GoKawiilRoku launches 'Roku Labs' beta program with four experimental apps
Roku introduced Roku Labs, a new home-screen tile giving any Roku user access to in-development apps without needing an invite-only beta program. The initial lineup includes Backdrops Studio for custom backgrounds, Roku Immerse for custom screensavers, plus dedicated Weather and Stocks apps. Roku also announced it will open-source Roku LT OS, the software behind its remotes and smart home devices, along with free developer tools and training videos.
GoKawiil's interpretation of the reporting above, not reported fact.
By opening beta testing to its entire user base rather than a select group, Roku can gather broader feedback faster and shape features before wide release. Open-sourcing its remote and smart-home OS could also spur third-party development and strengthen Roku's ecosystem beyond streaming, positioning it more competitively against other smart home and TV platform providers.
- Roku Labs is accessible to all users via a home screen tile, not an invite-only beta.
- Four experimental apps debut: Backdrops Studio, Roku Immerse, Roku Weather, and Roku Stocks.
- Roku is open-sourcing its Roku LT OS with free dev tools and training videos.
Roku Streaming Stick 4K — If you want to try out Roku Labs experimental apps like Backdrops Studio and Roku Weather, you'll need a Roku device to access the home screen tile. The Roku Streaming Stick 4K is a great entry point to the Roku ecosystem, letting you explore these new in-development features firsthand. Plus, you'll be first in line for future home screen updates and voice search improvements.
See Roku Streaming Stick 4K on Amazon → Affiliate link — we may earn a commission on purchases, at no extra cost to you. Product picked by AI based on this article; it is not a tested recommendation.Source: engadget.com — Ian Carlos Campbell, 2026-09-17
Published there as: “Roku is giving users access to experimental apps with Roku Labs”
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