Roku will launch a new independent development kit that allows developers to customize and experiment with their devices for personal use. Roku hopes that the IDK will encourage innovation in internet-of-things applications such as linking a Roku device with a thermostat or game creation.
Roku revealed its plans for the new IDK during its online developer summit. In announcing the IDK, Roku stated that it will continue to use its Roku SDK as the primary channel development tool for commercial applications. However, the company said that the new kit allows developers to explore the platform's capabilities and personalize their Roku experience.
While the company doesn't know how developers will use it, Tedd Cittadine, Rokus vice president of content partnerships, stated during a keynote speech that they arent sure. However, its primary purpose is for Roku to continue to improve its platform. You might be able to build games for the Roku remote, or apps that control smart home devices.
To create apps that go beyond streaming channels, developers can use the IDK to code in their preferred programming language.
The company stated that developers can use the IDK to code in their preferred programming language to create applications other than streaming channels in a FAQ. Developers can create jаvascript applications that combine data from multiple sources. This allows them to turn their TV into a snapshot of their daily news, weather and appointments as well as traffic conditions for their commute.
Roku made it clear that IDK apps will not work on Roku TVs or streambars. Roku OS 10.5 and higher will be required on all Roku devices. Roku also announced the launch of IDK. Developers will be able to use a beta channel to test their apps and make changes to live on the platform.
The company also stated that it would remove non-certified channels from the platform by March next year. These channels are SDK channels which are used by developers to test their code. According to a spokesperson for the company, these channels are not available on the Roku channel store and are not shared publicly. This is because they are used to test the functionality of developers.
