[German]Some users of Roku video streaming devices are currently angry. Whenever they want to stream something via Roku, videos are played at the start that have to be watched by force. According to reports, the US provider Roku has confirmed that this is a test. They are probably testing users' frustration tolerance and the revenue generated by playing video ads.
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What is Roku?
US company Roku, based in Los Gatos, produces a range of multimedia devices (HDMI sticks, app on SmartScreens) that enable the streaming of audiovisual content via a TV, among other things. The company also generates revenue through the sale of licenses for its hardware and software as well as advertising revenue. Roku set up its own advertising platform in 2024. The streaming provider Netflix largely supports Roku's hardware.
Reports about non-interruptible ads
I came across the following post on an article "Awful": Roku tests autoplaying ads loading before the home screen by Ars Technica on this topic. The article reports that when users called up the Roku solution, they first saw a video advertisement that could not be switched off. Only after the video had ended did they reach the user interface of the Roku player.
The report was triggered by a post on reddit.com, where someone wrote that he had just turned on "his Roku" and was shown an uninterruptible ad for a movie before he got to the normal Roku home screen. When asked if anyone else had experienced this, confirmation came from other Roku users.
One user said "This happened to me today too. If this keeps up, my Roku devices will end up in the trash." and a second user argued similarly "I was a big Roku supporter, but that's over now. I may still use them, but I will no longer recommend Roku devices."
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ArsTechnica then contacted the company. A Roku spokesperson confirmed that auto-playing ads on Roku launch is an expected behavior, but not currently a permanent feature of Roku OS. According to the Roku spokesperson, the company is only testing this advertising feature.
ArsTechnica then relayed some bullshit marketing-speak from Roku that their business requires constant testing and innovation in design, navigation, content and their own premium advertising products. The current Ruku test is just the latest example of how the company is exploring new ways to showcase brands and programs while providing an enjoyable and easy user experience.
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