipe and click controls
• Connections saved for multiple devices
• Provides access to your local files

Cons

• Remote control is overly simplified

The Roku app expands on many of the functions available on a Roku Stick or Roku TV, and it folds the core functions of Roku into a single interface. The most basic translation involves transforming your phone into a remote. There aren't a lot of complex functions here. Instead, Roku has opted for fidelity - translating a direct replica of the basic Roku remote control into a digital interface. The one big difference here is that you can swipe to navigate through menus rather than having to press left and right.

But once you move past the remote control tab, you'll find an app that really opens up the possibilities for you. A paneled screen keeps track of all of the apps downloaded to your account and lets you open up the appropriate app on the screen and on your phone with a single tap. If you have more than one Roku device, shifting between them is easy too. You can sync up the app to your device by just connecting to the same network, and changing control to different devices is as simple as selecting them on the appropriate pulldown menu.

If you're looking for something new to watch, Roku has you covered too. The Roku Channel highlights some of the biggest hits available for free and even allows you to stream directly to your TV by just tapping the choice you want. Similarly, you can search for new channels right on the Roku app, and they'll be automatically downloaded to your device for use. Roku's catalog ranges from major players like Netflix and Hulu to local broadcasting. There's a lot to choose from here, and it's much easier to use your phone than to scroll through or search for the options on your TV.

The Roku app obviously won't be of much value if you don't have a Roku device, but it can be a valuable addition if you do. If you've ever found yourself frustrated with Roku's native interface or wanted to do more, you'll find what you're looking for here.

Pros

• Remote offers swipe and click controls
• Connections saved for multiple devices
• Provides access to your local files

Cons

• Remote control is overly simplified