Can you Jailbreak a Roku? This article answers this common question and explains what it means to jailbreak Roku devices in 2024.
The short answer is no, you can’t technically jailbreak a Roku device.
The term “jailbreak” refers to the process of removing restrictions imposed by a device’s manufacturer to allow for the installation of unauthorized software.
You can’t jailbreak a because Roku it runs a closed operating system that does not allow for the installation of third-party applications. This applies to Roku streaming sticks, boxes, and Roku Smart TVs as they are all have a closed system software.
Android and Fire TV devices on the other hand run an “open” operating system that allow for side-loading. This includes Android phones, tablets, TV boxes, and Amazon Fire TV devices. We explain this in more detail in our Roku vs Firestick comparison.
This is why TROYPOINT always recommends a Firestick or Android device for streaming. Using a device powered by Android OS allows users the ability to install 3rd party apps that Roku devices are not capable of.
Legal Disclaimer: TROYPOINT does not develop, operate, host, distribute, or administer any streaming application, add-on, website, or service. Furthermore, we cannot determine the legality of any streaming platform reviewed on this website. TROYPOINT specializes in educational tech reviews, tutorials, and news which is protected by the First Amendment of the United States Constitution. The end-user is solely responsible for media accessed and TROYPOINT assumes that all visitors are abiding by copyright laws set forth within their jurisdiction. Users should only stream works not protected by copyright when using unverified streaming solutions.
Any website that claims you can “jailbreak” or “unlock” a Roku device to install third-party applications is not telling the truth. Some have gone as far as selling an Ebook about this topic.
However, there are still workarounds that can help you play third-party content as an alternative to jailbreaking.This tutorial provides two methods for jailbreaking your Roku device. However, both will require a separate device such as a PC or Android phone.
Table of Contents
- How to Jailbreak Roku With Plex
- How to Jailbreak Roku With Screen Mirroring
- Final Thoughts
- FAQs
- Can You Jailbreak a Roku?
- Can You Install Third-Party Apps on Roku?
- Can You Get Hidden Channels on Roku?
- Can I use my Mac’s AirPlay for screen mirroring or screen casting on Roku?
- Why can’t I use my Roku remote control when screen mirroring?
- How do I get IPTV on Roku?
How to Jailbreak Roku With Plex
Plex is a client-server media software that lets you store content including Movies, TV Shows, Photos, and more; and send them to any device you wish for streaming. Using Plex will require a Home Media Server such as a PC for storing your content and a streaming device such as Roku.
Prior to installing the Plex application on Roku, you must first set up your Plex Media Server. I suggest following our detailed Plex tutorial for downloading movies and TV shows that you will then be able to sync to your Roku device.
After you have your preferred content in your Plex Media Server, simply install the Plex Client App on your Roku device access your library! Follow our step-by-step guide below.
1. Click the home button on your Roku remote.
2. Scroll down to hover over search
3. Type Plex
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4. Choose Plex – Stream Free Movies & TV
5. Click Add channel
6. Wait for Plex channel to install
7. Click Ok
8. Hover over Plex channel and click options
9. Choose Move channel
10. Place Plex at the front of your apps list and click to launch
11. From the home screen of Plex, choose Sign In
12. Take note of the activation code you are provided with.
13. Launch your Browser (on any device) and enter provided authorization code. Click Link
14. Account Linked message will appear
15. Return to your Plex app on Roku and choose your preferred Server
16. Click Continue
17. Customize navigation to your preferences and click Finish
18. Choose your Plex Media Server
19. Click Movies to find your available content. Enjoy!
How to Jailbreak Roku With Screen Mirroring
For those who prefer a separate method of “jailbreaking” their Roku device, we do have an option. This includes casting or screen mirroring your preferred device directly to your Roku. Screen Mirroring is available from a few devices including iOS, Android, and PC.
Mirroring involves using an application on one device to cast to another. One way to do this is by installing Android Apps on Windows PC and mirroring this to your Roku.
This is a great way to stream some of the Best APK’s for Movies and TV Shows directly to your Roku streaming device. All of the apps in this list are not available within the Roku Channel Store. Use the guide below to learn how to screen mirror your PC to Roku.
1. From the main menu of your Roku device, click Settings.
2. Choose System.
3. Click Screen mirroring.
4. Select Screen mirroring mode and choose Prompt.
5. Open your Windows PC and launch Settings. Click Devices.
6. Select Add Bluetooth or other device.
7. Choose Wireless display or dock.
8. Click to select your Roku device.
9. Once connected click Done.
10. Return to your Roku device and when prompted, click Allow.
That’s it! Your Roku Device will now screen mirror your PC. Enjoy.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, while you can’t technically “jailbreak” Roku devices, there are a few workarounds for streaming movies and TV shows. This includes setting up a Plex Media Server and screen mirroring another device.
Not being able to sideload apps is one of many reasons why TROYPOINT does not recommend purchasing a Roku device. We suggest using Android TV boxes or Amazon Fire TV devices that do have side-loading capabilities.
For more information on Roku’s operating system (OS) you can refer to their official support documentation.
For more Roku related tutorials, refer to our guides below:
- How to Install IPTV on Roku
- How to Install Kodi on Roku
- Roku Setup Guide
- Best Roku Channels
FAQs
Can You Jailbreak a Roku?
No, technically Roku devices do not have the ability to be jailbroken. However, this guide provides workarounds for “jailbreaking” a Roku that include Plex Media Server and screen mirroring.
Can You Install Third-Party Apps on Roku?
No, since Roku is running a closed operating system on its devices you can’t install third-party apps outside of the Roku Channel Store.
Can You Get Hidden Channels on Roku?
While there are “hidden channels” available for Roku devices, many of these can carry security risks and are not legal to access.
Can I use my Mac’s AirPlay for screen mirroring or screen casting on Roku?
No, since AirPlay is Mac’s proprietary feature. You can use a PC, however. Refer to the tutorial above.
Why can’t I use my Roku remote control when screen mirroring?
Your smartphone or mobile device is used to mirror content and would therefore be needed for navigation or playback instead of your Roku remote control.
How do I get IPTV on Roku?
The tutorial shown above lists the best way to get IPTV on Roku by accessing Developer Mode to install IPTV Smarters.
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