Fox announced Monday it is acquiring Roku, the streaming platform used by over 100 million homes globally, for $22 billion. The deal gives Fox control of one of the largest TV interfaces and the user data flowing through it.
Roku's purple interface has become the entry point for millions of viewers accessing Netflix, Disney Plus, Hulu, and other streaming services. Fox CEO Lachlan Murdoch told investors the companies will operate separately, suggesting the Roku brand and interface will remain largely intact.
However, the acquisition positions Fox to control critical data about what viewers watch, when they watch, and which services they use most. This information could reshape Fox's advertising business and streaming strategy.
Roku has maintained independence from major media companies despite mounting pressure from competitors building their own platforms. The deal marks a significant shift, bringing the streaming middleman under the control of a legacy media conglomerate. The acquisition still requires regulatory approval.
The move reflects ongoing consolidation in the streaming wars, as companies seek to control both content and distribution channels.
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