How To Watch Roku TV

Published: November 30, 2023

Connecting the Roku TV

Setting up and connecting your Roku TV is a straightforward process that allows you to enjoy a vast array of streaming content. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started:

Unpack and place the Roku TV: Start by unpacking your Roku TV and finding the perfect spot for it in your home. Ensure that the TV is placed within reach of a power outlet and has proper ventilation.
Connect the power cable: Plug one end of the power cable into the back of the TV and the other end into a power outlet. Make sure the connection is secure.
Connect to your home network: Use an Ethernet cable or connect to your Wi-Fi network to establish an internet connection. Roku TV supports both wired and wireless connections, allowing you to choose the option that works best for you.
Turn on the TV: Press the power button on the TV or use the remote control to turn it on. Follow the on-screen prompts to choose your language and set your country or region.
Pair the remote control: If the remote control doesn’t automatically pair with the TV, simply remove the battery cover and press the pairing button. Wait for the remote to connect to the TV before proceeding.
Update the software: Connect your Roku TV to the internet and allow it to update to the latest software version. This ensures that you have access to the latest features and enhancements.
Activate your Roku TV: Follow the instructions on the screen to activate your Roku TV. You may need to create a Roku account and enter the activation code displayed on your TV. If you already have a Roku account, simply sign in.
Connect external devices: Take advantage of the multiple input ports available on your Roku TV to connect devices such as gaming consoles, Blu-ray players, or sound systems. Use HDMI cables or other compatible connections provided by the devices to establish the connections.

Once you have completed these steps, your Roku TV will be connected and ready to provide you with hours of entertainment. Take some time to explore the various features and settings to customize your viewing experience to your liking.

Setting up the Roku TV

After connecting your Roku TV, the next step is to set it up and customize the settings to optimize your viewing experience. Here’s a simple guide to help you get started:

Language and display settings: Once your Roku TV is powered on, you’ll be prompted to choose your preferred language. Select your desired language and move on to the display settings. Adjust the display settings such as brightness, contrast, and screen size according to your preferences.
Network connection: If you haven’t already connected to your home network during the initial setup process, navigate to the network settings and connect your Roku TV to either your Wi-Fi network or via an Ethernet cable. Enter the network password if required.
Roku account setup: To access the Roku Channel Store and other features, you will need to create a Roku account. Follow the instructions on the screen to create a new Roku account or, if you already have one, sign in using your credentials.
Software update: It’s essential to ensure that your Roku TV is running the latest software version to benefit from the latest features and enhancements. Check for updates in the system settings and allow any available updates to download and install.
Linking streaming services: Roku TV supports a wide range of streaming services such as Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video. To access these services, you need to link your accounts. Navigate to the relevant channel or search for it in the Roku Channel Store, and follow the on-screen instructions to link your accounts.
Organizing channels: As you add more channels to your Roku TV, you may want to organize them for easy access. Move the channels around, create folders, or even remove channels that you don’t use frequently.
Setting up screen mirroring: If you want to mirror your smartphone or computer screen on your Roku TV, enable the screen mirroring feature in the settings. Follow the instructions provided to connect and mirror your devices.

Once you’ve completed the setup process, take some time to familiarize yourself with the Roku TV interface and explore the various customization options available.

Navigating the Roku TV Interface

The Roku TV interface is designed to be intuitive and user-friendly, allowing you to easily navigate through the various features and content options. Here’s a guide to help you make the most out of your Roku TV:

Home Screen: The Home screen is the central hub of your Roku TV. It displays a collection of tiles representing different channels, streaming services, and apps. You can navigate through the tiles using the arrow keys on your remote control.
Channel Store: To discover and add new channels, navigate to the Channel Store. It offers a vast selection of free and paid channels that you can browse through by category or search for specific ones.
Media Library: Your Media Library contains all the channels and streaming services you have installed. Access it by pressing the Home button on your remote control and selecting “My Channels.”
Streaming Channels: Roku TV supports a wide range of streaming channels like Netflix, Hulu, and YouTube. Simply select the desired channel from the Home screen or navigate to the Streaming Channels section in the Channel Store.
Search Function: If you’re looking for a specific movie, TV show, or actor, you can use the Roku TV’s search function to find relevant results across multiple channels. Simply enter your search term using the on-screen keyboard and browse the available options.
Settings: The Settings menu allows you to customize various aspects of your Roku TV. You can adjust audio and video settings, manage your network connections, configure parental controls, and more.
Additional Features: Roku TV offers several additional features for enhanced functionality. You can use the “My Feed” feature to track and receive updates on your favorite movies and TV shows. The “Play on Roku” feature allows you to stream content from your mobile device to your TV screen. Explore these additional features in the settings menu.

