As reported by Deadline, Roku, a leading streaming device and platform, has announced that it has reached a milestone of 70 million active accounts worldwide. This marks a significant increase from the 60.1 million active accounts the company reported at the end of 2021.
According to Roku, the shift from linear television to streaming continues to accelerate, with total streaming hours via its interface increasing by 19% in 2022. In the fourth quarter of 2022 alone, global streaming hours reached 23.9 billion, and for the entire year, streaming hours totaled 87.4 billion, a year-over-year increase of 19%.
While Roku does report its active account numbers on a quarterly basis, it does not specify the geographic breakdown of these accounts. The company stated that the active account numbers reported today are based on “preliminary estimated data” and that it will release official figures when it reports its fourth-quarter and full-year financial results in February, per Deadline.
In addition to this announcement, Roku also revealed plans to design and manufacture its own line of smart TVs, a move that comes at a time when the company’s financial performance has been challenged by a slowdown in advertising and various macroeconomic issues, including supply chain disruptions. As a result, many investors have become wary of the company and its stock, which fell 80% in 2022 after being a pandemic darling.
Despite these challenges, Roku’s CEO, Anthony Wood, remains optimistic about the company’s future. “As consumers continue the shift to TV streaming, we’re excited that a growing number of people are taking the journey with Roku, and we’re proud to reach this meaningful milestone today,” Wood said in a press release, via Deadline. “Roku is laser-focused on delivering affordable, easy-to-use products and an operating system that makes streaming accessible to all. We look forward to continuing to bring innovative and delightful experiences to more and more viewers this year.”