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LmTechyTEM
Reel Rookie
‎01-26-2022 09:56 AM

How to run Linux/Ubuntu OS on roku.

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I once read somewhere that Roku runs off of Linux OS. The thing is, I want to be able to run a emulator for Linux on my Roku tv without any other device included. Is this Possible?

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MilesT
Roku Guru
‎01-26-2022 05:03 PM

Re: How to run Linux/Ubuntu OS on roku.

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And there is no (easy) way to "flash" the Roku hardware with an alternative Linux distro (not without deep hardware skills anyway), as a guest or host.  

You can set up the Roku to accept a debugger connection from their IDK, but that's it. It is all sandboxed, no jailbreaks possible at this time.

Want Linux on your TV? Screen mirrors your laptop, or get an old chromebit and reflash to one of the smaller Linux distro.

Not a Roku employee

View solution in original post

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makaiguy
Community Streaming Expert
‎01-26-2022 02:08 PM

Re: How to run Linux/Ubuntu OS on roku.

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My understanding is that the Roku operating system is based on Unix, but is highly customized and can only run apps specifically written for it.

Roku Community Streaming Expert
I am not a Roku employee, only a user like you.  Please, no support questions via private message -- post them publicly to the Community where others may benefit as well.
If this post solves your problem please help others find this answer by clicking "Accept as Solution.".

Ultra 4800 | Streaming Stick 4K+ 3821 | TCL Roku TV 43S245/C107X
renojim
Community Streaming Expert
‎01-26-2022 02:32 PM

Re: How to run Linux/Ubuntu OS on roku.

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Not possible.  You might want to look into the IDK if you want to develop your own apps.

Roku Community Streaming Expert

Help others find this answer and click "Accept as Solution."
If you appreciate my answer, maybe give me a Kudo.

I am not a Roku employee.
MilesT
Roku Guru
‎01-26-2022 05:03 PM

Re: How to run Linux/Ubuntu OS on roku.

Jump to solution

And there is no (easy) way to "flash" the Roku hardware with an alternative Linux distro (not without deep hardware skills anyway), as a guest or host.  

You can set up the Roku to accept a debugger connection from their IDK, but that's it. It is all sandboxed, no jailbreaks possible at this time.

Want Linux on your TV? Screen mirrors your laptop, or get an old chromebit and reflash to one of the smaller Linux distro.

Not a Roku employee
Francisc0422
Newbie
‎11-08-2022 05:51 PM

Re: How to run Linux/Ubuntu OS on roku.

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Home x3 up x2 left right left right left to enter dev mode

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