By familiarizing yourself with these navigation tips and features, you can efficiently navigate the Roku TV interface and access the content you want to watch with ease.

Adding Channels to Your Roku TV

One of the best features of Roku TV is the ability to add and customize channels, allowing you to access a wide range of content. Here’s how you can add channels to your Roku TV:

Channel Store: The Roku Channel Store is the main hub for adding new channels to your Roku TV. Access it from the home screen or by selecting “Streaming Channels” on the sidebar. You can browse through various categories or use the search function to find specific channels.
Browse Popular Channels: The Channel Store provides a list of popular channels that you can explore. These channels are recommended based on their popularity and user ratings. Simply select the channel you’re interested in and click “Add Channel” to install it on your Roku TV.
Featured Free: Roku TV also offers a section called “Featured Free,” which includes a curated selection of free channels and content options. Browse through this section to discover new channels that you may find entertaining.
Private Channels: In addition to the channels available in the Channel Store, Roku TV also allows you to add private channels. Private channels are not listed in the Channel Store and require a unique code to be added. To add a private channel, visit the Roku website and enter the channel’s code in the Add Channel section.
Remove or Hide Channels: If you want to remove or hide channels from your Roku TV, you can do so in the Channel Store or in the settings menu. Removing a channel will completely uninstall it from your Roku TV, while hiding a channel will remove it from the main menu but keep it installed for future use.

Once you have added the channels of your choice, they will be easily accessible from your Roku TV’s home screen. You can rearrange the order of the channels, create folders to organize them, and personalize the layout to suit your preferences.

Remember to regularly explore the Channel Store and check for new channels or updates to existing ones. With a wide selection of channels and customization options, Roku TV ensures that you have a personalized and enjoyable streaming experience.

Browsing and Searching for Content

Roku TV provides a seamless experience when it comes to browsing and searching for your favorite movies, TV shows, and other types of content. Here’s a guide to help you efficiently browse and search for content on your Roku TV:

Home Screen Recommendations: The Home screen of your Roku TV is designed to display personalized recommendations based on your viewing habits. Scroll through the recommended tiles to discover new content that aligns with your interests.
Browsing Genres and Categories: Roku TV allows you to explore different genres and categories through specific sections in the Channel Store or on the Home screen. You can dive into genres like comedy, action, drama, and more to find movies and shows tailored to your preferences.
Featured Channels: Roku TV highlights featured channels that showcase popular or newly released content. These channels often include curated playlists, movie marathons, or exclusive shows.
Trending Now: Stay up-to-date with the latest trends by checking out the “Trending Now” section. This area shows you what’s currently popular among Roku TV users, making it easy for you to discover new and trending content.
Search Functionality: If you have a specific movie, TV show, or actor in mind, Roku TV’s search functionality is incredibly helpful. Simply select the search option from the home screen, use the on-screen keyboard to enter your search term, and Roku TV will display relevant results across various channels.
Universal Search: Roku TV offers a universal search feature that enables you to search for content across multiple streaming services simultaneously. This saves you time and effort by providing a comprehensive list of available options from different sources.
Voice Search: Many Roku TV models are equipped with voice search capabilities. Using the remote control, simply press the dedicated voice search button and speak your search query. Roku TV will present you with relevant results based on your spoken command.

By taking advantage of the browsing and search features on your Roku TV, you can easily explore a vast library of content and find exactly what you want to watch. Whether it’s browsing genres, checking out featured channels, or using the powerful search functionality, Roku TV ensures that you never run out of options for entertainment.

