Quick Look: PlayOn Desktop is a PC media server that lets you stream local media from your PC to your Roku device. The free version operates similar to the popular Plex app, but upgrade to the full subscription-based version of PlayOn Desktop and you'll get an app that incorporates a streaming video recorder that lets you record shows and movies from over 100 popular streaming sites, including Netflix, Hulu, Amazon, and HBO. Recordings are saved as .MP4 video files which can be easily transferred to an iPad or iPhone via iTunes, or to an Android mobile device. You can also stream those recorded videos to your Roku device through this free PlayOn Desktop Roku channel.
To get started, you must have the PlayOn software installed on your computer - it's available for download at this link. Once it's running on your PC, launch the PlayOn Desktop Roku channel and click OK on your remote. The Roku channel will search your local network for a PC running the PlayOn Desktop software. As stated above, the free version will let you stream local media files, but you will need to subscribe to get access to the DVR function, which also lets you automatically skip ads on recordings. Current fees are shown below.
-- Information is current as of May 3, 2017
Developer's Channel Description: Channel for accessing your PC's stored and online content through PlayOn Server software
CHANNEL STORE CATEGORY: Movies & TV
DEVELOPER: PlayOn
FEES:
Roku channel is free, but requires PlayOn Desktop. Free version of PlayOn Desktop allows streaming of local files. Subscription upgrade to include DVR and ad-skipping is $7.99/month, $29.99/year, or $69.99 Lifetime. Subscribe here.
RELATED LINKS:
PlayOn Website
PlayOn on Facebook
PlayOn on Twitter
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