Forum Discussion

Nerdgasm's avatar
Nerdgasm
Newbie
27 days ago

Apps Not Launching After Update

Our TCL Roku TV had an update today at 3:24p Central and again at 3:40p central. Current software is 14.5.4, build 5944. 

We had been using the TV all day with no problems. After this update, none of our apps will launch. We can click an app, the screen flashes black as if it's going to launch, and then it goes back to the home screen. 

Our wireless network connection also keeps disappearing and we have to re enter the password with every restart. 

Most of the menu options are gone now, we just see Home, Streaming Apps, and Settings. 

We have tried restarting, updating apps, resetting the network connection, unplugging the TV from the outlet for several minutes etc. Everything except a factory reset. 

Is anyone else experiencing this issue? Does anyone know how to fix this? 

EDIT:

The photo streams app will launch if selected and will automatically launch as the screen saver as normal. I also checked if switching to our Xbox hmdi input, that also worked. It seems like any streaming apps, including roku TV and live TV just loop back to the home screen. 

EDIT AGAIN:

I went through and tried to launch each app again. All of a sudden, it started working. We're still experiencing an issue we've had for a month or so where the TV will shut off when an app is launched. Upon restart, selecting the app again, app will update / load and then it's fine. I believe I read this was a common issue for other users. 

app playback

4 Replies

  • sebt66's avatar
    sebt66
    Newbie
    26 days ago

    Here are some clear, helpful suggestions for the Roku issue described in your post:

    Hi there, thanks for sharing your experience — that sounds incredibly frustrating. Here are some suggestions that might help before doing a full factory reset:

    🔧 1. Try a System Restart from Settings

    Even though you've restarted manually, go to:
    Settings > System > Power > System Restart
    This sometimes works better than unplugging.

    📡 2. Forget and Reconnect to Wi-Fi

    Since your network keeps resetting:

    Go to Settings > Network > Set up connection
    Choose your network and select “Forget Network”
    Reconnect again and enter your password.

    🧹 3. Clear Cache (Soft Reset)

    Do this using your remote:
    Home (press 5 times) → Up → Rewind (2x) → Fast Forward (2x)
    This clears cached data without deleting anything.

    🔄 4. Check for System Updates Again

    Go to: Settings > System > System Update > Check Now
    Sometimes new builds are quickly patched.

    📲 5. Access Roku Mobile App

    If the remote or UI is buggy, try using the Roku mobile app to navigate and manage the device.

    💡 6. Factory Reset (Only If Needed)

    If nothing works, you may need to do a full reset:
    Settings > System > Advanced system settings > Factory reset
    Note: This will delete all apps and saved settings.

    Also: You’re not alone — other users have reported similar issues after the 14.5.4 update, so Roku may push another fix soon. Keep an eye on their official forums or support page.

    Let me know if you’d like help writing a follow-up to Roku support or reporting this officially.

  • k_jane85's avatar
    k_jane85
    Newbie
    26 days ago

    This happened to me before. I was instructed to clear the catch on my roku TV by entering a sequence of buttons on the remote. The TV did some weird stuff. Turned off and back on, and the app I selected was fixed. If that helps any. 

    • RokuEmmanuel-D's avatar
      RokuEmmanuel-D
      Community Moderator
      26 days ago

      Hi therek_jane85​!

      Thank you for sharing your update! We're glad to hear you got it working. Could you let us know if this issue started after a recent update? If so, please share the current software version of your Roku device so we can take a closer look.

      Keep us posted!

      Roku Community Team

  • RokuEmmanuel-D's avatar
    RokuEmmanuel-D
    Community Moderator
    27 days ago

    Hey there!

    Thanks for updating us on your concern. Since the issue is now resolved, please don't hesitate to contact us if you need more help.

    Thanks again!

    Roku Community Team