Estimated reading time: 4 minutes
Key Takeaways
- Roku launched Howdy, an ad-free streaming service costing only $2.99 per month.
- The service offers a library of nearly 10,000 hours including content from partners like Lionsgate and Warner Bros. Discovery.
- Currently exclusive to Roku devices and accessible via the Roku Channel app on various platforms, with some devices pre-installed.
- Howdy aims to attract viewers seeking uninterrupted, affordable ad-free streaming, challenging higher-priced premium services.
- Early reviews praise the extensive content library and ad-free experience but note the lack of a free trial and some overlap with Roku Channel.
Table of Contents
What Is Howdy? A Low-Cost, Ad-Free Streaming Alternative
How Does Howdy Work on Your Devices?
Why Is Howdy Different From Other Streaming Services?
What Are Early Impressions and User Takeaways?
What This Means for Streaming Subscribers
What Is Howdy? A Low-Cost, Ad-Free Streaming Alternative
Roku just launched a new streaming service called Howdy, an ad-free subscription video-on-demand (SVOD) option priced at an incredibly low $2.99 per month. This bold move starkly contrasts the current trend among streaming services, which typically charge a premium for ad-free experiences [1].
What Is Howdy? A Low-Cost, Ad-Free Streaming Alternative
Howdy debuted in early August 2025 as Roku’s latest venture into streaming, complementing its flagship Roku Channel. While the Roku Channel remains the primary home for Roku Originals and free ad-supported content, Howdy targets viewers who prefer uninterrupted viewing at a very affordable price [1] [4].
The service offers a library of thousands of titles with nearly 10,000 hours of entertainment, including popular hits from partners like Lionsgate, Warner Bros. Discovery, and FilmRise [1].
Roku Originals are selectively available on Howdy, distinguishing it as a premium ad-free option rather than a competitor to its own free offerings.
How Does Howdy Work on Your Devices?
Currently, Howdy is available exclusively on Roku devices—smart TVs, streaming players—as well as the Roku Channel app on Android, iOS, and Roku’s web platform. Roku has even pre-installed Howdy on many Roku devices without explicit user permission, causing some users to seek ways to remove it [3].
Why Is Howdy Different From Other Streaming Services?
Unlike platforms like Netflix or HBO Max, which command higher prices for ad-free service, Howdy’s ultra-low price point aims to attract a specific segment of subscribers who want to avoid ads without breaking the bank. This strategy could shift the streaming market dynamics by appealing to viewers frustrated with high prices or heavy ad loads on other services [1].
Roku hopes Howdy will encourage users to “pause and resume” subscriptions rather than engage in frequent churn, fostering longer-term low-cost engagement [4].
What Are Early Impressions and User Takeaways?
Early reviews highlight that:
- The content library is extensive, though more limited in prestige titles compared to Netflix or Disney+
- The $2.99 price is competitive enough to consider alongside free but ad-supported options
- Users appreciate the ad-free viewing, but some note a lack of a free trial and some content overlap with Roku Channel [2] [3] [5].
What This Means for Streaming Subscribers
Howdy’s launch reflects Roku’s ambition to carve out a unique niche in an increasingly fragmented streaming marketplace. For consumers, it offers a budget-friendly path to ad-free streaming without the commitment and cost of traditional premium services.
As Roku continues to expand this offering, other providers may feel pressure to innovate pricing and ad strategies. For viewers, the emergence of Howdy could signal a welcome option balancing cost and convenience in 2025’s streaming wars.
FAQ
Is Howdy completely free?
No, Howdy is a paid subscription costing $2.99 per month. There is no free trial currently available.
On which devices is Howdy available?
Howdy is exclusively available on Roku devices such as smart TVs and streaming players, as well as via the Roku Channel app on Android, iOS, and web platforms.
Can I remove Howdy from my devices?
Some users have reported that Roku has pre-installed Howdy on many devices without permission. Removal methods vary, and users seeking to uninstall should consult device-specific instructions or contact Roku support.