Just days before CES kicks off, Roku has announced its new Pro Series TVs, set to debut in the spring of 2024. The new Roku Pro Series TVs, available in 55-inch, 65-inch, and 75-inch sizes and priced under $1,500, aim to elevate Roku's reputation in the world of affordable yet feature-rich televisions.

Roku, primarily known for its streaming platform, has previously partnered with manufacturers like TCL to produce "Roku TVs." However, the company decided to venture into creating its own branded TVs last year, with its initial offerings in the Select and Plus Series focusing on budget-conscious consumers. While these TVs served their purpose of integrating Roku's software into homes, they fell short in terms of picture quality compared to other brands in the same price range.

To address this issue, the Roku Pro Series TVs will incorporate Mini LED technology, which promises to elevate the viewing experience. Mini LED local dimming enhances contrast and delivers deeper blacks, bringing a significant improvement in picture quality compared to its predecessors. 

This technology allows for better control over brightness and darkness in different parts of the screen, resulting in a more immersive and detailed visual experience. While it may not match the excellence of OLED displays, it does offer a compelling alternative at a more affordable price point.

Another intriguing addition to the Pro Series is the incorporation of AI-driven technology. Roku's research indicates that over 90 percent of customers never bother adjusting their TVs' picture and audio settings. 

To address this, the Pro Series TVs will feature a new Smart Picture mode, which employs artificial intelligence to automatically optimize picture settings based on the content being viewed. This feature aims to ensure that consumers get the best possible presentation of their favorite content without needing to manually tweak settings.

Roku's extensive experience in streaming billions of hours of content on its platform has provided valuable data and expertise in video processing and bit rate optimization. As a result, the company is well-positioned to deliver an enhanced viewing experience with its Pro Series TVs.

While the Roku Pro Series TVs are designed in-house, they will be manufactured by an OEM partner. Roku has not disclosed all the hardware details and technical specifications, such as the support for 120Hz and VRR, at this time. However, the company is expected to reveal more information closer to the launch.

Roku Pro Series TVs are set to arrive in the United States in the spring of 2024, and the company is expected to expand the retail availability of its Select and Plus Series TVs.