Roku Frndly TV Acquisition is poised to reshape the streaming landscape by blending affordability with nostalgic, family-friendly content. Roku, the leading streaming platform in the U.S. based on viewing hours, is acquiring live and on-demand television provider Frndly TV for $185 million. This strategic move not only enhances Roku’s robust content ecosystem but also strengthens its appeal to budget-conscious viewers seeking simpler, cable-style programming—think A&E, Hallmark, and The History Channel—all in a streamlined streaming package starting at just $6.99/month.

Frndly TV’s ultra-affordable plans, combined with its cloud DVR and intuitive user interface, align perfectly with Roku’s mission to deliver straightforward entertainment without the clutter of costly bundles. The acquisition aligns with Roku’s plans to drive recurring platform revenue while expanding its base of direct-billed subscribers. With Frndly TV’s leadership team staying intact and the service remaining accessible on all major platforms, including but not limited to Roku devices, the integration is expected to be seamless. The Roku Frndly TV Acquisition is slated to close in Q2 2025, with $75 million of the cash deal tied to future performance milestones—highlighting Roku’s confidence in the long-term synergy.

The addition of Frndly TV enhances Roku’s competitive edge against smart TV ecosystem rivals like Amazon Fire TV and Google TV. It complements existing offerings on The Roku Channel, reinforcing Roku’s commitment to a diverse, cost-efficient content lineup that speaks to tech-savvy households looking for both linear and on-demand programming. As the market shifts towards modular, user-controlled entertainment, this deal signals that the future of streaming may lean less on high-priced exclusives and more on intuitive, value-driven viewing.