How to Add Private Channels on Roku (Hidden Channels)?
Like adding a new channel on Roku, the process of adding a private/hidden channel on Roku is just as simple and easy. First, you will need the channel code. With the code, you can add the private channel via Roku’s website. Then restart Roku so the channel appears on it.
When it comes to streaming platforms, Roku is popular for its wide range of selections as well. With thousands of channels to choose from, Roku has overwhelming content that caters to a variety of users.
In addition to the vast selection, Roku also has a selection of private channels not listed publicly on the channel store. You can also add these channels to your collection, as long as you have the channel code. However, before jumping to how to add a private/hidden channel on Roku, you need to first understand what Private Channels are.
Table of Contents
What is a Private Channel on Roku?
Private channels better known as anon-certified channels on Roku are channels that have not been tested or verified by Roku as per its terms and conditions. For this reason, they are not listed publicly on Roku’s channel store, and you would have to add them manually if you want to watch them.
Originally, private channels were created as a way of Roku preventing developers from infringing and profiting off of copyrighted content or sharing illegal content. Today, however, almost all the private channels on the platform contain legal content. There are various other reasons why these channels are private, some of those reasons are:
- Channel may be in the beta stage of development.
- Channel may contain adult content not eligible for listing.
- Channel could be for a specified limited audience.
- Developers of a channel may not wish to publish the channel publicly.
Some of these channels could be hidden gems, that may be worth the add. However, because these channels are not verified, they are not supported by Roku. This means you will not receive customer support with troubleshooting issues concerning these channels. Roku also can take down any of the private channels at any point, without notice, if they are to contain illegal content or violate copyright and Roku’s terms and conditions. If as a user you downloaded such a channel, you could be prevented from downloading any more private channels. You, therefore, need to be careful not to download channels that may be suspected or flagged by Roku.
Pros
- Private channels are an added list of options to choose from
- You get to experience beta channels before other users
- You can get channels that are uniquely suited to you based on the limited audience
- You get exclusive content you may not get anywhere else
Cons
- Some of the channels may contain illegal content
- You risk being banned from downloading private channels again
- You may not get any help from Roku’s customer support concerning problems with the channels
List of 5 Best Private Channels on Roku.
Now that you understand what Private channels are and the potential benefits and risks of adding them, you can decide what channels you want to add if you choose to proceed. Here is a list of the best ones on Roku:
#1. Home Movies.
This is a free channel, that features true, vintage classics. They are home movies that are aimed at painting a picture of the family life in past generations. A great option for you if you’re an Oldie who loves classic films. It’s also a great alternative for FETV if you don’t have cable or satellite and don’t want to pay for a subscription.
#2. iTunes Podcast.
If you’re an Apple user and are looking for an alternative to enjoying iTunes podcasts free of charge, this channel is for you. It’s also available to non-Apple users since you do not need an iTunes account to use this channel. The best part is the podcasts are streamed directly from the iTunes directory. The only catch is you need to know the names of the podcasts you want since this channel does have the option of browsing through the lists.
#3. Rokucast.
Unlike the casting app in the official Roku channel store, Rokucast combines chrome extensions with Roku’s video player. This allows you to cast HTML5 content from your browser without needing a companion Roku Channel, at no cost.
#4. StreamNowTV Beta.
This is another free channel, that offers you a collection of on-demand original movie shorts and webisodes, from independent contributors. The content is divided into action, horror, comedy, drama, and Kids. Most of them are 10 minutes and a great choice for you if you are a fan of indie movies.
#5. The Silent Movie Channel.
If you’re a fan of silent movies, then, you’ll enjoy this free private channel. It offers you a wide range of silent movies from the 20th century, from different countries. The genres included are action, horror, drama, comedy, and adventure. The films feature big names like Charlie Chaplin and Harold Lloyd.
Here is a summary of the code for these five channels:
Channel
|
Code |
Home Movies |
HomeMovies |
Rokucast |
CL9D5D |
StreamNowTV Beta |
sntvdemo |
The Silent Movie Channel |
rollem |
iTunes Podcasts |
ITPC |
Adding Private Channels on Roku.
Once you have selected the channel you wish to add and have the correct code, the process of adding the channel on your Roku is easier. The process is as follows:
- Browse Roku’s Official website
- Log in to your Roku account
- Go to My Account
- Select Manage Account
- Choose Add a Channel
- Key in Channel code
- Click on Add Channel again
- Confirm by selecting Yes, Add Channel
Note that channels could take 24-hours to be added, so to speed up the process on the website; go to Settings>click on System>select System Update> choose Check Now. This will restart your Roku and helps the channel get added faster.
Conclusion.
With those simple steps, you can enjoy extra channels on Roku. However, ensure that the channels you choose to add, do not contain illegal content, or go against Roku’s terms and conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs).
1. What is Roku Private Listening?
It is a feature on your Roku enhanced remote that allows you to listen to your audio by connecting your headphones to the jack on the remote.
2. Are Roku Private Channels legal?
Almost all Roku private channels are legal. Roku is vigilant about taking down any channel that contains illegal content.
