Updated for 2026: Roku now refers to channels as “apps” and the Roku Channel Store is simply called the “Store.” You can add apps from your Roku device, the Roku website or the Roku mobile app, all of which require the same Roku account to be linked to your device.

After you’ve set up your Roku device, adding your favorite streaming apps is one of the first things you’ll want to do. Roku now refers to streaming channels as “apps” throughout its interface and support documentation, but many users still search for “Roku channels,” so we’ll use both terms interchangeably in this guide.

In this article, I’ll show you how to add Roku channels (or apps) using every available method. Whether you’re downloading a free streaming app or subscribing to a paid service, the process is quick and easy.

Ways to Add Apps to Roku

There are three ways to add apps to your Roku device. Regardless of which method you choose, your Roku device must be linked to the same Roku account for apps to sync correctly.

How Do I Add Apps to Roku?

You can add apps to Roku in three ways — through your Roku device, the Roku mobile app or the Roku website. We’ll run through each method with step-by-step instructions.

How Do I Add Apps Through My Roku Device?

1. Go to the Roku Store

   Press the Home button on your Roku remote, then scroll to and select Streaming Channels to open the Roku Store.

2. Browse or Search for an App

   Browse the available categories or use the search feature to find a specific app you’d like to install.

3. Select the App

   Highlight the app and press OK on your remote to view more information.

4. Add the App

   Select Add app (or Add channel on some Roku devices) and confirm your selection if prompted.

5. Wait for Installation

   Roku will download and install the app automatically. Once the installation is complete, you’ll see a confirmation message.

6. Open the App

   Return to the Home screen to find your newly installed app. New apps are usually added to the bottom of your app list, but you can rearrange them at any time.

If you have the Roku Voice Remote, you can access added apps quickly with a voice command. Hold the microphone button and say something like “launch UFC app.”

How Do I Add Channels Using the Roku Mobile App?

If you didn’t already know, there are free Roku apps for Android and iOS that let you not only access your account, apps and other features but also turn your mobile device into a second remote control.

You can also add an app on Roku using the app. After downloading the app, launch it. It’ll run you through a few simple settings, such as terms and conditions, and pairing the device. Once you’re through with that, you’ll see Roku’s “What’s On” page. Here, you can scroll through new releases, hit shows, etc. You can also use the search bar at the top.

However, you need to be signed in to your Roku account to add an app. So, it’s best to get that out of the way first.

1. Open the Roku Mobile App

   Launch the Roku mobile app on your iOS or Android device.

2. Connect to your Roku Device

   Tap Devices from the bottom navigation bar and select your Roku device if it’s not already connected.

3. Open the Apps Section

   Tap the Apps (or Channels) icon to view the apps currently installed on your Roku device. Then select Channel Store to browse available apps.

4. Find the App You Want to Add

   Browse the available categories or use the search feature to find a specific app.

5. Add the App

   Tap the app you’d like to install and select Add. If the app needs a paid subscription, you’ll need to sign up separately before accessing its content.

6. Open the App on Your Roku

   Once the installation is complete, the app will automatically appear on your Roku device when it syncs with your account. You can then launch it directly from your Roku Home screen.

What to Do if an App Doesn’t Appear After Installing It

If an app doesn’t appear on your Roku Home screen after installation, first make sure that your Roku device is linked to the same Roku account you used to add the app. If you installed it through the Roku website or mobile app, it may take a few moments to sync with your device.

If the app still doesn’t appear, try restarting your Roku device and checking for any pending system updates. In most cases, a quick restart or allowing your Roku to reconnect to the internet will refresh the Home screen and display any newly installed apps.

How Do I Add a Channel From the Web?

You can add an app from the web by accessing the Roku website.

1. Visit the Roku Streaming Store

   Go to channelstore.roku.com and sign in to your Roku account.

2. Find the App You Want to Install

   Browse the available categories and genres or use the search bar to find a specific app.

3. View the App Details

   Select the app to learn more about it and confirm that it’s available for your Roku device and region.

4. Add the App

   Click Add app to install it on your Roku account. If the app is a paid service, you’ll need to sign up for a subscription separately.

5. Wait for your Roku Device to Sync

   Your Roku device will automatically download the app the next time it connects to the internet. If it doesn’t appear right away, go to Settings > System > System update > Check now on your Roku device to force a refresh.

Why Can’t I Find an App on Roku?

If an app isn’t appearing in the Roku Store, it may not be available in your region or compatible with your Roku device. Some streaming services only support certain countries or require your Roku account to be registered in a supported region.

In some cases, apps may have been discontinued or removed from Roku altogether. If you’re unable to find an app, it’s worth checking the streaming service’s website to confirm that it’s currently supported on Roku in your country.

Why Is Roku Asking for a PIN?

Roku account PINs are used to restrict purchases and app installations. If you’ve enabled a PIN, you’ll be asked to enter it before purchasing content or installing new apps.

Parents can also use a Roku PIN to prevent children from adding apps or making purchases without permission. You can manage your PIN settings at any time through your Roku account settings.

Final Thoughts: How to Add Apps on Roku

Adding apps on Roku is quick and easy, whether you do it directly from your Roku device, the Roku website or the Roku mobile app. While many users still refer to them as “Roku channels,” Roku now officially calls them apps. The installation process is exactly the same regardless of which term you use.

The key thing to remember is that your Roku device must be linked to the same Roku account you’re using to add new apps. Once it’s connected, most apps will appear automatically and be ready to stream in just a few moments.

Are there any Roku apps you couldn’t find or install? Do you prefer adding apps from your Roku device or the mobile app? Let us know in the comments below, and thanks for reading.

FAQ

• What Are Roku Apps?

  Roku apps are basically apps for TV channels and streaming services. You can add both free and paid apps to your Roku account and then complete any service purchases after.

• What Kind of Channels Do You Get With Roku?

  There are lots of different types of free and paid channels, including sports channels, news channels, streaming services, local channels, YouTube and much more.

• Why Can’t I Add Apps to My Roku?

  There can be a few reasons why you can’t add apps to your Roku. Many Roku apps are only available in certain regions. The same goes for the Roku Channel Store website, too, which means you’ll need to add apps directly on your device. However, if that is not the issue, we recommend contacting Roku support.

• Why Can’t I Find an App on My Roku?

  An app may not be available in your country, compatible with your Roku device or supported on the Roku platform. Some apps have also been discontinued or removed from the Roku Store.

• Why Didn’t My App Appear After I Added It?

  If you’ve added an app through the Roku website or mobile app, it may take a few moments to sync with your device. Make sure you’re signed in to the same Roku account and try restarting your Roku if it doesn’t appear.

• Can I Install Apps on Roku From My Phone?

  Yes. You can use the Roku mobile app to browse and install apps linked to your Roku account. Once installed, the app will automatically appear on your Roku device when it syncs.