Customizing Your Roku TV

Roku TV offers a variety of customization options that allow you to tailor your streaming experience to your preferences. From adjusting display settings to personalizing the home screen, here’s how you can customize your Roku TV:

Theme and Screensavers: Make your Roku TV feel more personalized by selecting different themes and screensavers. Choose from a range of pre-installed themes or download additional ones from the Theme Store in the settings menu. You can also personalize your screensaver with your own photos.
App Layout: Customize the layout of your home screen by moving channels, creating folders, and arranging them in a way that suits your preferences. Press the star button on your remote while highlighting a channel to easily access options to move, rename, or delete it.
Notifications and Reminders: Stay informed about your favorite shows or upcoming events by enabling notifications and reminders. You can receive notifications when new episodes are available, or set reminders for specific shows or events.
Parental Controls: If you have children or want to restrict certain content, Roku TV allows you to set up parental controls. Create a PIN code to prevent unauthorized access to specific channels or restrict content based on rating.
Audio and Display Settings: Adjust the audio and display settings to enhance your viewing experience. Fine-tune the visual aspects such as brightness, contrast, color, and screen size to suit your preferences. You can also adjust audio settings like volume leveling and sound mode.
Connected Devices: Roku TV allows you to connect external devices, such as gaming consoles or sound systems. Configure the settings for these devices in the settings menu to optimize their performance with your Roku TV.
Mobile App: Customize your Roku TV experience even further by using the Roku mobile app. The app offers additional features like voice search, private listening with headphones, and the ability to control your Roku TV from your mobile device.

Take the time to explore the settings menu and tailor your Roku TV to your preferences. Make it feel truly yours by customizing themes, layouts, and screensavers, and take advantage of features like notifications, parental controls, and audio settings. By customizing your Roku TV, you can create a personalized streaming experience that meets your specific needs and preferences.

Using the Roku Mobile App

The Roku mobile app offers a convenient and intuitive way to control your Roku TV using your smartphone or tablet. It provides additional features and functionality that enhance your streaming experience. Here’s how you can make the most of the Roku mobile app:

Remote Control: The most basic and convenient feature of the app is the virtual remote control. It allows you to control your Roku TV from your mobile device, eliminating the need for the physical remote.
Voice Search: The Roku mobile app supports voice search, which provides a quicker and easier way to find content. Simply speak your search query into your device’s microphone, and the app will display relevant results.
Private Listening: With the Roku mobile app, you can enjoy private listening by connecting your headphones to your smartphone or tablet. This feature allows you to watch your favorite shows or movies without disturbing others.
Content Casting: The mobile app enables you to cast photos, videos, and music from your mobile device to your Roku TV. This allows you to easily share your favorite media files with friends and family on the big screen.
Channels and Content Management: You can use the Roku mobile app to browse and add channels to your Roku TV. It provides a streamlined and convenient way to search for new content and manage your existing channels.
Remote Finder: If you frequently misplace your physical remote, the Roku mobile app has a feature to help you find it. By selecting the “Remote” icon in the app, it will initiate a chime on your remote, making it easier to locate.

Make sure to download the Roku mobile app from the App Store or Google Play Store and connect it to your Roku TV. Once connected, you can enjoy the convenience and additional features it provides, enhancing your overall Roku TV experience.

Whether it’s using the virtual remote control, taking advantage of voice search, or enjoying private listening, the Roku mobile app adds flexibility and convenience to your streaming activities.

Watching Live TV on Roku

Roku offers a range of options to watch live TV on your Roku TV, allowing you to stay up-to-date with live events, news, sports, and more. Here’s how you can access live TV on your Roku:

Live TV Streaming Services: Roku supports various live TV streaming services such as Sling TV, Hulu + Live TV, YouTube TV, and more. These services provide a bundle of live TV channels that you can subscribe to and watch directly on your Roku TV.
Antenna and Broadcast TV: If you have an antenna connected to your Roku TV, you can access local over-the-air channels for free. Roku TV integrates these channels directly into the main interface, allowing you to enjoy live TV without the need for a separate device.
Roku Channel Live TV: The Roku Channel also offers a selection of live TV channels that you can enjoy for free. These channels provide a mix of news, sports, entertainment, and other live content that you can access directly from the Roku Channel app.
Network Apps: Many network channels have their own dedicated apps on Roku, offering live streaming of their content. If you have a cable or satellite subscription, you can authenticate with these apps to access live TV from major networks like ABC, NBC, ESPN, and more.
News and Sports Channels: Roku includes a wide range of news and sports channels that offer live streaming of news broadcasts, sports events, and highlights. These channels provide up-to-date coverage from around the world, keeping you informed and entertained.

