Channels & viewing

[sherryb]

I live in NE Washington and have 2 channels that I watch locally through my ROKU. One is Paramount Plus and the other is my local PBS channel.

I just switched my internet provider to Starlink (love it!).  The problem is now my local channels don't come in on the live stream.  I used to get local news for Spokane, WA and now it will only bring in Seattle.  Same thing with the PBS station.

One of the many things I read said that I could make a setting in ROKU so it knows my location.

Please help.

[Michelle3]

I believe you would need to contact Starlink about this.  Is there actually a setting on your router or not?  I’m confused.

Tagging @RokuMary-F and @RokuKariza-D.

~ Jordan

[makaiguy]

A Roku TV (a set with Roku functionality built in) has an option for entering your Zip/Postal code.  There is no similar setting on a separate Roku streaming device.

Most channel streaming apps that need your location determine it by the IP number assigned to you by your internet provider.  If your internet provider assigns or changes your IP number to one attached to one of its servers located in a different area, that could change the local stations you are provided.

You can use a website like https://www.iplocation.net/ to see where the IP number assigned by your internet provider indicates you are located. If this doesn't represent your actual area, contact your internet provider and ask to be reassigned an IP in your area.

Note that some channels themselves may have a provision for setting your location. 

• Paramount+:
  Go to Settings at the bottom of the left hand menu, then Live TV.
• PBS:
  Go to My Station the left hand menu.

[sherryb]

Thank you for your ideas.

I found an article about Starlink.  They have chosen a limited number of large metropolitan areas instead of more granular approach.  Seattle is location chosen for my area.  

Yesterday, I was reminded that I have a ROKU channel for my local area news and can tune into the morning news during my lunch break.  I'll just have to live with the PBS channel change, it barely affects me.

[sherryb]

Thank you for your thoughtful reply.  

Unfortunately, that did not work.  I have since found out that Starlink has chosen several major metropolitan areas for the locations and Seattle is the one for me.

I was reminded that I have a local Spokane station on my ROKU, so I can tune into the local morning news during my lunch break.

Thank you again for taking the time to reply.

[sherryb]

Thank you for your reply.  You were on the right track.  I found out that Starlink has a limited number of major municipalities as the IP locations.  I was able to find work-arounds for the local news.

Mahalo Nui