Roku streaming stick launches in the U.S. for $49.99 a pop

They say that good things come to those who wait, and while patience is a definite virtue, it should not be sorely tested as even the most patient of men do have a breaking point. Hence, it is with a happy heart that we bring you word of the new Roku Streaming Stick that will  begin to ship from the likes of Roku.com, Amazon.com, BestBuy.com, Target.com, and Walmart.com at $49.99 a pop.

Google recently launched its Chromecast streaming dongle in almost a dozen new markets, but now Roku is offering an alternative. The company’s newStreaming Stick, which plugs into the back of your TV through the HDMI port, isnow shipping from Roku.com, Amazon.com, BestBuy.com, Target.com and Walmart.com. If you want to pick one up in store though, the company is sticking to its “early April” release date for now. We expect it’ll land in the next couple of weeks – Roku is also planning a launch in Europe next month, although we’re none the wiser for exactly when that will happen either.