To access live TV options, simply navigate to the Channel Store on your Roku TV and search for the desired live TV streaming service or channel. Once installed, the live TV channels will appear alongside your other channels on the Roku TV home screen.

Remember that live TV availability may vary based on your location and subscription. Check the respective channel or service website for specific details on supported devices and availability in your area.

With the variety of live TV options available on Roku, you can easily customize your viewing experience and enjoy live content without the need for traditional cable or satellite services.

Streaming Media from Your Smartphone or Computer to Roku TV

Roku TV allows you to easily stream media from your smartphone or computer onto the big screen, enhancing your entertainment experience. Here’s how you can stream media to your Roku TV:

Roku Mobile App: The Roku mobile app offers a convenient way to stream media from your smartphone or tablet to your Roku TV. With the app installed, you can select photos, videos, or music from your mobile device and cast them directly to your Roku TV for everyone to enjoy.
Screen Mirroring: Roku TV supports screen mirroring, allowing you to mirror the display of your smartphone, tablet, or computer onto the TV screen. To use this feature, make sure your device and Roku TV are connected to the same Wi-Fi network and navigate to the settings menu on your Roku TV to enable the screen mirroring option. Then, follow the instructions on your device to initiate the screen mirroring process.
Media Servers: If you have media files stored on your computer or a network-attached storage (NAS) device, you can use a media server app like Plex or Emby. Install the media server on your computer or NAS, and then install the corresponding channel on your Roku TV. The media server app will allow you to access and stream your media files directly to your Roku TV.
Supported Streaming Apps: Roku TV supports various streaming apps that allow you to stream media from your smartphone or computer. For example, you can use apps like YouTube, Netflix, and Spotify to easily cast content from your mobile device to your Roku TV via the “cast” or “connect” buttons within the app.

Streaming media from your smartphone or computer to your Roku TV opens up a world of possibilities for sharing and enjoying your favorite content on the big screen. Whether it’s photos, videos, or music, you can easily stream media using the Roku mobile app, screen mirroring, media servers, or supported streaming apps.

Before streaming, ensure that both your Roku TV and the device you are streaming from are connected to the same Wi-Fi network for seamless communication and a smooth streaming experience.

Take advantage of these streaming options to enjoy your media content in a more immersive way, providing entertainment for yourself and others in your home.

Setting Up Parental Controls on Roku TV

Roku TV provides built-in parental control features that allow you to manage and restrict access to certain content, ensuring a safer and more controlled viewing experience for your family. Here’s how you can set up parental controls on your Roku TV:

Setting up a Roku PIN: The first step to enabling parental controls is to set up a Roku PIN. Access the settings menu on your Roku TV, navigate to the “System” section, and select “Parental controls.” Follow the prompts to create a 4-digit Roku PIN that will be required to access parental control settings.
Restricting Content by Rating: Roku TV allows you to block content based on ratings. From the parental controls settings, select “Content rating,” and choose the desired level of content restriction. You can then specify the maximum rating allowed for movies, TV shows, and other types of content.
Blocking Specific Channels: If there are specific channels that you want to block, you can do so in the parental controls settings. Select “Blocked channels,” and choose the channels you wish to block from the channel list. These channels will no longer be accessible unless the Roku PIN is entered.
Controlling Purchases and Rentals: Roku TV allows you to control the ability to make purchases or rentals. Access the parental controls settings and select “Purchase PIN requirements.” Choose whether you want to require the Roku PIN for every purchase or only for certain types of content.
Setting Time Limits: Roku TV also offers the option to set time limits on viewing. From the parental controls settings, select “Time limits,” and set the desired amount of time per day that your Roku TV can be used. Once the time limit is reached, the TV will automatically turn off.

By utilizing these parental control features, you can ensure that your children have access to age-appropriate content and prevent them from watching content that may not be suitable. It provides peace of mind and a safer environment for family viewing.

Keep in mind that the effectiveness of parental controls may vary depending on the streaming channels and services you use. It’s a good practice to regularly review and refine the settings to ensure they align with your family’s needs and preferences.

With Roku TV’s parental control features, you can create a customized viewing experience that aligns with your family values and reinforces responsible media consumption.

