Are you curious about whether you can jailbreak a Roku device? This article delves into this frequently asked question and sheds light on what it entails to jailbreak Roku devices in 2024.
The short answer is no, technically you cannot jailbreak a Roku device.
The term “jailbreak” refers to the process of eliminating restrictions imposed by a device’s manufacturer to enable the installation of unauthorized software. This concept is commonly linked to jailbreaking an Amazon Firestick.
Roku devices cannot be jailbroken because they operate on a closed operating system that prohibits the installation of third-party applications. This restriction applies to Roku streaming sticks, boxes, and Roku Smart TVs as they all feature a closed system software.
On the other hand, Android and Fire TV devices use an “open” operating system that permits side-loading. This includes Android phones, tablets, TV boxes, and Amazon Fire TV devices. Further insight into this difference is provided in our Roku vs Firestick comparison.
Therefore, TROYPOINT consistently recommends utilizing a Firestick or Android device for streaming purposes. Opting for a device powered by Android OS grants users the flexibility to install third-party apps that Roku devices cannot accommodate.
Any claims made by websites suggesting that you can “jailbreak” or “unlock” a Roku device to install third-party applications are misleading. There are instances where individuals have attempted to sell eBooks on this topic.
Nonetheless, there are still alternative methods that can assist you in accessing third-party content without resorting to jailbreaking. This tutorial outlines two techniques for jailbreaking your Roku device, both of which necessitate a separate device like a PC or Android phone.
How to Jailbreak Roku With Plex
Plex is a client-server media software that enables you to store various content such as Movies, TV Shows, Photos, and more, and stream them to any desired device. Incorporating Plex entails having a Home Media Server like a PC for content storage and a streaming device like Roku.
Prior to installing the Plex app on Roku, you must establish your Plex Media Server. I recommend following our comprehensive Plex tutorial for downloading movies and TV shows that can subsequently be synchronized with your Roku device.
After setting up your preferred content in the Plex Media Server, simply install the Plex Client App on your Roku device to access your library! Refer to our detailed guide below for step-by-step instructions.
1. Press the home button on your Roku remote.
2. Scroll down to hover over the search option.
3. Enter “Plex” in the search bar.
4. Select “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 BrowserLaunch your Browser (on any device) and enter the provided authorization code. Click the Link.
14. An 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.All of the apps listed are not available in the Roku Channel Store. Follow the guide below to learn how to screen mirror your PC to Roku. From the main menu of your Roku device, click Settings. Choose System before clicking on Screen mirroring. Next, select Screen mirroring mode and choose Prompt. After that, proceed to open your Windows PC and launch Settings, then click on Devices. Select Add Bluetooth or other device and then choose Wireless display or dock. Click to select your Roku device and once connected, click Done. Move back to your Roku device and when prompted, click Allow. Your Roku Device is now set up for screen mirroring with your PC. Enjoy!
Ultimately, even though you can’t technically “jailbreak” Roku devices, there are workarounds for streaming movies and TV shows, like setting up a Plex Media Server and screen mirroring another device. Not being able to sideload apps is one of the many reasons why TROYPOINT does not recommend purchasing a Roku device. They suggest using Android TV boxes or Amazon Fire TV devices that offer side-loading capabilities. For more information on Roku’s operating system (OS), refer to their official support documentation. For additional Roku-related tutorials, check out our guides on how to Install IPTV on Roku, Install Kodi on Roku, Roku Setup Guide, and Best Roku Channels.