💡 Start My Idea: Weekly Report 9/26/2026

Hey there,

Welcome to this week’s Start My Idea report, where we spotlight early-stage companies and emerging products that are grabbing attention in the market. This week, we're excited to partner with Roku…no big deal… to bring you insights into the latest trends in the streaming and digital entertainment industry.

So grab your favorite snack, get comfy, and let's hit play!

TRENDS TO WATCH
📈 Weekly Trends to Watch

Let’s take a look at what’s gaining traction this week. From cool new products to growing trends, here are the ones on the rise:

RetroArch

Bringing back the classics like it's 1995! RetroArch lets you play all your favorite retro games on modern devices through one slick interface. With a surge in retro gaming interest—searches for "retro games" have jumped over 30% in the past year—nostalgia levels are over 9,000! Platforms like RetroArch are leveling up faster than you can enter a cheat code.

VTubing

Who needs a face when you've got a fabulous virtual avatar? VTubers are taking over streaming platforms accessible via Roku, like YouTube and Twitch. The VTuber community has exploded, with top creators like Gawr Gura surpassing 4 million subscribers. In fact, VTubing content saw a viewership increase of over 600% in recent years, adding a whole new layer of fun to online interaction.

Faceless YouTube Channels

Camera shy? No problem! These creators focus on voiceovers and visuals, letting the content speak for itself. Did you know that channels like "HowToBasic" and "The Infographics Show" have amassed over 10 million subscribers without ever revealing a face? Faceless channels are proving that content is king—even without the bling.

Immersive Experiences

Step into a world where the line between reality and digital blurs. VR and AR are transforming how we consume content, with the global VR market projected to reach $57.55 billion by 2027. Oculus Quest 2 sales have soared, making couch-potatoing a high-tech adventure. Get ready to literally dive into your favorite shows and games!

AI Video Generators

Move over, Hollywood—AI is rolling out the red carpet for everyone! AI video generators like Synthesia have raised over $50 million in funding, signaling a new era in content creation. The market for AI in media and entertainment is expected to grow by 26% annually through 2025. Perfect for creators who want to produce Oscar-worthy content without the drama.

WEEKLY IDEAS
💡 Your Weekly Business Ideas

Based on this week's trends, here are some quick-start ideas you could consider:

Retro Gaming Guru

Launch a YouTube or Roku channel where you play and review classic games using RetroArch. Share tips, tricks, and Easter eggs that'll make your audience feel like they've hopped into a time machine. Content is king here.

Check out our blog post here: How to start retro gaming?

Virtual Persona Party

Become a VTuber and stream content using a custom avatar. Whether you're a singing dragon or a gaming ninja, there's an audience waiting to meet the digital you.

Check out our blog post here: How to become a VTuber?

The Anonymous Educator

Start a faceless YouTube channel or podcast on a topic you're passionate about. Let your voice and visuals do the talking while you enjoy the perks of internet fame incognito.

Immersion Explorer

Review and curate the latest VR/AR experiences. Help your audience navigate this brave new world so they know what's worth their time (and motion sickness). This industry is moving fast. Check out Zuck’s new glasses here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mpKKcqWnTus 

AI Video Virtuoso

Offer AI-powered video creation services to small businesses. Help them shine online with quality videos, all without them needing to understand what "rendering" means. Tap into a booming industry growing at 26% annually, where AI-generated videos are becoming the norm.

EXPIRING PATENTS
💡 Your Weekly Expiring Patents

Once a patent expires, its technology becomes available for public use. Here are our top picks for this week’s expiring patents:

💡 Universal Remote Control App

• Patent: Methods for displaying electronic program guide (EPG) information on a digital television.

• Idea: Create a smartphone app that turns your phone into a universal remote control for TVs and streaming devices like Roku, using simple touch controls and voice commands.

  Where to Start: Research existing remote control apps to identify common features. Use available APIs or infrared adapters to enable device control. Develop a user-friendly interface that allows easy pairing with various devices.

• Link: US7721311B2

💡 Enhanced TV Guide Platform

• Patent: A remote control device that accepts multiple types of input, such as voice, touch, and motion.

• Idea: Build a website or app that consolidates TV listings and streaming service catalogs into one easy-to-use guide, helping users find what to watch without switching between apps.

  Where to Start: Gather data from various TV and streaming services. Design a simple interface that allows users to browse and search for content. Consider adding features like personalized recommendations or watchlists.

• Link: US7538711B2

💡 Multimedia Summarization Service

• Patent: Techniques for processing and presenting media content received from streaming sources.

• Idea: Offer a service that creates short, engaging summaries of movies and TV shows using images and voiceovers, helping viewers decide what to watch next.

  Where to Start: Use basic video editing tools to create sample summaries. Reach out to content creators or use public domain materials for initial content. Promote your service on social media and consider offering custom summaries for independent filmmakers.

• Link: US7640352B2

💡 Customizable Streaming Interface Themes

• Patent: A user interface system for controlling multiple audio streams simultaneously.

• Idea: Design and sell custom themes or skins for streaming device interfaces, allowing users to personalize the look and feel of their home screens.

  Where to Start: Research how to create and apply themes on popular devices like Roku. Create a variety of designs catering to different tastes. Set up an online store to sell your themes, and provide easy instructions for installation.

• Link: US8099666B2

💡 TV Mounting Helper App

• Patent: A display device using capacitive elements for self-emitting light, enhancing display quality and energy efficiency.

• Idea: Develop a simple mobile app that helps users level their TVs when mounting them on the wall, using the phone's built-in sensors.

  Where to Start: Use app development tools to access the phone's accelerometer and gyroscope. Create an easy-to-read leveling interface. Offer the app for free or at a low cost on app stores, and promote it through DIY and home improvement communities.

• Link: US20060066539A1