Troubleshooting Common Issues with Roku TV

While Roku TV offers a user-friendly experience, occasional technical issues may arise. Here are some common problems you may encounter with Roku TV and troubleshooting steps to resolve them:

Connection Issues: If you’re experiencing connectivity problems, first ensure that your Roku TV and Wi-Fi router are in close proximity. Check that your Wi-Fi network is functioning correctly and try restarting both the router and Roku TV. If the issue persists, consider connecting your Roku TV via an Ethernet cable for a more stable connection.
Poor Video or Audio Quality: If you’re experiencing issues with video or audio quality, check if your internet connection speed meets the recommended requirements for streaming. You can access this information in the settings menu under “Network.” Consider upgrading your internet plan if necessary. If the issue persists, restart your Roku TV and verify that your HDMI cables are securely connected.
Remote Control Issues: If your remote control isn’t responding, first check if the batteries are functioning correctly and replace them if needed. Ensure that there are no obstructions between the remote and your Roku TV. Alternatively, use the mobile app as a remote control if available.
App Crashes or Freezes: If an app on your Roku TV crashes or freezes, start by force closing the app. From the home screen, highlight the app, press the star (*) button, and select “Remove channel.” Then, reinstall the app from the Channel Store. If the issue persists, check for any available software updates for your Roku TV.
Channels Not Loading or Buffering: If channels are not loading or constantly buffering, check your internet connection speed and ensure that it meets the requirements for streaming. Restart your Roku TV and router, and try disconnecting other devices that may be using up bandwidth. If the issue persists, contact your internet service provider for assistance.
System Updates: Periodic system updates are essential for optimal performance and new features. Keep your Roku TV updated by enabling automatic updates. Go to the settings menu, select “System,” and choose “System update” to check for any available updates.

If the above troubleshooting steps do not resolve the issue, refer to the Roku support website or contact customer support for further assistance. They can provide specific guidance and solutions tailored to your situation.

Remember, technical issues can occur from time to time, but with a little troubleshooting and patience, you can quickly resolve them and continue enjoying your Roku TV’s features and content.

Advanced Features and Settings on Roku TV

Beyond the basic functionalities, Roku TV offers a range of advanced features and settings to further enhance your streaming experience. Let’s explore some of the advanced features you can leverage on your Roku TV:

Guest Mode: Activate Guest Mode on your Roku TV to allow friends or family members to use their own devices to stream content. This feature creates a temporary network that enables guests to cast media to your Roku TV without requiring access to your home Wi-Fi network.
Audio Guide: Roku TV’s Audio Guide feature provides spoken audio descriptions for on-screen menus, helping the visually impaired to navigate the interface more easily. Enable this feature in the accessibility settings to enhance accessibility for all users.
Developer Mode: For tech-savvy users and developers, Roku TV provides a Developer Mode that allows sideloading and testing of applications not available in the official Roku Channel Store. Enable Developer Mode in the settings menu and follow the instructions provided by Roku.
Dynamic Theme: With Dynamic Theme, Roku TV changes the background theme automatically based on time of day or weather conditions. Customize this feature by accessing the Theme settings and selecting Dynamic Theme.
Screen Rotation: If you have a Roku TV that supports mobile screen mirroring, consider enabling screen rotation. This feature allows the display to automatically rotate on your Roku TV when you rotate your mobile device.
Ad Tracking: Customize your advertising experience by controlling ad tracking preferences. Access the privacy settings and adjust the settings to limit ad tracking or reset your advertising ID on your Roku TV.
Expert Picture Settings: Fine-tune your viewing experience by accessing the expert picture settings. This includes options for adjusting brightness, sharpness, color temperature, and other advanced picture settings to optimize the picture quality based on your preferences.

These advanced features and settings provide additional flexibility and customization options for Roku TV users. Customize your Roku TV by enabling Guest Mode, enhancing accessibility with Audio Guide, or exploring the advanced picture settings for an optimized viewing experience.

Remember, some settings and features may not be available on all Roku TV models. Consult the user manual or the Roku website for specific details about the advanced features and settings supported by your Roku TV.

By tapping into these advanced features and settings, you can truly tailor your Roku TV experience to your preferences and maximize your enjoyment of streaming content.