To get Google on Roku TV, you have three legitimate options: installing Google apps like YouTube, using Google Assistant via the Google Home app, or screen mirroring from an Android device. Each method provides a different way to bring Google services to your television screen.
How to get Google on Roku TV: your options
Integrating Google services with your Roku TV is straightforward and doesn't require any workarounds. The most direct method is installing the official YouTube or YouTube TV app from the Roku Channel Store. For hands-free control, you can link your Roku account to Google Assistant using the Google Home mobile app. If you need to display content that isn't available through a dedicated app, screen mirroring from an Android device offers a flexible alternative.
Install the YouTube or YouTube TV app on your Roku device
This is the simplest way to get Google content on your Roku TV. To add the app:
- Press the Home button on your Roku remote.
- Select "Streaming Channels" (or "Streaming Store").
- Choose "Search Channels".
- Type "YouTube" or "YouTube TV" into the search bar.
- Select the desired app from the results.
- Choose "Add channel" (or "Add app").
Once added, the app will appear on your home screen, giving you access to all YouTube content directly on your Roku TV.
Connect your Roku TV to the internet and update it
Before using any Google services, your Roku TV must be online and running the latest software. To connect to Wi-Fi, go to Settings > Network > Wireless (Wi-Fi), select your network, and enter the password if prompted. To check for updates, navigate to Settings > System > System Update and select "Check Now" if an update is available. Your Roku device must be running Roku OS 9.1 or higher to use Google Assistant features.
Control your Roku with Google Assistant
Linking your Roku account to your Google account allows you to control your Roku TV with voice commands. You need a Google Assistant-enabled device and the Google Home mobile app. To set this up:
- Open the Google Home app on your mobile device.
- Sign in with your Google account.
- Tap the "+" symbol and select "Set up device".
- Follow the on-screen prompts to link your Roku account.
Once linked, you can use commands like "Hey Google, show me action movies on bedroom Roku" to search for entertainment. For Roku TV systems, Google Assistant can also adjust volume, switch inputs, and turn the TV screen on or off.
Mirror your Android screen to your Roku TV
If you want to display content that isn't available through a Roku app, screen mirroring is your solution. First, enable screen mirroring on your Roku TV by going to Settings > System > Screen Mirroring and setting the mode to "Prompt" or "Always Allow". Then, on your Android device:
- Open Settings > Connected Devices > Connection Preferences > Cast.
- (On Samsung devices, swipe down for "Smart View".)
- Select your Roku TV from the list of available devices.
Both your mobile device and Roku TV must be connected to the same Wi-Fi network for this to work. The Roku mobile app, available for iOS and Android, also allows you to cast photos and videos from your phone to your Roku TV.
Troubleshooting and tips
If you encounter issues, first confirm that both devices are on the same Wi-Fi network. For screen mirroring, check that your Roku TV's screen mirroring mode is set correctly. If Google Assistant isn't responding, verify that your Roku device is running Roku OS 9.1 or higher. For persistent problems, contact Roku support through their official channels. If you need to reach customer service, the question "How Do I Contact Roku" is answered directly on the Roku support website, which provides phone, email, and live chat options.
