Waiting for your Roku to pick up a software update? You can check for available software and app updates yourself from the settings menu. Start there, then use the phone remote or USB options below if you need another way in.
Check for a Roku software update
Use this method on an internet-connected Roku TV or streaming player. The available software version depends on your device.
Press Home on your Roku remote.
Open Settings > System, then open the update screen. Roku's current support pages label it Software update in some places and System update in others.
Select Check Now to check for Roku software and installed app updates.
Let the download and installation finish. Available updates install automatically, and your Roku restarts when the process is complete.
Use your phone as the Roku remote
The official Roku app for iOS or Android controls the TV's update menu when it can already reach your Roku, but it cannot replace a remote during disconnected initial setup.
- 1.Connect the Roku mobile app to your Roku device.
- 2.Select Remote in the app.
- 3.Use its remote controls to open Home > Settings > System and the update screen on your TV.
- 4.Select Check Now and let the updates and restart finish.
Update a single streaming app
Highlight the app on the Roku Home screen without opening it.
Press Star (*) on your remote.
Select Check for updates.
Use this check for one app; use Check Now on the update screen under Settings > System to check Roku software and installed apps together.
Let Roku handle automatic updates
Keep your Roku powered and connected to the internet. It checks for updates during initial setup, when powered on, and subsequently at randomized intervals of 24 to 36 hours.
Downloading and installation happen automatically. There's no automatic-update toggle to find as part of this process.
In Canada, accounts without recorded consent need authorization for automatic software and app updates. If Roku presents the agreement when you sign in to your account, select the agreement option and continue. That authorizes automatic updates but does not start a particular firmware download.
Use USB for an eligible offline Roku TV
The USB route applies to compatible, unactivated Roku TVs where you selected Connect to the internet later during setup. Some current TVs require internet activation. Roku documents this USB procedure for Roku TVs only, not for standalone players or Streaming Sticks.
Prepare a USB 2.0 flash drive with at least 256MB of capacity, formatted as FAT16 or FAT32. You'll also need a computer for the download.
Open Settings > System > About on the TV to find its Hardware ID and Serial Number.
Visit Roku's official TV software-download page on your computer. This starts the TV-specific download process; it isn't a direct firmware-file link.
Select your TV brand.
Enter the TV's Hardware ID and Serial Number.
Select Download Software.
Copy the downloaded update.roku file directly onto the USB drive, outside any folders.
Insert the drive into your Roku TV.
Open Home > Settings > System > System update > I can’t connect.
Enter the TV's 12-digit code on the website.
Enter the resulting six-digit code on the TV.
Leave the drive inserted until installation and the restart finish.
If USB updating fails, try connecting the TV to the internet and selecting Check Now on the update screen under Settings > System. For a malfunctioning TV, try Recovery Mode on supported models, keeping in mind that it clears your user data.
Reinstall software with Recovery Mode
Recovery Mode downloads and reinstalls software on supported Roku TVs, clears user data, and requires setup again. Hold the TV's physical Reset button for at least 20 seconds, releasing it when Recovery Mode appears. If the screen hasn't appeared after 30 seconds, contact Roku or the TV manufacturer.
Select your language on the recovery screen.
Connect to Wi-Fi through Wireless. If the connection fails, compatible TVs also support USB recovery through Roku's USB-update procedure.
Select Update now to start the download and reinstallation. The TV restarts afterward and requires setup again.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get prerelease Roku software?
Eligible accounts and devices can join the optional Roku Beta Program. If an invitation appears on your Roku Home screen, select Sign me up!, scan the QR code, and sign in at my.roku.com/account/beta-program. Accept the terms and select eligible devices to receive beta builds. Eligibility varies by region and device.
Do Roku wireless speakers and subwoofers need separate updates?
Keep them connected to their compatible Roku host. They receive software updates alongside the TV or streaming player. A subwoofer also updates and restarts during pairing when it needs new software.
Does updating my Roku TV also update my Roku Smart Home devices?
No. Cameras, doorbells, plugs, bulbs, and light strips use the separate Roku Smart Home app. Select a device on Home, then open Settings > Device info > Firmware version. Tap Update when an update is available. Keep the device powered and connected through installation and its restart.
What can I try if a streaming app still malfunctions after updating?
For a removable app, highlight it on Home. Press Star (*), select Remove channel, and confirm. Restart your Roku, then add the app again from the Roku Streaming Store. Reinstalling an app does not update Roku system firmware.