Quick Look: Redbox has added free, ad-supported TV and movie streaming to its Roku channel, while maintaining access to fee-based video-on-demand (VOD) purchase and rental. Redbox currently has over two dozen linear (live stream) channels on its Roku app, and is reportedly planning to add about ten new ones every month. Channels are available under the categories Movies, TV, Entertainment, News, and Kids and include well-known names like Filmrise, Gravitas, and Dove. You'll also find content from Fail Army, USA Today, TMZ, and America's Funniest Videos, along with Redbox-branded movie channels: Redbox Comedy, Redbox Spotlight (featured and recommended titles), and Redbox Rush (action and adventure). No account is needed to access the live channels - just select the "look around" option on the channel's splash screen if you don't want to join or log in.
If you want to rent or purchase on-demand movies and TV shows, you will need a free Redbox account. You can sign up through the Roku channel, or sign in if you already have an account. Redbox does not require monthly subscriptions; instead, you pay as you go. You have 30 days to watch a movie once it is rented, and 48 hours to complete the movie once you start streaming. Watch as many times as you like within the 48-hour period. Account information is transferable across different platforms so you can start watching on one device and finish it on another. In addition to movie rentals you can purchase digital copies through this service. Rental and purchase prices vary but start at $1.99. New releases such as Midway and A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood are $14.99 for purchase and as low as $4.99 for rental.
If you are not sure about setting up an account, you can still browse the continuously changing library of content. Each title offers a written description including cast and director, and in most cases a movie or show trailer is also available for free.
If you do decide to join, you can rent or purchase videos directly through the Roku channel.
-- Information is current as of February 20, 2020
Developer's Channel Description: Get everything Redbox has to offer without leaving your couch. Plus, now you can watch free movies & live TV anytime you want.
CHANNEL STORE CATEGORY: Movies & TV
DEVELOPER: Redbox Automated Retail LLC
FEES: Free live streaming; video on demand rental and purchase prices vary
