First, go get Microsoft and Apple to allow their OS to be downloaded for free to any compatible computer, then come let us know how that went.
DBDukes Well said. A free downloadable Roku OS. And exactly how would one install this onto another TV? Interesting. So a freeway to turn any smart TV into a Roku TV. This is the funniest thing I’ve heard all day
Microsoft and Apple already offer free OS.. it isn’t an OS purchase (or streaming device purchase for Roku’s sake) that is supposed to be profitable. Apple and MS do sell devices for profit along with their OS, but Roku sells devices at a loss to boost account growth. The right call for increasing market share. User acquisition is a means to the end that is platform revenue for Roku devices, where real and recurring revenue is made. The only real trade offer could be if it harms Roku’s licensing relationship with OEM partners..
Any less snarky comments? This is a legitimate idea.
eclairesndonuts wrote:Microsoft and Apple already offer free OS.. ...
Link?
Really? Explain how Microsoft and Apple give our free version of there operating system to be installed on any computer. Free operating system updates yes. Such as if you have Windows 7 you got a free update to 10. But that was only installed on the same computer. But since you already paid for the computer and paid for the operating system you got a free upgrade. Please show me a link where you download a free version of windows 10 and install it on a USB stick then installing on a computer. I’ll be waiting. Explain to me how Roku is supposed to make any money if they’re giving out free portable versions of their operating system to anyone? I guess you never heard of copyright laws. OK suppose Roku releases a downloadable version of the operating system. Please explain to me how you one would be able to install it on another TV. You do realize it’s only a smart TV. How would the TV no to run the executable? How are the TV know what partition to put it on?
You’re right that the free versions are for devices that are already licensed. The difference is that Roku DOES NOT make money off of their hardware sales. This will continue in an effort to grow internationally. Player revenue operates at a loss to facilitate the higher margin and long tail revenue generator that is platform revenue. Technically, Roku is paying people to use their OS instead of offering a free version that could be run via existing device hardware with sufficient processing power. As for how to download it to existing TVs, that’s a bit of a logistical difficulty but it warrants exploring. I don’t know why you two are being so hostile, because this is a viable idea of it’s feasible from a technical standpoint. Offering their OS for free doesn’t mean they lose copyright. It just makes it more accessible.
