You Just Got a Roku and Want to Watch Your Favorite Shows
You’ve unboxed your new Roku player or TV, plugged it in, and gone through the initial setup. The home screen looks clean, but something’s missing. You can’t find Netflix, Hulu, or that new streaming service all your friends are talking about.
This moment of confusion is incredibly common. Unlike a smartphone that comes pre-loaded with an app store icon you instinctively tap, Roku’s interface is purpose-built for streaming. Finding and adding new channels—what Roku calls its apps—is the very first skill you need to master to unlock its full potential.
Whether you have a Roku Streaming Stick, a Roku Ultra, or a Roku TV, the process is fundamentally the same. This guide will walk you through every method, from the simplest search to using your phone, and troubleshoot the common hiccups that can pop up along the way.
Understanding the Roku Channel Store
Before you start adding, it helps to know what you’re working with. Roku does not use a traditional “app store” like Google Play or Apple’s App Store. Instead, it has the Roku Channel Store.
Think of it as a massive, curated library of streaming services, games, music platforms, and even niche content like local news channels. Everything here is formatted specifically for the Roku platform, ensuring a smooth viewing experience on your TV.
The store is built directly into your device’s operating system. You never need to download a separate store app; it’s always accessible from the main menu. Channels are almost always free to add, though many require a separate subscription (like Netflix) or use an ad-supported model (like The Roku Channel).
Navigating to the Channel Store on Your Device
From your Roku home screen, you have a few starting points. The most direct is to select “Streaming Channels” on the left-hand menu. This is the front door to the Channel Store.
Alternatively, you can press the left arrow on your remote to highlight the menu bar, navigate to “Search,” and begin typing a channel name. The search results will include a direct option to add the channel from the store.
If you’re using a Roku TV, the process is identical. Use the Roku button on your remote to get to the home screen, then navigate to “Streaming Channels.” The interface is consistent across all Roku-powered devices.
The Primary Method: Adding Apps from Your Roku Home Screen
This is the standard, remote-controlled method you’ll use most often. Grab your Roku remote and follow these steps.
First, press the Home button on your remote. This ensures you’re starting from the main menu. Using the directional pad, scroll left to highlight the side menu, then scroll up or down to select “Streaming Channels.” Press the OK or Select button.
You’ll now see the Roku Channel Store homepage. It typically features new and popular channels, along with curated rows like “Top Free” or “Featured.” You can browse these categories by scrolling.
To find a specific app, navigate to the “Search Channels” option at the top. Select it, and a virtual keyboard will appear on your screen. Use the directional pad to highlight letters and press OK to select them. It can be slow, which is why we’ll cover a faster phone method later.
Once you type the name (e.g., “Disney+”), matching results will appear. Select the correct channel from the list. This takes you to the channel’s details page.
Here, you’ll see a description, rating, screenshots, and a prominent “Add Channel” button. Highlight this button and press OK. A confirmation screen will appear. Select “OK” again to confirm. The channel will immediately begin downloading and installing.
When the process finishes, you’ll see a success message and an option to “Go to Channel.” If you choose no, you’ll return to the store. Your new channel will now appear on your home screen. You may need to scroll down through your existing channels to find it; Roku usually adds new ones to the bottom.
Organizing Your Newly Added Channels
If you add many channels, your home screen can become cluttered. Roku lets you rearrange them easily. From the home screen, highlight any channel tile.
Press the asterisk (*) button on your remote. This opens the options menu for that channel. Select “Move channel” from the list.
Now, use the directional arrows to move the channel’s tile to your desired position. Press OK to lock it in place. You can move channels to your most-used row for instant access.
To remove a channel you no longer want, highlight it, press the asterisk (*) button, and choose “Remove channel.” Confirm the removal. This deletes the channel from your device but does not cancel any external subscriptions you may have linked to it.
The Faster Way: Adding Apps from Your Phone or Computer
Using the on-screen keyboard with a remote is functional but tedious. A much quicker method is to use the Roku website or mobile app as a remote control for adding channels.
First, ensure your phone or computer is on the same Wi-Fi network as your Roku device. This is crucial for the communication to work.
Using the Roku Mobile App (iOS/Android)
Download the official Roku app from your phone’s app store. Open it and tap “Devices” at the bottom. Select your Roku player or TV from the list. The app will now connect to your device.
Tap the “Remote” tab at the bottom to get a virtual remote control. Then, tap the “Channels” icon at the top (it looks like a grid of squares). This shows your current channels and a “Channel Store” button.
Tap “Channel Store.” You can now browse or search using your phone’s full keyboard, which is significantly faster. Find the channel you want and tap “Add.” The app will send the command directly to your Roku.
Look at your TV screen. You should see a notification that the channel is being added, followed by its appearance on your home screen. The entire process takes seconds.
