Nowadays, streaming is the primary way viewers consume movies and shows. With a simple internet connection, streaming devices and smart TVs can give you access to popular apps like Netflix, Prime Video, and HBO Max. Many smart TV brands are vying for your attention, and one of the most user-friendly experiences comes from Roku. The company has been making streaming devices and TVs for many years, all powered by Roku OS, a Linux-based operating system.
Navigating screens and menus feels pretty intuitive on a Roku device, and downloading apps couldn’t be simpler; Launch the Streaming Store, search or select what you want to download and let it install. It’s also easy to customize your home dashboard. However, users are not thrilled with the sponsored wallpapers that Roku implements on the home screen. Technically, the company calls these UI overlays Themes. Fortunately, disabling sponsored wallpapers doesn’t take more than a few seconds. All you have to do is press the Home button on your Roku remote, then tap Settings > Theme > Sponsored Wallpapers > Off.
These steps should apply to any Roku streaming device, first-party Roku TVs, as well as any smart TVs licensed with Roku OS, such as Hisense or TCL. You can also turn off seasonal themes by selecting Themes > Custom Settings, then unchecking the Enable featured themes box. No imagery of Halloween or Christmas should darken your day now.
After disabling sponsored wallpapers, you can customize other parts of Roku OS
The default Roku OS theme is iconic: lots of purple, with few frills. However, you are not tied to the default preset and Roku OS offers many alternative theme packs to download. To see what options are available, press the Home button, then Settings > Theme > Change theme. To download a new theme, select one that isn’t saved on your Roku device, then choose Add Channel. Once the installation is complete, select Set as Theme to switch everything.
Roku OS is solid software that more than gets the job done for movie night. Many streamers and Roku TVs can even be controlled with voice commands. Features like AirPlay 2 make it easy for Apple enthusiasts to stream audio and video. Unfortunately, yes, there are some ads that cannot be turned off, but you can Prevent Roku from selling your information to third parties (Settings > Privacy > Privacy Choices, then check the Do not share/sell my personal information box).
Customizing Smart TV technology is one of the best ways to ensure that you only see what you want to see when you turn on your AV equipment. Roku OS may not be perfect, but it’s one of the oldest smart TV platforms. This means developers have had nearly two decades (the first Roku device hit the market in 2008) to optimize and improve the software.
