3 Ways to Enable Roku Developer Mode and Sideloaded Apps

If you want to install a new app, the ideal way is to visit the Roku Channel Store. That’s how most Roku users utilize the device. But what if you want to create your own app to personalize the streaming experience? What should you do then? You should enable Roku Developer Mode and know how to sideload apps that aren’t officially available on the Roku Store. In this article, you’ll learn how to customize your Roku TV-watching experience by enabling Roku Developer Mode. So, if you want to know how to maximize its benefits, keep reading. 

Quick Answer: To enable Roku Developer Mode, you should first follow all the prerequisites. Then, turn on Roku Developer Mode, access it via PC, and install it on the Roku device. 

What Is Roku Developer Mode?

Roku Developer Mode is a special feature that allows developers to test and debug their channels on Roku devices. But how is that possible? Through this mode, developers can access several debugging tools and settings of Roku. They can also upload and test new builds for their channels. So users can create their own channels or experiment with various custom software. Even if you’re not a tech expert, you can still do it easily with some guidance. 

In simple words, it enables developers to install and test custom channels or private channels before they are made public. If you’re looking to develop or deploy your own content or application on the Roku platform, this mode is a must-try. You can create apps that can be listed in the channel store because this mode offers all the necessary tools for this purpose. 

Read: Twitch on Roku

Prerequisites To Use Developer Mode on Roku

To set up Roku Developer Mode, you should first check a couple of things. Then, you will be able to use this feature properly. 

• Create Account: Create your Roku account by visiting my.roku.com/signup. If you already have an account, log in and add your credentials. 
• Roku Development Program: Enroll in this program by going to developer.roku.com. 
• Use Remote: You should have a remote to complete this procedure. If you don’t have a physical remote, some users recommend using the Roku remote app. 

Now that you have these things in place, you can proceed to the next steps and set up your device for this mode. Let’s dive deeper to learn more about it. 

Step 1: Set Up Device For Developer Mode On Roku 

To set up developer mode on Roku TV, you must first complete the prerequisites mentioned above. Once you’re done with that, follow the step-by-step method mentioned below.

• Find your Roku remote and press the buttons in the following sequence. 

Home button 3 times → Up button 2 times → Right once → Left once → Right once → Left once → Right once. 

• Now, the URL of your Roku device will display on the right screen. Note it on your notepad, mobile notes, or anywhere accessible. 
• A message will pop up asking if you want to turn on Roku Developer Mode. From here, enable the Development Application Installer.

• Take your time to read the Developer Tools License Agreement. Once you’ve read it, accept it by clicking on I AGREE. It takes you closer to building channels using Roku SDK and advanced developer tools. 

• Now, you’ll be prompted to set a password for Roku Developer Mode. Type the password and click on confirm. Note this password somewhere, as you’ll need it to side-load channels.

• Now, submit the password. Wait until your Roku device reboots. 

• After the rebooting is completed, Roku Developer Mode will be activated on your TV. You can also sideload channels.

Step 2: Access the Developer Mode Website On the PC 

In order to access Developer Mode on your PC, follow this step-by-step tutorial. 

• Turn on your PC and Roku device. Connect both devices with the same WiFi network. 
• Type the IP address of your Roku device. You can note it down using your current web browser. 

• Visit the website and type the URL of your Roku device. 
• Go to the login section and add your credentials. The username is generally ROKUDEV. Then, type the password you added while turning on Roku Developer Mode. 
• A plug-in named Development Application Installer will be displayed on the screen. This tool allows you to sideload channels on the Roku device. 

Step 3: Sideloading Channels

Sideloading allows you to install channels and apps on your Roku device. If your app isn’t available on the Roku Channel Store, you can add the channel and build custom apps. But how?

Here’s a quick step-by-step tutorial you should follow for this purpose. 

• Go to the website and click on the Upload option. 

• Upload the ZIP file of the downloaded application on your PC in advance.  

• After it’s fully uploaded click on Install. The installation of the channel on your Roku device will initiate. 
• Now go to the Roku device’s home screen and tap on My Channels. From here, you can access all the sideloaded channels.

You can only sideload one channel at a time, not more than that. But suppose you go ahead and sideload a new channel. In that case, the previously sideloaded channel on your Roku device will be replaced. 

Pro Tip: If an identical version of an already sideloaded channel is reinstalled, you’ll get an error or disclaimer. However, you can install, delete, and reinstall any channel accordingly. 

Why Should You Use Developer Mode?

Enabling Roku Developer Mode is beneficial in many circumstances. Here are some benefits of using this mode on your Roku TV. 

• Channel Development: Essential for creating and testing custom Roku channels.
• Customization: Allows the sideloading of custom applications for a personalized streaming experience.
• Testing and Debugging: Provides robust tools like console logs, performance profiling, and remote control simulation.
• Performance Optimization: Analyzes and improves channel performance for better user experience.
• Private Channels: Supports the creation of private channels for specific audiences.

FAQ’s

Q: Why Won’t My Roku Go Into Developer Mode?

A: When the URL or IP address is changed then the accessibility to Roku Developer Mode is impacted. You should reboot your device and check if there are any new system updates. Then turn off Developer Mode and turn it back again to check if the issue is resolved. 

Q: What Does Developer Mode On Roku Do?

A: With this secret code, you can turn on the Developer Application Installer. Through this, you can test channel applications on Roku devices. In a nutshell, you gain a powerful toolkit to enhance your development workflow, ensure high-quality channel applications, and personalize your Roku experience.

Conclusion

It may take some time, but every developer must use this feature. Roku Developer Mode is an invaluable resource for developers creating and testing custom channels. By turning on this feature you can unlock a range of advanced features and tools to bring your streaming application to life.  You’ll find several amazing apps and channels to install and sideload. So don’t miss out on the fun and entertainment. If you have any questions, please drop them in the comments box. Our team will reach out to you as soon as possible. Want to unlock some advanced features of your Smart TV? Check out our premium guides written by smart TV experts here for free.