GoKawiilRoku to discontinue Aquatic Life screensaver, replace it with ad-filled Roku City on Dec. 1
Roku confirmed its longtime Aquatic Life aquarium screensaver will be removed starting December 1, replaced by the Roku City screensaver, which features a purple skyline with rotating digital billboards and brand sponsorships. Users can still find an unofficial YouTube recording of the Aquatic Life animation or use third-party apps for aquarium-style screensavers.
GoKawiil's interpretation of the reporting above, not reported fact.
CNET's Ty Pendlebury suggests the switch could be a way for Roku to turn a popular passive feature into another advertising and engagement channel. The change comes as Roku moves toward a 2027 acquisition by Fox, which may increase pressure to monetize every part of the platform, including idle screens.
- Aquatic Life screensaver will be removed on Dec. 1, replaced by ad-supported Roku City.
- Users can still access a YouTube video of the old screensaver or use third-party apps.
- The change follows Fox's $22 billion acquisition of Roku, expected to close in 2027.
Source: cnet.com — Mike Sorrentino, 2026-11-04
Published there as: “Roku Retires Fish Tank Screensaver to Reel Viewers Into Roku City”
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