Roku launches Roku Labs, invites users to test experimental apps

Roku has announced a new program called Roku Labs that lets anyone with a Roku device try out experimental apps from the home screen. The rollout includes four in‑development apps that users can install and test right away.

The move comes as Roku seeks to engage its user base in shaping future features, similar to Microsoft’s Windows Insider or Xbox’s Insider Program. By opening the lab tile to all owners, the company hopes to collect feedback and accelerate development of new experiences without waiting for a full release.

The four apps available now are Backdrops Studio, which lets users upload art and images to set as their home screen background; Roku Immerse, a new way to create custom screensavers; Roku Weather, a dedicated weather app; and Roku Stocks, a built‑in stock tracker. Users can report bugs and suggest improvements directly through the app interface, giving them a voice in the product roadmap.

Beyond the labs, Roku plans to roll out a refreshed home‑screen layout to users in Mexico and Brazil, add voice‑activated weather queries, and improve search results with explanations for the order of content. The company also announced that it will open‑source Roku LT OS, the operating system that powers its remotes and smart‑home devices. The free development kit will be accompanied by a video training series so hobbyists can build their own projects. These initiatives signal a shift toward a more open, community‑driven ecosystem for Roku’s growing platform.