Using the Roku Website on a Computer
Go to the Roku Channel Store website in your browser. You will need to log in with the Roku account email and password you used to set up your device.
Once logged in, click “Browse” or use the search bar to find a channel. On the channel’s details page, click the red “Add Channel” button. A pop-up will ask you to select which Roku device on your account should receive the channel.
Choose your device and click “Add Channel.” The website will send the command over the internet to your Roku device, which must be powered on and connected to the internet. In a moment, the channel will automatically install.
This method is perfect for adding channels while you’re away from home, as it works over any internet connection, not just your local Wi-Fi.
What to Do When You Can’t Find or Add an App
Sometimes, a channel might not appear in search, or the “Add Channel” button might be unresponsive. Here are the most common fixes.
First, check your Roku model and software version. Older Roku models (like certain Roku 1 or 2 versions) may not support the latest channels built with modern software development kits. Go to Settings > System > About to see your model number and software version.
Ensure your Roku software is up to date. Outdated software can cause missing channels and performance issues. Go to Settings > System > System update > Check now. Let it install any available updates.
If a specific, well-known channel (like HBO Max or Peacock) is missing, it’s possible there is a temporary distribution issue or a regional restriction. Channel availability can vary by country. Verify your Roku account country setting under my.roku.com.
For private channels, which are unlisted test channels, you need an exact code. From the Channel Store, scroll to the bottom and select “Search” but instead of a name, type in the provided alpha-numeric code. If the code is correct and active, the private channel will appear for you to add.
Handling “Not Enough Space” Errors
Roku devices have limited internal storage for channels. If you see an error about insufficient memory, you need to free up space.
Navigate to Settings > System > Storage. Here, you’ll see a breakdown of how much space is used. Select “Manage storage” or “Clear cache” for individual channels. Clearing the cache deletes temporary data and can free up space without removing the channel.
If more space is needed, you must remove some channels. Go back to your home screen, highlight infrequently used channels, press the asterisk (*) button, and choose “Remove channel.” You can always re-add them later if needed.
Managing Subscriptions and Logging In
Adding a channel is only the first step. Most premium services require you to log in with a subscription.
When you launch a subscription channel like Netflix for the first time, it will display an activation code on your TV screen. Using a computer or smartphone, go to the unique website shown (e.g., netflix.com/activate).
Log in with your existing account credentials for that service, and enter the on-screen code when prompted. Your Roku channel will then automatically link and refresh, granting you full access.
For channels that bill directly through Roku (some niche services offer this), you manage those subscriptions in your Roku account payment settings on the website. To cancel, visit my.roku.com, go to “Manage your subscriptions,” and follow the prompts. Canceling through Roku stops future billing but does not usually provide refunds.
Using Roku Pay for Simpler Checkouts
Some channels offer purchases, like movie rentals, or premium upgrades. If you have a payment method saved to your Roku account, you can use Roku Pay.
This allows you to confirm purchases with just your remote PIN, making checkout seamless. You can manage your saved payment methods and PIN under “Payment methods” in your account settings on the Roku website.
Beyond the Basics: Discovering Great Content
With the ability to add any channel, the next question is what to add. Don’t just stick to the top five. The Roku Channel Store has hidden gems.
Explore the “Free” section for ad-supported movies and TV shows on channels like Tubi, Pluto TV, and The Roku Channel itself. Check out “News” for live streams from ABC News, CBS News, and Sky News.
For hobbyists, there are channels for cooking, fitness, and woodworking. There are even channels that stream peaceful aquariums or fireplaces for ambient background noise.
Remember, adding a channel is free and non-committal. The best way to discover what you like is to browse the store categories and try new things. You can always remove anything that doesn’t suit your taste.
Keeping Your Channel Lineup Fresh
Make it a habit to check the “New and Notable” section of the Channel Store every month or so. Streaming services are constantly evolving, and new players enter the market regularly.
Seasonal channels might appear for holidays. Sports channels may offer special playoff passes. By periodically browsing, you ensure you’re not missing out on new ways to enjoy your Roku investment.
Your Roku Is Now Fully Loaded and Ready
Adding apps to Roku is a simple, foundational skill that transforms your device from a simple streamer into a personalized entertainment hub. Whether you prefer the tactile feel of the remote or the speed of your smartphone, you now have multiple reliable methods at your fingertips.
Start by adding your essential subscription services. Then, take some time to explore the vast free section of the Channel Store. Organize your home screen so your daily drivers are front and center. Finally, remember that your device’s software and channel library are living things—keep them updated for the best experience.
The power of choice is what makes Roku so popular. You control the content, the layout, and the subscriptions. With this guide, you’re equipped to wield that control confidently and get the absolute most out of every viewing session.
