Forum Discussion

Jay917's avatar
Jay917
Reel Rookie
4 months ago

Can’t add popular streaming apps

I recently purchased a 2nd Roku device (streaming stick plus) with my first device being the Roku express 4k.

I am trying to add apps such as Disney+, Hulu, and HBO max that I currently have installed on my Roku express. The apps are not listed when I try to add them through the device. I tried rebooting and resetting the device but still no luck. I reside in the US and my streaming store is set to the US. The streaming store on the website has the channels listed but the add app link is greyed out. When I try to access the streaming store from the website, at times it shows the apps I want as installed (probably pulling info from my 1st device)

Not sure what else to do besides return the Roku.

app availability

3 Replies

  • renojim's avatar
    renojim
    Community Streaming Expert
    4 months ago

    Did you create a new Roku account for the second device?  If so, you might want to factory reset it and use the same account you're using for the other device.  Roku devices linked to the same account will have the same apps installed.

    • Jay917's avatar
      Jay917
      Reel Rookie
      4 months ago

      Yes, I am using the same account for both devices

      • renojim's avatar
        renojim
        Community Streaming Expert
        4 months ago

        Well they should have been automatically installed on the new device.  I'd suggest starting over with a factory reset (you mentioned reset, but I don't know if that means factory reset) - Settings->System->Advanced system settings->Factory reset (follow the prompts).  Once it reboots and starts the setup process, make sure you're linking to the same email address that's displayed on the other device under Settings->System->About.

        One other note:   Don't use any kind of VPN while you're setting up the device.  It seems strange to me that at times you're seeing different things on the website.  The apps are linked to your Roku account (not any particular device) and that information is stored on Roku's servers, so if you're logged into your Roku account and search the channelstore website for an app that's already installed, it should show that it's already installed.  When I'm not logged in and search for an app that I've already installed, it gives me the option to add it and then wants me to log in when I click the "Add app" button.  Your seeing a disabled button makes me wonder if the website thinks you're in a region where the app isn't available, which can happen if you're using a VPN or anything that masks your location.