How to sideload apps on Roku TV: a step-by-step guide
To sideload apps on Roku TV, you enable Developer Mode and use the Development Application Installer to upload a channel package directly to your device. This is the official method Roku provides for developers to test custom channels, and it is often called "jailbreaking" by users, though it is not a true jailbreak that removes all platform restrictions. If you want a device with a more open sideloading experience, you can jailbreak a Fire tablet to install apps from outside the Amazon Appstore, or you can jailbreak a smart TV running a different operating system for broader app compatibility. Sideloading lets you install unofficial streaming apps, media players, and other custom channels that are not available in the Roku Channel Store.
What you need before you start
Before you begin, gather the following prerequisites to ensure a smooth sideloading process:
- A computer or mobile device connected to the same Wi-Fi network as your Roku TV.
- Your Roku TV's IP address, which you will find after enabling Developer Mode.
- A compatible app package in .zip or .squashfs format, downloaded from a trusted source.
- A web browser on your computer or mobile device to access the Development Application Installer.
Make sure your Roku TV is powered on and connected to your home network. The sideloading process requires direct communication between your computer and the Roku device, so both must be on the same local network.
Step 1: Enable Developer Mode on your Roku TV
Using your Roku remote, press the following button sequence exactly as listed: Home three times, Up twice, Right, Left, Right, Left, Right. This sequence opens the Developer Settings screen on your Roku TV.
On the Developer Settings screen, you will see your Roku device's IP address displayed along with a prompt to enable the Development Application Installer. Select the option to enable it, then read and accept the Developer Tools License Agreement. You will be asked to create a password for your Roku device. Enter a password you will remember, as you will need it in the next step. After setting the password, Developer Mode is active on your Roku TV.
Step 2: Find your Roku's IP address
After enabling Developer Mode, the IP address is shown directly on the Developer Settings screen. Write it down or take a photo of it. The IP address will look something like 192.168.1.42, but the exact numbers depend on your home network. You will need this IP address to access the Development Application Installer from your computer.
If you navigate away from the Developer Settings screen and need to find the IP address again, go to Settings > Network > About on your Roku TV. The IP address is listed under the Network section. However, the IP address shown on the Developer Settings screen is the one you should use for sideloading.
Step 3: Upload and install your custom app
Open a web browser on your computer or mobile device that is connected to the same Wi-Fi network as your Roku TV. In the address bar, type in the IP address you found in Step 2 and press Enter. This will open the Development Application Installer page.
You will be prompted to log in. Enter the username rokudev and the password you created in Step 1. After logging in, you will see the Development Application Installer interface with a file upload field. The file must be in .zip or .squashfs format to be compatible with the installer. Once you have selected the file, click the "Upload" button.
The installer will upload the file to your Roku TV and automatically install it. Wait for the upload and installation process to complete. This may take a minute or two depending on the size of the app package. When the installation is finished, the app is ready to use on your Roku TV.
Step 4: Launch your sideloaded app on Roku
After the installation completes, go to your Roku TV home screen. Sideloaded apps appear in the bottom row of the home screen by default. Look for the app icon in that row. It may appear with a generic icon or the app's custom icon depending on the package you installed.
Use your Roku remote to navigate to the app in the bottom row and press OK to launch it. The app will open just like any other channel on your Roku TV. You can now use the sideloaded app to stream content or access features that are not available through the official Roku Channel Store.
Keep in mind that sideloaded apps do not receive automatic updates like official channels. To update a sideloaded app, you will need to download the latest version of the package and repeat the upload process in Step 3.
Important limitations and risks to know
Before you sideload apps on your Roku TV, understand the limitations and risks involved:
- One app at a time: Only one custom app can be sideloaded on your Roku TV at a time. When you upload a new app package, it replaces the previously sideloaded app. If you want to switch between multiple sideloaded apps, you will need to reinstall each one whenever you want to use it.
- Roku may remove non-certified channels: Roku can remove or block non-certified channels from your device at any time. This is rare, but it can happen if Roku determines that a channel violates its policies or poses a security risk. You may lose access to a sideloaded app without warning.
- Warranty concerns: Enabling Developer Mode and sideloading apps may void your Roku TV's warranty. Roku does not officially support sideloading for end users, and if you experience issues related to custom apps, Roku support may not help you.
- Security advice: Only sideload apps from trusted and verified sources. Malicious app packages can compromise your Roku TV or your home network. Be cautious about downloading apps from unknown websites or forums. Stick to well-known developer communities and reputable sources for Roku channel packages.
Frequently asked questions
Is sideloading apps on Roku TV legal?
Yes, sideloading apps on Roku TV is legal. Roku provides Developer Mode specifically for developers to test custom channels. However, using sideloaded apps to access pirated content or circumvent copyright protections may be illegal in your region. The act of sideloading itself is not illegal, but what you do with it can have legal implications.
Can I reverse the sideloading process?
Yes, you can reverse the process. To remove a sideloaded app, simply sideload a different app or perform a factory reset on your Roku TV. A factory reset will remove all sideloaded apps and restore the device to its original state. Note that a factory reset also erases your settings and preferences, so back up any important data before doing this.
What is the difference between sideloading and jailbreaking?
Sideloading refers to installing apps outside the official app store using the developer tools that Roku provides. Jailbreaking typically means removing software restrictions imposed by the manufacturer to gain full control over the device. On Roku, sideloading via Developer Mode is the closest thing to jailbreaking, but it is not a true jailbreak. You cannot modify the Roku operating system itself, and you are still subject to Roku's platform policies.
Sideloading apps on Roku TV gives you access to a wider range of streaming content and custom channels. By following these steps, you can install unofficial apps and expand your Roku TV's capabilities beyond the official Channel Store.
For the wider topic, see jailbreaking devices.
