While many software updates introduce unwanted elements that users seek to conceal, Roku's newest addition stands out for its convenience.
Named Subscriptions, this feature launched with Roku OS 15.1, an update focused mainly on backend enhancements for smoother streaming.
The tool efficiently compiles material from active paid memberships into a dedicated spot on the primary Home menu for straightforward access.
Using the remote, users can navigate downward to view highlights of trending programs across subscribed platforms, plus a tailored Continue Watching queue.
This dedicated Subscriptions area in the Roku interface consolidates premium content exclusively, excluding any incidental free content from exploratory selections.
Although the platform's What to Watch area already features a Continue Watching option, the Subscriptions variant excludes entries from arbitrary free channels, resulting in a more streamlined display, according to Cord Cutters News.
(Advice: To avoid duplicate Continue Watching sections, users can disable the What to Watch row by going to Settings > Home Screen > What to Watch and choosing Hide.)
Beyond the Continue Watching queue, the Subscriptions zone offers a unified Saved List, fresh releases from enrolled services, and multiple 'included with' categories. It also includes several 'Trending on' sections, positioned lower down.
One potential improvement for the Subscriptions area would be placing the Continue Watching row at the top instead of the second position.
Roku OS 15.1 brings additional updates geared toward developers, such as utilities for monitoring app efficiency and expanded data tags for media handling and content management.
This report forms part of TechHive's comprehensive analysis of top streaming media devices.
Ben has covered technology and consumer electronics for over two decades. He began contributing to PCWorld in 2014 and moved to TechHive in 2019, addressing topics from smart speakers and sound systems to intelligent lighting and surveillance equipment. His work has appeared in PC Magazine, TIME, Wired, CNET, Men's Fitness, Mobile Magazine, and other outlets. He earned a master's degree in English literature.